About Smoke Yard
Smoke Yard is a weekend brunch burgers spot in Minneapolis, MN, with a cheerful feel and open kitchen seating with a view of the line cooks. The kitchen leans into burgers done well, dough is fermented for at least 48 hours for better flavor.
The signature item to try first is the Hand-spun Milkshake, which has earned a loyal following. The rest of the menu rounds it out with options like Smashburger, Double Cheeseburger, Bacon Avocado Burger, plus rotating specials that change with the season. Portions are generous for the price point ($$), and the kitchen is consistent — orders come out fast even when the place is full.
On a typical day you'll find construction crews, tech workers, and grandparents alike, especially around the lunch and dinner rushes. The bar pours specialty espresso drinks, drip coffee, and seasonal lattes. Most dishes can be made dairy-free on request. The dining room is clean, the music is at a reasonable volume, and the wifi works.
For ordering, they offer a small loyalty program — every tenth visit is free. Regulars say the staff remembers their order after only two or three visits. Whether you're new to Minneapolis or a longtime resident hunting for a reliable burgers fix, Smoke Yard earns a spot in the regular rotation.
Menu highlights
A snapshot of the most-ordered items at Smoke Yard. Prices and availability change — call ahead to confirm.
Customer reviews
Recent ratings averaged 4.2 out of 5 across 751 reviews.
Hidden gem. We were in the neighborhood for an appointment and stopped here based on a friend's recommendation. So glad we did. The Truffle Fries was unreal — clearly made with care. We're already planning our next visit.
Smoke Yard has become my regular weekday lunch. Consistent quality, generous portions, and the staff has started to recognize me. I usually grab the Truffle Fries but I've worked through most of the menu and haven't had a miss yet.
Mixed feelings. The Truffle Fries was excellent and the cashier was friendly, but my side came out cold and they were out of two of the things I wanted to order. Probably worth another try, but not the experience I was hoping for.
Solid spot. The Double Cheeseburger is a standout — bold flavors, well-seasoned, comes out hot. Took off a star only because the wait at the counter was longer than I expected on a weekday. Still, I'd come back without hesitation.
Honestly impressed. We tried three different items between the table and the Bacon Avocado Burger stole the show. The staff genuinely seemed to enjoy being there which makes a difference. Cannot recommend enough.
Brought the family on a Saturday and we all walked out happy. Kids loved their food, my partner ordered the Crispy Chicken Sandwich and finished every bite. Prices feel fair for the portions. The dining room was a little loud but that's expected on weekends.
Location & neighborhood
Smoke Yard is located at 4647 1st Ave in Minneapolis, MN. Street parking is generally available in the surrounding blocks, and most public-transit routes that serve the downtown core stop within a short walk. The neighborhood around the restaurant has steady foot traffic during lunch and dinner, with a mix of office buildings, apartments and other small businesses on the block.