FOOD + BEVERAGE BURGERS, FAMILY, FUN
MINNESOTA ROOTS, PINTS, AND GOOD TIMES
LIFE + CULTURE
LEADING WITH HEART AND HONOR
“Great men build through service and leadership.”
As the longer days and warmer evenings of summer settle in, we are thrilled to present our Gentlemen's Issue—a celebration of the men who help shape, serve, and strengthen our community.
This month, we take a moment to honor the men who lead with vision, serve with compassion, and inspire through quiet acts of dedication. From business owners and entrepreneurs to first responders, veterans, and community volunteers, the men of Eagan and Mendota Heights exemplify what it means to show up, step forward, and make a difference.
Throughout these pages, you’ll find stories of leadership rooted in service, of businesses built on hard work and a commitment to community, and of men who invest their time, talents, and energy into making Eagan and Mendota Heights better places for all of us. They remind us that true leadership isn’t measured by titles or accolades—it’s measured by the positive impact left on others.
We celebrate the men who serve on the front lines, answering the call when others are in need. We recognize the men who build businesses that not only provide goods and services but also create opportunities and connections. We honor the veterans whose dedication to service continues to shape the fabric of our community long after their active duty has ended. And we lift up all the men who lead through mentorship, example, and a commitment to making life better for future generations.
This issue is a tribute to the spirit of leadership, resilience, and service that runs through the heart of Eagan and Mendota Heights. It’s a reminder that behind every thriving community are individuals—quiet heroes—who believe in the power of hard work, kindness, and connection.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the men who inspire us, support us, and strengthen the bonds that tie us together. We are proud to share their stories and proud to call this community home.
As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (eagan@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Amy Sousa | amy.sousa@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Matt Sousa | matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Madeline O'Neil | madeline.oneil@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jonathan Lopez | jonathan.lopez@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com
STAFF WRITER
Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com
COPY EDITOR
Judy Sousa
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Nicole Engstrom (@littlemacdesign_create), Kyle Johnson-MacPherson
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn
AMY SOUSA, PUBLISHER @EAGANCITYLIFESTYLE
Jonathan
Ansari’s
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: It was a great night with friends celebrating the opening of Hagen Hus Gallery. The gallery, owned by Leif Hagen, is located inside the Oak Cliff Place building on Nicols Road. From Nigeria to Ukraine, Brazil to France, the pieces in Hagen Hus Gallery reflect the soul of each culture, inviting visitors to see the world through the eyes of its artists.
Set yourself up for a smoother transition with the right tools and information. We invite you to explore our comprehensive checklist and guides today.
• Download our planning ahead checklist
• Know what questions to ask on a tour
• Review what to expect during the move
• Learn the best way to meet friends in your new home
YANKEE TAVERN
PAJARITO
MUDD ROOM
Real Estate Solutions for Every Stage of Family Life
With decades of real estate experience, Keith Hittner, founder of The Hittner Group, specializes in guiding families through life’s transitions — from divorce and probate to upsizing or downsizing. Keith expertly prepares homes for sale, leverages a trusted referral network, and ensures the best outcomes for his clients and their families. Keith, along with his wife Sheila, also supports healthier living through education and resources. Learn more at KeithandSheilaHittner.com
Photography by Lisa Cline
Elevate your home’s curb appeal and security with Twin City Garage Door— Minnesota’s trusted name in premium garage solutions. Specializing in high-end residential installations, our expert team delivers custom design, flawless functionality, and white-glove service from start to finish. With over 60 years of excellence, we offer the finest garage doors and openers to complement your lifestyle. Choose timeless quality and sophisticated style—choose Twin City Garage Door, where luxury and reliability meet.
At Apelgren Dental, a smile tells a thousand words. The team is dedicated to providing high-quality care with a full range of dental services to meet every family’s needs under one roof. Their welcoming, compassionate staff strives to make every visit memorable and enjoyable. For those looking to brighten and enhance their smile, Apelgren Dental invites you to contact them at (651) 452-9660 — they look forward to making you feel right at home.
