The best bars & nightlife in St. Paul

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

“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.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 22, 2026

“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.”

“3rd Act Craft Brewery nails the neighborhood combo with craft beer plus wine, brick-oven pizza, wings and more, all in an award-winning family taproom. Keep an eye on their tap and event lineups, then claim a table and let the week melt away.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, September 14, 2026

“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

“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

“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

“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.”

“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

“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

“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

“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.”

“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

“Casual restaurant specializing in Mediterranean staples such as gyros and wraps.”

“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

“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

“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

“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

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

“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.”

“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

“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 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

“Modern lounge & piano bar with cocktails & a full calendar of entertainment, including cabaret.”

“Wildcats Bar & Grill keeps it chill with a sports-bar vibe and a menu that swings from hummus and pita to gyro nachos, wings, and Cajun chicken Alfredo. Swing by for Saturday Vingo or the horse racing and meat raffles, then settle in with friends and something on tap.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 13, 2026

“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 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.”

From the St. Cloud newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Mana Brewing - Oakdale pours small-batch brews fermented on-site, from crisp pilsners to hop-forward IPAs, and turns out legit Neapolitan-style pies with San Marzano tomatoes from a blazing stone oven. This week, grab a seat for Premier League matches or trivia, then let the pizza-and-pint combo do its thing.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 26, 2026

“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.”

From the Blaine newsletter, September 13, 2026

“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.”

From the Blaine newsletter, September 11, 2026

“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.”

From the Blaine newsletter, September 10, 2026

“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.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Festive wine bar and eatery pairing seasonal Mediterranean eats with Spanish wines, sangria and cocktails, plus brunch.”