This nightspot is considered by many to be the top rock club in the Twin Cities. The best of the local talent and many national acts headline each and every night. By the shape of the building, which looks like a large caboose, you would think the acoustics would be poor. Quite the contrary, as the overflow crowds will attest. Along with a great beer selection, wine, liquor and soft drinks are served. Stick with the burgers or appetizers to satisfy your hunger. Pool tables, foosball and darts provide a definite working-class atmosphere. Arrive early for local bands and even earlier for the big acts, otherwise you will be standing or miss getting in at all. Advance sale tickets are available at select locations. Price varies according to act. Doors generally open an hour or two before showtime.
At one time, Minneapolis had the lock on alternative rock hangouts. Not wanting to miss a good thing, Turf Club abandoned its long-time country format to cater to an alternative rock style. Soon rockers west of the river discovered the new turf and contributed to what has become one of the Twin Cities' most popular clubs. New bands have found a home to sharpen their acts during the week and on weekends the best the area has to offer takes the stage. An occasional national act makes the scene and it is packed to suffocation. Escape the music to play pool or darts in the lower level, the renovated Clown Lounge, featuring its own bar. Domestic and imported beers can be enjoyed by most but wine coolers, cocktails and soft drinks are also served.
The area of Minneapolis known as Nordeast has been gaining a reputation for a hopping nightlife in recent years; the Front and Ground Zero nightclub is one of the hottest. Catering to a young crowd, live music is featured on most Saturday nights ranging from alternative rock to oldies to jazz to classic rock. Recorded music keeps the huge dance floor jammed on the other nights. Take a break and try your luck with pool, pinball or video games. Bar specials and local radio stations add to the festivities. There is no cover charge.
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.