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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cool dinner spots in Minneapolis

You want a dinner spot that feels current and holds its own for a night out.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Char Bar image 1
Char Bar image 2
Char Bar image 3
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Restaurant

Speakeasy-style bar with hidden entrance and upscale interior design creates a sophisticated, low-key atmosphere. Music adds to the vibe, making it a quiet spot for drinks or a special evening. Heavy, comfortable bar stools and strong cocktail execution stand out.

Strong service stands out with servers offering great dinner and drink recommendations. The spot works well for special occasions like New Year's Eve dinners.

Strong vibes and cool people create a fun atmosphere. Non-locals find it a super cool spot to discover.

People are saying

"The bar staff, especially Erin, was phenomenal and friendly."

"You've got to try the unique cocktails, like the pho-inspired Eat Street."

"The food at these dinner spots is amazing, especially the grilled shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with food and drink options priced between $6 and $10.

2

Reservations are not accepted; walk-ins only.

3

Access to the bar requires asking to be seated at the front lobby.

02
Star Bar & Bistro image 1

Space combines mid-century modern design with twinkling starburst ceiling and neon-lit walls creating a retro, artsy vibe. Live music fills the room, sometimes loud, adding energy to the atmosphere. Comfortable seating and cocktail tables encourage relaxed conversation and socializing.

Decor shows a retro, eclectic, and artsy vibe with a mid-century modern feel. Comfortable chairs and cocktail tables create an effortless cool atmosphere for conversations.

People are saying

"The smashburger at this Lunch Spot is a must-try."

"The mellow groove and soft lights create a cool, mellow vibe."

"The chicken sandwich at this dinner spot was crispy, salty, and slightly sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for happy hour to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

03
Baba's Hummus House & Mana'eesh Bakery image 1

Middle Eastern restaurant with bright, airy decor and varied seating options including couches and counters. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming but can be busy and noisy, making it lively rather than quiet. Incorporates Palestinian heritage through art and design, creating a unique cultural vibe.

Dinner offers a casual vibe with options to enjoy meals on-site or take food home in containers. The experience includes satisfying dishes that make it a solid choice for evening dining.

Modern, casual space creates a trendy vibe with a cool crowd. The ambience pairs well with the Palestinian food served.

People are saying

"I've never tasted hummus this smooth and well-seasoned before."

"The ambience and space here are really cool and modern."

"The hummus at these dinner spots is so rich, creamy, and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant tracks seating availability and informs customers if no seating is available.

2

They offer great options for vegans and vegetarians.

3

The restaurant provides healthy options for diners.

04
Stock & Bond MN image 1
Restaurant

Art deco design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere with elegant, modern decor reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era. The space feels carefully curated and visually stunning, offering a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Valet parking and coat check add to the hassle-free, comfortable experience.

Dinner here offers a fully available main menu with dishes that suit special occasions like birthdays and Thanksgiving. The meals consistently deliver an extraordinary and excellent experience.

An old bank building creates a super cool atmosphere with impressive vibes. The space feels unique and the service matches the cool setting.

People are saying

"The Wagyu Bavette steak was flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic and full of flavor."

"The space and ambiance here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially for special events.

2

Valet service is not recommended due to past negative experiences.

3

The restaurant offers a private room for events like wedding receptions.

05
Tender Lovin Chix image 1

Restaurant combines huge space with wall-to-wall TVs showing women's sports and football games. Bright, energetic atmosphere features a lively bar area and a killer DJ during events. Crowd enjoys Asian fusion fried chicken alongside a variety of cocktails in an inviting, upbeat setting.

The spot has a cool vibe and feels fresh and inviting. It pairs that with amazing food that matches the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"The chicken at these dinner spots is so crispy and juicy."

"I found this spot to be super cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great food and drink deals.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during football games and other major events.

3

DJ nights add to the fun, especially on weekends.

06
The Anchor Fish & Chips image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Old structure hosts a cozy spot with an open kitchen where cooking happens right by the bar. Warm, Irish pub atmosphere blends with a friendly vibe and British Invasion music playing softly. Small, cramped space feels historic and welcoming despite limited seating.

Fish dinners stand out with tartar sauce and ketchup that complement the meal well. Reservations are common since it gets busy, making it a cozy spot for a solo dinner or a meal before a theatre show.

Atmosphere feels cool and cozy with a local vibe. Offers lots of options that add to its cool appeal.

