About First Draft

Self-Pour Craft Beverage Bar in Minneapolis

First Draft was founded in 2018 by Andrew Valen, Darren Nicholson, and Joe Maselter, three Minnesota entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity to bring a unique drinking concept to the ever-expanding North Loop neighborhood. First Draft is a self-pour bar and restaurant in Minneapolis, which means that customers can pour their own drinks from 54 taps of beer, wine, cider, and cocktails. This allows guests to sample a variety of drinks without having to commit to a full pint.

Fried Chicken Restaurant in North Loop

In 2022, the kitchen at First Draft was taken over by Chef Bernard Collins. Chef Bernard operates Burnt Chicken, a popular fried chicken restaurant that features fried chicken sandwiches, tenders, wings, burgers, flatbreads, and more. Burnt Chicken’s menu is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the chicken is cooked to perfection.

Popular Destination for Minneapolis Breweries and Fried Chicken

Since opening, First Draft + Burnt Chicken has quickly become a popular destination beer enthusiasts seeking to try many Minneapolis and Minnesota breweries in one place. . The business has been praised for its unique concept, its wide selection of drinks, and its delicious food. In 2022, First Draft + Burnt Chicken was voted the #1 “Fried Chicken Dinners to Eat Right Now” by Eater.com. This recognition helped to solidify First Draft + Burnt Chicken’s reputation as one of the best places to get a drink and fried chicken in Minneapolis!