Photography by Lisa Cline
MINNESOTA ROOTS, PINTS, and good times
A local brew pub pouring bold flavors, community spirit, and handcrafted pride into every glass.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE
Walk into Union 32 Craft House in Eagan, and you’re immediately greeted with the hum of conversation, the scent of something tasty on the grill, and the undeniable pull of a glowing wall of beer taps. For those who love local flavor—literally and figuratively—this place is a Minnesota gem built on friendship, community, and the shared joy of a great pint.
Union 32 first opened its doors in July 2017, but the story started long before that—at a school fundraiser. Three dads—Dan Redpath, Mark Zesbaugh, Curt Hoffman—met while helping raise money for Faithful Shepherd, a private Catholic elementary school in Eagan. Their families helped found the school through their fundraising efforts, and their bond grew stronger over time. Later, Justin Lecher came on as a fourth owner after COVID, and his efforts helped keep the brewery in business throughout the pandemic.
Thus, a dream became a reality: creating a space where Minnesota’s craft beer culture could truly shine.
“One of the owners saw a tap wall and was hooked,” says Assistant General Manager Carl Troje. “He loved homebrewing and wanted to bring the best of Minnesota beer under one roof.”
And that’s exactly what they did.
MINNESOTA CRAFT BEER
Union 32 exclusively serves Minnesota craft beer. That’s not a trendy decision—it’s a commitment. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or someone who still reaches for a light domestic, you’ll find something to enjoy. Their in-house brewery is led by a seasoned brewer with experience at Lift Bridge and Fair State, and their offerings are always evolving.
“Our Northern Lights lager is perfect for folks who love something light and easy, like Coors Light,” says Carl. “We always keep a hazy on tap, and in the summer, we’re brewing more pale ales and pilsners. When fair season hits, we even do a pickle beer.”
Their in-house schwarzbier—a dark lager with roasted coffee notes—is a current fan favorite. But don’t expect a static lineup. “Whatever he’s vibing, he makes,” Carl laughs.
The beer wall is arguably the heartbeat of the space. Guests can grab a glass in one of three sizes, pour their own beer, and explore a wide range of styles at their own pace. It's a choose-your-own-adventure for your taste buds.
“We’re proud to offer a taste of the whole state,” Carl says. “You’re bringing the entire Minnesota craft beer scene into one location. It’s competitive and complementary—breweries want to be the best, but they genuinely support each other, too.”
MORE THAN JUST BEER
Union 32 isn’t just about beer. As a brew pub, they also serve wine and spirits—many from local distilleries, like Prairie Vodka. And, of course, the food menu is packed with crowd-pleasers: burgers, chicken sandwiches, and wraps that go hand-inhand with a cold pint.
But that’s just the beginning. Their menu also features wings (with a variety of sauces), golden-fried onion rings, loaded tacos, hearty rice bowls, hand-tossed pizzas, and even a full kids’ menu for diners 13 and younger. The white cheddar mac and cheese? A must for little ones—or even adults craving comfort food.
First-timers should start with the beer wall and build their own flight. “It’s great for people who are new to craft beer or just curious,” says Carl. “You can try a little bit of everything without committing to a full pint.”
From casual date nights to family dinners and group hangouts, there’s something for every appetite—and age—at Union 32.
UNION 32 CRAFT HOUSE
Union 32’s self-pour beer wall is the ultimate tasting experience. With three glass sizes and more than 30 taps, you’re in control. Explore Minnesota’s best craft beers by the ounce—just 50 to 60 cents each. Whether you’re building your own flight or settling in with a full pour, it’s a beer lover’s playground.
“It’s handcrafted, chill, and filled with good vibes. If you love Minnesota craft beer and a laid-back atmosphere, this is the spot.”
A FOCUS ON THE COMMUNITY
Beyond the taps and tables, Union 32 is proud of its community-first approach. Giving back isn’t just a side note—it’s part of the mission.
