Midtown Global Market is an internationally themed market selling fresh food, arts and crafts along with restaurants

Midtown Global Market is an internationally-themed public market with fresh foods, restaurants and arts and crafts from around the world. The markets exist to maintain a public market to build the economic, social and cultural assets of the community and welcome everyone to share and celebrate the foods, arts, crafts and other aspects of their heritages. The markets opened for business on May 15, 2006.

The market's goals are to offer a broad selection of foods from around the world to appeal to the diverse community of South Minneapolis, provide a nurturing environment to facilitate small business growth and create job opportunities, provide a true public market experience and encourage customers to meet and develop relationships with vendors. They also aim to offer healthy food alternative, which will contribute to the wellness of the community.

The markets began after the City of Minneapolis was trying to find a use for the vacant Sears building, which had been vacant for many years. Local business owners and neighborhood groups convinced City officials that the historic building should be saved resulting in the connection to the ethnic diversity of the neighborhood.

The markets too shape through the extraordinary efforts of many people in the community. The entrepreneurs took great risks and made commitments to occupy the space, invested their time, resources and creative energy. Donors gave generously to support the vision of the market of grass roots community economic development. Ryan Companies worked hard to create a unique market space within a building with many challenges.

Stores that are located within the market include Specialty Groceries such as Caf, Finspang, Fiesta in America, Holy Land Grocery & Deli, Oh Fudge! and the Produce Exchange. Fresh Produce and Bulk Food stores include Clean Water Works, Cosecha Imports. Bread, Baked Goods and Confections include Fiesta in America and Salty Tart.

Dining at the markets include breakfast venues such as Andy's Garage, Kitchen in the Market and Mapps Coffee & Tea, Lunch Dinner and Takeout include Grand Italian Ice, A la Salsa, Jakeeno's Trattoria and Safari Express.

A La Salsa is a popular Nicollet Avenue eatery voted Best Latino in the City Pages 2005 and has opened a second location with a sit-down restaurant at the Midtown Global Market. The restaurant features the same Mexican menu and full bar as the first restaurant.

Meetings and entertainment events are able to be held at the markets with options available for small and large groups of up to 100 people. Hist

Services available at the market include bus parking, catering options, tours, self guided activities, entertainment booking service and cooking demonstrations and lessons.