Products of the 80s and those younger who appreciate the classics are familiar with the iconic series Cheers. The one where everyone yells, “Norm!” as the quippy regular walks in and takes a seat on his well-worn bar stool. The catchy opening theme goes, “Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.” It’s hard not to reflect on Molly Krinhop’s journey from wine merchant to restaurant owner and her vision for the future without recalling these warm and welcoming words. “I want to make the Bistro a culinary habit instead of a destination. I want regular customers to come in and become friends who walk in to say hello and ask what bottle is open and what’s new on the stove.” Perhaps the makings of another meaningful and unforgettable theme song.
“Sometimes life surprises you in the best of ways,” is how Molly sums up the events leading up to her becoming the newest owner of St. Boni Bistro. During her career selling wine, she was in regular contact with Debby Hartman-Wrolson, the Bistro’s previous owner. They hit it off from the start, and when Debby later announced that she was looking to retire, “I shot her a text and said, we need to talk!” Six months later, Molly was a proud restaurant owner, a dream she’d been working towards for 30 years.
Molly was initially drawn to the area by the beauty she experienced on her drives out west, which were always amplified by the horse farm she’d pass. The exercise always was, and still is, taking a deep breath, whispering a little hello to the equine beauties, and being on her way. “I grew up and have lived in Minneapolis most of my life, and it’ll always have my heart, but the charm of the space and this town completely sucked me in.” The community’s warm embrace also won her over and didn’t surprise her in the least. “I was 150% correct about this community. Everyone has been extremely generous, kind, and helpful. At the end of the day, my heart is very full.”
Coming from generations of strong females who raised her to show grace and help others, going out of her way to assist others is in her blood, and Molly avows that that will never change. During the pandemic, she was among the restaurant folks who were at a loss; in response, they found ways to help local farmers. When there were riots in Minneapolis, protecting local businesses and neighbors was an everyday reality. So, it’ll come as no surprise that in her short time of owning the Bistro, Molly has already found numerous ways to reach out.
This quaint brick-red gem, nestled in thriving St. Bonifacius, is filled with tasty aromas and quaint décor, but it’s also full of local products, and the plan is to add even more. Molly has been busy connecting with local business owners in hopes of partnering, and she’s deeply passionate about serving homegrown and sustainable products. With local lamb, local grass-fed beef, and produce from Gale Woods Farm, her aspirational menu is just beginning. Next up on her visionary lineup are, just to name a few, a screened-in back patio, a to-go window, fire pits, and guest chef appearances.
While all these additions will excite even the most enthusiastic, perhaps the most endearing way Molly invests in the community she now works in and someday hopes to live in is with her welcoming smile and her hands-on approach to serving. “Being present, wearing a smile, creating a wonderful experience, and offering only the best quality of service, food, and beverage is the only way I know how to be.” Molly carries this lighthearted, thoughtful presence with her in everything she does. She recently became a first-time aunt and loves spending time with her partner, Brad, and their rescued pitbull, Horse. She and Brad enjoy bowling together, taking yearly trips to Mexico, and hitting the open road on their Harleys.
When you’re craving Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Toast (one of Molly’s favorites) or an Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte (a certain writer’s favorite), stop by St. Boni Bistro, pull up a chair, and enjoy. The food is fresh, the air is inviting, and you had better believe Molly will always be glad you came. https://stbonibistro.com/
Being present, wearing a smile, creating a wonderful experience, and offering only the best quality of service, food, and beverage is the only way I know how to be.
The charm of the space and this town completely sucked me in. I was 150% correct about this community. Everyone has been extremely generous, kind, and helpful. At the end of the day, my heart is very full.