People are saying

"I thought the fish and chips were the best I'd ever had."

"I thought the fish and chips were crispy, golden, and delicious."

"It's a cool, cozy local spot with lots of options."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because the place gets very busy.

2

There was barely any seating available, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking can take about 30 minutes to find a spot.

07
Animales Barbeque Co. image 1

Converted warehouse space features an open layout with massive, cavernous rooms and live music that can be loud and muffled. A huge kids play area keeps young children busy, making it family-friendly but less suited for quiet meetups. The atmosphere blends cozy and chill vibes with an elite feel, attracting diverse crowds.

Dinner features barbeque dinners served in generous portions, including options for groups like the dinner for three. The Thanksgiving Turkey dinner stands out as a memorable choice.

A cool little pocket of town offers excellent skyline views. The atmosphere stays cool with live music and a good band on a nice stage.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly five stars."

"The food at these dinner spots was fantastic and delicious."

"The food here is so cool, it just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

BBQ is not served until after 4pm, so plan accordingly.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The 20% service gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

08
Nico's Tacos + Agave Bar image 1

Space features beautiful Mexican-inspired decor and a spacious patio with a welcoming fire. Atmosphere feels comfy and lively, with great margaritas and authentic tacos drawing a steady crowd. Setting balances indoor coolness with outdoor warmth, creating a tasteful dining experience.

Inside feels very cool with a vibe that suits hanging out for a drink or dinner.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, was really good."

"The servers here are so friendly and attentive."

"It's a cool spot to hang out and have a drink or dinner."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is advised to secure a table.

2

The parking is easy and convenient for visitors.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

09
Lyon's Pub image 1

Pub offers an authentic British atmosphere with an old English feel and European-style outdoor seating. Music often plays loudly, creating a lively, party vibe that can overshadow dining moments. Walls display sports memorabilia, attracting fans during local games.

Quick dinners work well here with options like a great dinner salad. The spot suits casual, fast meals without fuss.

An old style bar with a cool British vibe offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The piano bar adds to the unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The staff at this pub were simply wonderful and friendly."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and amazing."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, with a British style."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Friday with a lively crowd and song requests welcome.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Live music performances occur on Saturday nights, featuring local artists.

10
Hewing Hotel image 1

Upscale casual hotel with a hip lounge and a popular rooftop bar featuring an indoor/outdoor setup and a heated pool and hot tub. Atmosphere is lively with blaring music and a grown and sexy vibe. Rooftop offers amazing views and a poolside cocktail bar that draws a 21+ crowd.

Dinner offers mouthwatering delicious dishes served in a well-done manner. The restaurant provides a great setting for both dinner and drinks, making it suitable for celebrations or casual nights out.

Rooms and public spaces have a rustic and cool vibe with dark tones and cool lighting. The rooftop and upstairs bar offer a smoky, woodsy feel that stands out.

People are saying

"The rooftop hot tub with a poolside bar is a great relaxation spot."

"The hotel's vibe and design are really cool."

"The service at these dinner spots is outstanding and welcoming."

Good to know

1

The hotel hosts various events, which can make the ground floor crowded.

2

Expect noise from events, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

The rooftop bar may close if it reaches capacity on busy nights.

11
Kramarczuk's Sausage Co. Inc. image 1

Old-fashioned deli setup with cafeteria-style dining and a full meat market creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. Eastern European influences show in mosaic artwork and beer selection, giving a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Sidewalk seating and attached bakery add to the inviting, bustling environment.

Huge cabbage roll stands out and holds up well for leftovers. Smokey pulled pork sandwich and a variety of Polish dishes like pierogies and sausage make dinner satisfying.

Bright and lively atmosphere makes it a cool spot to explore. The space feels inviting and full of energy.

People are saying

"The sausage here is so juicy and tender."

"The pierogies and cabbage rolls make for a delicious dinner."

"It's a cool, lively place to look around."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has its own parking lot with an attendant for free.

2

There is a free parking lot just to the north for customers.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

12
The Camden Social image 1

Classic and elegant venue with an upscale dining atmosphere and live jazz music that creates a warm, inviting vibe. Spacious lounge offers a front-row seat to performances, enhancing the festive and cozy environment. Southern-inspired menu complements the authentic and social setting.

Dinner offers a great vibe with attentive service and satisfying food. Reservations are common due to consistent quality.

