Best Cocktail Bars in University of Minnesota

Price

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Regions

Twin Cities / MinneapolisTwin Cities / Southern SuburbsTwin Cities / St. Paul

Neighborhoods

BloomingtonDowntown / Mill DistrictDowntown / North LoopEaganNortheast MinneapolisSaint Paul

Top Rated

CharmingGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for happy hourHot spot

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh Top

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

10 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Young Joni

4.8

Exceptional(949)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Northeast Minneapolis

Booked 200 times today

Young Joni, nestled in Northeast Minneapolis, offers an exceptional Cocktail Bar experience that is both authentic and innovative. Tucked behind the main restaurant, the back bar is a hidden gem that serves full and no-proof craft cocktails, receiving accolades like Esquire's "Best Bars in America." Diners rave about its "perfect ambience" and the warm, analog setting that invites relaxation. The creativity of the cocktails, paired with the rich flavors of wood-fired dishes, make this a must-visit spot. As one guest remarked, "the drinks were delicious," underscoring the bar's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Young Joni is where cocktail dreams come true.

2. Billy Sushi

4.8

Exceptional(149)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown / North Loop

Booked 87 times today

Billy Sushi in downtown Minneapolis is not just a feast for sushi lovers but also a cocktail haven that elevates the dining experience. The cocktail bar at Billy Sushi is renowned for its "tasty cocktails" and lively ambiance, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a mix of innovation and authenticity. The bartenders, much like the sushi chefs, are performers, crafting drinks that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. With a menu that complements the exquisite sushi offerings, Billy Sushi's cocktail bar stands out as a "wonderful" and integral part of the vibrant dining experience, ensuring every visit is a true celebration.

3. Billy After Dark

4.8

Exceptional(183)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown / North Loop

Booked 25 times today

Billy After Dark in Downtown Minneapolis is a cocktail bar that offers an unparalleled experience inspired by the twenty-four micro-seasons of Japan. This unique approach to mixology ensures that each drink is both a sensory delight and a nostalgic journey. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" service and the expertly crafted cocktails, which include perfected classics and innovative riffs on Japanese favorites. The bar's ambiance is described as a "perfect blend of mystery, energy, and charm," making it an ideal spot for both intimate nights and lively celebrations. With its exceptional atmosphere and creative cocktails, Billy After Dark promises a memorable night out.

4. Masa & Agave

4.6

Exceptional(97)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown / Mill District

Booked 16 times today

Masa & Agave, nestled in the heart of Downtown Minneapolis, offers an exceptional cocktail bar experience that is both authentic and innovative. With a stunning collection of 200 agave spirits, this speakeasy-style cantina pays homage to the artistry of the jimadores and mezcaleros. Guests can indulge in beautifully crafted signature Margaritas like the Tradicionale and Tamarindo, described as "fun and unique, crafted like little works of art." The ambiance is praised as "romantic" and "dark and moody yet tasteful," creating the perfect backdrop for enjoying their exquisite cocktails. With attentive service and an inviting atmosphere, Masa & Agave is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

5. Back Bar

4.7

Exceptional(6)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Sheridan

We like to keep the vibes relaxed and communal at Back Bar. To keep the vibes vibin’, we’ve decided to no longer offer reservations for Back Bar via OpenTable so that we can be your go-to for a spontaneous meet-up with friends or pre-dinner drink. We will honor all current reservations. Look for the red light in the alley. When the light is on, the back bar is open.We open at 4 pm Wednesday - Saturday.

6. Esther's Table

5.0

Exceptional(1)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown / Mill District

Esther’s Table is more than a restaurant. It’s a heartfelt gathering place where history is served with every plate. Enjoy our chef-driven menu featuring timeless classics elevated with seasonal ingredients, from herb-roasted chicken with Minnesota wild rice to our famous garganelli with ricotta and sage. Located in the Sheraton Minneapolis Downtown, Esther’s Table draws inspiration from cherished Capp family recipes, thoughtfully elevated with modern flavors and locally sourced ingredients. The Capp family, original designers and owners of the hotel, have shaped this space with a deep sense of hospitality, and their legacy continues today.

