Nightlife
Best of the Twin Cities | Local PicksDirectory List
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WEST BANK. From his previous life as a producer, the owner of 400 Bar still has connections in the music biz, ensuring that quality local, regional, and national acts take the stage. Alternative, punk, indie, and straightforward rock are the genres of choice, and recent renovations mean improved quality and better views of the stage. Covers vary according to the act, and a cash-only policy is in place. While regulars occasionally grumble about drink prices, pints of Pabst Blue Ribbon are always on special, and mixed drinks tend to be on the strong side.
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UPTOWN. Ropes and saddles foster a Southwestern theme at this upscale hangout, furthered by delicious Tex-Mex cuisine and a truly exhaustive tequila selection (about 100 brands). A pleasant patio provides a place to eat and drink on temperate evenings, but you'll probably want to move inside as the night progresses and the singles scene picks up. Choose from a healthy array of beers on tap, or get in the spirit with a signature margarita like the Green Iguana one of over 25 'rita choices. DJs get your toes tapping on weekends.
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UPTOWN. Named in honor famed French circus performer Vander Clyde, this edgy-yet-cozy neighborhood spot is a terrific place to soak in some European vibes, enjoy expertly-prepared cookery, and sample amazing selections of wine. Local and organic ingredients figure prominently in the daily offerings, whether it's a delicious breakfast-something or free-range organic pork. Other tidbits worth noting: multi-course prix fixe dinners on Mondays, great happy hour prices on drinks and taps Monday-Friday, and frequent live music.
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SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. The cozy neighborhood spot, owned by "three guys who love beer," features what may very well be the best selection of brews in town. More than two dozen varieties are available on tap (predominantly domestic craftbrews and European imports), and the bottles list includes everything from PBR to Czechvar. Indeed, they take their beer so seriously that almost every one is served in its own customized glass, and some can top $15 for a single bottle. If the need to feed arises, Buster's kitchen serves pizzas, burgers, and even a few "blue plate"-style mains.
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Calhoun BBQ & Blues
3001 Hennepin Ave Calhoun Square Minneapolis, MN 55408 US +1-612-822-9900UPTOWN. Part of a chain of Famous Dave's restaurants, this establishment took a Chicago-style blues club as its model rather than the usual Southern eatery. Sandwiches and platters include Texas beef brisket, North Carolina chopped pork, and notable St. Louis-style ribs. You'll also find a full bar, along with live jazz almost every night thanks to local bands. National acts appear several times a month. On Sunday and Monday, the music runs from 8pm till 11pm; otherwise, performances are from 9pm till 12:30am.
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UPTOWN. Since Prohibition days, this dive has been around in one incarnation or another, serving strong drinks in a no-frills, locals-friendly atmosphere. Often smoky or crowded, it's a great place to ease into a gin & tonic while you jam to indie and punk tunes from one of the best jukeboxes in town (it's not really conducive to intimate conversation). Drink specials are frequent and worthwhile, and a pitcher of beer can usually be had for under $7. Sassy, smart staff and miniscule bathrooms add to the place's odd charm.
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Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant
1010 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55403 US +1-612-332-1010DOWNTOWN. Come for a late dinner and conveniently bypass the cover charge at this simple yet elegant music room and restaurant. A respectable roster of jazz and blues acts keeps folks, especially couples, coming back, as do the chef's innovative takes on Midwestern specialties. Sip a selection from the above-average wine list while you ease back amid smooth grooves in the relaxed atmosphere. An outdoor mezzanine provides opportunity to mix and mingle without disturbing diners and musicians. Call for jazz club schedule and pricing.
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GRAND AVENUE. The Cajun-style cuisine served up at Dixie's has gained positive publicity in the St. Paul area. Here, you can feast on traditional Southern dishes like barbecue ribs, country-fried steak, collards and the like. If you're hungry, the Cajun pork chops are a "must-try," and you can try and sweet-talk your way into a side of fried okra to go along with them. After dinner, find your way over to the bar area. This is the place to find full-scale Southern cocktails, like a Cajun-style Bloody Mary.
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DOWNTOWN. A whimsical retro theme recalls the '70s and '80s at this relaxed downtown bar and lounge. Enjoy nightly specials on food and drink (occasionally including a buffet of wings and nachos) as you try to spot Farrah Fawcett and Leif Garrett among the publicity stills that plaster the walls. As the evening progresses, the after-work crowd gives way to trendier club-hoppers, ready to dance the night away to pop, rock, and hip-hop on Drink's dance floor. Groups are welcome and a VIP section is available upstairs.
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MIDWAY. Dubliner's, the closest thing to a traditional Irish pub that you'll find in St. Paul, offers a laidback option for those looking for something to do after hours. This is the type of place that enjoys a fair amount of popularity with both students and the locals. Our suggestion? Grab a table near one of the street-side windows, order a pint of Guinness, munch on the complimentary popcorn (you have to eat!) and watch the parade of traffic on University Avenue.
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