“We’re very fortunate,” Carl shares. “One of our biggest goals is to stay well-rooted in Eagan and greater Minnesota.”
Each month, Union 32 partners with a nonprofit. Sometimes, that means naming a beer in their honor. Other times, it means handing over the taproom for fundraising events—free of charge. They also amplify nonprofit causes across their social media platforms and even help produce video content to support those missions.
This August, Union 32 will spotlight 360 Communities, specifically raising funds and awareness for the Lewis House, a local domestic violence shelter. A new beer will be brewed in their honor, and $1 from every 16 ounces sold will go directly to the cause.
And that’s not all—local schools and sports teams can benefit from cashback nights, and community clubs like the Eagan Fishing Club get a seat at the table, too.
At its core, Union 32 is about connection: to Minnesota, to the craft beer scene, and to each other.
“It’s hand-crafted, chill, and filled with good vibes,” says Carl. “If you love Minnesota craft beer and a laid-back atmosphere, this is the spot.”
So grab a pint, pull up a chair, and get to know your neighbors—one sip at a time.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
bravery meets endurance
When most people hear the name SERVPRO, they probably think of burst pipes, house fires, or storm damage. But this June, they’re flipping the script. They’re not just showing up after a disaster—they’re running toward one, fire gear and all.
SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley is the proud host of this year’s Midwest Firefighter Challenge League Classic, happening June 19–21 right here in the heart of the Midwest. This action-packed event puts first responders to the test in what ESPN once called “the toughest two minutes in sports.” And trust us—it lives up to the hype.
From hauling a heavy hose up a multi-story tower to smashing a metal sled with a sledgehammer (known as the Keiser), this course isn’t for the faint of heart. Competitors run it wearing full firefighter gear. The grand finale? Dragging a 175-pound dummy 150 feet to simulate a fire rescue. For those who can do it in under three minutes, there’s the ultimate reward: entry into the exclusive Lions Den. And speaking of elite—yes, our very own national champion from Taylors Falls, Jake Vodenka-Reed, will be there, proving just how fast (and fearless) these athletes really are.
NOT JUST A NAME ON A TRUCK
SERVPRO might be a national brand, but Aaron wants people to know that the local team is what truly sets them apart.
“We can handle disasters of any size,” Aaron says. “A lot of companies can take care of small cleanups. But when a tornado or summer storm hits? When a commercial building floods? That’s where our disaster teams step in. Not everyone has that level of experience—but we do.”
Aaron’s been with SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley for about two and a half years. As general manager, he’s seen firsthand the kind of chaos a flood or fire can leave behind. But he’s also seen something else: hope.
“One of the best parts of the job is talking to customers on one of their worst days and helping them see that things will get better,” he says. “We come in, take out the damaged materials, and rebuild. We help people get back on their feet.”
From water and fire damage to mold and storm recovery, SERVPRO’s mission is to make it “Like it never even happened.” And in cases of natural disasters, they don’t just send a few folks—they deploy crews from across the country. For example, when hurricanes strike, up to 500 SERVPRO teams rally together to help entire communities get back on track.
FROM CLEANUP TO COMMUNITY
You might be wondering why a restoration company is sponsoring an athletic event for first responders.
Aaron Bogott, general manager for SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley, says the connection couldn’t be more natural.
“We work alongside emergency personnel every single day—firefighters, police officers, EMTs,” Aaron explains. “When something goes wrong, we’re often the next call after 911. So being able to support them in this way just made sense.”
Nationally, SERVPRO has been a proud sponsor of the Firefighter Challenge League, but this is the first time the local Midwest team is stepping up as host. And they’re doing it big—with volunteers, community engagement, and charitable donations. Any money raised beyond event expenses will be donated to support local firefighters and their families.
“We know it takes a lot of time and financial resources to put on an event like this,” Aaron says. “So anything extra goes right back to those who risk everything for us.”
