The best bars & nightlife in Minneapolis

“Burgers, wings & other American pub grub, plus draft beer, served in relaxed, cabin-style digs.”

“Rustic lakefront spot with a deck for BBQ plates, tropical cocktails & craft beer, plus live music.”

“Breakfast-to-dinner American menu in relaxed digs with rotating brews, live music & patio seating.”

“Lakefront pick for intimate, upscale Italian dining featuring an outdoor patio with water views.”

“Modern American grill focusing on Minnesota beers & quality whiskeys with a wide variety of food.”

“Enduring staple offering homestyle pub fare & weekend breakfast in humble surrounds with a full bar.”

“Relaxed venue offering updated American classics, plus a full bar with craft beers on tap.”

“Whether you need a no-fuss burger night or a little midweek laughter, Welsch's Big Ten Tavern delivers homemade comfort plates, daily specials, and the kind of local hangout feel Shoreview folks claim as theirs. Think patio season, pull tabs and e-tabs, live bands, comedy, maybe even karaoke.”

From the Shoreview newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Willy McCoy's is that close-to-home neighborhood spot for classic tavern eats, a full bar, and plenty of TVs when the game’s on. Family owned since 2008 and big on community, they do modern American comfort with vegetarian and gluten-sensitive options that won’t make you feel like an afterthought.”

From the Savage newsletter, September 8, 2026

“American grub, cocktails & beer served in a laid-back setting with a lineup of live music.”

“Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.”

“Rustic-style watering hole offering familiar American eats, a full bar & sports on multiple TVs.”

“Waldmann Brewery pours beautifully traditional, house-made German-style lagers alongside locally crafted wursts in a meticulously restored 1857 saloon, the oldest surviving in the Twin Cities, with lamplight warmth, wood-stove coziness, and regular tours and music that make it feel like your new old haunt.”

“Amsterdam Bar & Hall has been a Downtown St. Paul staple for nearly 15 years, pouring the area’s largest gin lineup and hosting live music almost daily. Grab a pre-game drink or a late-night snack, then let the bands carry you into the night...”

“With Art Deco vibes in Cathedral Hill, The Commodore Bar & Restaurant nails the Jazz Age mood while serving thoughtful small plates, classic mains, and proper cocktails. Keep an ear out for live music too as they continue shaping the space into a high-fidelity, best-in-class venue.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Neighborhood bar offering drinks, and food, plus bar games and dancing.”

“Stylish venue offering modern Italian cuisine, plus a rooftop "taverna" for drinks & antipasti.”

“Microbrewery selling growlers of its craft beers & seasonal specials, with tastings some nights.”

“Inside The Saint Paul Hotel, The Lobby Bar nails that old-school St. Paul elegance with proper martinis, refined bar snacks, and occasional jazz. It’s the spot for a pre-show clink, a quiet catch-up, or pretending you’re the kind of neighbor who owns cufflinks.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Daytime cafe serving coffee, tea, and sandwiches, transforming into a bar with cocktails at night.”

“When you want no-fuss burgers, tacos, and a cold drink without crossing half the metro, Cloverleaf Bar & Grill hits the spot. Cozy bar vibes, beer, wine, and cocktails, plus paper and electronic pull tabs that benefit the Cottage Grove Athletic Association... easy win for weeknights.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Sports hangout with bar bites & drink specials, plus many TVs, outdoor seating & hockey memorabilia.”

“Friendly pub serving Italian street food and stromboli, with beer, wine and cocktails.”

“Relaxed neighborhood tavern offering beer, cocktails, and pizza, plus a patio and weekly meat raffles.”

“Wall-to-wall TVs, fresh never frozen wings, thick-cut burgers, and homemade cheese curds make Wild Bill's Sports Saloon - DT St. Paul a reliable hang when the puck drops.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Chip's Pickleball Club in Eagan is part pickleball hub, part hangout, with 12 dedicated courts, leagues and clinics, and a cafe & bar that lets you enjoy food and drinks courtside. Cap it off with a sauna and cold plunge in the wellness area or book a private event for your crew, no membership required.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Lively game-day hangout with a pool table & patio, plus bar fare, happy-hour specials & weekend DJs.”