Clean and welcoming environment sets a relaxed vibe without any pretentiousness. Live music adds to the cool atmosphere that feels settled and easygoing.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"The staff here are so friendly and make the dinner spots a great vibe."

"It's a cool, relaxed environment with a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Wednesday from 3-10pm and Thursday to Friday from 3-6pm.

2

The Sunday jazz brunch features a buffet style meal.

3

Live jazz performances are free on Fridays and Sundays.

13
Little Tijuana Neighborhood Lounge image 1

Small lounge with funky old school decor and disco-ball lighting creates a cool, chill vibe. Music stays next level and fun, setting an impeccable atmosphere. Two dining rooms offer options for quieter or rowdier experiences, attracting a mix of groups and families.

Dinner here suits special occasions and casual visits alike. The spot offers a welcoming atmosphere that works well for family dinners and celebrations.

Heavy red lighting and a cozy interior create a funky vibe. Staff adds to the cool atmosphere, and the cocktail shaker with the margarita stands out as a unique touch.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The cocktails here are BOMB and mixed with unique ingredients."

"The margaritas here are perfect and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

The lounge serves food late, making it a great option for late-night dining.

2

Expect long wait times between 6-7pm; arrive early to avoid lines.

3

The menu features a small selection of dishes, not authentic Mexican cuisine.

14
Mestiizo image 1

Small space with cool decor and close tables creates an intimate, upscale atmosphere. Lighting casts a mysterious red glow, making the vibe fun and vibrant yet cozy. Cocktails stand out with unique touches, complementing a menu blending Tex-Mex and Asian fusion flavors.

Offers a relaxed setting for date nights, cocktails with friends, or family dinners. Open late on weekdays, making it convenient for late dinners.

Small space with cool decor and tables close together creates a cozy atmosphere. Artwork adds to the cool vibes throughout.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the elote and carne asada, was amazing."

"The birria egg roll is a no-brainer for dinner spots."

"You have to try the elote; it's the best dish here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.

2

Bottles of wine are half off, making it a good deal.

3

The restaurant has gluten-free and celiac-safe options available.

15
Jade Dynasty Restaurant & Bar image 1

Spacious Chinese restaurant with live seafood tanks and dim sum carts creates an immersive dining environment. Atmosphere feels stunning and comfortable, blending beautiful decor with welcoming energy. Offers private event spaces upstairs, enhancing versatility beyond typical dining.

Dinner features a Cantonese banquet known for its quality and variety. Celebrations like birthdays often center around this spot for its memorable dining experience.

Space feels huge inside with an upstairs seating area that suits large intimate gatherings. Live seafood tanks add a unique visual element that stands out.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is amazing and there's a wide variety."

"The food here is fantastic, I dreamt about it for days."

"The food here is fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 to $2 per hour.

2

The restaurant has a parking lot, which is rare for the area.

3

Happy hour is available, but details are not yet finalized.

16
Maison Margaux image 1
Restaurant

Historical building hosts a spacious restaurant with dark themed underground lounge and outdoor terrace featuring Paris and Monet imagery. Atmosphere blends high energy with classy, interactive vibes. Known for an exceptional Cognac and Armagnac selection and standout cocktails.

Dinner here offers an incredible experience with memorable meals shared among family. The atmosphere supports a special evening out.

The basement bar offers a cozy and cool atmosphere with a speakeasy vibe. It stays quiet and not very busy, making it a nice spot for a nightcap.

People are saying

"The French Food, especially the short ribs and bouillabaisse, was perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here are incredible, especially the scallops."

"The downstairs speakeasy is a cool, cozy space."

Good to know

1

Social hour menu is available until 5:45pm, with drink specials until 6:00pm.

2

Dessert orders should be placed early as the kitchen gets busy around 10pm.

3

Upstairs is a great space for small weddings and events.

17
The Nicollet Diner image 1
American restaurant

Classic diner setting combines with neon signs and open patios to create a lively, welcoming space. Energy shifts from relaxed daytime vibes to late-night buzz with an arcade bar upstairs. The atmosphere embraces diversity and community, making it a hub for all walks of life.

Dinner includes options at a classic diner open late. A night out can combine dinner, a show, and an after-party all in one building.

A very cool community vibe welcomes all walks of life here. The environment stays super chill and the overall atmosphere feels genuinely cool.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, elegant, and well-priced."

"These dinner spots offer a queer, fabulous experience with energetic drag shows."

"It's a really cool place with a welcoming community vibe."