READY TO CHEER (OR VOLUNTEER)?
The Firefighter Challenge League celebrates endurance, teamwork, and the everyday heroes in our communities. Whether you're there to cheer on Jake Vodenka-Reed or to support your local firehouse, it's guaranteed to be an unforgettable few days.
And if you’re looking to get involved, here’s your chance. SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley is currently seeking volunteers to help set up and support the course under the guidance of the First Responder Institute. No firefighting experience required—just a good attitude and a willingness to pitch in.
You can sign up to volunteer here: https:// linktr.ee/servpromidwestFCL
It’s a great way to get behind the scenes of a one-of-a-kind event and support the folks who run toward danger when the rest of us are running out.
A LITTLE BIT OF FRIENDLY FIRE
Aaron says, “The Firefighter Challenge is also about bonding.” For the first responders involved, it’s a chance to meet peers from around the country, push their limits, and— let’s be honest—show off a little. There’s definitely a bit of friendly competition, especially
when you're racing against elite times that barely stretch over a minute and a half.
Each challenge component is based on real-life firefighting scenarios—from forced entry to victim rescue—and every move mimics what these professionals face on the job. It’s an incredible show of strength, precision, and sheer willpower.
But even if you’re not a firefighter or a first responder, the event is an amazing watch. Think of it as an extreme obstacle course with a whole lot more purpose behind it.
FIRE UP JUNE WITH SERVPRO
Whether you’re attending to cheer on your local team, volunteering behind the scenes, or just curious to see what the toughest two minutes in sports really looks like, this year’s Midwest Firefighter Challenge League Classic is one event you won’t want to miss.
And if you happen to see Aaron Bogott or the SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley crew while you’re there, give them a wave—or a high five. They’re the ones helping turn bad days into better ones, both in their day jobs and right here in our community.
Because when the smoke clears—whether literally or figuratively—it’s good to know someone is standing by, ready to help make it right.
BURGERS. FAMILY. FUN.
From the State Fair to Vikings Lakes, My Burger is flipping patties—and expectations—with heart, hustle, and hometown flavor.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE
If you've driven by the corner of Dodd and Vikings Lake Parkway lately, your nose probably told you before your GPS did: there’s a new burger joint in town. My Burger, the Twin Cities-born smash burger spot, opened its newest location in Eagan in October 2024—and it’s not just any burger chain.
“We’re not just selling burgers—we’re serving hospitality, one tray at a time.”
Owned and operated by the Abdo family, My Burger is a rare kind of local success story. It’s corporate, yes—but not in the cold, cookie-cutter kind of way. Paul and John Abdo, two of the four siblings behind the business (and cousins and friends round out the rest), grew up on food, flavor, and family traditions. And it shows.
A FAMILY LEGACY OF ENJOYABLE FOOD
“We were pretty much born into the food business,” says Paul Abdo, the self-proclaimed Chief Burger Evangelist and the second oldest of the Abdo siblings. His brother John, the President and CEO, calls himself the Chief Burger Enthusiast—and together, they’re leading the charge behind the family-run burger chain that’s anything but ordinary. Their parents ran a pita sandwich concept around the Twin Cities, managed Dairy Queen locations
in Maryland, and have been feeding crowds at the Minnesota State Fair for over 50 years.
“Our dad actually went to school in California and fell in love with the drive-in burger model,” Paul adds. “When the opportunity came up to start something of our own, burgers were just a natural fit.”
That opportunity came in 2003 when a downtown Minneapolis building lease fell through at the last minute. At the time, their dad was lecturing on entrepreneurship at the University of Notre Dame. Paul and his dad were on a flight to campus when inspiration hit. “He literally wrote the business plan for My Burger on the plane,” Paul says.
By 2004, the first My Burger was up and running— and now, with locations across the Twin Cities and a new one in Woodbury on the way this summer, they’ve made a name for themselves by doing three things really well: burgers, fries, and customer care.