“Big, upbeat bar & grill offering a wide range of burgers & American comfort food, plus breakfast.”

“Hawaii Poke Bowl does the modern poke thing right, with fresh diced fish over rice, veggies, and toppings that pull flavors from Hawaii and across Asia. If you're craving something light but satisfying, their build-your-own bowls hit the spot, and there's a nearby West Saint Paul location.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Hangout with elevated pub grub, TVs & a wide range of rotating beers on tap, including craft brews.”

“Local tavern chain serving cheese-stuffed burgers, pub grub & more in a laid-back surrounds.”

“Obb's Sports Bar & Grill has been an east side St. Paul hangout since 1932, family-owned for over 50 years, with 19 TVs that keep every game rolling. Go for the prime rib, broasted chicken to-go, walleye and proper pub burgers, stay for the neighborhood vibes and Vikings Sundays.”

From the Oakdale newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Historic watering hole with live music, pub grub, vintage car nights & a heated patio.”

“1881 Eating House takes the classic station eating-house idea and turns it into a welcoming, unfussy hangout where you settle in, raise a glass, and let time slow down. Hearty, conversation-friendly plates and occasional live-music nights make it an easy pick for a low-key meetup.”

From the Maplewood newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Burgers, wings and other comfort eats (like the Rubin) are served at this low-key spot.”

“Bad Weather Brewing Company keeps West 7th lively with a big lineup of rotating and seasonal beers that actually change with the mood. Expect food trucks often, Trivia Mafia and board game nights, and a laid-back taproom locals can treat like a second living room.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Casual tavern offering traditional bar food such as pizza and cheesesteaks alongside beer, wine and cocktails.”

“Maplewood folks, Moscow on the Hill is the nearby spot for stick-to-your-ribs comfort like cabbage rolls, Beef Stroganoff, borsht, pelmeni and vareniki, alongside house infused vodkas. Their Referent Horseradish Vodka, distilled by 45th Parallel Co. in Wisconsin, makes a dangerously good Bloody Mary.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Family-owned, neighborhood nook offering bar food, drink specials & a pool table in a low-key setup.”

“Spacious bi-level fixture provides Ethiopian meals, vegetarian fare, cocktails & regular live music.”

“Hip beer hall featuring 20+ housemade sausages, giant pretzels and hand-cut fries, plus burgers and beer.”

“Casual eatery for juicy burgers and steaks alongside fried sides and beers.”

“Relaxed bar serving homemade pizzas in a cozy setting, alongside craft beer and cocktails.”

“Sprawling hub for active entertainment with pub eats such as burgers & pizza & outdoor volleyball.”

“Casual sports bar featuring burgers, wings & beer, plus live music, DJs & drink specials.”

“Family-friendly eatery serving casual food such as sandwiches, wings & pizzas, plus happy hours.”

“Laid-back, corner hangout known for hoagies, as well as bagged snacks and frozen pizzas.”

“South Saint Paul Sportsman's Club pairs an active range scene with an on-site Shooters Bar & Grill, making it an easy place to shoot, then hang out. Think sporting clays, trap, 5-stand and a public rifle/pistol range, plus a friendly bar vibe that feels very Minnesota-nice for a quick debrief with your crew.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“Classic service club open to the public with a bar, American food, bingo & various community events.”

“When you need a reliable go-to in Inver Grove Heights, Jersey's Bar & Grill leans into award-winning burgers and a legit Juicy Lucy, then keeps the night rolling with live bands and DJs on weekends, plus one of the Twin Cities' best patios for lingering with friends.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Mississippi Pub is that easygoing spot locals hit for American comfort food, cold drinks, and sunset hangs on a tiered patio right on the Mississippi. Expect live acoustics, bingo and seasonal parties at the Buoy Bar, plus catering and party space when you need the fun brought to you.”

From the Cottage Grove newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Polished venue with traditional steakhouse offerings, a robust drink menu & happy hours.”

