Nightlife
Whether your ideal night on the town includes dinner and a show or hitting the clubs, we've got you covered for Minneapolis nightlife. From mojitos to martinis, cabarets to comedy clubs, nine distinct entertainment districts serve up excitement.
- Warehouse District
- Nicollet Mall
(aka Restaurant Row) - Hennepin Theatre District
- Minneapolis Riverfront
- St. Anthony Main
- Dinkytown
- Uptown
See also:
1. Warehouse District
Dress to see and be seen. This hot spot is filled with glamorous bars and adventurous restaurants just blocks from the Target Center, Theatre de la Jeune Lune and First Avenue. Sip cocktails at Babalu, strut your stuff at the Friday fashion shows at Visage or groove to the mixes at Foundation.
2. Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis's restaurant row boasts some of the best food in the city. Home to Orchestra Hall, Rossi's Blue Star and the famed Dakota Jazz Club—and just a block from Hennepin Avenue theaters. A few dinner faves: Murray's Steakhouse, Zelo, The Oceanaire and the art-deco grandeur of BANK.
3. Hennepin Theatre District
Dozens of restaurants, bars and clubs surround the State, Orpheum and Pantages Theatres. Start with cocktails at Cosmos or Bellanotte in Block E. Dine at the artful Chambers Kitchen or sample small plates at Solera. After the show, dance the night away at Escape Ultra Lounge.
4. Minneapolis Riverfront/Northeast
This hot area is attracting residents and visitors alike. Anchored by the Guthrie Theater, the building is now a destination whether you've got a ticket to a show or not. The Riverfront scene sizzles with bars and restaurants including Harry's, Spoonriver and Cue.
Dinkytown
Visit this funky enclave near the University of Minnesota for eclectic restaurants, great drink specials and the best concert venue in town. The Varsity Theater hosts indie rockers—plus salsa nights and film screenings. The Dinkytowner Café and Kitty Kat Club are good bets for after-dinner drinks and live music.
6. Uptown
This nexus of cool is a hipster haven. Sip Bordeaux at the bohemian Barbette or killer cocktails at Chino Latino. The Jungle Theater and Theater Garage showcase big talent in small venues. Or catch an art-house flick at the Lagoon. For cabaret shows, live music and—no joke—bowling, check out the Bryant-Lake Bowl.
8. Downtown Saint Paul
Catch hockey games, headliners and Broadway shows at St. Paul's Xcel Center and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Try Sakura for spicy sushi, or Pazzaluna for a romantic Italian meal.
7. Mall of America
Shop early, play late. Start with an elegant dinner at Tucci Benucch or California Café before catching a flick at the 14-screen theater. Get your heart pumping with a spin around a NASCAR speedway or rollercoaster ride. Finish with a nightcap at Napa Valley Grille.