WHAT’S YOUR FLAVOR SENSATION?
“My go-to is the double original with cheese— ketchup, mustard, fried onions, sweet pickles. And fries, always,” says John Abdo, My Burger’s President and CEO. Paul keeps it classic, too: a double with cheese, ketchup, and dill pickles.
Their brother Corey, another owner, leans California-style with a cheesy Double Cali and likes to weigh in on the more adventurous Burger of the Month picks—like this past April’s flaming hot Cheeto-topped creation.
And here’s their sister Mandy’s favorite—she’s the oldest of the bunch. Her pick? A Double Original with pepper jack cheese, lettuce, and dill pickles. A little spicy, a little crunchy, and totally her own.
“We’ve got 12 different burgers of the month each year. Some of them go pretty far off the rails, and we love that,” John shares. “But we always bring it back to the classics. That’s our foundation.”
Fries come piping hot. Shakes rotate with “Shake of the Moment” flavors. And while you’ll order at the counter, don’t expect to be left alone after that.
Coming up in June? The Campfire Burger: a signature quarter-pound patty, seasoned and smashed to perfection, topped with peppered bacon, crushed red pepper flakes, hot pepper cheese, BBQ garlic mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes. It’s smoky, spicy, and everything summer should taste like.
A FAST FOOD FOCUS ON HOSPITALITY AND LENDING A HELPING HAND
“We’re a quick-serve spot, but once your order’s in, we go full-service,” says John. “We bus your trays, check in to see how things are going, and try to bring back that old-school hospitality.”
“We’re a quick-serve spot, but once your order’s in, we go full-service. We bus your trays, check in to see how things are going, and try to bring back that oldschool hospitality.”
In fact, hospitality is the beating heart of My Burger’s mission—and it’s something they doubled down on after the pandemic.
“A lot of places went toward kiosks and robots. We did the opposite,” John says. “We believe in people taking care of people. We’re trying to create burger fanatics out of first-timers.”
And they’re not just serving up kindness inside the restaurant. My Burger partners with Every Meal, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting food insecurity in local schools. For every shake or malt sold during their seasonal fundraiser, $1 goes to the organization.
“We love to get out into the community, too— packing meals, helping wherever we can,” Paul says. “And we’re big supporters of youth sports.
We do fundraisers at all of our locations, donating 25% of sales from those events back to the programs.”
If you’re starting to feel like this place is about more than burgers, you’re not wrong. My Burger may be expanding, but it’s doing so with its heart intact. It’s a place where you can build your own burger with mustard, dill pickles, and whatever your heart desires—and know that the team behind the counter actually cares that you’re there.
With each new location, the Abdos are serving up something bigger than a quick meal— they’re dishing out a little slice of Minnesota family flavor.
“We want to be your go-to burger joint,” John says. “One visit at a time.”
with heart LEADING AND HONOR
Jonathan Beltran redefines leadership, loyalty, and legacy through family and service.
ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA PHOTOGRAPHY
BY NICOLE
ENGSTROM
& PROVIDED
For Jonathan Beltran, service isn’t just a job—it’s a calling, a legacy, and a deeply personal mission. A man whose path has traversed continents and career fields, Jo, as his friends and family call him, has forged a life rooted in discipline, compassion, and purpose. Born in the Philippines and arriving in the United States at age 10, his American story began with a crash course in resilience. “My grandparents told me I couldn’t speak Tagalog in the house,” he recalls. “If you want to learn English, immerse yourself.” And immerse he did.
Today, MSG Beltran is a U.S. Army veteran with over two decades of service, a full-time leader at the Department of Veterans Affairs, a business partner at Synergy HomeCare of Eagan, and—above all—a devoted husband and father. His is a story of balance in the extreme, where patriotism meets entrepreneurship, and family meets a formidable work ethic.
