Legendary Spice Chinese is the move when you want bold, Sichuan-leaning plates made with fresh ingredients, plus cocktails that actually…
12792 Riverdale Blvd (Coon Rapids)
“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 Coon Rapids newsletter, September 22, 2026
Wooden Ship Brewing Company lives up to its mantra to create community and drink creatively, pouring inventive beers meant for unhurried…
3300 W 44th St (Minneapolis)
“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.”
When the craving hits, Órale Mexican Eats nails the classics like tacos, burritos, and queso fundido, all built with fresh ingredients and…
5447 Nicollet Ave (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Nightingale delivers the intimate eatery meets cocktail lounge vibe with snacks, bruschetta, and New American plates made for sharing, plus…
2551 Lyndale Ave S (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Red Rabbit Minneapolis in the North Loop nails that rustic-chic, neighborhood vibe with pizzas, pastas, oysters, and Italian small plates…
201 N Washington Ave (Minneapolis)
“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
The Sidecar at the Tap nails thoughtful, craft cocktails with ingredients balanced on purpose, plus a lineup of delectable dishes... all…
4812 Chicago Ave (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Silver Fern is a cozy, casual café and wine bar with seasonal coffee flights, house-made pastries, and sandwiches built with local…
114 E Hennepin Ave (Minneapolis)
“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.”
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…
359 13th Ave NE (Minneapolis)
“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
Barbette brings an Uptown bistro vibe to the table with local, organic dishes that actually taste like someone cared, from oysters to…
1600 W Lake St (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Need a local-friendly taproom with room to actually spread out? Arbeiter Brewing Company pours the good stuff and lets you book a mezzanine…
3038 Minnehaha Ave (Minneapolis)
“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.”
When you want an easygoing spot for beer, wine, or a proper pour, Picnic | Linden Hills nails the neighborhood-bar vibe... relaxed,…
4307 Upton Ave S (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Troubadour Wine Bar keeps things intimate and chic with a thoughtful lineup of wines by the glass or bottle, shareable snacks and…
2827 Hennepin Ave (Minneapolis)
“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
First class dining meets world class entertainment at Crooners Supper Club, a true listening room with multiple stages where the music…
6161 Hwy 65 NE (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Slip down the back stairs this week and through the red door at Nucky's Speakeasy for an underground 1920s escape with serious craft…
300 E Main St (Anoka)
“Slip down the back stairs this week and through the red door at Nucky's Speakeasy for an underground 1920s escape with serious craft cocktails, from old-fashioneds to chocolate and espresso martinis, plus mocktails, nachos, truffle fries, and steaks.”
From the Anoka County newsletter, September 13, 2026
Ambi Wine Bar & Desserts is the Social District spot for curated wine flights from small, independent winemakers, rotating bites and…
2015 2nd Ave (Anoka)
“Ambi Wine Bar & Desserts is the Social District spot for curated wine flights from small, independent winemakers, rotating bites and charcuterie, and genuinely award-winning desserts. Settle in for live music, compare pours, then pretend you only came for “just one” and stay a little longer.”
From the Anoka County newsletter, September 10, 2026
Whether you need a midweek laugh or a weekend wall of sound, The Keller Bar delivers live local acts with a downtown dive-bar feel, plus…
11 5th Ave S (St Cloud)
“Whether you need a midweek laugh or a weekend wall of sound, The Keller Bar delivers live local acts with a downtown dive-bar feel, plus craft taps and trusty pounders. Open Mic Comedy on Wednesdays and genre-hopping bands Fridays and Saturdays means this week’s hang basically plans itself.”
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…
1231 Washington St NE (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Looking for a spot that feels like Anoka’s worst-kept secret? The Hardware Store nails the retro speakeasy vibe with whiskey-first…
201 Jackson St #101 (Anoka)
“Looking for a spot that feels like Anoka’s worst-kept secret? The Hardware Store nails the retro speakeasy vibe with whiskey-first classics, clever craft cocktails, and live music that turns an ordinary night into a story. Rally a friend and make this your midweek treat.”
Whether you're pre-gaming a Husky night or sneaking a lunch escape, MC's Dugout Bar And Grill nails the neighborhood vibe with the Hairy…
501 W St Germain St (St Cloud)
“Whether you're pre-gaming a Husky night or sneaking a lunch escape, MC's Dugout Bar And Grill nails the neighborhood vibe with the Hairy Buffalo, renowned happy hours, and a not-your-average menu featuring Mussels, Ginger Beef Bao Buns, tacos, and a Jumbo Pretzel.”
St. Paul friends, The Comedy Corner Underground is the artist-run, delightfully weird basement club where comics book the shows and the…
400 E Hennepin Ave Basement (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Bar Brava is a natural wine bar with a scratch kitchen, pouring lively natural wines alongside plates from rotating guest chef residencies…
1914 N Washington Ave (Minneapolis)
“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.”
Red Carpet Nightclub is that rare St. Cloud staple where your crew can split between the Main Stage, Keller Bar, Martini Lounge, the Game…
11 5th Ave S (St Cloud)
“Red Carpet Nightclub is that rare St. Cloud staple where your crew can split between the Main Stage, Keller Bar, Martini Lounge, the Game Room, or The Pub, then reconvene for whatever's on deck. Expect rotating events, plenty of room to roam, and even cribbage leagues if your competitive side needs airtime.”
When you want a cozy spot that feels like your friend’s living room but with a passport, The Tasting Room is a wine bar pouring smartly…
1434 W 31st St (Minneapolis) · ✓ checked Sep 3
“When you want a cozy spot that feels like your friend’s living room but with a passport, The Tasting Room is a wine bar pouring smartly curated bottles and globe-trotting flights that make exploring new grapes easy, low-pressure, and fun. Perfect for a low-key date or a catch-up that becomes two flights.”