Good to know

1

The Nicollet Diner is open 24 hours a day, making it a late-night option.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one drinks until 7 PM on weekdays.

3

The diner hosts a popular drag show event on certain nights.

18
Acme Comedy Company image 1

Intimate comedy club with all floor-level seating and low ceilings that keep laughter contained. The room fills with energy when comedians succeed, creating an electric atmosphere. Seating is tight, packed closely together, enhancing the up close and personal feel.

Dinner includes a solid meal paired with a comedy show. Tickets come with preferential seating right up front when choosing the dinner-and-show deal.

The basement comedy cellar has a brick exterior that gives a comfortable and cool ambiance. The building and dining area both have a very cool vibe with other restaurants and businesses nearby.

People are saying

"The comedians here are great and kept us laughing all night."

"The comedy during dinner was outstanding and kept us laughing."

"I found the venue and building to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays offer free open mic nights with no cover charge.

2

The comedy club has a promotional "Birthday Club" for free tickets during your birthday month.

3

Parking is available in a paid lot across the street.

19
Northeast Social image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, eclectic space with metal tin ceiling and artwork from local gallery. Atmosphere is friendly and lively, often noisy with live music and open windows. Small capacity and minimalist design create an intimate yet energetic vibe.

Burgers and fries stand out with amazing flavor for dinner. Early dinners come with no wait, and Happy Hour offers a rotating gourmet hot dog called the "Glizzy of the Week" that adds a playful twist.

Metal ceilings and eclectic decor create a cool atmosphere. Art and architecture add to the unique vibe.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have such friendly service and a cozy feel."

"The art and architecture here are really cool."

"I tasted the best Panna Cotta I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy Hour runs from 4:00 to 5:00 PM with special menu items.

3

The restaurant has a limited menu, so check online before visiting.

20
The Cabana Club image 1
Restaurant

Patio overlooks a spectacular city skyline next to the river, creating a cozy and gorgeous atmosphere. Space fills with a welcoming and comfortable vibe, often enjoyed during sunsets. Creative cocktails and a variety of food choices complement the beautiful setting.

Dinner includes a Shaved Vegetable salad that fills a plate and tastes great. The meat pie with green curry sauce and potatoes offers a flavorful, warming option. Cocktails like the Oaxaca complement appetizers such as the butter board and cauliflower, alongside hearty mains like short rib.

Very cool atmosphere pairs with an amazing city view. Drinks stand out and the food holds its own in a cool setting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and inventive."

"The cocktails here are excellent and balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Butter Board is available for $10 during happy hour.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

21
Sonora Mexican kitchen and bar image 1

Large industrial space with open kitchen and modern decor creates a bright, authentic vibe. Patio offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area with a great atmosphere. Loud music and echo in the dining room make conversation challenging.

Dinner features attentive service and a lively environment that enhance the meal. Both dinner and dessert often exceed expectations.

An industrial-modern vibe sets an upbeat and inviting tone throughout the space. Both the inside dining and bar areas, along with the outside seating, carry a cool atmosphere with super cool decor.

People are saying

"The brisket burrito and chicken nachos were amazing Mexican food."

"The tacos and guacamole at these dinner spots are really good."

"The food here is out of this world and so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm on weekdays with $6 margaritas and half off appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers all tacos for $3, featuring savory meats.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid a wait during peak hours.

22
Salt & Flour Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and open concept design create a lively setting with DJ music enhancing the mood during brunch and dinner. Seating is tightly packed, making the space feel busy and energetic. Decor mixes expensive elements with casual touches, resulting in a unique but sometimes confusing atmosphere.

Patio dining offers a nice setting for dinner. Staff like Matthew and Gabe contribute to a great experience with friendly service.

The spot has a relaxing, cool date night vibe with a quiet atmosphere. It feels like a hidden gem near the stadium.

People are saying

"The game liver mousse at these dinner spots was out of this world."

"The peanut butter tart dessert is like a gourmet Reese's, but way better."

"The food here is awesome, especially the pasta and pizza."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from Sunday to Thursday, which is rare on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

Parking is available in a nearby ramp for $10.

23
Scott Ja-Mama's image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small dining area filled with memorabilia creates a cozy, old town vibe. Atmosphere feels welcoming and family-owned, attracting locals who appreciate affordable, flavorful BBQ. Space is tight, seating only a few, emphasizing a hole-in-the-wall experience.

Dinner includes a half rib served with beans. The dinner bun resembles a standard Hawaiian bun from a grocery store box.