7. Parlour St. Paul

4.7

Exceptional(70)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Saint Paul

Booked 19 times today

Parlour St. Paul is a casual diner and craft cocktail bar located blocks from downtown St. Paul and the Xcel Energy Center. Try the famous Parlour Burger, a double patty smash burger with American cheese and pickles or one of our other unique and delicious items while having a craft cocktail. We serve lunch Wednesday - Friday, brunch on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 11 am and more eclectic dishes in addition to breakfast food all day. We offer complimentary Valet service before an Xcel game or event.

A photo of The Loop Bar + Restaurant - West End restaurant

8. The Loop Bar + Restaurant - West End

4.6

Exceptional(618)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • St. Louis Park

Booked 13 times today

At The Loop Bar + Restaurant - West End, diners are treated to an exceptional Contemporary American culinary experience that celebrates the local flavors of Minnesota. With a commitment to using the highest quality locally grown products, this restaurant elevates traditional American dishes with a contemporary twist that keeps patrons coming back for more. Guests rave about the "fantastic food and service," noting the "great menu selection" that offers both the familiar and the innovative. The vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, complemented by attentive staff and the lively presence of a DJ on weekends, makes it the perfect spot for a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Sugar Factory Express - Mall of America restaurant

9. Sugar Factory Express - Mall of America

3.6

Very Good(1156)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Bloomington

Booked 8 times today

Sugar Factory Express at Mall of America is a cocktail bar wonderland that promises an unforgettable experience. With its "phenomenal" service and vibrant atmosphere, this venue is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts. Guests rave about the "best part" of their visit being the innovative and Instagram-worthy drinks, particularly the signature alcohol-infused candy smoking goblets like the Lollipop Passion, which are as delightful to taste as they are to behold. The "amazing service" and whimsical settings make every occasion special, ensuring that visitors leave with fond memories and a desire to return. It's more than just a meal; it's a spectacular celebration of flavors.

10. Ember & Ice

5.0

Exceptional(5)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Eagan

Reservations are not required, “Seatings are based on first come first serve”Ember & Ice offers premium cocktails and design elements that tie to “fire” and “gathering” – important themes of the Icelandic culture of the North. Indoor and outdoor seating allows for the unique pairing of ultimate sports viewing and lounge experience. Overlooking the Minnesota Vikings practice and training facility, the outdoor bar and patio with multiple TVs is the perfect place to spend game day.The most sophisticated dining area in the hotel, Ember & Ice, is designed with an eclectic mix of modern, traditional and Nordic elements., guests can look forward to an upbeat, energetic atmosphere with premium cocktails.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

KJ
KendraJ
Minneapolis - St. Paul •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Very cozy environment and quick service. Food was fresh and staff was awesome
More info
Young JoniPrice: Expensive• Pizzeria• Northeast Minneapolis
•
4.8
J
jeffVIP
Minneapolis - St. Paul •8 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Good descriptions from the waiter of each roll since the options are endless. He also went into detail about the sake types. Great presentation of the food on sushi boats to make it more festive for the table.
More info
Billy SushiPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Downtown / North Loop
•
4.8
A
Antwan
Minneapolis - St. Paul •1 review
5.0
Dined on Jun 12, 2025
We got the guacamole and the Bria and enchiladas all were great!
More info
Masa & AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Downtown / Mill District
•
4.6
S
Sofia
Minneapolis - St. Paul •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 8, 2025
Firstly, the service was amazing! Our server Annie was fantastic and Sophia the hostess made us feel so welcome!! I’d go back just for the service alone. Drinks were great, and the ambience and music was a huge plus.
More info
Billy After DarkPrice: Moderate• Speakeasy• Downtown / North Loop
•
4.8
A
Anders
Montana •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 15, 2025
Cozy and uniquely gorgeous little speakeasy. Lively, but not overcrowded at all, even on Valentine’s Day. Great spot for conversation, though it’s possible you’ll be seated close to others with some unconventional seating (not bad however). Pizza and cocktails are incredible. Music plays on film reels. The drink menu changes occasionally and always fun and totally unique.
More info
Back BarPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Sheridan
•
4.7

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University of Minnesota

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South St. Paul
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