Minneapolis is home to a diverse array of bars, including everything from sophisticated wine bars to low-key dives. Whether your preferred drink is a martini or beer on tap, you will feel welcome at the following joints, which are some of the best bars in Minneapolis.
The high ceilings, exposed brick and overarching sophistication of Bev's Wine Bar stand in stark contrast to the glaring presence of the nearby Sex World. However, for those willing to overlook the wine bar's raunchy neighbor, Bev's is a true gem. The venue's unpretentious wines pair nicely with its vast cheese selection. Stop by on Friday or Saturday night to enjoy eclectic music selected by an on-site DJ.
Bev's Wine Bar
(612) 337-0102
Yelp: 4 stars, 43 reviews
A cozy brewpub with an impressive selection, Town Hall Brewery offers excellent beer and even better appetizers. Stop by on a Thursday evening for a Masala Mama and an order of sweet potato fries -- you won't be disappointed.
Town Hall Brewery
(612) 339-8696
Yelp: 4 stars, 229 reviews
Steve Frias (aka Fries) and his daughter Marie share a love for baseball that is immediately evident upon entering Peppers and Fries. There is no better place to watch a Twins game or to enjoy hand-crafted tacos and burritos.
Peppers and Fries
(612) 353-6730
Yelp: 4 stars, 65 reviews
If you like people watching and stiff drinks, you'll love Palmer's Bar, which has a notoriously eclectic clientele. According to Esquire Magazine, Palmer's Bar is one of the best bars in America. The whiskey here isn't exactly fancy, but it certainly is abundant and affordable.
Palmer's Bar
(612) 333-7625
Yelp: 4 stars, 41 reviews
Let the stress of the work day melt away as you enjoy a beer at George & the Dragon, one of Minneapolis' best-rated bars. The chill venue is known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious English pub-style fair.
George & the Dragon
(612) 208-1047
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 423 reviews
Sporty's Pub and Grill is often described as the Twin Cities' original dive bar. The burgers at Sporty's are delectable and the draft list is always changing. Stop by with friends for karaoke night or a game of skee ball.
Sporty's Pub and Grill
(612) 379-8407
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 46 reviews
If chic drinks are your thing, be sure to order a trendy cocktail at Marvel. You won't find much in terms of bar grub, but you will enjoy such fine alcoholic specimens as the Gatsby and the Oliveto.
Marvel Bar
50 North 2nd Avenue
(612) 206-3929
Yelp: 4 stars, 244 reviews
Legendary punk band NOFX wrote a song about "Seeing Double at The Triple Rock," a music venue and bar that's a favorite tour stop for musical acts nationwide. The club is split into two areas: a traditional bar that features your typical bar food as well as vegan-friendly fare, and the music venue, which also includes a full bar.
Triple Rock Social Club
629 Cedar Avenue
(612) 333-7399
Yelp: 4 stars, 141 reviews
Many Twin Cities residents favor the outdoor space at Stella's Fish Cafe & Prestige Oyster Bar, but the Union Restaurant & Bar edges Stella's out simply because its retractable patio is open all year long.
Union Restaurant & Bar
(612) 455-6690
Yelp: 3 stars, 238 reviews
It's not possible to enjoy an affordable meal at the Butcher & the Boar, but if you're willing to spend a bit more than usual, you'll create an unforgettable experience. Sip a mouthwatering cocktail alongside fine-crafted meat. Favorite cocktails include the West Downtown Athletic Club and the Harmon District Twinkle.
Butcher & the Boar
(612) 238-8888
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 835 reviews
The best local joint has long been a toss-up between Matt's Bar and the 5-8 Club, which have spent years engaged in a friendly, yet heated competition. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Matt's Bar arguably offers a better burger, but the 5-8 Club has a slightly more inviting atmosphere, and thus, comes out slightly ahead for the purposes of this list.
5-8 Club
(612) 823-5858
Yelp: 3.5 stars, 416 reviews
If there's any place that encourages day drinking, it's the increasingly trendy Northeast neighborhood. Stop in at local favorite Dusty's Bar for a pre-happy hour pitcher of beer.
Dusty's Bar
1319 Marshall St. N.E.
(612) 378-2118
Yelp: 4 stars, 29 reviews
Banish first date jitters and awkwardness at the Chatterbox Pub, a Twin Cities staple known for its vast selection of board games and old school video games. If you're not a boozer, order one the root beer or ginger ale; both are made from scratch. A close second goes to Psycho Suzie's, which is an excellent option for a second date.
Chatterbox Pub
(612) 729-1800
Yelp: 3 stars, 129 reviews
Health nuts with little interest in downing cocktails can instead opt for TRUCE, a trendy Uptown juice bar that offers fresh-pressed organic juice. Not only does it offer the perfect start to a healthy day, it's great for recovering from too much partying at the other bars included on this list.
TRUCE
(612) 825-1684
Yelp: 3.5 stars, 29 reviews
Regardless of sexual orientation, nightlife enthusiasts adore the Saloon, a popular Hennepin Avenue venue known for its strong drinks and loud music.
The Saloon
(612)332-0835
Yelp: 4 stars, 64 reviews
Technically, the Pint Public House is a Canadian chain. However, it is currently making a huge splash in the Twin Cities area, and thus, is worthy of inclusion on this list. Conveniently located downtown, the chill bar has plenty of seating and screens for watching the big game. It also has delicious mimosas, ribs, and wings.
The Pint Public House
(612) 353-5454
Yelp: 4 stars, 10 reviews
