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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Bogart's Nightclub is known for hosting some of the hottest up-and-coming acts, from hard rock bands to country singers and everything in between. Stop by with some friends and enjoy the music scene at this laid back local venue. With a packed music schedule, you can see a great show any night of the week. Be sure to stick around to enjoy some of the great food offered on their late-night menu. This popular nightspot also hosts karaoke nights, dance parties, Texas Hold 'Em tournaments and football festivities and is a great place to host a corporate event or social gathering.
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For a taste of the local Minneapolis music scene, head to Bunkers. Calling itself a working-class shot-and-beer joint, this relaxed venue is the perfect spot to see some of the biggest local acts perform. Top house bands like Dr. Mambo's Combo, The New Congress and G.B. Leighton play Sunday through Thursday, while other popular local and national acts fill the calendar on Friday and Saturday nights. To boot, Bunkers also features homemade lunches Monday through Sunday.
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A unique Twin Cities live music venue, the Cedar Cultural Center is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to cultivating a love for global cultures and music. To fulfill its mission, the Cedar showcases a variety of musical acts, from popular folk, blues, indie and world acts to emerging artists. The venue features a state-of-the-art sound system and comfortable seating, designed to provide guests with the ideal concert experience. If you want something a little different, head to the Cedar and listen to some of the best music from around the globe.
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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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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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WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. This sophisticated venue presents live music local and national jazz, folk, rock, blues, reggae, and gospel groups. The early 20th-century brick building in which the club is located offers tables next to the dance floor and second-level seating overlooking the small stage. The Indigo Girls, Edie Brickell, Alanis Morissette, and The Cowboy Junkies have played here. The kitchen is open only for special performances, so call ahead.
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DOWNTOWN. A converted 1930s bus depot, this two-part club is a premier music spot in the Twin Cities. First Avenue attracts both national and regional acts, and depending on the night, you can catch a Jamaican reggae group, Texas rockers, a Seattle grunge band, or a high-life act from Nigeria. DJs play recorded music, mostly progressive and alternative, for nightly dancing. The tiny Seventh Street entry is accessible through the First Avenue venue or via a separate entrance.
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DOWNTOWN. Built in 1902 for Gluek's Brewing Co. of Minneapolis, this establishment is modeled after traditional Bavarian beer halls experienced by the company's founder. Today, it's the only place in town that serves Gluek's on tap. Expect laid-back crowds, easygoing good times, and even live music and karaoke from time to time. The menu offers typical American and German fare, including wiener schnitzel, ribs, bratwurst, and burgers. By all accounts, smoked lake trout with cheese is a favorite appetizer.
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