moto-i - Lyn/Lake, Minneapolis, MN

JAPANESE-INSPIRED DINING EXPERIENCE ROOTED IN RAMEN, SAKE AND CURIOSITY IN MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Welcome to Moto-i

MODERN, JAPANESE-INSPIRED DINING IN MINNEAPOLIS

We invite guests beyond the traditional dining experience through house-brewed sake, izakaya-inspired dishes, curated events and a nightlife-driven atmosphere in the heart of Minneapolis' Lyn-Lake neighborhood - home to the first sake brewpub outside of Japan.

groups & parties

BIRTHDAYS, COMPANY EVENTS, WEDDINGS AND MORE.

We host group dinners and private events in Minneapolis across our multi-level space, from lively dining to more intimate settings. With sake flights, cocktails, Japanese spirits and a menu designed for sharing, moto-i is built for groups that want something thoughtful. We offer three distinct event spaces and look forward to planning the details with you.

previous slidenext slide
  • slideshow photo number 1

    the vibrant flavors of Japan

  • slideshow photo number 2

    the first sake brew pub outside of Japan

  • slideshow photo number 3
  • slideshow photo number 4

Take moto-i Home

treat yourself to your favorites

Enjoy sake in to-go bottles, ramen, steamed buns and more from the comfort of home - crafted in-house and packaged for easy enjoyment wherever you are.

Order

make a reservation

RESERVE YOUR TABLE AT MOTO-I.

Experience a tiered atmosphere that transitions from a lively street-level brewery to an intimate shoji-screen lounge and a "hidden gem" rooftop with sweeping city views that only opens during the spring and summer season.

our story

Inspired by a sip of Masumi Junmai Ginjo at Fuji Ya and a great deal of time spent studying the art of sake brewing in Japan, moto-i's first sake was crafted from makeshift equipment and a newfound passion. That early experiment evolved into the in-house brewery we operate today right here in Lyn-lake, Minneapolis.

Since 2008, we have been serving up warm and delicious bowls of Tokyo straight ramen noodles, quiet and dimly lit corners, late-night energy and a space to get away from the ordinary. At our core, moto-i is an escape into an intentional, quietly special world where craft and comfort collide without pretense or unnecessary hype - whether you're planning date night, a group dinner, or a solo experience.