You know that feeling when you're driving down Radio Drive in Woodbury and you just want a place that doesn't feel like a massive, impersonal chain? It’s tough. Most of the East Metro is a sea of strip malls and fast-casual joints that all serve the same frozen fries. But then there’s Cravings Wine Bar & Grille. It’s been sitting there in the Tamarack Village area for years, and honestly, it’s one of those rare spots that actually manages to be two things at once: a sophisticated wine hangout and a place where you can get a really, really good burger without feeling like you need to wear a suit.
Most people stumble into Cravings because they’re looking for a glass of wine after hitting the shops nearby. They stay because the vibe is just different. It’s warm. It’s got that neighborhood "local" feel that is surprisingly hard to find in a suburb that grew as fast as Woodbury did.
What Actually Happens Inside Cravings Wine Bar & Grille
If you walk in on a Tuesday night, it’s quiet enough for a real conversation. Go on a weekend, and the place is buzzing. The layout is smart. You’ve got the bar area which is perfect for solo dining or a quick drink, and then the dining room which feels a bit more "reserved" for dinner dates.
The menu isn't trying to reinvent the wheel, and that’s a good thing. They do American bistro food. Think steaks, pastas, and some surprisingly creative appetizers. But here is the thing: the execution is what keeps people coming back. It’s the consistency. You know that if you order the walleye, it’s going to be flaky and seasoned right every single time.
The Wine List is the Real Hero
Let’s talk about the wine because, well, it’s in the name. They don’t just have a "house red" and a "house white." The selection at Cravings Wine Bar & Grille is curated by people who clearly care about pairings. They offer flights, which is basically the best way to explore if you aren't a sommelier.
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You can try three different Cabs or a series of whites without committing to a full bottle. It’s approachable. You don’t feel judged if you can’t pronounce the vineyard name. The staff usually knows their stuff, too. If you tell them you like something dry but not "suck-the-moisture-out-of-your-mouth" dry, they’ll point you to something perfect.
The Menu Hits You Might Have Missed
A lot of people go straight for the entrees, but the small plates are where the kitchen shows off. Their bruschetta isn't just soggy bread with tomatoes; it’s fresh. The calamari actually tastes like squid, not just breading.
- The Bistro Burger: It’s a classic for a reason. High-quality beef, good cheese, and a bun that doesn't fall apart halfway through.
- Walleye: This is Minnesota. If a place can't do walleye, they shouldn't be open. Cravings does it with a light touch that respects the fish.
- Flatbreads: Perfect for sharing if you’re just there for a "happy hour turned into dinner" situation.
Honestly, the dessert case shouldn't be ignored either. They are famous for their cakes. Huge slices. The kind of slices that make you feel a little guilty but mostly just happy. The "Cravings" name originally started with the bakery side of things, and that legacy is still very much alive. If you leave without at least looking at the cake display, you did it wrong.
Why the Atmosphere Works for Different Crowds
Woodbury is a weird mix of young families and retirees. Cravings manages to sit right in the middle. You’ll see a couple on their 30th anniversary sitting next to a group of 20-somethings celebrating a promotion.
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It’s the lighting. It’s low. It makes the space feel intimate.
The patio in the summer is another beast entirely. It’s one of the better outdoor seating options in the area because it’s tucked away enough that you don’t feel like you’re sitting in a parking lot, even though, technically, you’re in a shopping center. It’s an escape.
Practical Advice for Your Visit
Don't just show up on a Friday night at 7:00 PM and expect a table right away. It’s popular. Use their reservation system.
Also, keep an eye on their happy hour specials. They have some of the better deals in the East Metro, especially if you’re looking for quality wine at a price that doesn't make your eyes water.
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If you're planning a private event, they have a room for that. It's used a lot for bridal showers or rehearsal dinners because the backdrop is already "decorated" by the wine racks and the warm wood tones. It saves you a lot of work on aesthetics.
What Most People Get Wrong About This Place
Some folks think it’s too "fancy" for a casual lunch. It isn't. You can totally grab a sandwich and a coffee and feel right at home. Others think it’s just a wine bar. It’s a full-service restaurant. The "Grille" part of the name is doing a lot of heavy lifting.
The biggest misconception is that it’s just another chain. It’s locally owned. That matters. When you eat here, the money stays in the community, and you can feel that in the service. It’s less "corporate script" and more "genuine hospitality."
Actionable Next Steps for Your Next Outing
- Check the Calendar: They often have live music or specific tasting events. Check their social media or website before you go so you don't miss out on a jazz night.
- Order a Flight: If you usually stick to one type of wine, ask the server to build you a "discovery flight." It’s the best way to expand your palate without the risk of a $60 bottle you hate.
- Save Room for Cake: Seriously. Even if you have to take it to go. The Triple Chocolate or the Lemon Raspberry are usually top-tier choices.
- Join the Loyalty Program: If you live in the East Metro, you’ll likely be back. They have a rewards system that actually adds up pretty quickly if you're a regular.
- Parking Hack: During peak holiday shopping times at Tamarack Village, park a bit further out near the grocery store and walk over. It’s faster than circling the immediate lot for twenty minutes.
Cravings Wine Bar & Grille remains a staple because it doesn't try to be something it’s not. It’s just good food, great wine, and an atmosphere that makes you want to stay for one more glass. Whether you're a local or just passing through Woodbury, it's the kind of place that reminds you why independent restaurants are worth protecting.