There is a hidden gem beneath the streets of Mendota Heights. You may not even know it's there. It’s The Mudd Room. This cozy, upscale speakeasy offers locals an escape from the everyday. The ambiance will transport you back to the days of Prohibition.
Meet the Culinary Maestro: Tyge Nelson
Late this past summer, I had the opportunity to chat with Chef and Owner Tyge Nelson. With a career spanning 25 years and a portfolio of some pretty noteworthy Twin Cities establishments, Tyge brings experience and creativity to his dishes. His journey began as an intern at La Belle Vie in Stillwater, where he honed his skills before moving on to prominent roles at Solera, Barrio, The Inn, and Chino Latino. Rumor has it that you can taste these experiences in every bite at The Mudd Room.
I asked him what his favorite dish is to whip up in the kitchen, and his answer might surprise you. Instead of being prepared with something right off The Mudd Room menu, he shared, "My favorite things to make are whatever I'm in the mood for." His current favorite? Laab, a Thai-style beef salad with fish sauce, lime juice, and chiles—a perfect dish for hot weather. With a ten-year-old son, Tyge shared that home meals often feature family favorites like chicken and steak.
The Birth of The Mudd Room
The Mudd Room is one of the newest additions to Eclectic Culinary Concepts and the several local dining establishments we told you about last year. This concept began as a creative vision of Tyge and his partners, Charlie Burrows and Stephan Hesse. They initially partnered to open Pajarito at the end of 2016 in St. Paul and, later, the second location in July 2020. Then, after successfully adding Lucky’s in Mendota Heights, they sought to create a more exclusive, intimate setting downstairs. The result is a cozy and upscale speakeasy, a place where guests can enjoy craft cocktails and live music in a relaxed, homier environment.
A Tantalizing Menu
As we discussed the current and upcoming menus, Tyge’s excitement was palpable. The existing menu, available until the end of October, features a delightful mix of hearty, approachable dishes. One standout is the katsu cod slider, a Japanese-inspired creation with slaw and pickled cucumbers. Another favorite of Tyge’s is the escargot with chorizo butter, which perfectly marries rich flavors and textures.
I have to admit that my tastebuds were salivating as I reviewed the menu for myself. Ceviche shrimp cocktail and sweet corn fritters topped my list of appetizers. And for the main dish? I’m thinking of the beef boccadillo, or definitely the katsu cod that Tyge suggested earlier.
And for a cocktail? The choices are endless as far as I am concerned. But my top picks are sure to be the Lavender Haze, the Raspberry 75, or The Sheik.
Yet, the true allure lies in the mystery of what’s to come. Tyge and his partners are diligently working on new menus for all his concepts, including The Mudd Room. He promises seasonal dishes that embrace the colder weather, crafted to be both simple and enticing. While he kept specifics under wraps, one thing is certain: the new menu will be worth the wait.
The Allure of the Unknown
The Mudd Room isn’t just about food; it’s an experience. The ambiance, the live music, and the expertly crafted cocktails create a perfect evening out. As Tyge puts it, "The idea was a Prohibition-style bar, a speakeasy, but one that people know about." This unique blend of secrecy and familiarity makes The Mudd Room a must-visit destination.
There's a sense of anticipation with a new menu set to debut at the end of October or early November. What culinary delights will Tyge unveil next? The only way to find out is to visit The Mudd Room yourself. Indulge in the current offerings, revel in the atmosphere, and return to discover the new dishes that await.
Join the Experience
Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, The Mudd Room invites you to step into a world of elegance and culinary artistry. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore Tyge Nelson’s latest creations or someone seeking a cozy, upscale night out, The Mudd Room will be sure to deliver an experience unlike any other.
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, make your way to The Mudd Room. Let the mystery of the new menu intrigue your tastebuds and keep you coming back for more.
Trust me, it will be worth the visit.
The Mudd Room isn’t just about food; it’s an experience.
Trust me, it will be worth the visit.