From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, September 7, 2026
Lincoln Depot is the classic St. Cloud pub to hit this week, with half‑pound, hand‑pattied burgers, broasted chicken, and famous homemade…
629 Lincoln Ave SE (St Cloud)
“Lincoln Depot is the classic St. Cloud pub to hit this week, with half‑pound, hand‑pattied burgers, broasted chicken, and famous homemade chili that actually lives up to the hype. Settle in for Viking games with a beer, wine, or cocktail...”
Small Hours pairs a serious record collection with a seriously fun wine list, an audiophile setup that makes LP sides sing, and pours that…
2201 NE 2nd St (Minneapolis)
“Small Hours pairs a serious record collection with a seriously fun wine list, an audiophile setup that makes LP sides sing, and pours that range from humble farmers to iconic producers. It’s the rare spot where you’ll debate Alice Coltrane vs. Curtis Mayfield between sips.”
From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 21, 2026
Acme Comedy Company is Minnesota’s home for standup, bringing in nationally touring headliners, a sharp local lineup, and inventive shows…
708 N 1st St (Minneapolis)
“Acme Comedy Company is Minnesota’s home for standup, bringing in nationally touring headliners, a sharp local lineup, and inventive shows like Crash And Burn where comics build new material onstage. Pair it with dinner at Sticks, hit Open Mic or the Funniest Person contest, and feel smug you saw them early.”
From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 18, 2026
Swap your standard pour for a bespoke drink at Beaudreau's Bar, where skilled bartenders build craft cocktails with premium spirits and…
414 E St Germain St (St Cloud)
“Swap your standard pour for a bespoke drink at Beaudreau's Bar, where skilled bartenders build craft cocktails with premium spirits and presentation, plus occasional showcases of local distilleries, perfect for a date night or a friend catch up that actually feels special.”
Warehouse Winery is a working winery and artsy event hideout in the heart of St. Louis Park, with relaxed, eclectic decor and a monthly…
6415 Cambridge St (Minneapolis)
“Warehouse Winery is a working winery and artsy event hideout in the heart of St. Louis Park, with relaxed, eclectic decor and a monthly Wine Down Wednesday for easy tastings. Planning something soon?”
From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, August 27, 2026
Urban Forage Winery and Cider House turns locally sourced fruit into natural wines, ciders and mead, all gluten free, in a tiny, welcoming…
3016 E Lake St (Minneapolis)
“Urban Forage Winery and Cider House turns locally sourced fruit into natural wines, ciders and mead, all gluten free, in a tiny, welcoming South Minneapolis taproom. Rotating taps, quirky fruit and even vegetable wines, plus the occasional local band make it a fun, low-key excuse for a city night from St. Cloud.”
Minneapolis Cider Company pours bold, real-fruit ciders in a bright, industrial taproom where you can pair your cider with crêpes, then…
701 SE 9th St (Minneapolis)
“Minneapolis Cider Company pours bold, real-fruit ciders in a bright, industrial taproom where you can pair your cider with crêpes, then book a court for a round of pickleball. It’s an easy go-to when you want low-key vibes, good flavors, and something a little different.”
“When the group chat needs a plan, Roxy's Cabaret delivers high-energy drag shows, a lively drag brunch, and rotating antics like charity bingo, karaoke, movie nights, and games. Expect sharp comedy, fabulous costumes, and a legit scratch-kitchen menu… a dependable Minneapolis pick when you want laughs.”
Craving a laid-back wine night that still feels a little special? Milly's Wine Bar & Bistro keeps things accessible and fun with helpful…
1129 Washington Ave S (Minneapolis)
“Craving a laid-back wine night that still feels a little special? Milly's Wine Bar & Bistro keeps things accessible and fun with helpful guidance, pours by the glass or bottle that fit your vibe, and savory bites for easy pairing, making it a go-to for weeknights, small celebrations, or catching up with friends.”
Downtown’s old Electric Fetus is reincarnated as 7 West Taphouse, where the Beer Burger meets a wall of craft options with 50 taps on deck.…
28 5th Ave S (St Cloud)
“Downtown’s old Electric Fetus is reincarnated as 7 West Taphouse, where the Beer Burger meets a wall of craft options with 50 taps on deck. Slide in this week for a low-key burger-and-pint reset that feels very Granite City, very you.”
Stihl Wolf is your downtown St. Cloud go-to this week for craft cocktails with personality, from the bourbon-ginger Stihl Wolf to the…
515 W St Germain St (St Cloud)
“Stihl Wolf is your downtown St. Cloud go-to this week for craft cocktails with personality, from the bourbon-ginger Stihl Wolf to the dill-brined Stihl Pickle. Add a smoked-glass upgrade, pair with beers and seltzers, or level up a celebration with bottle service, then let the good chatter do its thing.”
Whether you’re plotting a low-key afternoon or a celebration that actually feels like you, Willow Tree Winery pours Minnesota-made wines in…
828 Constance Blvd NE (Ham Lake)
“Whether you’re plotting a low-key afternoon or a celebration that actually feels like you, Willow Tree Winery pours Minnesota-made wines in a relaxed tasting room and outdoor venue run by a friendly, down-to-earth crew. Settle in, sip something like their Red Shed, and let the week unclench.”
Minneapolis's own The Comedy Room at Sisyphus pairs fresh pours with legit stand-up, with an easy events calendar when you want to lock in…
712 Ontario Ave W (Minneapolis)
“Minneapolis's own The Comedy Room at Sisyphus pairs fresh pours with legit stand-up, with an easy events calendar when you want to lock in plans without texting twelve group chats. Scoop tickets, sip something from the tap list, and let comics handle the punchlines while you handle the pints.”