“Celts Pub keeps it classic with 20 draft beers, karaoke nights, pull tabs and meat raffles supporting the IGH Baseball Association, plus old-school fun like darts, pinball and Big Buck Hunter. Patio hangs, popcorn, and that easy Inver Grove energy make it an easy hop for Cottage Grove locals.”

From the Cottage Grove newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Sandy’s Tavern is a Richfield original serving great burgers and cold drinks since the 1930s, with a famous olive burger and unmistakable old-school vibe. Low-key hang for Edina folks who want trivia, bingo, or karaoke with their pint, plus craft beer, THC options, and wine.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 6, 2026

“High Pines Brewing Company is a neighborhood spot in Roseville with a tap list built for repeat visits, plus a membership for die-hard regulars and an event calendar when you want more than just another pint. Easy choice when you want good beer without overthinking where to meet.”

From the Roseville newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Smash Park Roseville is that high-energy spot where you can catch the game, munch on solid bar bites, and rotate between pickleball, duckpin bowling, and karaoke without leaving your crew behind. It’s basically your group chat’s dream night out, with creative drinks and a laid-back, just-one-more-round vibe.”

From the Shoreview newsletter, September 12, 2026

“When the craving calls for a properly charred ribeye, a stiff cocktail, and room to linger with friends, Moe's Char House does the trick. Come for Wing Wednesday or the weekly meat raffle, stay for those horseradish hash browns that steal the show.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Heavy Rotation Brewing Co. keeps things interesting with up to 16 rotating taps of small-batch beers, brewed by a music-obsessed team in their nearby Brooklyn Park nano brewery. If you like trying something different every visit, this is your spot...”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Legendary Spice Chinese is the move when you want bold, Sichuan-leaning plates made with fresh ingredients, plus cocktails that actually play nice with the heat. Make it a low-key treat this week with mapo tofu, crispy bites, and bar sips that somehow keep you reaching for another bite.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Pinstripes brings true neighborhood clubhouse energy with made-from-scratch Italian-American plates, weekend brunch, and legit bowling and bocce so you can settle friendly rivalries between bites. Perfect for an easy weeknight hang or a low-stress get-together when nobody wants to host.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Haggard Barrel Brewing has its taproom open with eight beers on draft and a shiny Gold Medal from the US Beer Open, so you know they can brew. Easy pick for a midweek neighborly pint... they keep drops coming and truly have something for everyone.”

From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Steel Toe Brewing keeps it Minnesota-small on purpose, pouring a tap list that rewards regulars and keeps things interesting with food trucks and events. They just dropped their 2026 Lunker English-Style Barleywine for the 15 Year Anniversary Week, so consider this your nudge to swing by.”

From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Wooden Hill Brewing Company hits the local sweet spot with 20 taps of variety, hard seltzer, and a legit in-house kitchen turning out gourmet pub favorites. Come for trivia, puzzle nights, and makers markets, stay for the cocktail flights and that "let's just order one more" vibe.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Wooden Ship Brewing Company lives up to its mantra to create community and drink creatively, pouring inventive beers meant for unhurried hangs with your favorite people. Keep an eye on their events, then pop in when you want a laid-back neighborhood spot that feels familiar yet keeps your taste buds a little curious.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 18, 2026

“When the craving hits, Órale Mexican Eats nails the classics like tacos, burritos, and queso fundido, all built with fresh ingredients and modern street-food swagger. Bonus points for being minority owned and operated, with a legit drinks lineup plus catering and a food truck for neighborhood shindigs.”

From the Lakeville newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Nightingale delivers the intimate eatery meets cocktail lounge vibe with snacks, bruschetta, and New American plates made for sharing, plus cocktails that actually show up dressed for the occasion. Ideal for a low-key catchup or spontaneous date when you want great food, good drinks, and zero fuss.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Red Rabbit Minneapolis in the North Loop nails that rustic-chic, neighborhood vibe with pizzas, pastas, oysters, and Italian small plates paired with a legit wine list and craft cocktails. It’s the kind of spot for a quick bar bite that turns into “okay, one more round” with friends.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 14, 2026

