Babbitt’s Wine Bar Celebrates First Anniversary in Sauk Centre

What might just be the only Sinclair-Lewis-themed wine bar in the world is celebrating one year in business in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

I first learned of Babbitt’s Wine Bar late last summer from my mother-in-law who had stopped by and encouraged me to visit. Unfortunately, I never found the time to spend in Sauk Centre until June of this year, when my friend Brenna was in town spending time with her in-laws-to-be. We had a girls’ night with my husband’s aunt Corinne, and after a trip to the nail salon, we capped the night at Babbitt’s. Brenna had been there the night before and knew immediately that this was a place for The Small Town Tourist to scope out, and was so excited to share the experience with us.

We arrived around 7:30 pm to Oak Street in Sauk Centre, just up from the band shell in the park. This small 1937 building has a rich history, starting out as a dry cleaning business and then becoming a tavern called John’s Place, and it even has a bomb shelter in the basement. With just a handful of tables, a row of hightop seating along the windows and along the bar, and a patio, this space is cozy and inviting in the best ways possible.

Floor-to-ceiling shelves are lined with antiques and more books than a person could read in a lifetime, most donated by friends and family of the owner, Allison Schelitzche.

Allison and her husband moved to the area six years ago after her husband retired. The goal was to move to a lake where her husband could fish year-round. After settling here and deciding it was forever, they had a conversation about what they missed from living in the cities. The couple came to realize what they missed most was a quiet place where they could go and get a great glass of wine. Then came the search for the building, getting permits, and all the other fun things that go into starting a business.

What I found fascinating while talking to Allison is the local focus that they had. The construction and design of the building remodel were done with local contractors, and even the products (like the snacks and cheeses) are local to Central Minnesota. Allison has a passion for the community and it shows through in her business. Allison also shared that they are going to be expanding their menu this fall to offer some unique bourbon options in addition to their wine selection.

Hear the full conversation and dive deep into Babbitt’s Wine Bar in Sauk Centre with Allison Schelitzche on this week’s episode of The Small Town Tourist Podcast.