Date Night Spots in Minneapolis
Looking for ideas for your next date night in Minneapolis? There are so many great spots in Minneapolis with just the right vibe for date night, it can be hard to choose! There are just so many breweries and cozy restaurants and beautiful bars just screaming "date night" across the metro area. This list will hopefully help you narrow it down, or inspire you to try a new spot.
1. Hammer & Sickle
This Eastern European inspired bar is the perfect spot for a late date night, when you're just looking for a place with great drinks and some food to nibble on. The vibes here when it gets dark are perfect for a romantic, almost clandestine meeting spot. They are known for their Moscow Mules, and always have at least six different kinds to choose from. My favorite is the strawberry rhubarb, paired with some of their amazing, unconventional pierogi. Located in the heart of Uptown, it's the perfect place to start your night.
2. Aster Cafe
Saint Anthony Main is the perfect destination for date night in Minneapolis. With its sweeping views of downtown just across the river, charming cobblestone roads, and beautiful old buildings, it really sets the scene for a romantic evening. Grab a glass of wine on the patio at Aster Cafe, then head to a movie at the St. Anthony Main Theatre just down the street. Or if you're feeling more adventurous, walk across the road to Nicollet Island and request a horse-drawn carriage from the Inn. It will take you all around the island, to see some beautiful historic houses. Perfect activity even on a chilly night, as blankets are provided!
3. The Guthrie
Just across the river lies the sleek and modern Guthrie Theater. Bring your date up to the famous yellow room for beautiful views of the river and the Stone Arch Bridge, or head there for a show (once the pandemic is over). After you're done, head to a nearby restaurant on Washington Avenue. Or even better, set up a picnic in Gold Medal Park next store, then go for a romantic stroll along the Stone Arch. The perfect way to end a date night in Minneapolis, if you ask me!
4. Minnehaha Falls
If nature is more your thing, then head to Minnehaha Falls to walk along the roaring water fall and enjoy all the paths that fit into this beautiful park right in the city. Once you get hungry, grab some seafood from Sea Salt Eatery, the only restaurant located at the park. With expansive outdoor seating to boot, it is the perfect spot for a more outdoorsy date night in Minneapolis.
5. Modist Brewing Co.
For a more casual vibe to your next date night in Minneapolis, try out Modist Brewing Co. in the North Loop. It's a great spot if you're heading to a Twins Game since it's within walking distance from Target Field (hopefully fans at sports game will return by next summer). If you or your partner don't like beer, they have a rosé on tap, so everyone will be happy!
6. Rinata Restaurant
When celebrating a special occasion, I always gravitate toward Italian food. It's just so delicious and comforting, and Italian cocktails are hard to beat too. If you and your date are celebrating a milestone in your relationship for your next date night, I highly recommend Rinata. You'll feel like you're actually in a small restaurant in Italy, devoid of the noises of Uptown, and the service is kind and attentive. Their menu has amazing starters and some of the best pasta and pizza in the Twin Cities. Check out their Sunday date night menu, or the special coursed holiday meals they offer!
7. Seven
As far as rooftops in downtown Minneapolis go, Seven is one that surely can't be missed. It's perfect for a date night with its ample couches and lush plants. You can view the skyline as you chat away, and enjoy their live DJ once it gets late. Truly a unique experience for your next date night in Minneapolis.
8. Naviya's Thai Brasserie
Located in the posh yet quiet neighborhood of Linden Hills, Naviya's is one Thai restaurant in the Twin Cities that you cannot miss. If you're in an escapist mood and want to feel like you've just jet off to Asia for the night, Naviya's is the place because of its spa-like interiors. The food truly can't be beat, and there are menu options for any kind of diet. After you've eaten your fill of pad thai and spring rolls, go for a walk around the charming neighborhood or down to Lake Harriet to see the sailboats.
9. Café and Bar Lurcat
For a truly lux vibe for your next date night in Minneapolis, head to Bar Lurcat. It boasts some of the best French food the city has to offer, and the dining room feels modern yet lived in with its unique art and intimate candle glow. This is definitely the place for a special dinner, but if you'd like the feel without the price tag, their bar food is exceptional too! Their prime spot in Loring Park doesn't hurt either. Stroll through the park before dinner, or visit the famed Minneapolis Sculpture Garden just across the road.
10. Up-Down
This is probably the best spot for a first date, when some games and friendly competition is a welcome conversation starter. Up-Down on Lyndale in Uptown is just the right spot for this, with its arcade atmosphere and ample games. My absolute favorite is the skeeball, because it makes me so nostalgic for my childhood and our school fair that happened every autumn. Grab a drink then play a few games, before ordering a pizza in the back and heading up to their rooftop.