“From crisp ceviches and tiraditos to classic sushi rolls and inventive maki, K'kinaco - Nikkei & Pisco Bar blends Japanese technique with Peruvian soul. Sip a handcrafted pisco sour or a refreshing chilcano, then settle in for the first Nikkei & Pisco bar experience in Minnesota, weeknight upgrade achieved.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, August 29, 2026

“The Sidecar at the Tap nails thoughtful, craft cocktails with ingredients balanced on purpose, plus a lineup of delectable dishes... all wrapped in vintage charm. When your week needs a reset, settle in and let something stirred or shaken restore your main-character energy.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Cozy neighborhood eatery for upscale Burgers and other American dishes with a casual vibe, plus a bar with craft cocktails on tap and a wine list, as well as a patio.”

“Hackamore Brewing Company is now Lake Drive Tap, and it nails the neighborhood vibe with house-made food, craft beer, and a golf simulator for when January happens. Weekly live music, Trivia Mafia, and Texas Hold'em nights make it an easy meet-up spot without over-planning.”

From the Shakopee newsletter, September 12, 2026

“St. Louis Park’s The Dampfwerk Distillery Cocktail Lounge keeps things laid-back and upscale with cocktails built around their own aquavit, gins, American single malt, and fruit brandies.”

From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, September 2, 2026

“LTD Brewing Co. keeps the lineup changing with a constantly rotating selection of house brewed beers and an actually delicious homemade root beer. Drop in for weekly happenings like trivia, BING-Q, givebacks, and live music, then snag crowlers to-go and follow their food truck calendar.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Bald Man Brewing brews fresh artisan beer with a full-on love for rock, plus community energy, trivia, and food truck cameos. Grab a pint that actually rocks, then keep the soundtrack going by finding their beer at Twin Cities bars, restaurants, and liquor stores.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Silver Fern is a cozy, casual café and wine bar with seasonal coffee flights, house-made pastries, and sandwiches built with local ingredients, plus a thoughtful list of wines and spritzes. Perfect for a low-key brunch, laptop session, or evening unwind when you want something a little nicer than your kitchen.”

From the Shoreview newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Northeast Social is that rare spot you can hit for farm-to-fork dinner, a cheeky tiki cocktail, or a lazy brunch, all without feeling fussy. The menu leans refined American and Continental, and they’ll even handle your next gathering with catering or a hosted event.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Birch's on the Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub pairs an Experimental American brewery with a cozy Wisconsin-style supperclub overlooking Long Lake, serving locally sourced, seasonal plates and their famous Buckhorn Fried Chicken.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Barbette brings an Uptown bistro vibe to the table with local, organic dishes that actually taste like someone cared, from oysters to mussels with warm baguette. It’s an easy pick for date night or a linger longer brunch when you want something a little special without the fuss.”

From the Lakeville newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Need a local-friendly taproom with room to actually spread out? Arbeiter Brewing Company pours the good stuff and lets you book a mezzanine overlooking the brewhouse for up to 30 people or a Brewhouse Nook for up to 50, both $150 for three hours.”

From the Lakeville newsletter, September 12, 2026

“When you want an easygoing spot for beer, wine, or a proper pour, Picnic | Linden Hills nails the neighborhood-bar vibe... relaxed, friendly, and perfect for catching up. They also handle catering and private dining, so keep them in mind for your next gathering.”

From the Edina newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Troubadour Wine Bar keeps things intimate and chic with a thoughtful lineup of wines by the glass or bottle, shareable snacks and charcuterie, plus live music every night. It’s the sort of neighborhood unwind that makes a random Tuesday feel like a small occasion.”

