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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Central Minneapolis

American food with outdoor space

Eating a classic meal while sitting in the open air changes the pace of the afternoon.

Based on 887 Opinions
+884
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Updated April 2026
01
Mackenzie Pub image 1
Mackenzie Pub image 2
Mackenzie Pub image 3
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Bar & grill

Wooden accents, rustic brick walls, and vintage decor create an inviting space with old-world charm and modern upscale bar elements. Upbeat music and lively energy fill the air, making conversation difficult during peak hours. Features like pinball machines, darts, and a heated outdoor smoking lounge add to the fun atmosphere.

Smoked wings stand out with dry rub Cajun and Kentucky BBQ sauce options, offering bold flavors without needing extra sauce. Coleslaw pairs well, and smoked pulled pork adds variety to the American food selection.

A giant patio sits in the back with a heated smoking lounge and partial heating for winter. A shaded area offers comfort in summer, and the grill station on the patio is well staffed.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and exceeded expectations."

"The smoked wings here are legitimately smoked and award-winning."

"The pub's patio is partially heated for smokers."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a paid lot just half a block away.

2

Expect limited menu options as some items may not be available.

3

Prices are generally reasonable for food and drinks.

02
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.

Prime Rib sandwich stands out with tender meat and easy-to-bite texture. Pulled pork comes with house-made BBQ sauce and can include onions, cheese, and spices. Cajun fries add a spicy side option.

Outdoor seating offers a European feel with tables under umbrellas. The patio provides a beautiful space to relax, and staff assist quickly when rain starts.

People are saying

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

"The prime rib sandwich is amazing American food."

"The outdoor patio is super fun and felt very European."

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.

03
Off the Rails image 1
Bar & grill

Long bar with many taps and patio overlooking stadium create a lively setting. Live music and DJ energize the space, especially before games when the crowd is loud and festive. Dog friendly atmosphere attracts locals who enjoy games, drinks, and casual fun.

Huge, tasty chicken wings stand out alongside a fried chicken sandwich that impresses. Fresh Cobb salad and Cajun fries add variety, while buffalo Mac and cheese offers a flavorful twist.

Outdoor seating offers a view of the park and stadium with both indoor and outdoor dining options. A DJ plays upbeat music on the patio, creating a lively atmosphere for casual gatherings.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is genuinely delicious and great."

"The patio here has a great view and vibe."

"The patio here has a great view and vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, but ask for the menu during busy times.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun activity for visitors.

3

Expect a reduced menu on days with special events at the nearby ballpark.

04
Runyon's image 1
Chicken wings restaurant

Historic building with exposed brick and large outdoor patio creates a cozy, old-school vibe. Atmosphere feels chill and classic, filled with quirky wall art and decades of photos. Known for best buffalo wings and cold, local beers, it draws a lively crowd before closing early.

Buffalo wings stand out with their crispy, meaty, and smoky qualities, balanced at medium heat. The classic buffalo wings offer a flavorful alternative to overly spicy sauces and pair well with a good coney island hot dog.

A very large outdoor patio offers plenty of seating and good spots for people watching. Both indoor and outdoor areas provide accommodations, though service on the patio can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"I thought the beer here was really good."

"I thought the buffalo wings were the best I've ever had."

"The outdoor space here is really large and great for people watching."

Good to know

1

Parking is often problematic; many have reported being towed.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:45 PM, later than some online sources state.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

05
Trax Burgers and Bar image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Traditional American restaurant offers an open feel with a private patio overlooking the street. Atmosphere combines nostalgic music and a cool vibe that suits pre-show cocktails and casual dining. Crowd enjoys unique burgers and specialty beers in a lively yet comfortable setting.

Brisket blend gives the burger a unique familiarity. Cajun fries come with a sweet and salty seasoning that stands out.

A private patio overlooks the street, offering outdoor seating options. The space feels separate from the indoor area.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were excellent and perfectly cooked."

"The food here is tasty and well presented."

"I found the American food, especially the burgers, to be the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining, especially on concert nights.

2

Expect a wait if arriving close to showtime, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located next to the light rail station.

06
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.

Eggs Benedict stands out as phenomenal here. The biscuits and gravy come across as divine. The menu also features a huge club sandwich with fries and flavorful buffalo wings.

The top patio offers a gorgeous, open space with fresh air that enhances the flavor of the food. Seating options include an indoor/outdoor area on the second floor and a great outdoor space near the bar.

People are saying

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

"The American Food here is part of a fabulous queer experience."

"The top patio is gorgeous and feels very open."

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.

07
Union Rooftop image 1
Bar & grill

Rooftop bar and grill offers lively atmosphere with a DJ and live performances creating high energy and loud noise levels. Guests enjoy great city views and bottomless mimosas during brunch. The space suits groups looking for a vibrant social setting with music and entertainment.

Brunch features eggs Benedict with several variations and strong flavors. Dishes like Lobster Mac and Cheese and chicken Cajun Alfredo offer rich, hearty options.

An enclosed rooftop offers a bright space even during rain. The outdoor terrace provides a good vibe with options for both outside dining and cozy indoor experiences.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and well-seasoned."

"The enclosed rooftop was bright and amazing, even with the rain."

"Their American Food, especially the eggs Benedict, was out of this world."

Good to know

1

The drag brunch requires a $25 cover charge on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for the drag brunch due to high demand.

3

The venue has no guest parking available; consider public transport.

08
Breakfast Bar of Minnesota image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Post-industrial decor blends with a hidden greenhouse patio featuring TVs and fans. Music plays loudly, creating a rocking atmosphere where people dance and enjoy themselves. The vibe is warm and outdoorsy on the patio, contrasting with a darker, less inviting interior.

Shrimp and cheesy grits stand out with rich flavors. Fried chicken cooks to order, stays hot, and has a texture like Hickory Hut chicken. Catfish pairs well with its sauce or hot sauce, and chicken wings make solid takeout choices.

A hidden patio sits inside an actual greenhouse, creating a warm, outdoorsy vibe. Great music plays, adding to the friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the chicken and waffles to be perfectly seasoned and tasty."

"The American food, especially the grits, was delicious and flavorful."

"The outdoor space felt like a greenhouse with TVs and fans."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect a $20 entry fee during busy nights.

3

Parking can be difficult; consider arriving early.

09
U.S. Bank Stadium image 1

Glass windows and a modern design create a bright, open stadium with comfortable seating and excellent sightlines from every level. The atmosphere is electric and friendly, especially during football games with the SKOL chant and horn energizing the crowd. Spacious outdoor areas support lively tailgating and social gatherings before events.

Food includes classic burgers, hot dogs, and local Minnesota staples. Quick options feature Von Hanson's meats like cheeseburgers and brats. Brisket Mac and cheese and brisket sandwiches stand out among the offerings.

Large outdoor area hosts tailgate village with tents and concessions. Giant glass walls open to the outdoor space, offering views of the downtown skyline and a Viking ship and fountain outside.

People are saying

"The atmosphere at live sports games here is electric and exciting."

"The outdoor space offers a beautiful view of the downtown skyline."

"I suggest enhancing the American food selections; they felt very limited."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Food and drink prices are high, so budget accordingly.

3

Bag checks and metal detectors are in place for security.

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