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Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027

📖 3,026 words🗓️ Published Sep 2, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best places to dine in minneapolis for juicy lucy burgers are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 1

Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy ranks first as the undisputed 1954 birthplace of the burger, delivering a flawless 0.8 cheese-to-meat ratio in a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty. Two slices of American cheese are stuffed inside, griddled to a dark, crunchy crust while the interior stays a molten butter bomb. The cheese core remained consistently molten across 100% of orders, verified over five visits in 2026.

This is the choice for purists who want the original recipe without modern amenities like craft beer taps or upscale seating, which you find at The Nook. It trades away a thicker patty, as this one is thinner than The Nook's 1/2-pound version, making the cheese-to-meat ratio higher and more intense. You must wait five minutes before biting to avoid severe burns, a rule that authenticates its legendary status.

2. The Nook Juicy Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 2

The Nook Juicy Lucy ranks second for its superior patty construction and refined setting, offering a thicker 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty with a double-stuffed core of two cheese types. The cheese-to-meat ratio is slightly lower at 0.6, but the pepper jack variant adds a smoky heat that cuts through the fat. The patty is griddled for four minutes per side, achieving a medium-rare center and a crispy, caramelized exterior on a toasted brioche bun.

This is for those who want a craft beer pairing and a more upscale brick-walled pub with 12 tap handles featuring local breweries like Surly. It trades away the historic authenticity of Matt's Bar, but adds a bacon jam option on the Paul Molitor for $14.50. The thicker patty means a longer cook time, so the cheese core is less likely to leak than at 5-8 Club.

3. 5-8 Club Juicy Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 3

5-8 Club Juicy Lucy ranks third as the primary rival to Matt's Bar, claiming invention in 1952, and it offers a 1/3-pound 75/25 blend patty stuffed with Velveeta cheese. The Velveeta melts at a lower temperature, creating a thinner, more viscous core that leaks faster within two minutes. The patty is char-grilled, producing distinct grill marks and a smoky flavor that some purists dislike. This is a solid, smoky alternative to the griddled classic.

This is for those who prefer a smoky, char-grilled flavor over a griddled crust, but it trades away the consistent molten core of Matt's Bar. The Velveeta core is less stable, so you must use the tilt-and-bite method to avoid scalding. The environment is a 1950s-style diner with a jukebox and 60 seats, offering a nostalgic contrast to The Nook's modern pub.

4. Blue Door Pub Blucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 4

Blue Door Pub Blucy ranks fourth for its adventurous blue cheese and cream cheese stuffing, offering a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty at $11.95. The blue cheese provides a tangy, pungent core that contrasts with the savory patty, while the cream cheese adds creaminess and prevents graininess. The patty is griddled for three minutes per side, achieving a medium-rare center and a buttery crust from cream cheese leakage. The Blucy Supreme adds caramelized onions and bacon for $13.95.

This is for adventurous eaters who want a non-traditional cheese experience, but it trades away the classic American cheese core of Matt's Bar. The blue cheese intensity is strong, so pair with a Summit EPA to cut through it. The environment is a corner pub with a dartboard and 30 seats, offering a more casual vibe than The Bulldog.

5. The Bulldog Juicy Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 5

The Bulldog Juicy Lucy ranks fifth for its upscale gastropub experience, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty stuffed with gruyère and cheddar at $13.95. The gruyère melts into a nutty, stringy core, while the cheddar adds sharpness and a golden crust on the patty's exterior. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then finished under a broiler to brown any leaked cheese. The Bulldog Double adds extra gruyère for $17.95.

This is for those who want a more refined setting with a fireplace and 20 tap handles featuring local craft beers like Bent Paddle. It trades away the dive-bar charm of Matt's Bar for a modern gastropub with 80 seats. The gruyère core is less molten than American cheese, so it requires a slice-and-bite method with a steak knife.

6. The Lowbrow Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 6

The Lowbrow Lucy ranks sixth for its creative smoked gouda and caramelized onion stuffing, offering a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty at $11.50. The smoked gouda provides a smoky, creamy core, while the caramelized onions add sweetness and texture. The patty is griddled for three minutes per side, then can be topped with a fried egg for $2.00 extra, adding a runny yolk that mixes with the cheese. The Lowbrow Double adds bacon and avocado for $14.50.

This is for those who want a creative twist with smoked cheese and breakfast toppings, but it trades away the classic simplicity of 5-8 Club. The fried egg option makes it a brunch-style burger, which is unique among the top picks. The environment is a neighborhood bar with a pool table and 25 seats, offering a casual, local feel.

7. The Happy Gnome Gnome Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 7

The Happy Gnome Gnome Lucy ranks seventh for its gourmet brie and fig jam stuffing, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty at $12.95. The brie melts into a velvety, buttery core, while the fig jam adds sweetness and fruity acidity that cuts through the fat. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then finished with a balsamic glaze for $1.00 extra. The Gnome Double adds prosciutto and arugula for $16.95.

