Happy hour is a time-honored tradition of unwinding after a long day of work. It’s a time to gather with friends, share some drinks and small bites, and let the stress of the day melt away.
In Minneapolis, there’s no shortage of happy hour spots to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a dive bar with cheap drinks or a swanky lounge with fancy cocktails, there’s something for everyone in this city.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where this guide comes in.
We’ve scoured the city to find the best happy hour spots in Minneapolis, so you don’t have to. From the trendiest rooftop bars to the coziest neighborhood pubs, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll be covering a range of happy hour options, from classic beer and wings specials to more upscale offerings like craft cocktails and gourmet appetizers.
No matter what your taste or budget, we’re confident you’ll find something on our list that will satisfy your cravings. So grab some friends, put on your happy hour pants, and let’s explore the best happy hour spots in Minneapolis!
1. Merlins Rest Pub
Merlins Rest Pub is a traditional British watering hole that is perfect for happy hour. With an impressive selection of whiskeys and cocktails, this pub is sure to please any drinker.
The food menu is British-themed and offers classic pub fare, including fish and chips and steak and Stilton pie.
The atmosphere is low-key and the spacious booths provide plenty of room for groups. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to make recommendations.
Live music is a frequent occurrence at Merlins Rest Pub, adding to the overall ambiance. If you're looking for a happy hour spot with great drinks and delicious food, Merlins Rest Pub is a must-visit.
2. The Local – Minneapolis
The Local – Minneapolis is a must-visit happy hour spot. With a cozy pub-like atmosphere, friendly staff, and speedy service, it's the perfect place to grab a pint and a meal.
The food and drinks are excellent, with a variety of options to choose from.
The patio seating is a great spot to people watch during warmer months.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or a fun night out with friends, The Local – Minneapolis has it all.
3. Nightingale
Nightingale is a top-tier happy hour spot that offers a unique twist on recognizable dishes.
They have a great bar selection and friendly service. The ambience is warm and classy, but can get loud during peak hours.
The drinks are a bit pricey, but worth it for the quality. The menu has a smaller selection, but the food is delicious and reasonably priced.
Nightingale is a must-visit for anyone looking for a local establishment with excellent food and service.
4. The Sample Room
The Sample Room is a cozy and intimate happy hour spot that offers a great selection of cocktails, beer, and wine at reasonable prices.
The menu features delicious small plates and rotating seasonal dishes that are creatively prepared and perfectly cooked.
The bartenders are excellent and know how to make some tasty drinks. The service is top-notch, and the ambiance is warm and inviting.
Outdoor seating is available when the weather is nice, and there is ample parking right in front. This is a great place to catch up with friends or enjoy a low-key date night.
5. Cafe and Bar Lurcat
Cafe and Bar Lurcat is a New American eatery that offers a great happy hour experience. The food is excellent, and the staff is professional and friendly.
The atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated, making it a perfect spot for an upscale dining experience.
They offer a variety of signature cocktails and appetizers, including burger sliders and crab cakes, which are highly recommended.
The location and interior are beautiful, and the service is attentive without being overbearing. If you're looking for a great happy hour spot, Cafe and Bar Lurcat is definitely worth a visit.
6. Dusty's Bar
Dusty's Bar is a quintessential dive bar that offers an authentic American experience. The bar has a cozy atmosphere and serves cheap drinks and tasty food at reasonable prices.
The bartenders are friendly and pour strong drinks, and the bar has a decent selection of tap beers and cocktails.
Dusty's Bar occasionally hosts live music and poetry events, adding to the intimate vibe of the place.
The small patio is great for smokers and patrons can enjoy the meat raffle every Friday. Despite its small size, Dusty's Bar has a lot to offer and is a great spot to visit for a casual night out.
7. Kieran's Irish Pub
Kieran's Irish Pub is a happening spot for happy hour in the city. With an extensive beer selection and $2 off all taps during happy hour, it's a great place to grab a drink after work.