MSG Beltran’s military career has shaped nearly every facet of his identity. Joining the Army Reserves at 17, he embarked on a journey that would not only provide a career but also deliver one of his proudest personal milestones—his U.S. citizenship. In a moment etched in memory, he was naturalized on the Fourth of July in Baghdad in 2007, with Senator John McCain personally handing him his certificate. “It was one of the most powerful moments of my life,” Beltran says.
His deployments to Iraq tested him physically and emotionally. “By the time my son was five, I had been deployed for almost half of his life,” he shares. The weight of separation and sacrifice eventually reoriented his priorities, especially after experiencing the emotional toll on his family. That awareness has evolved into a core tenet of his leadership: “Be the leader you want to follow,” he says—a principle that guides his roles as a mentor to young soldiers and as a business owner supporting caregivers and clients alike.
Jo’s military experience also found a natural synergy in the private sector. As co-owner of Synergy HomeCare of Eagan, a business inspired by his wife Bri’s deep background in caregiving, he brings strategic insight from an unexpected source—his time in psychological operations. “The easiest way to explain it is marketing for the Army,” he adds. “But we don’t sell products; we sell ideas.”
That mindset has allowed him—along with Bri, who serves as the primary marketer for Synergy—to craft deeply personalized care plans for clients, often using creative and compassionate methods to win trust and build dignity. “Bri has done an amazing job with marketing our specific brand and has really become the face of the company.”
Their shared mission in caregiving is personal and powerful. “Some of my proudest moments are just sitting with older veterans,” Jo says. Whether assisting with a home assessment or filling in during a last-minute shift, he treasures the opportunity to connect, listen, and say thank you. It’s a full-circle moment for a soldier who once sought citizenship through service and now serves those who walked before him.
Despite juggling multiple high-demand roles, Jo’s unwavering center is his family. With his military career nearing its twilight after 23 years, he now invests time and energy into nurturing his sons, mentoring younger soldiers, and supporting Bri’s vision and leadership of Synergy HomeCare of Eagan. “We chased my dreams for years,” he says. “Now it’s time to chase hers.”
When asked what a perfect day looks like, Jo paints a portrait of simplicity and presence: cooking a family breakfast, a solo session at the shooting range, a workout, video games with his kids, and an evening unwinding with his wife. “It’s therapeutic,” he says. “And grounding.”
In a world that often celebrates titles and accolades, Jonathan Beltran’s story reminds us that the true measure of success lies in impact—in lifting others, leading with integrity, and choosing presence over prestige. Whether mentoring troops, empowering caregivers, or parenting with intention, he exemplifies a modern kind of heroism—one born not from grand gestures, but from daily devotion to service, love, and legacy.
FAMILY, flavor, AND FLAME
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE
If you’ve lived in Eagan long enough, you probably know where the old Baker’s Square used to be. But since New Year’s Eve 2008, that same spot has been home to something super delectable—Ansari’s Mediterranean Grill. “We took a chance,” says co-owner David Ansari. “The building had been sitting empty for a while, and we decided to go check it out. Now, it’s our family’s everyday gathering place—and hopefully our kids’ someday too.”
David and his four brothers opened Ansari’s as a new chapter in their family’s long-running history in the restaurant business. Their father and uncles were the original owners of the Mediterranean Cruise Café in Burnsville, a beloved Twin Cities staple. After their dad sold his share and tried his hand in other ventures, the Eagan location was born—bringing with it the same family-first mentality and original recipes from Jerusalem.
David grew up in the restaurant world, doing everything from cooking to washing dishes. But he actually went to school for software development. “Still,” he laughs, “I guess the restaurant life called me back. I manage all aspects now—HR, cooking, even serving tables when needed. It’s fun, and it’s cool to hang out with your family every day.”
And that family involvement is continuing into the next generation. “My oldest is 15 and already helping out. My 14-year-old, too,” he says. “Hopefully, they’ll keep the legacy going.”
A MENU THAT GOES BEYOND
So what’s cooking at Ansari’s? Plenty.
