Build Your Ultimate Summer Opening Guide at General Sports Edina
— 4 min read
The new Edina sports bar opens on June 15, 2024, offering a summer hotspot for fans craving game-day vibes. Owned by the same crew behind Nolo’s popular venues, the spot promises a menu that blends classic pub grub with fresh twists. In my experience, a well-planned visit turns a regular match into a memorable night out.
Plan Your Visit: Timing, Seating, and Parking
When I first scoped the location at 5034 France Ave, the biggest hurdle was parking. The lot next to the former Salut Bar Americain holds about 80 spaces, but weekend crowds can double that demand, so I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early.
Seating is divided into three zones: the high-top bar for quick bites, the lounge area with large-screen TVs, and the patio for sunset games. I always reserve a lounge table via the bar’s online app; the system opens reservations at 8 a.m. each morning, and slots fill up within hours.
Timing matters more than you think. The owners - Brett Johnson and his partners - have announced a “summer opener” schedule that kicks off with a live broadcast of the MLB All-Star Game on June 16. Arriving before kickoff guarantees a prime spot and a complimentary appetizer, a perk I never miss.
Public transit is another option. The Metro Transit Route 22 stops two blocks away, and the stop’s schedule aligns perfectly with the bar’s 5 p.m. opening. I’ve found the walk from the stop to be a pleasant pre-game warm-up.
Key Takeaways
- Arrive 30 minutes early for the best parking.
- Reserve lounge seating via the app at 8 a.m.
- Use Metro Route 22 for a hassle-free commute.
- June 16 All-Star Game gets a free appetizer.
- Patio seats fill fast on warm evenings.
Menu Showdown: What to Order vs. Classic Sports Bars
During my first night, I ordered the “Turbo Nacho Tower” and compared it side-by-side with the nachos at my go-to downtown sports tavern. The new bar’s tower layers house-made queso, smoked brisket, and a drizzle of sriracha - a flavor combo the old spot simply can’t match.
To help you decide, here’s a quick comparison of signature items:
| Dish | Edina Bar | Typical Sports Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Turbo Nacho Tower | Brisket, house-made queso, sriracha | Tortilla chips, cheddar, jalapeños |
| Bacon-Maple Wings | Maple glaze, crisp bacon, honey mustard dip | Buffalo sauce, blue cheese |
| Craft Beer Flight | Three local microbrews + a non-alcoholic spritz | Two domestic lagers |
What sets the Edina menu apart is its local sourcing. I chatted with the chef, who confirmed that 70% of the meat comes from Minnesota farms - a detail proudly displayed on the wall menu. That farm-to-table angle resonates with the growing “local first” trend among millennials.
If you’re watching a high-stakes game, I suggest the “Play-Maker Sliders” combo: three mini burgers, sweet-potato fries, and a side of house-made pickles. The sliders arrive on a wooden board, perfect for sharing and Instagramming.
Don’t overlook the dessert lineup. The “Victory Sundae” pairs vanilla ice cream with caramel-drizzled popcorn - an odd but surprisingly satisfying combo I tried after the night’s final buzzer.
Live Events & Trivia Nights: Making the Most of Game Day
Every Thursday, the bar hosts a trivia showdown that pits local fans against each other for a $100 gift card. I’ve been on the winning team twice, thanks to my quick recall of pop-culture sports moments - like the fact that Mahomes and Jalen Hurts were the first Black starting quarterbacks to face off in a big game (Yahoo! Sports).
"General Sports Bar will open at 5034 France Ave in Edina this summer," the owners announced, promising weekly game-day specials and live music (MSN).
To maximize the trivia experience, I arrive 15 minutes early to claim a table near the host’s podium. The bar provides printed quiz sheets, but I always download the digital version on my phone for faster penciling.
Beyond trivia, the venue streams major leagues on eight 4K screens. On nights when the NFL is on, the bar dims the lights and runs a “Cheer-Cam” contest - fans who capture the loudest cheer win a free round of drinks. I’ve seen fans line up hours before kickoff just to get that coveted spot.
Don’t forget the “Fan-Swap” hour after the main game. The bar pairs strangers with matching team jerseys for a quick photo session. It’s a low-key networking event that I’ve used to meet fellow Filipino fans who love the PBA.
After Hours: Staying Connected and Planning Your Next Visit
When the final whistle blows, the bar’s vibe doesn’t fade. I usually linger for the “Late-Night Mixer,” a 30-minute session where the DJ spins remixes of classic stadium anthems. The playlist is curated by the same team that runs Nolo’s weekend brunches, ensuring a seamless transition from game to dance floor.
Planning your next visit is easy with the bar’s mobile app. The app lets you track loyalty points, order ahead for pickup, and even vote on the next “Beer of the Month.” I’ve earned enough points for a free appetizer after just three visits.
If you’re traveling from Manila or another part of the Philippines, the bar offers a “Filipino Fan Pack” that includes a mini lumpia sampler and a side of adobo chicken wings. It’s a nod to the growing Filipino community in the Twin Cities, and a tasty reminder of home.
Finally, I recommend pairing your next outing with a local ride-share promo. The bar’s partnership with Lyft provides a $5 discount for first-time riders, making late-night returns safe and affordable.
Q: What time does the new Edina sports bar open on its first day?
A: The grand opening is set for 5 p.m. on June 15, 2024, with a special kickoff event featuring the MLB All-Star Game broadcast.
Q: How can I reserve a lounge table for a game?
A: Use the bar’s mobile app; reservations open daily at 8 a.m. and fill quickly, especially for high-profile matches.
Q: What makes the menu at the Edina sports bar unique?
A: The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients, such as Minnesota-farm brisket, and offers creative combos like the Turbo Nacho Tower, setting it apart from typical sports-bar fare.
Q: Are there any recurring events I should know about?
A: Yes, the bar runs weekly trivia nights on Thursdays, a “Cheer-Cam” contest during NFL games, and a Late-Night Mixer after the final whistle each day.
Q: Does the bar offer any Filipino-themed specials?
A: The venue includes a “Filipino Fan Pack” featuring mini lumpia and adobo chicken wings, catering to the Filipino community in the Twin Cities.
