Small Business Spotlight: Zhora Darling

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Zhora Darling, 509 First Avenue NE, occupies the former Red Stag Supperclub location. With 6000 s.f. of total space and a 200-person performance area – it has room to make waves in the local dining and entertainment scenes. We spoke to owner, Eric Odness, about the inspiration for the name of the business, the menu and what we can expect in the short term as the business takes root.

Q:  Please tell us the concept of Zhora Darling.

A:  Zhora is a character from the movie Bladerunner and she has a pet snake named Darling. I combined the two names to come up with our name. The place was visually inspired by the movie as well. I’m not necessarily trying to make it look like the movie, just inspired by Director Ridley Scott’s vibe.

Q:  Can you describe the menu offerings to us?

A:  The menu comes from our friend’s restaurant in Brooklyn, NY where I spent the better part of the last two decades. We teamed up with 5 Leaves to bring the food I loved most from that area to Minneapolis. Easiest way to describe it as American fare with an Australian twist. We actually brought their menu to Minneapolis.

Fried Artichokes with Green Tahini

Devils on Horseback (Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates)

House Cured Norwegian Salmon

The Lifeboat - Earl Grey gin, turmeric, lemon, honey and mintZhora Darling is basically a rock n roll bar with some nice food. Starting last month, our 200-capacity music venue kicked into action with music that will mainly land in the rock/metal band world. We’ve learned very quickly that some people are coming in expecting it to be like the prior business that was in this space and there has been some shock that it’s not at all the same. We’re not a supper club! It’s a younger crowd with fairly loud music in the bar lounge area and bit more subdued vibes in the dining area. Our kitchen will stay open until 1 AM – come on by for some food!

Q:  Sounds like a fun place to visit. How may we best follow your news?

A:  The best way to follow us is on Instagram @zhoradarling. Our menu and news will be on our website at www.zhoradarling.com.

Table reservations may be made on OpenTable.