Top Rated Nightlife in Minneapolis/St. Paul

Nothing beats the combination of fresh, healthy American food and an array of American beverages and drinks specials. Icehouse, which is a deli located in Whitter, offers just that and much more for the fun loving foodies. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, just what you'd expect from a deli. However, the popularity of this eatery is due to the range of scrumptious delights which are made exquisitely from scratch by the expert chef. This includes the small plates delicacies like foie gras burgers and scallops, as well as the special brunch items like Po Boy sandwiches and pastrami and eggs. In the end, you can wash it down with the drinks specials like Mothership Rita and Butterfly Kiss, or a glass of Cedar Ridge Bourbon or George Dickel 12 year from its splendid whiskey bar. Jazz and rock bands pack a punch with their performances every night, so make sure you reserve your table at Icehouse in the evening, to enjoy a satisfying American meal.

Matt's Bar is a neighborhood favorite boasting one particularly famous and beloved specialty: the Jucy Lucy. This Minneapolis favorite is a cheeseburger with the cheese stuffed on the inside of the burger instead of melted on top. Matt's has been featured on the Travel Channel's hit show, Man vs. Food, with the spotlight on, you guessed it, the Jucy Lucy. This dive bar has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike for over 25 years. If you are looking for the opposite of a stylish, swanky bar and food experience, Matt's is your ideal place for a bite and a beer.

This classy bar and grill has been a pioneer among local restaurants by offering regional, home-produced food. This casually chic establishment has evolved into the best place to hear local and national jazz acts. An intimate stage separates the bar from the dining room. The acoustics are considered some of the best in the Upper Midwest. The menu features trout from a Wisconsin farm and local game fowl, mushrooms, and wild rice. It is all put together with the utmost care and a lot of imagination. The wine (including some by local wineries), beer and liquor selection is impeccable.

The Summit Brewing Company has come a long way since it first came into business in 1986 - its beers are now some of the most popular in St. Paul. Some are seasonal (such as the Summit Maibock and the Summit Oktoberfest), while others are available all year round. You can tour the brewery from Thursday to Saturday, but reservations are required for group weekend tours.

Enjoy samples of Japanese delicacies offered at Moto-i brewery and restaurant on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis. This Japanese eatery boasts of being 'the first sake brewery restaurant outside of Japan' and backs it up by serving their own sake varieties, much to the delight of avid drinkers. Sip on sake served along with small portions of rice preparations and dumplings while seated on the rooftop terrace of this eatery. This brewery also has a selection of beers and tasty Japanese appetizers to get you started on your meal.

The Saloon is one of the Twin Cities' main gay bars. From the Tank to the Chicken Coop to the Stand, this is where the action is. Leather is a necessity to enter the Tank. A dress code is enforced. Thursday is under-21 night, Tuesday features karaoke and Sunday is 1980's retro. On weekends, the club becomes the hottest dance party in town, straight or gay. The music is loud, the patrons rock until 3am, and the place is packed wall to wall. If the dance floor is too crowded, try pool, pinball, darts or video games. Burgers, sandwiches, salads and deep fried appetizers highlight the limited menu. The saloon has an excellent beer list, both domestic and imported.