A Family Legacy Reimagined
In a city known for its abundance of chain restaurants, Grackle emerges as a refreshing, locally-owned gem in Maple Grove, Minnesota. Located at 11852 Elm Creek Blvd, this family-run establishment is the brainchild of Justin and Becky Ahlstrom, who drew inspiration from Justin’s grandmother’s café in Winthrop, Minnesota. Their first venture, Margie’s Kitchen in Andover, opened in 2020 as a tribute to Justin’s grandmother, Margie, who successfully ran Lyle’s Café for 15 years. Building on that success, the Ahlstroms launched Grackle in October 2024, aiming to bring a sense of community and elevated dining to Maple Grove.
The name “Grackle” pays homage to the migratory bird that signals the start of farming season in Winthrop, symbolizing renewal and community—a theme that resonates throughout the restaurant’s ambiance and mission. The Ahlstroms have meticulously crafted an environment that balances sophistication with approachability, featuring lush greenery and spacious booths that cater to both intimate dinners and larger gatherings.
Culinary Excellence with a Personal Touch
Grackle’s menu is a testament to the Ahlstroms’ commitment to quality and inclusivity. Under the guidance of culinary director Diego Chalco, the restaurant offers a diverse array of dishes that blend Latin American flavors with classic comfort food. Standout items include the Cheesy Elote Dip, Ensalada Del Caesar, and the Creamy Serrano Pasta, each crafted from scratch to ensure freshness and accommodate dietary restrictions.
The restaurant’s dedication to accommodating guests with food allergies is evident in its kitchen practices. By preparing all dishes from scratch, Grackle can easily modify recipes to meet various dietary needs, including gluten-free options. This attention to detail has earned the restaurant recognition as one of Maple Grove’s top gluten-free dining spots.
Complementing the food is an innovative cocktail program featuring both classic and seasonal offerings. Patrons can enjoy unique concoctions like the Grackle Mule, J’s Old Fashioned, and the French Vanilla Espresso Martini, each thoughtfully crafted to enhance the dining experience.
Community-Centric Atmosphere
Beyond its culinary offerings, Grackle stands out for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The Ahlstroms have created a space that encourages community engagement, whether it’s a casual happy hour or a special celebration. The restaurant’s design, featuring comfortable seating and ambient lighting, invites guests to relax and connect.
Open daily from 11 am to 10 pm, Grackle accommodates both walk-in guests and those who prefer to make reservations. This flexibility, combined with attentive service, ensures that every guest feels valued and appreciated.
Rave Reviews from the Community
Grackle has quickly garnered praise from locals and visitors alike. One Yelp reviewer noted, “Grackles is a wonderful addition to Maple Grove’s restaurant scene. I’m so tired of the chain restaurants and love supporting local businesses.”
Another patron shared, “The food here is incredible. Fresh, flavorful, and innovative. This is a family-owned business, which is a very rare thing in the Maple Grove area. I highly recommend supporting this restaurant.”
A guest with dietary restrictions appreciated the accommodations, stating, “They can make almost anything gluten-free and are very good about checking everything. They have a gluten-free fryer as well.”
Why Grackle Should Be Your Next Dining Destination
Grackle embodies the essence of community-focused dining, offering a unique blend of heartfelt hospitality, culinary innovation, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking a place for a family dinner, a night out with friends, or a special celebration, Grackle provides an experience that is both memorable and satisfying.
By choosing to dine at Grackle, you’re not only indulging in delicious, thoughtfully prepared meals but also supporting a local business that values connection, quality, and inclusivity. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of community and the joy of sharing good food with good company.