Old town vibe sets a cool atmosphere. Walls feature lots of fun, cool stuff that adds character.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

"The flavor of these dinner spots is worth the drive."

"The pork here is so delicious and perfect."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very small, with only one sit-down table.

2

Prices are fair, with great portions for the cost.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere; no formal dress code required.

24
Cardamom image 1
Restaurant

Bright space blends Scandinavian and South Asian styles with a stunning live tree inside and views of a sculpture garden and skyline. Outdoor seating offers comfortable breeze and shade with lively conversation filling the room. Cocktails feature bold flavors, and vegetarian options stand out.

Modern yet cozy atmosphere fits well for dinner with views of the Sculpture Garden. The menu offers options that suit special occasions like birthdays.

Building and location have a cool vibe. Chairs add to the unique style. Staff act with a wanna-be cool kid attitude that feels rude and apathetic.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and unique."

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the flavorful lamb burger."

"This lamb burger is flavorful and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered seven days a week, making it a great option for any day.

2

Happy Hour features discounted lamb sliders, perfect for a light snack.

3

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

25
Mama Sheila's House of Soul image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a cozy, family-style atmosphere with walls adorned by black history posters and celebrity tributes. R&B and gospel music play softly, creating a nostalgic and inviting vibe. The space feels like an old-school momma's house, emphasizing comfort and cultural pride.

Dinners here serve traditional home-cooked meals with flavors that remind of Sunday family dinners. Portions come big enough to feed three people from one order.

The atmosphere feels relaxed and cool-laid, with a history-rich vibe that encourages appreciation. Music choices add to the overall coolness inside the restaurant.

People are saying

"The buffet's food tastes like love, just like grandma's cooking."

"The soul food here is the best I've had in a long time."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and remind me of home."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street parking only, with no dedicated parking lot.

2

The buffet option closes an hour earlier than listed online.

3

They charge $9.95 per pound for food, not an all-you-can-eat buffet.

26
Granada Theater image 1
Event venue

Classic architecture and a moving night sky ceiling create an intimate and visually stunning venue. Soft lighting from many candles adds to the unique, relaxing atmosphere. Top-notch musicians perform with excellent acoustics, making it ideal for small concerts and intimate shows.

Dinner here offers an intimate setting paired with a show experience. The service is great, making it a solid choice for an evening meal.

Unobstructed views highlight the venue's really cool ceiling and lighting. Staff add to the cool atmosphere in this quaint, small space with a Spanish menu restaurant.

People are saying

"It's a perfect place for a fun date night."

"It's a really cool space with a great atmosphere."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

The well-lit parking ramp a block away makes parking easy.

2

Be prepared to pay double what you'd expect for drinks downtown.

3

Tickets are expensive, with an automatic 20 percent charge on the bill.

27
TAP IN Kitchen & Cocktails image 1

Interior showcases stunning decor with art and literature treasures that capture attention. Atmosphere blends cozy relaxation with an elevated vibe, enhanced by live DJ music. Craft cocktails stand out as gorgeous and flavorful highlights.

Dinner offers a magical experience with a spot conveniently located near the Capri Theater, ideal for a meal before a show.

Cool ambiance sets the tone with stylish decor. The food matches the vibe with great flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the loaded fries."

"The cocktails here are amazing and very unique."

"The steak bites and Brussels sprouts at this dinner spot were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends as the place fills up quickly.

2

Parking is limited; expect a small lot and street parking challenges.

3

Some menu items, like chicken and catfish, may run out during busy times.

28
Zhora Darling image 1
Restaurant

Small music venue with live bands and free pool creates an energetic backdrop. Intimate seating and large patio offer varied spaces amid a low-key atmosphere. Space balances between cocktail lounge and grungy dive bar vibes, attracting a mix of college-age crowd and music lovers.

Dinner features a very low lighting that shapes the atmosphere. The menu offers a solid range of options suitable for brunch, dinner, and late-night meals.

Lounge vibes create a super cool atmosphere with a great live music stage. The place feels so cool and good it invites repeat visits.

People are saying

"This bar has a super cool atmosphere with a great live music stage."

"This place has a super cool atmosphere with a great live music stage."

"The mussels here are perfect, with a delicious broth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available daily from 4-7pm.

2

Brunch is served until 4 PM on weekends.

3

The kitchen is open until 1 AM daily, offering late-night food options.

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