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Top picks in Central Minneapolis

Cocktails and Lunch Spots

Made for those who believe a midday meal is incomplete without a cocktail and prefer to linger long after the plates are cleared.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated April 2026
01
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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.

Lunch offers a different vibe than the cozy bar area, creating a unique atmosphere. Food and service stand out, making lunch feel like an experience rather than just a meal.

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 cocktails here have a mellow, rhythmic magic."

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
noa Minneapolis image 1
New American restaurant

Modern space with spa-like ambiance and trendy decor featuring floral touches creates a calm yet upscale vibe. Bar area stands out with a frost rail keeping drinks cold and unique cocktail presentations. Crowd varies from business diners to casual groups, with a setting suited for both conversation and events.

Cocktails feature a great selection with an outstanding Espresso type and a Manhattan served with a square ice cube engraved with the restaurant's name.

Lunch here suits group meals and quick stops alike. The spot offers a casual atmosphere and efficient service for midday breaks.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be delicious and juicy."

"The fried chicken sandwich lunch spot has a steady, delicious heat."

"The cocktails here were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm on weeknights with great food and drink deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for private events and busy times.

3

Paid street parking and parking garages are available nearby, but can be challenging.

03
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.

Cocktails stand out for their delicious flavors and amazing quality. They come at a bit pricey cost but deliver on taste.

Quick, attentive service stands out during the lunch rush. Staff remain friendly and efficient even when busy.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's tacos were fantastic and flavorful."

"The cocktails here were delicious and amazing."

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.

04
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.

Lunch combos offer great value and include options like a grilled chicken sandwich. The patio seating provides a nice spot to enjoy lunch outdoors.

People are saying

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

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

"I hoped the Double Standard burger would stay on the menu."

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.

05
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.

Works well for business lunch meetings with space for 20+ people. Offers a relaxed vibe at the bar and quieter times during weekdays. Lunch options stand out more than dinner here.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails were very enjoyable."

"Our server Daniel was amazing and attentive."

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.

06
Murray's image 1
Steak house

Upscale steak house with an old-time feel and warm, relaxing atmosphere. Dining room shows old school elegance combined with modern quality, while the bar contrasts with a typical sports bar look. Valet parking and table-side carving add to the experience.

Craft cocktails stand out here, especially the old fashioned. Drinks come well-made and pair nicely with appetizers like crab cakes.

Lunch offers affordable prices with a modest menu that delivers tender steak and satisfying sandwiches like hot chicken and cheesesteak. The setting suits group meals and casual gatherings.

People are saying

"The steak here is outstanding and cooked to perfection."

"I enjoyed the craft cocktails, especially the old fashioned."

"I had the most tender steak for my Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

The happy hour menu includes shareable sliders and wings at great prices.

07
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.

Lunch offers quick service that fits well with tight schedules. Staff handle large groups smoothly and allow ordering from a lunch menu with single servings.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The Lunch Spot portions are huge and meant 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.

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.

Memorable lunches come from the teamwork of Matthew and Chef Gary. They create a noteworthy experience that stands out during midday meals.

People are saying

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

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

"Matthew's attentive service made our Lunch Spot visit memorable."

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.

09
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.

A special purple Vikings cocktail stands out among a good variety of beer on tap and a decent cocktail selection that includes classics like the Paloma and mimosa.

Offers quick carry out options ideal for weekday lunches. Serves as a convenient stop before activities like stadium tours.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has great food, my kids said it was bussin'."

"I enjoyed the good beer and cocktail selection."

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.

10
Tavola image 1
Restaurant

Open concept space with modern light fixtures and dark walls creates a moody, relaxed atmosphere. The setting feels like a hotel restaurant with a quiet, laid-back vibe during lunch and dinner hours. Copper bar accents add a distinctive touch to the decor.

Cocktails include the Suite Release and the Frosted Cranberry Spritz. Some cocktails share very similar names with mocktails, which can cause confusion when ordering.

Affordable and delicious food with perfect portion sizes makes lunch here solid. The menu leans heavily on pork options, and the ambience suits a laid-back meal.

People are saying

"The pasta and short rib at these dinner spots were delicious."

"The cocktail names are confusingly similar to mocktails."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and tasty options."

Good to know

1

The holiday pop-up event 'forged' runs through December with special menu items.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for an entrรฉe and $12 for a side.

3

The menu has limited non-pork options, which may not suit all diners.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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