Union Depot Bar & Grill

St. Paul, Minnesota

Preserving Historical Significance through Innovative Kitchen Design

The Union Depot Bar & Grill is a complete commercial kitchen and dining room remodel located in the historic Union Depot in downtown St. Paul. The kitchen was renovated to accommodate expanded service to include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, it was expanded to facilitate their catering operation that can accommodate up to 800 people.

Many challenges were faced to properly provide a functional kitchen for the staff while observing the building codes required to have the building still be listed among those of historical significance. Equipment was selected that was either vent-free or channeled through a sophisticated pollution control unit that funnels it out of the back of the building. Thus preserving the  structural integrity and original design of the building.

Even paint schemes and the original ticket counters were preserved in the design, making this one of the most beautiful historic depots left standing in the U.S. Only now the space is also a draw for parties, special gatherings, and dining out.

Design Challenges with Historic Buildings | Tony Mills

Rapids Design
VR Tour

VR available with the use of Google Cardboard, your VR headset and your phone. Service provided by Rapids. Ask for details.

Union Depot Specialized Pollution Control Unit

Configured into the commercial kitchen hood system for channeling exhaust through the back of the building preserving it’s status as an official historic building. Also visible is the long draw glycol unit that keeps the beer cold from the walk-in to the beer tower at the bar.

Meet Our Specialists!

Below are just a few of the people you might work with when you come to Rapids – take a look at their bios to learn a little bit more about what they will bring to your project!

Thomas Roberts

Thomas Roberts

Contract & Design Specialist

Thomas’s experience working with very involved clients has given him the skills needed to provide thorough equipment options. He also actually enjoys mowing his lawn. Learn more…
Eric Schmitt

Eric Schmitt

President

Eric’s most challenging project was an Army Reserve Center kitchen, due to the many people involved in the decision-making process. He thinks that all of his dishes are amazing, but his daughter would say his Frozen-themed pancakes are the best. Learn more…

LET'S FIND YOUR SOLUTION

Rapids Contract serves the United States with locations in Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri!

Get in touch with one of our experts and let us know how we can help with any of your foodservice needs.

Talk to one of our experts right away and get immediate assistance. We are open Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm CST.

Get in touch with one of our experts and let us know how we can help with any of your foodservice needs.

Talk to one of our experts right away and get immediate assistance. We are open Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm CST.