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Minneapolis, MN

Best Bars in Minneapolis: North Star State Cocktails and Craft Beer

Minneapolis's bar scene combines Midwestern hospitality with urban sophistication, creating a nightlife experience that's both welcoming and innovative. From craft cocktail lounges in the North Loop to neighborhood bars in Uptown, the City of Lakes offers diverse drinking destinations that reflect its creative spirit. Whether you're sipping locally-distilled spirits downtown, enjoying craft beer in Northeast Minneapolis, or exploring hidden speakeasies, the city's bars showcase Minnesota's commitment to quality and community. The Twin Cities' bartenders are known for their friendliness, creativity, and dedication to using local ingredients.

Marvel Bar
Top Pick

Marvel Bar

212 N 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401

This intimate cocktail bar is known for its expertly crafted drinks and no-menu approach. Bartenders create custom cocktails based on your preferences, showcasing their creativity and extensive knowledge. The sophisticated atmosphere and attention to detail make it a Minneapolis institution.

Custom Cocktails
Expert Mixology
Intimate Setting

Insider Tip

There's no menu - tell the bartender your spirit preference and flavor profile, and they'll create something custom. Arrive early as the small space fills up quickly. The bartenders are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly.

Parlour
Top Pick

Parlour

730 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Located in the historic Chambers Hotel, Parlour features craft cocktails, elevated comfort food, and a stylish atmosphere. The burger is legendary, and the cocktail program is equally impressive, making it perfect for both dinner and drinks.

Dinner & Drinks
Hotel Bar
Famous Burger

Insider Tip

The Parlour Burger is consistently rated one of the best in America - pair it with an Old Fashioned. Happy hour (3-6pm weekdays) offers discounted cocktails. The stylish interior makes it great for date nights.

Prohibition
Top Pick

Prohibition

618 2nd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Hidden in the basement of a downtown building, this authentic speakeasy requires a password for entry. The vintage decor, classic cocktails, and mysterious atmosphere transport guests back to the Prohibition era.

Speakeasy Experience
Password Entry
Classic Cocktails

Insider Tip

Check their website or social media for the weekly password - it changes regularly. The entrance is unmarked, adding to the authentic speakeasy experience. Reservations recommended on weekends.

The Freehouse
Top Pick

The Freehouse

701 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401

This popular brewpub features house-made beers, elevated pub fare, and a welcoming atmosphere. The spacious interior and commitment to quality have made it a North Loop favorite for both locals and visitors.

Craft Beer
Pub Food
North Loop

Insider Tip

Try the beer flight to sample multiple house-brewed styles. The elevated pub food pairs perfectly with the beers. Large groups are welcome - the spacious interior can accommodate parties.

Tattersall Distilling
Top Pick

Tattersall Distilling

1777 Pauline St, Minneapolis, MN 55113

This local distillery features a cocktail room serving drinks made with their own spirits. The industrial-chic space, creative cocktails, and distillery tours make it a unique Minneapolis experience.

Local Spirits
Distillery Experience
Northeast Minneapolis

Insider Tip

Take the free distillery tour (check website for times) to learn about their production process. The cocktail room features drinks made exclusively with Tattersall spirits. The outdoor patio is great in summer.

The Pourhouse
Top Pick

The Pourhouse

1028 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

This beloved dive bar has been serving strong drinks and good times since 1977. The no-frills atmosphere, friendly bartenders, and affordable prices make it a favorite among locals seeking an authentic neighborhood bar experience.

Dive Bar
Local Favorite
Affordable Drinks

Insider Tip

Cash only - there's an ATM inside. The bartenders pour generously. Great jukebox with eclectic selections. It's a true Minneapolis institution that hasn't changed in decades.

Coup d'etat
Top Pick

Coup d'etat

2657 NE Kennedy St, Minneapolis, MN 55413

This sophisticated cocktail lounge features creative drinks, a curated wine list, and French-inspired small plates. The elegant atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it perfect for date nights and special occasions.

Date Night
French-Inspired
Elegant Atmosphere

Insider Tip

The French-inspired small plates pair beautifully with the cocktails. Reservations recommended for dinner. The wine list is extensive and well-curated. Dress code is smart casual.

Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge
Top Pick

Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge

1900 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418

This waterfront tiki bar features tropical cocktails, a massive patio overlooking the Mississippi River, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The extensive rum selection and creative tiki drinks make it a summer favorite.

Tiki Drinks
Waterfront Patio
Summer Hangout

Insider Tip

The massive patio overlooking the Mississippi River is one of Minneapolis's best outdoor drinking spots. Arrive early on summer weekends. The tiki drinks are strong - pace yourself.

The Bulldog
Top Pick

The Bulldog

2549 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405

With multiple Twin Cities locations, The Bulldog offers a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, craft cocktails, and comfort food. The spacious patios and friendly service make it a favorite for casual drinks and weekend brunch.

Neighborhood Bar
Brunch Drinks
Patio Seating

Insider Tip

Weekend brunch features some of the best Bloody Marys in Minneapolis - they're loaded with garnishes. The patios are dog-friendly. Multiple locations throughout the Twin Cities.

Young Joni
Top Pick

Young Joni

165 13th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413

This popular restaurant features wood-fired pizzas and creative cocktails in a stylish, modern space. The innovative drink menu and quality food make it perfect for both dinner and drinks with friends.

Dinner & Drinks
Wood-Fired Pizza
Modern Atmosphere

Insider Tip

The wood-fired pizzas are exceptional - try the Korean BBQ pizza. The cocktail menu changes seasonally. Reservations recommended for dinner. The bar area is first-come, first-served.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Minneapolis's bar scene unique?

Minneapolis combines Midwestern hospitality with urban sophistication. The no-menu custom cocktail approach at bars like Marvel Bar, the extensive local distillery scene, and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere set it apart from coastal cities.

What's the best neighborhood for bar hopping in Minneapolis?

Northeast Minneapolis is excellent for bar hopping with diverse venues within walking distance, from Tattersall Distilling to Psycho Suzi's to Coup d'etat. The North Loop also offers great options in a more upscale setting.

Do Minneapolis bars require reservations?

Most Minneapolis bars operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, Prohibition (the speakeasy) and upscale venues like Coup d'etat recommend reservations on weekends. Marvel Bar fills up quickly due to its small size.

How do I handle Minneapolis winters when bar hopping?

The skyway system connects many downtown bars, allowing indoor movement between venues. Use rideshare services rather than walking long distances in extreme cold. Many bars have heated patios for year-round outdoor drinking.

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