A beloved local bar and restaurant, Haskell’s, was severely damaged in a fire early on May 6, 2026, in Excelsior, Minnesota. The fire broke out around 1:30 a.m., igniting on the patio before quickly engulfing the bar side of the building.
The aftermath is devastating. Firefighters from five departments battled the blaze for about 90 minutes. By the time they contained it, the bar had suffered catastrophic damage — the ceiling collapsed, and it’s reported to be totaled. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Haskell’s has been a cherished gathering spot since 1934. Locals like Ted Farrell describe it as “the local place to go,” where people can unwind in their sweatpants, enjoy a beer and burger, and play bingo on weekends. Its loss would leave a significant void in the community.
Key facts:
- The fire started on the outside of the building.
- Fire crews managed to prevent the flames from spreading to the liquor store side.
- The restaurant will remain closed while damage assessments are conducted.
- Excelsior Fire Chief Nate Basinger noted that there will be an ongoing fire investigation to determine the cause.
As residents reflect on what Haskell’s means to them, questions linger. What will happen next? The cause of the fire is still unknown. Officials have not released any details about further damage or potential injuries beyond those already reported.
The team at Haskell’s has expressed gratitude for community support during this challenging time: “Thank you for your support and patience while we navigate this.” As they assess their next steps, one thing is clear — this local institution holds a special place in the hearts of many who call Lake Minnetonka home.