Dakota, the internationally recognized Minneapolis music venue known for pairing world-class live performance with chef-driven cuisine, will launch a private event and performance space in the historic Young-Quinlan Building on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis. The new venture, The Quinlan Room by Dakota, takes over the former JB Hudson space most recently occupied by Chameleon Consortium’s Chameleon Shoppes program. Dakota gained ownership of the space on March 1, and it plans to open The Quinlan Room for private events and performances later this spring.
The launch of The Quinlan Room marks a significant expansion for Dakota, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. It’s also a notable new anchor tenant for the Young-Quinlan Building—which celebrates its 100th anniversary this summer and is one of Nicollet Mall’s iconic and most historic buildings.
“Over the years, we’ve had to turn away numerous private event opportunities,” says Lowell Pickett, Dakota founder and co-owner, in a prepared statement. “The Quinlan Room allows us to host more events, as well as a wider range of performances. We’ve effectively expanded our creative and operational footprint—while staying true to the level of hospitality and production our guests and performers expect.”
At almost 10,000 square feet, The Quinlan Room features a marble grand staircase, mezzanine, large arched windows, and proportions that evoke the style and ambience of a grand ballroom. Its open, flexible layout accommodates many sizes and types of events, including musical performances, weddings, corporate functions, and other private gatherings. Dakota anticipates it will be able to host parties ranging from 50 to 300.
“This is an exciting partnering of two iconic and highly respected Twin Cities brands—Dakota and Young-Quinlan,” says Robert Greenberg, president of The 614 Co. of Minneapolis and owner/manager of the Young-Quinlan Building. “The opening of The Quinlan Room will be a welcome addition to the vibrancy and relevance of Nicollet Mall and the surrounding neighborhood.”
Additional details regarding an official opening date and inaugural programming will be announced in the coming weeks.
