Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsay Pohlad
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
This journey has unfolded really naturally — fueled by a deep love for food, people, and creating spaces that just feel good. I actually went to culinary school while I was pregnant with my boys — not exactly the traditional timing, but it felt right. I had this growing passion for food and entertaining, and I wanted to find a way to blend that with my background in finance and business. Living in New York City for a time, I was constantly inspired by places like Dean & Deluca — vibrant markets full of energy and incredible flavors. That experience stayed with me.
When we moved to Wayzata, it reminded me so much of where I grew up back east — a small town full of charm and local gems. I wanted to build something here that felt like a little slice of that: a place where people could gather over good food, sip wine, grab beautiful provisions, and feel completely at ease. That became The Grocer’s Table — a warm, inviting place that feels like your favorite friend’s kitchen, only with better coffee and cocktails. Over time, it’s grown in ways I never expected — from counter service only to full dinner service, cocktails, robust happy hours, and even holiday catering. It’s been wild and wonderful watching it evolve.
Then came Eloise — my next chapter. I wasn’t looking to expand The Grocer’s Table itself; it’s special just the way it is. But when the space next door opened up, I saw an opportunity to explore something new. A darker, sexier, evening-centric space with bold seasonal flavors, high-touch service, and the same warmth and timelessness I’ve always loved. Eloise is named after my husband’s grandmother — and metaphorically, she’s my fourth child (I have three boys!). It’s a deeply personal project and one that I’ve poured my heart into.
It hasn’t always been easy — managing a team, riding the ups and downs of the restaurant world — but it’s been one of the greatest joys of my life. Creating places where people feel welcome, connected, and cared for is what drives me. And every day, I feel grateful to be doing exactly that.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road — but I don’t think I ever expected it to be. I think one of the biggest surprises was just how much of my job would be about managing people. I came into this world thinking it would mostly be about food, design, and the guest experience — and while that’s still a huge part of it, the day-to-day reality is a lot more about leading a team, navigating personalities, and constantly adjusting to the ebbs and flows of the labor market.
Opening a business during COVID also came with its own set of challenges. We had to pivot quickly — launching family-style to-go meals, creating a safe and welcoming space in uncertain times, and staying true to our vision while being incredibly nimble. There were staffing shortages, supply chain issues, you name it. But we just kept showing up, listening to our guests, and leaning into what made us unique.
It’s been a rollercoaster, for sure — with some stomach-dropping moments — but I’ve learned so much. And honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. The challenges have made the wins feel even more meaningful.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Before opening my own restaurants, I spent the early part of my career in finance — working in both investment banking and private equity. While I learned a ton, I knew long-term it wasn’t where my heart was. It was fast-paced and incredibly valuable in shaping how I think as a business owner today, but I found myself craving something more creative and personal.
After that, I had the opportunity to work with Talenti Gelato, which was such a turning point for me. Being part of a growing food brand gave me a firsthand look at how storytelling, product integrity, and strategic growth can all come together. It also confirmed for me that I wanted to be in the food space — but in my own way.
That experience, paired with a long-standing love of food and hospitality, is what ultimately inspired me to chart my own path. I knew I wanted to create something from the ground up — a place rooted in great food, strong community, and thoughtful details. That’s really where the seed was planted, long before The Grocer’s Table or Eloise ever opened their doors.
At The Grocer’s Table, we specialize in elevated, approachable food with a strong focus on seasonality, local sourcing, and hospitality. It’s a place that functions as a café, wine bar, bakery, and market during the day — and evolves into a full-service restaurant in the evening. We’re known for being a true community gathering space — warm, inviting, and deeply personal.
With Eloise, the idea was to create something equally special but different — a more intimate, evening-driven experience. The menu leans into bold, seasonal flavors with global influence, and the space is designed to feel like your friend’s living room: chic, comfortable, and just the right amount of moody.
What sets us apart is how personal this work is for me. I’m deeply involved in every detail — from the menu and sourcing to the design and guest experience. We don’t chase trends. We focus on quality, connection, and creating spaces that feel timeless.
What I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is that these aren’t just restaurants — they’re gathering places, woven into the fabric of the community. We’ve built something that people return to again and again, not just for the food (though that matters!) but for how it makes them feel.
That’s the heart of it all — great food, warm hospitality, and creating places where people genuinely want to be.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I’m a big believer in finding inspiration in both the expected and unexpected places. I love podcasts like How I Built This — hearing the behind-the-scenes of how people built their brands from the ground up always motivates me, especially as someone who took a winding path to entrepreneurship. I also enjoy The Daily to stay grounded in what’s happening in the world — it helps give perspective outside of my own bubble.
And honestly? Some of my best inspiration comes from conversations with my team, my guests, or just walking through a market and noticing a beautiful ingredient. I try to stay open — that’s usually when the best ideas come.
Contact Info:
- Website: thegrocerstablemn.com and eloisemn.com
- Instagram: @thegrocerstable and @eloisewayzata
