Southern Social Opening in Chaska
A new restaurant, Southern Social, is preparing to open in Chaska in the former Cuzzy's location. The establishment will feature Southern-inspired cuisine, adding a new option to the local dining scene.
The Chaska location is the third for the Southern Social brand, a concept developed by the Bloomington-based Trellis Hospitality group. This expansion reflects a broader strategy of bringing "a downtown experience to the suburb," a growing trend as more people work from home and seek dining options closer to where they live. Trellis Hospitality operates a range of other suburban restaurants, including Tamarack Tap Room in Woodbury and Barely + Vine in Lakeville. The concept for Southern Social was born out of a culinary research trip to Nashville by the hospitality group's team. This inspiration is evident in the menu, which was designed to offer authentic Southern flavors to a Minnesotan palate. The restaurant aims to provide an upscale and chic atmosphere that rivals trendy spots in the metro core. Diners can expect a menu featuring Southern staples such as shrimp and grits, jambalaya, and fried chicken. Other signature items include pork belly burnt ends, pimento mac and cheese, and white cheddar grits with shrimp. The restaurant also offers a weekend brunch with dishes like chicken and waffles and a "Nashville Hot Benny," a spicy twist on the traditional eggs benedict. The beverage program at Southern Social is also Southern-inspired, with a selection of over 40 whiskeys. For groups, the restaurant offers shareable punchbowl cocktails, like the "Debutante," which combines vodka, elderflower liqueur, lavender, and lemon. The drink menu also includes options like a Georgia peach sangria and a spicy Southern heat paloma with jalapeño-infused tequila. Southern Social's opening provides a new upscale dining option in Chaska, taking over the space of the former Cuzzy's Brick House. The restaurant features an expansive patio and backyard seating area, catering to diners looking for an outdoor experience. This new establishment joins a changing local business landscape, highlighted by the recent closure of the nearby Schram Haus Brewery, which cited sustainability challenges for a small brewery.