From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Award-winning Two Stooges Sports Bar & Grill packs in 43 pool tables, six dart boards, 16 beers on Iced Cobra taps, and sports everywhere on 30 HD TVs including 4 monster screens. Join a league, grab a burger, and post up at the elevated bar in the middle.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, September 2, 2026

“CrowBar is the neighborhood cocktail bar that remembers you in the best way, pouring cocktails and mocktails with equal love. When your week needs a comfortable nearby St. Paul spot where your story picks the glass, consider this your friendly nudge.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 20, 2026

“A low-key neighborhood hangout with cocktails, local beers, and drag shows that actually feel like a party, Black Hart of Saint Paul is the spot when you want soccer on TV with people who care. Come for the match, stay for the queens and the low-key vibe.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 18, 2026

“J. Hooligans Eden Prairie delivers smash burgers, wings, thin-crust pizzas, and breakfast all day, plus Music Bingo that’s equal parts playlist nostalgia and friendly rivalry. A solid, low-stress hang for EP locals.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, August 23, 2026

“First class dining meets world class entertainment at Crooners Supper Club, a true listening room with multiple stages where the music actually gets to be the main character.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Relaxed local pub chain serving craft beers & cocktails, plus burgers, pot pies & tacos.”

“Trail Stop Tavern brings craveable bar fare and cocktails packed with flavor, plus a weekend Bloody Mary bar and BBQ rib, brisket and pulled pork favorites that hit the spot. Round up the crew for an easy hang, book a table, or let them cater the next backyard legend.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Craving a real-deal neighborhood hang? Duffy's Bar & Grill has been serving Osseo since 1989 with juicy burgers, their famous Duffy’s wings, and homemade pizzas, plus that small town vibe that somehow makes Tuesdays feel like Fridays. Slide in this week and catch the game, stay for the food.”

From the Plymouth newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Craving classic, zero-pretense bar grub this week? Sgt Peppers delivers the goods with cheese curds, deep fried pickles, wings, stacked burgers, walleye sandwiches, and that bottomless-feeling popcorn. It’s the neighborhood spot you hit when you want comfort, a cold drink, and easy conversation.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 6, 2026

“, a solid burger, or pizza with a cold one, The Barrel House Bar & Cafe is the family-owned neighborhood spot for homemade comfort food with a few fun twists. Bonus thrill factor: pull tabs, etabs, meat raffles and a Double Barrel shot that tastes like root-beer-float mischief.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Whether you’re craving a burger that doesn’t phone it in, shareable apps that vanish fast, or a pint that actually tastes like something, Bricks Kitchen & Pub nails the upscale pub vibe with craft beers to match. Slide it into your week when comfort and good conversation are the priority.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, September 18, 2026

“If your crew needs a low-stress plan this week, The Lookout Bar and Grill has live weekend bands, a revamped patio they call Maple Grove's biggest, plus volleyball and cornhole vibes and comfort-food staples from family recipes. Grab a table and exhale.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 27, 2026

“A. Frost & Company lately, consider this your nudge. Since 1975 they’ve been serving award-winning American cuisine in a stunning Cathedral Hill setting, ideal for a low-key weeknight catch-up or a celebratory sip that somehow turns into dinner.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Need a cozy spot this week? The Briar pours cocktails, wine and beer, brews proper coffee and tea, and turns it into a low-key hang with legit tasty food plus free-to-play QuizBang Trivia that keeps things fun without the Sunday scaries.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Unmapped Brewing Co. keeps things interesting with award-winning ales and lagers brewed in-house, plus plenty of new flavors to explore when you swing by this week. It’s a true community hub where sharing a pint with friends feels easy...”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, September 16, 2026

“5-8 Tavern & Grill is the Twin Cities home of the Juicy Lucy, that glorious cheese-stuffed burger that somehow stays impossibly juicy. Grab a classic or try a twist, pair it with fries and a cold one, and call it the midweek win you deserve.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Ole Piper Inn is the family-owned Blaine standby for fresh, homemade plates all day, from specialty omelets to wings, pizza, and burgers, backed by an unusually deep vodka lineup plus plenty of beer and cocktails. This week, swing by for Trivia, Bingo, Meat Raffle, or Karaoke and make a night of it.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Boom Island Brewing Company keeps the West Metro interesting with a rotating tap list and legit award-winning pours.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, August 24, 2026

“This week, OMNI Brewery & Taproom - Maple Grove is that rare triple threat where you can grab house-roasted coffee in the morning, come back for Neapolitan-style pies, then sample a wide range of brews from crispy lagers to rainbow-sherbet vibes, plus easygoing wine for your non-beer friends.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Scoreboard Bar and Grill brings the cozy, old-school hangout energy with pub staples, rotating soups and weekly specials.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Homey bar & restaurant offering American fare, featured local beers & a large patio.”

