Westopolis Taco Trail: A West End Stop

West End Taco Trail Stop

Big flavor and big energy come together in a premier entertainment district. At the West End stop on the Westopolis Taco Trail, Chi-Chi’s serves bold Mexican favorites alongside shopping, dining, art, and nightlife in one vibrant destination.

Tacos, Shopping, and Entertainment in the Heart of West End

The West End stop on the Westopolis Taco Trail brings together memorable food and one of the area’s most dynamic destinations. Set within the Shops at West End, it combines flavorful tacos with shopping, entertainment, public art, and nearby restaurants. It works equally well for a relaxed lunch, an evening out, or a full day of exploration.

🌮 Taco Stop at the West End

Chi-Chi’s

At Chi-Chi’s, diners can begin with a taco selection that offers plenty of variety. Pick corn or flour tortillas and choose from fillings such as carne asada, blackened mahi, achiote chicken, shrimp, ground beef, braised short rib, or vegetarian options. Tacos come with beans and sweet or Spanish-style rice.

The menu includes much more than tacos. Starters range from fresh guacamole and cotija grilled Mexican street corn to roasted poblano queso, ceviche, and flautas. Chi-Chi’s original chimichangas are filled with chicken, beef, red chili, or short rib, while burritos, bowls, enchiladas, fajitas, and salads round out the menu.

Dessert options include fried ice cream, tres leches cake, and churros.

The bar offers more than 100 varieties of tequila, mezcal, and agave spirits. Margarita choices span classic recipes and creative flavors, including mango, guava, prickly pear, and smoked jalapeño. Guests who do not drink can choose from mocktails, Mexican Coca-Cola, Jarritos, and other beverages.

Explore the West End

Superb Shopping at West End

Two central shopping destinations anchor the West End: The Shops at West End and Park Place Plaza. Together, they offer national retailers as well as distinctive local boutiques.

Large retailers include Costco, while local favorites include:

• Continental Diamond – An award-winning jewelry store with engagement rings, diamond jewelry and watches, and repair services.
• Kiddywampus – A source for creative toys, books, and gifts for curious kids.
• Lost in the Forrest – A shop specializing in unique and hard-to-find houseplants.
• Rubi Jubi – Minnesota’s go-to destination for prom and special occasion dresses.

Art & Creativity at the West End

Public art and immersive galleries bring creative energy throughout the West End, adding personality and charm to the neighborhood.

• Full Circle (16th St W & Utica Ave S) – A striking spherical sculpture with surrounding benches engraved with reflections on Minnesota’s four seasons.
• Bee Way (1621 West End Blvd) – A playful installation featuring honeycomb patterns, aluminum bees, and a butterfly bench.
• Aurora Organ (Marcus West End Cinema atrium) – An interactive light sculpture that shifts color when touched.
• Canvas Convergence – A 3D experiential gallery with interactive illusion murals, creative classes, and a gift shop filled with art-inspired finds.
• Drew Beson Art – A working studio known for large-scale abstract paintings with bold color and movement.
• Crayon Kelly Experience – A vibrant creative hub combining art, entrepreneurship, and community learning.
• Stephanie Dillon Art – Expressive works that range from large canvases to smaller framed pieces.

Things to Do at the West End

A Taco Trail visit can easily be paired with a wide range of entertainment.

• Marcus West End Cinema – A 16-screen theater offering luxury recliner seating and the latest in digital sound and projection.
• Punch Bowl Social – One destination for bowling, arcade games, karaoke, and interactive fun.
• REVEAL Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Located on the AC Hotel rooftop, with skyline views, handcrafted cocktails, and shareable plates.

Film lovers can also attend the annual Twin Cities Film Fest, a 10-day celebration held each October with more than 100 films and special appearances from industry guests.

Perfectly Pampered at the West End

For time devoted to relaxation and self-care, the West End includes:

• Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa – Massages and skincare treatments.
• Glamour Nails & Spa – Manicures, pedicures, and more.
• Roosters Men’s Grooming Center – A classic barbershop experience.
• Love, A + B – Modern hair styling and services.
• Sola Salon Studios – A collection of independent beauty professionals.

More Delicious Dining Nearby

The West End’s dining scene offers a broad range of choices for different cravings.

At the Shops at West End, options include:

• Boketto Steakhouse – Fine dining that brings Japanese elegance together with Mediterranean zest.
• CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi Bar – American favorites, sushi, and cocktails.
• Hope Breakfast Bar – All-day breakfast with both sweet and savory choices.
• The Local – Classic Irish pub fare in a cozy atmosphere.
• Punch Bowl Social – A combination of dining and entertainment, including bowling and games.
• Raku Sushi & Lounge – Japanese cuisine with global influences.
• Yard House – A massive menu accompanied by 100+ taps of craft and imported beer.

Nearby dining includes:

• Dover Restaurant & Bar – Casual dining with elevated cuisine inside the DoubleTree.
• Taste of India – Fresh Indian dishes made from scratch.
• Yangtze Chinese – Classic Chinese cuisine and weekend dim sum.

For a quick meal, guests can choose JC’s Subs, Bun Bun Café & Poké, Five Guys, Panera Bread, Punch Pizza, and more.

Stay the Night at the West End

An overnight stay makes it possible to experience even more of the West End. Hotels located in the area include the DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis-Park Place, the AC Hotel by Marriott Minneapolis West End and the Homewood Suites by Hilton. Additional nearby choices include SpringHill Suites by Marriott Minneapolis West and TownePlace Suites by Marriott.

A Taco Trail Stop Worth Exploring

The West End Taco Trail stop combines bold Mexican flavors at Chi-Chi’s with abundant dining, shopping, entertainment, and vibrant public spaces. The result is an experience that goes beyond a single meal.

After tacos at the West End, visitors can explore the other delicious destinations along the Westopolis Taco Trail.