Where to grab a Drink in Minneapolis: The Ultimate Bar Crawl for Cocktails, Wine, Dives, and Sports Bars!

The Twin Cities boasts a diverse array of bars catering to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated cocktail, a laid-back dive, or an energetic sports bar, Minneapolis has something for everyone! Here's your guide to the hottest spots for summer 2024.

Cocktail Bars

Indulge in a sophisticated yet relaxed evening with some of our top picks for cocktail bars, where every drink is an experience.

Public Domain:

Experience: Step into the North Loop's newest cocktail bar, Public Domain, where there’s no traditional menu. Describe your taste preferences, and the talented bartenders will craft a custom drink just for you.
Food: Enjoy Caribbean-inspired small plates that perfectly complement your cocktails.
Ambiance: The vibe is intimate and refined, ideal for a unique night out.
Hours: Open Monday-Saturday from 5pm-2am

Tattersall Distilling:

Experience: Located in the Thorp Building, Tattersall offers a wide variety of house-made spirits and cocktails, showcasing the best of local craft distilling.
Food: The tasting room serves snacks and small bites designed to enhance your drinking experience.
Ambiance: A stylish and spacious venue, perfect for both casual outings and special occasions.
Specials: Look out for their seasonal cocktail offerings and events.

Volstead’s Emporium:

Experience: Hidden behind an unmarked door, Volstead’s provides a speakeasy atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails. It's like stepping back in time.
Ambiance: The setting is intimate and mysterious, making it perfect for date nights or special gatherings.
Unique Features: The thrill of finding the hidden entrance adds an extra layer of excitement to your night out!

Char Bar

Experience: Char Bar is a trendy new spot in Minneapolis known for its creative cocktails and laid-back vibe. The bar features a menu of innovative drinks, each crafted with precision and flair.
Ambiance: The interior is chic and modern, with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a night out with friends or a date.
Specials: Char Bar offers a variety of themed nights and happy hour specials, making it an exciting destination for both regulars and newcomers. Their seasonal cocktail menu ensures there’s always something fresh and interesting to try.

Parlour

Experience: Parlour is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Located in Minneapolis, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its high-quality drinks and cozy setting.
Ambiance: The ambiance is intimate and sophisticated, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date. The decor is stylish and comfortable, creating a welcoming environment.
Specials: Parlour’s menu features classic cocktails with a modern twist, along with a selection of gourmet bar snacks. Don’t miss their signature Old Fashioned, a favorite among patrons.

Prohibition Bar

Experience: Prohibition Bar, located atop the historic Foshay Tower, offers a speakeasy vibe with panoramic views of the city. It’s a perfect blend of historic charm and modern elegance.
Ambiance: The bar’s 1920s-inspired decor and intimate setting make it a unique and memorable spot for cocktails. The stunning views add to the overall experience, making it a must-visit.
Specials: Enjoy a menu of classic cocktails, expertly crafted with premium ingredients. Their rooftop setting makes it an ideal place for special occasions and romantic evenings

Wine Bars

Unwind in an elegant and cozy atmosphere with our selection of top wine bars, where each glass promises a journey of flavors and refinement.

Milly's Wine Bar & Bistro

Experience: Milly’s Wine Bar & Bistro offers a cozy and elegant setting for wine enthusiasts. Located in Minneapolis, it features an extensive wine list with selections from around the world, paired with a menu of delicious bistro-style dishes.
Ambiance: The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxed night out with friends. The intimate setting makes it a great place to unwind and enjoy good conversation over a glass of wine.
Specials: Milly’s offers wine tasting events and pairing dinners, providing an opportunity to explore new wines and culinary delights. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect wine to complement your meal

Gori Gori Peku

Experience: Gori Gori Peku is an exciting addition to the Minneapolis bar scene, offering a unique blend of Japanese izakaya-style dining and craft cocktails. The menu features a variety of small plates designed for sharing, along with an impressive selection of sake and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
Ambiance: The interior is stylish and modern, with a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for both intimate gatherings and lively nights out.
Specials: Enjoy special sake flights and cocktail pairings that highlight the best of Japanese flavors. The rotating menu ensures there’s always something new to try.

The Tasting Room

Experience: The Tasting Room is a sophisticated bar in Minneapolis that specializes in curated tasting experiences. From fine wines and craft beers to premium spirits, this venue offers a refined atmosphere for those who appreciate quality beverages.
Ambiance: The setting is upscale and elegant, perfect for a more formal night out or a special occasion. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through their extensive selection, ensuring a memorable tasting experience.
Specials: Look out for their tasting events and educational sessions, where you can learn more about the beverages you love. They also offer customized tasting flights to suit your preferences.

Dive Bars

Craving a laid-back vibe with no frills and all the fun? Discover some of the best dive bars in town for a truly unpretentious night out.

Palmer's Bar :

Experience: One of the oldest bars in the city, Palmer's offers a no-frills dive bar experience with affordable drinks and live music.
Ambiance: Rich in history and character, it’s a beloved spot with a laid-back vibe.
Entertainment: Regular live music events add to the classic dive bar feel.