The atmosphere is laid back and comfortable, making it perfect for a casual hangout with friends. The food is delicious, and the Gouda fries and cheese curds are highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the drinks, offering recommendations for those who want to try something new.
The patio is spacious and perfect for enjoying the nice weather. If you're looking for a fun spot to unwind after a long day, Kieran's Irish Pub is definitely worth checking out.
8. The Sonder Shaker
The Sonder Shaker is a chic and cozy happy hour spot that serves up great drinks and good food.
Their hand-crafted cocktails are fantastic, and their Wagyu burger is one of the best in the city. The wait staff is friendly and helpful, making it a great spot for a date or a solo diner.
They have a small menu, but every bite of every dish is delicious. The atmosphere is convivial and contemporary, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of the food and drinks.
If you're looking for a trendy spot to grab a drink and a bite to eat, The Sonder Shaker is definitely worth checking out.
9. Runyon's
Runyon's is a great happy hour spot for those looking for delicious wings and a relaxing atmosphere. The bar is small, but the service is friendly and attentive.
The buffalo wings are a must-try and come in 10 or 20 pieces. Customers can also add spicy buffalo sauce on the side for an extra kick.
The bar has a modest American menu of pub grub, such as wings and burgers. The prices are reasonable, and the beer selection is decent.
Runyon's is a Minneapolis classic and highly recommended for those who love good food and a fun atmosphere.
10. Borough
Borough is a stylish spot for happy hour with a nice beer and wine list. The bartenders are knowledgeable and make delicious drinks.
The food menu is more geared towards meat dishes, but there are some great vegan appetizers available.
The atmosphere is upscale and trendy, making it a great spot for a corporate meeting or a nice night out.
The service is attentive and friendly, making for a consistently spectacular experience. Borough is definitely worth checking out for happy hour or appetizers.
11. NOLO's Kitchen & Bar
NOLO's Kitchen & Bar is a trendy happy hour spot that offers great food and drinks at reasonable prices. The restaurant has a modern and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or a date.
The craft cocktails are delicious, and the selection of draft beer is decent. The portions are larger than expected, making it a great value for money.
The service is friendly and prompt, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. The seating options are varied, and the interior is pretty. The pizza is fantastic, and the nachos are a fun twist on a classic dish.
The restaurant also offers all-day modern American comfort food. If you're looking for a fun and lively spot for happy hour, NOLO's Kitchen & Bar is definitely worth checking out.
12. Gluek's Restaurant & Bar
Gluek's Restaurant & Bar is a bustling beer hall that offers German brews and diverse pub eats. The atmosphere is old-world, with a large open space and long bar.
The service is friendly, and the staff works tirelessly to get fans fed and off to games and events at the nearby Target Center. The menu offers happy hour specials, including lovely house beers and good drinks.
The food is amazing, with Bavarian pretzels, sausages, and pork schnitzel sandwiches being the highlights. The beer garden in the back is a great spot for appetizers and drinks.
The prices are above average, but the quality of food and drinks makes it worth it. Gluek's is a great place to grab a bite and a brew before an event or game nearby.
13. Cuzzy's Grill & Bar
Cuzzy's Grill & Bar is a must-visit happy hour spot for those who love a dive bar atmosphere. The staff are friendly and the food is great.
The drinks are cheap and the service is efficient. The back patio is perfect for a summer night.
The bar is covered in dollar bills that you can write anything on and hang it up yourself.
The regulars are welcoming and the decor is funky. Try the Chips and Queso and the Tater Tots. It's a classic bar with a great vibe.
14. Lyon's Pub
Looking for a traditional Irish pub with a UK-inspired twist in the downtown area to unwind after work with colleagues or friends, Lyon's Pub is a great option.
The pub offers an extensive selection of beers on tap, along with delicious pub grub, including burgers, chicken wings, and spinach artichoke dip.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making the experience enjoyable on all levels.
With its indoor/outdoor spaces, Lyon's Pub is perfect for lunch, watching the game, or dancing on the weekend.
