Mar 2, 2026 9:58 PM
In Memoriam: John Hammond Jr., 1942–2026
John P. Hammond (aka John Hammond Jr.), a blues guitarist and singer who was one of the first white American…
The historic Young-Quinlan Building at 9th and Nicollet in downtown Minneapolis.
(Photo: Courtesy The Dakota)Dakota, the internationally recognized Minneapolis music venue known for pairing world-class live performance with chef-driven cuisine, is launching a new private event and performance space in the historic Young-Quinlan Building on Nicollet Mall. The new venture, The Quinlan Room by Dakota, takes over the former JB Hudson space most recently occupied by Chameleon Consortium’s Chameleon Shoppes program.
The launch of The Quinlan Room marks a significant expansion for Dakota, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. It’s also a notable new anchor tenant for the Young-Quinlan Building, which marks its 100th anniversary later this summer and is one of Nicollet Mall’s most iconic and historic buildings.
“Over the years, we’ve had to turn away numerous private event opportunities,” said Lowell Pickett, Dakota founder and co-owner. “The Quinlan Room allows us to host more events, as well as a wider range of performances. We’ve effectively expanded our creative and operational footprint — while staying true to the level of hospitality and production our guests and performers expect.”
At almost 10,000 square feet, The Quinlan Room features a marble grand staircase, mezzanine, large arched windows and proportions that evoke the style and ambiance of a grand ballroom. Its open, flexible layout can accommodate a wide range of events, including musical performances, weddings, corporate functions and other private gatherings.
“This is an exciting partnering of two iconic and highly respected Twin Cities brands: Dakota and Young- Quinlan,” said Robert Greenberg, president of The 614 Company and owner/manager of the Young- Quinlan Building. “The opening of The Quinlan Room will be a welcome addition to the vibrancy and relevance of Nicollet Mall and the surrounding neighborhood.”
Dakota officially took over the space on March 1, and plans to open for private events and performances later this spring. Additional details regarding an official opening date and inaugural programming will be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information, CLICK HERE. DB
Hammond came to the blues through the folk boom of the late 1950s and early 1960s, which he experienced firsthand in New York’s Greenwich Village.
Mar 2, 2026 9:58 PM
John P. Hammond (aka John Hammond Jr.), a blues guitarist and singer who was one of the first white American…
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