The hummus is their number-one seller, followed closely by gyros and their house-made shawarma. “We started making our own shawarma in-house during Covid when we couldn’t get product,” David explains. “All-natural, hand-stacked meat—it’s been one of our top items ever since.”
For the undecided, the “Tour of the Mediterranean” lets you sample flavors from Greece, Lebanon, and Jerusalem in one sitting. And if you want a little show with your supper, order the flaming cheese—aka Saganaki. “It’s one of our favorites to recommend,” says David.
One new addition David’s especially excited about? “Our Lunch Power Bowls—we just added them to the menu,” he says. “The Dahoud Bowl is my go-to. I eat it every day.” You’ll find them under Lunch Specialties on the online menu.
And for the younger crowd, the kids’ menu includes gyros, cheeseburgers, shish kabobs with rice, grilled cheese, and David’s daughter’s favorite—V’s mac and cheese.
“Everything here is unique—you won’t see this kind of menu just anywhere.”
NOT JUST A RESTAURANT
While the food is a major draw, there’s a whole experience waiting at Ansari’s. “We’re not just a restaurant,” David says. “We’ve got the bar, the rare beers, the events— we’re creating a place where people can relax, hang out, and try something new.”
“We have quite a beer following, too.” And that beer following is no joke. Ansari’s has been recognized by Growler Magazine and even won a gold award for Best Beer Menu South of the River. “We work hard to get rare beers—those one-offs from local and faraway breweries,” David says. “We’ve even brewed with some of the smaller outfits, and it’s awesome when those beers go out to stores and have our logo on them.”
And if beer’s not your thing? Try something from the bourbon list. It’s big. Really big.
It’s that blend of casual atmosphere and elevated flavor that keeps guests coming back. Whether you're sipping something unique from the bourbon list, enjoying entertainment, or indulging in flaming cheese, there’s always something to look forward to.
“EVERYTHING HERE IS unique —YOU WON’T SEE THIS KIND OF MENU JUST ANYWHERE... YOU’LL FEEL OUR energy IN EVERY DISH.”
THE PATIO EXPERIENCE
One of the most unique parts of Ansari’s is their outdoor patio experience. “Gathering after a meal is a cherished tradition,” David explains. “It’s an opportunity to relax, connect, and enjoy the moment.”
Available mainly in the summer months, the patio offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that draws guests looking to extend their evening in a fun, laid-back setting. “It’s part of the culture,” he adds, “and a great way to wind down your night.”
BUILT FOR GOOD TIMES AND GREAT EVENTS
Like many restaurants, Ansari’s had to adapt during recent years. For them, catering became a lifeline—and now, it’s a thriving part of the business. “We cater weddings,
corporate events, graduations—you name it,” says David. “That side of the business really helped us pull through.”
And while the restaurant continues to evolve, the foundation remains the same: good food, personal touches, and a whole lot of heart.
“You’ll feel our energy in every dish,” David says. “We’re not just here to serve you a meal—we want you to have a great time, try something new, and come back with friends.”
THINKING OF STOPPING BY?
Try the hummus. Grab a rare beer. Share some flaming cheese. Stay for some relaxation on the patio. Enjoy belly dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Ansari’s Mediterranean Grill is more than a restaurant—it’s a place where flavor, family, and fun come together in every bite.
empowering every body, one move at a time
InControl and Union Fitness partner to expand adaptive wellness
Step into the bright, welcoming space at Union Fitness in Eagan this summer, and you might just witness something extraordinary. Adults with disabilities will be working out in small-group fitness classes, partnering with exceptional trainers who see more than physical limits—they see opportunity.
It’s all thanks to InControl, a local organization dedicated to helping disabled adults live their fullest lives. Founded by Kelsey Joson, InControl delivers in-home coaching to clients 18 and older across the Twin Cities metro area. While the organization became operational in 2021, its vision had been forming long before that.
“I wanted a place where people with disabilities could come to get fitness coaching, nutrition support, and social-emotional development,” Kelsey shares. “But after the pandemic, I realized many clients were stuck at home outside of work. That’s when we shifted to in-home services.”
