Even those who didn't bite the "free beer for life" hook at the investing stage have been packing this new brewpub on a nightly basis. The Standish-Ericsson neighborhood is mere steps off the light rail and offers a blend of residential and commercial services, yet it lacked craft beer/sit-down dinner options. In other words, Northbound Smokehouse is just what the neighborhood ordered. Offering a mix of unique and bold beers and smoked, locally sourced meats, the upstart is packed nearly every night and serving quality, brewed-on-site beverages. Give the ownership credit not only for creative startup funding but for providing a much-needed niche in this south Minneapolis neighborhood. While Northbound's success can make seating hard to find, its patio nearly doubles the brewpub's capacity.