Grumpy's Bar & Grill:

Experience: A classic dive bar known for its great selection of beers and bar food.
Ambiance: Friendly and unpretentious, making it a perfect spot to relax.
Specials: Daily drink specials and happy hours keep things affordable and fun.

The Dive at Coastal Seafoods:

Experience: This new addition to St. Paul's dive bar scene offers a casual atmosphere with delicious seafood dishes like lobster rolls and oysters.
Ambiance: Casual and welcoming, it’s an ideal place for seafood lovers looking for a relaxed night out.
Food: High-quality seafood offerings set it apart from typical dive bars.

Irish Pubs

Experience the warm and welcoming charm of our favorite Irish pubs, where hearty drinks, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere create the perfect setting for a memorable night out.

Brit's Pub

Experience: Brit’s Pub brings a taste of the UK to Minneapolis with its authentic British pub atmosphere. It’s famous for its rooftop lawn bowling and wide selection of British ales.
Ambiance: The pub’s interior is cozy and inviting, with a traditional British decor. The outdoor rooftop garden adds a unique element, perfect for summer evenings.
Specials: Brit’s Pub offers a menu of classic British dishes, including fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. Their extensive beer selection features both local and imported brews

The Local

Experience: The Local is an Irish pub in downtown Minneapolis known for its lively atmosphere and welcoming vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy a pint of Guinness and traditional Irish fare.
Ambiance: The decor is warm and traditional, with a bustling, friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for both casual drinks and lively nights out.
Specials: The menu includes a variety of Irish classics, along with a wide selection of beers and whiskeys. Enjoy live music and special events throughout the week

Kieran’s Irish Pub

Experience: Kieran’s Irish Pub offers an authentic Irish pub experience in the heart of Minneapolis. Known for its hearty food and lively entertainment, it’s a favorite among locals.
Ambiance: The pub’s decor is traditional and inviting, with plenty of seating and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
Specials: The menu features Irish staples like corned beef and cabbage, along with a variety of beers and whiskeys. Enjoy live music and trivia nights regularly

O’Donovan’s Irish Pub

Experience: O’Donovan’s Irish Pub brings the charm of Ireland to Minneapolis with its authentic pub setting and friendly service. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Ambiance: The pub’s interior is cozy and traditional, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy good company.
Specials: The menu offers classic Irish dishes and a wide selection of beers and whiskeys. Special events and live music add to the lively ambiance

Sports Bars

Ready to catch the game with your crew? These sports bars offer the perfect spot to cheer on your team with great company and cold drinks.

The Pourhouse Downtown:

Experience: Located in downtown Minneapolis, The Pourhouse offers a lively atmosphere with signature cocktails, craft beers, and a menu full of bar food favorites.
Ambiance: A mix of sports bar and nightclub, perfect for watching the game and staying out late.
Events: Regular live music and DJ nights make it a versatile venue for any night out

The Loon Cafe:

Experience: Famous for its delicious chili and variety of bar food classics, The Loon Cafe is a lively spot to catch a game.
Ambiance: Casual and fun, with plenty of TVs to catch all the latest sports action.
Specials: Great selection of craft beers to enjoy with your meal

Cowboy Jack’s:

Experience: Offering a western-style experience, Cowboy Jack’s features big TVs, live music, and a full menu of American grub.
Ambiance: Energetic and bustling, perfect for a lively night out.
Specials: Enjoy their extensive menu of burgers, wings, and nachos along with a wide selection of drinks

Tom’s Watch Bar

Experience: Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, Tom’s Watch Bar offers an unparalleled sports-watching experience. With over 70 high-definition TVs and a 360-degree viewing room, it’s designed for sports enthusiasts who don’t want to miss a second of the action.
Ambiance: The atmosphere is energetic and lively, perfect for game days. Whether you're there for a big match or just to hang out with friends, the vibe is always upbeat and fun.
Specials: The menu features a variety of bar favorites, including deep dish nachos and pickle-brined chicken, complemented by an extensive selection of tap beers. Don’t miss their Topgolf Swing Suites for a fun, interactive experience before or after the game .

The Newsroom

Experience: The Newsroom is a unique, media-themed bar and restaurant located in downtown Minneapolis. It offers a creative take on American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The interior is adorned with vintage newspaper clippings and press memorabilia, giving it a distinct and nostalgic feel.
Ambiance: The decor is eclectic and engaging, making it an interesting place to dine and drink. The vibe is both casual and sophisticated, appealing to a wide range of patrons.
Specials: The Newsroom features a diverse menu with something for everyone, from classic burgers to innovative seafood dishes. Enjoy daily happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers

Whether you're in the mood for a meticulously crafted cocktail or the excitement of a sports bar. The Twin Cities offers a variety of options to suit any taste. Discover your new favorite hangout and experience the best that the Twin Cities have to offer! Cheers to an unforgettable night out!

Where to grab a Drink in Minneapolis: The Ultimate Bar Crawl for Cocktails, Wine, Dives, and Sports Bars!