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Cocktails and Italian Food in Central Minneapolis

You prefer an evening where the cocktails are as carefully considered as the Italian plates.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated April 2026
01
Star Bar & Bistro image 1
Star Bar & Bistro image 2
Star Bar & Bistro image 3
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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.

Cocktails glow with a deep amber hue and come with a single crystal-clear ice cube. Options include a seasonal gin and jam cocktail made with fresh blueberry compote and a blueberry bliss mocktail.

Lobster spaghetti features small lobster pieces with plenty of vegetables and comes in a large portion. Green goddess pasta and brussel sprouts also stand out, with panna cotta serving as a sweet finish.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here have a mellow, rhythmic magic."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the lobster pasta."

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.

02
Borough image 1
New American restaurant

Cozy space with warm lighting and rustic features creates a relaxing atmosphere that feels upscale without pretension. Staff contribute to a welcoming, lively vibe suited for romantic dinners or corporate meetings. Open kitchen view adds a dynamic touch to the beautiful, spacious decor.

Specialty cocktails stand out with spicy passionfruit and the unique Doctorโ€™s Note offering. Drinks crafted by Jake show consistent quality and flavor.

Dishes highlight spicy lobster spaghetti with chili tomato sauce and bottarga, adding unique saltiness. The menu features flat iron steak, mushroom risotto, and beef tartar alongside classic pasta like lamb and gnocchi.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the spicy lobster spaghetti."

"The Italian food here is wonderful, especially the lamb pasta."

"You have to try the cocktails; they were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for special occasions like Valentine's Day.

2

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

3

Portions are on the smaller side, so consider ordering multiple items.

03
EaTo image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and patio seating create a lively and engaging setting with cool atmosphere and great vibes. Space balances high and low top tables spaced to avoid crowding, supporting comfortable conversations. Artistic touches like live dog drawings add unique charm to the experience.

Cocktails come with careful crafting and include specialties like the Aviation and aged limoncello. Happy hour features a menu with specialty cocktails paired with well prepared appetizers.

Chicken Parmesan stands out with its rich flavor and hearty portions. Pasta options like Bolognese and Penne Vodka feature homemade sauces that draw repeat visits. The pistachio cannoli offers a unique, memorable dessert experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and authentic Italian."

"Their Bolognese was a no-brainer for our wedding catering."

"The cocktails here are crafted with care and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great deals on drinks and bites.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events in the designated room.

3

The menu includes personal pizzas called pizzetes during happy hour.

04
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.

Cocktails stand out with next level quality and a menu full of excellent options. They pair well with the food and keep the experience amazing.

Linguine stands out with a lovely texture and flavor. The seafood platter and seared tuna add variety, while some pasta dishes come with minimal vegetables, mostly tomatoes.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are innovative and perfectly balanced."

"The Italian food here was amazing and everyone loved their dish."

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.

05
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Underground setting with eclectic decor featuring old photos and celebrity memorabilia creates a cozy, intimate vibe. Guests gather around large round tables with lazy Susans, enjoying classic Italian tunes and a lively atmosphere. The place blends homey charm with a memorable, authentic feel.

Old Fashioned cocktail stands out with quality matching top bars. Wine and cocktail selection offers a superb variety alongside wonderful beer options.

Lasagna stands out with its huge size and amazing texture and taste. Portions like the Alfredo Fettuccine with chicken come in large servings that easily allow for leftovers.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The Italian food portions here are massive, perfect for sharing."

"The cocktails here are wonderful and there are many choices."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 11 PM.

2

Everything at Buca di Beppo is served family style.

3

Guests should come hungry because the portions are large.

06
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.

Bourbon cocktails stick to classic recipes without extra fuss. Bartenders guide quickly to the best cocktails that match the vibe. Drinks come with unique appetizers enhancing the experience.

Short rib shines in the pasta dishes, especially the ravioli and tagliatelle, drawing strong praise for its rich flavor. The menu also features an 8oz wagyu steak served with whipped potatoes and mac and cheese.

People are saying

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

"The short rib ravioli's sauce is rich and decadent."

"The cocktails were very enjoyable."

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.

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.

Strawberry Ultimate Margarita stands out among four cocktail options. Cocktails and mocktails taste delicious and pair well with dishes like beef Wellington and roasted seabass.

Large portions stand out, with one pasta and salad often enough for two. The menu features chicken Cajun Alfredo, butternut squash ravioli, and gnocchi, with pastas and desserts noted for their flavor.

People are saying

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

"I found the cocktails here to be very good."

"You have to try their amazing pasta dishes, like the ravioli or gnocchi."

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
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.

Creative cocktails stand out with unique flavors. The drinks pair well with the Italian-inspired dishes and match the cozy vibe.

Fresh, house-made pasta pairs well with marinara sauce and meatballs, adding protein to the dish. Appetizers like focaccia and burnt burrata complement the Italian flavors nicely.

People are saying

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

"Zach made sure we felt informed about every Italian food menu item."

"The cocktails here are delicious and well-prepared."

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.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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