BUILT ON THREE CORE PILLARS
Kelsey explains that the InMotion program is built on three core pillars.
• Physical wellness: Helping clients understand how and why to move their bodies, offering equipment recommendations, and focusing on movements they enjoy.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYLE JOHNSON-MACPHERSON
• Nutrition coaching: From shopping to prepping meals, clients are exposed to recipes and kitchen skills that match their unique health needs.
• Social and emotional support: Beyond basic life skills, clients engage in character development—practicing patience, respect, and navigating tough situations through role-play and coaching.
Philip has been working one-on-one with Jen Williams, owner and trainer at Union Fitness, for about six months. He came to Jen after his mother struggled to find a local gym that offered adaptive classes. It is this very relationship between Jen and Philip that Kelsey is looking to create for other individuals who desire adaptive physical fitness options.
AN INTRODUCTION TO INSPIRE BETTER HEALTH FOR PEOPLE OF ALL ABILITIES
Kelsey and Jen first met at church just before the pandemic. As they kept in touch, they saw an opportunity to build something together that combined their passions. “There are already families at Union Fitness who have loved ones with disabilities,” says Jen. “We wanted to build a space where everyone feels seen and supported.”
That space is finally coming to life.
Beginning June 9, Union Fitness will host InControl’s adaptive fitness classes—a 12-week pilot program open to adults with disabilities who are ready to move their bodies in new ways. Participants can sign up for one or two sessions per week, where they’ll be grouped thoughtfully based on an intake assessment and individual goals.
“We want to help people feel confident and comfortable,” Jen says. “Our gym gives them access to so much more—ropes, weights, spin bikes, boxing bags, and space to move.”
This program isn’t just about breaking a sweat—it’s about creating connection, building confidence, and fostering independence. And it’s just the beginning. Kelsey and Jen hope to grow the program and adapt it based on financial needs and community interest.
Interested families can reach out to jen@unionfitmn.com to get started.
WEDNESDAYS, JUNE 4TH - AUGUST 27TH
Eagan Market Fest Concert Series
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 4:00 PM
A summer concert series accompanies Eagan Market Fest each week at the Eagan Rotary Bandshell. Concerts are free and open to the public. Grab dinner from one of our concession vendors, bring a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy a relaxing concert in the park. Visit https://cityofeagan.com/mf-music for a detailed schedule of performers.
JUNE 7TH
20th Annual Officer Scott Patrick Memorial 5K Run/Walk
Intersection of Main Street and Market Street, Mendota Heights, MN 55118 | 9:00 AM
Register today for the Annual Officer Scott Patrick Memorial 5K Run/Walk to benefit Special Olympics Minnesota and Northern Dakota County Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. Registered participants receive a T-shirt and are entered into a prize drawing. Prizes distributed as part of this event are provided by Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. Register in person at Mendota Heights City Hall.
JUNE 21ST - 22ND
Eagan Art Festival
1501 Central Pkwy, St Paul, MN 55121 | 9:00 AM
The annual Eagan Art Festival will celebrate 31 years in 2025! Located at the Central Park Fairgrounds. This event provides free art experiences for 10,000+ visitors annually and showcases 100+ artists covering multiple disciplines, including visual, music, and performing arts. Experiences include artist demonstrations and a kids scavenger hunt, offering free take-away items for participants.
Savor the local flair EACH OTHER . and
Experience the ultimate summer retreat at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel. Dive into family fun at the pool, unwind with rejuvenating Nordic-inspired treatments at Idlewild Spa, and treat your taste buds to culinary delights at Ember & Ice or Kyndred Hearth for James Beard award-winning chef Ann Kim’s take on familiar favorites. The more summer nights you stay, the more you save. Enjoy 15% off 2 nights or up to 20% off 3 or more nights. Plus, kids eat free this summer! Come away with us and make the most of your summer!