Proposals sought for new food, beverage and programming operator at Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Proposals due April 5, 2024; new vendor expected to begin operating in 2024

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in September 2022

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB), in partnership with the Walker Art Center (WAC), seeks a qualified and experienced food and beverage vendor for the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (MSG). The selected vendor will be expected to provide food and beverage service along with innovative and engaging programming ideas at the MSG.

A Request For Proposals (RFP) was issued, today, Friday, March 15, 2024. Proposals are due Friday, April 5, 2024 at 4 pm. There are two walkthroughs for interested parties at the MSG, on March 27 and April 3, both at 10 am. Read the “Schedule” section below for full details.

The RFP linked below has full detailed information on the opportunity, how to apply, and the evaluation and selection process:

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Food, Beverage and Programming Vendor RFP

The selected vendor will not replace the WAC restaurant. It’s intended to complement and enhance current food and beverage options at the garden with a non-permanent venue that will generate revenue in support of the MSG. It’s also intended to expand garden programming with a range of low-impact programs and activities that cater to a wide demographic, including families, youth, seniors, and diverse cultural backgrounds.

Park Details and History

At 11 acres, the MSG is the largest urban sculpture garden in the country and a popular destination that attracts a diverse range of visitors throughout the year. It opened at 726 Vineland Place in 1988 and has become an iconic Minneapolis attraction that draws more than 600,000 visitors per year thanks to a successful public/private partnership between the WAC and the MPRB.

In 2016-17, the MSG was fully reconstructed with improved sustainability and accessibility.

Operator Priorities

Key objectives outlined in a proposal to operate within the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden are:

1. Evidence of a vendor that respects and appreciates the unique setting and backdrop of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Downtown Minneapolis.
2. Proposed innovative and creative ideas that complement current programs.
3. A variety of food and beverage offerings that cater to the diverse preferences of park visitors.
4. Programs and activities developed that encourage community participation and foster a sense of belonging.
5. Application of environmentally friendly and sustainable practices.
6. Opportunities to maximize revenue to the MPRB to support the MSG.
7. A commitment to excellent customer service to enhance the overall visitor experience.

Proposals

Proposals should include:

1. A clear outline of the company or individual profile
2. Relevant experience and expertise in providing food and beverage service in similar environments and programming public spaces
3. An operational plan for seasonal food and beverage
4. A programming plan
5. Income estimates
6. Terms, including payment to the MPRB
7. Operating season and hours
8. Sample menu pricing

Proposals are due Friday, April 5, 2024, 4:00 pm CST.

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Food, Beverage and Programming Vendor RFP

Proposal Evaluation

A committee comprised of MPRB staff, WAC staff, and other technical experts will evaluate all the proposals and will provide their recommendation on a preferred vendor to MPRB Commissioners, who will make the final decision on entering into an agreement.

Schedule

Friday, March 15, 2024: Request for Proposal released
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 10 am: Walk through at the park for interested parties
Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 10 am: Walk through at the park for interested parties
Friday, April 5, 2024 at 4 pm: Proposal Due Date
April 2024: Proposal Presentations
May 2024: Committee decision on recommended proposal
May 2024: Recommendations presented at Administration & Finance Committee
June 2024: Final Board Action Full Board
June 2024: Contract Executed

Questions?

If you have questions regarding the MSG Food, Beverage and Programming Vendor RFP process, please email Shane Stenzel at sstenzel@minneapolisparks.org.