“Craving something that feels a little fancy without the fuss, Ike's Minnetonka nails the comfortable club vibe with a contemporary twist, then backs it up with gourmet burgers, seafood, and steaks plus a bottle of fine wine. Slide it onto your this-week list, zero plane tickets required.”

From the Chanhassen newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Parlour Excelsior is the neighborhood move when you want a speakeasy vibe without the secret handshake. The Parlour Burger earns its cult-classic rep, the Old Fashioned is a staple, and there’s beer, wine, and crisp fries to round out a simple, done-right night.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Torg Brewery, woman-brewed and veteran owned, nails easy-drinking, well-balanced beers, then turns the taproom into a community hangout with steel-tip darts, weekly trivia, and piles of board games. Swing by this week to tackle the 12 Trials of Torg, or just settle in for quaffable pints and good cheer.”

From the Blaine newsletter, August 22, 2026

“St. Paul friends, The Comedy Corner Underground is the artist-run, delightfully weird basement club where comics book the shows and the punchlines, with 20-plus years of keeping it scrappy and fun. Grab a seat in the 65-seat room for headliners, touring surprises, and lively open mics that breed new favorites.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Bear Cave Brewing nails the combo of inspired craft beer and seriously good wood-fired pizza, all in a spot built for hanging with neighbors. If you need an excuse, call it 'supporting a community hub' then sample a couple styles and plan your next get-together with their private-event options.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Lively, long-running saloon offering beer & casual eats, plus lives music & events.”

“Excelsior Brewing Company keeps things fun with a laid-back taproom, 24 lines pouring fresh, on-site small-batch beers from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and seasonal one-offs. Expect live music, a lively crowd, and mix-and-match 6-packs to go when you want the lake-town spirit in your fridge.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Bar Brava is a natural wine bar with a scratch kitchen, pouring lively natural wines alongside plates from rotating guest chef residencies and pop-ups. When you’re craving something interesting but chill, this is where Blaine locals sneak for flavor surprises without the fuss.”

From the Blaine newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Just down the road in Brooklyn Park, Skaalvenn Distillery & Cocktail Lounge is pouring Japanese-inspired cocktails built on their Minnesota-made lineup, including Yuzu Gin, Aquavit, and spicy Habanero Rum. Whether it's date night or Tiki Thursdays, expect thoughtful pours, cozy vibes, and zero pretense.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Comfortable venue hosting regular shows by nationally touring comedians, plus food and drinks.”

“Pink Ivy Kitchen and Bar in Downtown Hopkins brings a chef-driven New American menu with seasonal, globally inspired plates, plus a serious craft cocktail game for wine, whiskey, and bourbon lovers.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 13, 2026

“The Vine Room is your spot this week for sustainably made pours from small producers and family-owned wineries, easy wine flights, and seasonal boards that actually play nice. Then swing into The Vine Shop to grab a bottle of your new favorite, and check out The Vine Room’s classes and meet the maker nights.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Wild Boar Bar and Grill does the east metro right with smash burgers, St. Paul Flatbreads made with St. Paul Flatbread Company dough, and a tap list that keeps local favorites flowing.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Relaxed family-friendly chain bar & grill serving American fare, plus deep-dish pizzas.”

“With a from-scratch kitchen turning out pizza and burgers, plenty of TVs, pool, darts, and spirited bingo, Trappers Bar and Grill is that neighborhood Cheers spot with a Rice Lake view. Rally the Blaine crew this week and claim your pre or post-game table.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Mainstreet Bar & Grill nails the rustic tavern vibe with juicy burgers, solid pub fare, craft brews, and actual fun... think pool, games, and live music. A reliable go-to when you want a laid-back night that still feels like a night out.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Bojae's Wine Bar & Bistro leans into the low-key vibe with eclectic small plates, gourmet sandwiches, and a robust wine lineup that rewards lingering. When you want a grown-up hang without fuss, it’s a worthy hop for Cottage Grove folks who appreciate a good pour and conversation.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 2, 2026