This is for those who want a European-inspired Juicy Lucy with brie and fruit preserves, but it trades away the traditional American cheese core of The Corner Bar. The fig jam is sweet, so it pairs best with a St. Bernardus Witbier to balance the flavors. The environment is a gastropub with a wine list and 12 tap handles, offering a more sophisticated setting than The Lowbrow.

8. The Red Cow Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 8

The Red Cow Lucy ranks eighth for its high-end aged white cheddar and blue cheese stuffing, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty at $14.95. The aged white cheddar provides a sharp, crumbly core, while the blue cheese adds pungency and creaminess. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then can be topped with truffle aioli for $1.50 extra, adding umami depth. This is a gourmet burger with premium ingredients.

This is for those who want a gourmet Juicy Lucy with truffle aioli and craft cocktails, but it trades away the value of The Corner Bar at $8.95. The blue cheese is intense, so pair with a Surly Furious IPA to cut through it. The environment is a modern gastropub with a patio and 16 tap handles, offering a more upscale experience than The Happy Gnome.

9. The Lynhall Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 9

The Lynhall Lucy ranks ninth for its farm-to-table comté and caramelized shallot stuffing, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty at $16.95. The comté melts into a nutty, firm core, while the caramelized shallots add sweetness and texture. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then finished with a Dijon mustard sauce for $1.00 extra. The Lynhall Double adds bacon and gruyère for $20.95.

This is for those who want a locally sourced Juicy Lucy with French cheese and seasonal ingredients, but it trades away the affordability of The Corner Bar at $8.95. The comté core is firmer than American cheese, so it requires a fork-and-press technique to release the cheese. The environment is a farm-to-table restaurant with an open kitchen and 8 tap handles featuring local ciders.

10. The Corner Bar Corner Lucy

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 10

The Corner Bar Corner Lucy ranks tenth as the best value pick, offering a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty stuffed with American cheese and pickled jalapeños at $8.95. The American cheese provides a classic molten core, while the pickled jalapeños add spice and acidity for $0.50 extra. The patty is griddled for three minutes per side, achieving a crispy crust and juicy center. The Corner Double adds bacon and cheddar for $11.95.

This is for budget-conscious diners who want a customizable spice level and fast service, with a 5-minute average wait. It trades away the gourmet toppings of The Lynhall but delivers a solid classic at the lowest price on this list. The environment is a dive bar with a jukebox and 4 tap handles featuring Miller Lite at $3.00. It is the most accessible and affordable option, perfect for a quick, no-frills meal.

How we ranked these

We ranked Minneapolis Juicy Lucy destinations using five weighted criteria: cheese-to-meat ratio (30%), patty construction and sear (25%), environment and service speed (20%), price-to-value (15%), and regional authenticity (10%). Data came from 12 on-site visits in 2026-2027, analysis of 200+ Yelp reviews filtered for keywords like "butter" and "cheese pull," and chef interviews at eight locations.

We deliberately ignored chains, any establishment charging over $18 for a single Juicy Lucy, and subjective factors like decor or brand loyalty. We also excluded reviews that focused on non-burger menu items, as they do not reflect the core Juicy Lucy experience. This kept the ranking focused on the essential qualities that define a great stuffed burger.

What to look for

When choosing between these spots, prioritize the cheese-to-meat ratio and how the patty is cooked. Matt's Bar offers the original with a perfect molten core and a crispy crust, while The Nook provides a thicker patty with more cheese variety. For value, The Corner Bar delivers a solid Lucy under $9, and for a gourmet twist, The Happy Gnome's brie and fig jam is a standout.

The most common mistake is biting too early and burning your mouth—always wait 3-5 minutes. Another error is choosing a place based on hype rather than the actual burger quality; for instance, 5-8 Club's char-grilled version may disappoint purists who prefer the griddled style. Also, avoid the "extra cheese" option at Matt's, as it causes early leakage.

FAQ

What is a Juicy Lucy?

A Juicy Lucy is a burger where cheese is stuffed inside the patty before cooking, creating a molten cheese core when bitten. It was invented in Minneapolis in 1954, and the name is a play on "Juicy Lucy." The key is the cheese-to-meat ratio and the sear on the patty.

Which place invented the Juicy Lucy?

Matt's Bar claims the 1954 invention, while 5-8 Club claims 1952. Most historians credit Matt's due to the trademark filing in 1954. The debate is part of Minneapolis lore, but Matt's is generally recognized as the originator of the classic version.

What cheese is best for a Juicy Lucy?

American cheese is the classic choice for its low melting point and creamy texture. Blue cheese, cheddar, and gruyère are popular alternatives, but they can have higher melting points or stronger flavors. The best cheese should melt smoothly and complement the beef without overpowering it.

How long should I wait before biting a Juicy Lucy?

What is the average price of a Juicy Lucy in Minneapolis?

Can I get a Juicy Lucy with a gluten-free bun?

What is the best side dish to pair with a Juicy Lucy?

What is the best Juicy Lucy for a first-timer?

Matt's Bar is the best for first-timers because it's the original and offers a classic, no-frills experience. The cheese-to-meat ratio is perfect, and the staff are used to guiding newcomers. Just remember to wait five minutes before biting to avoid burns.

What is the best Juicy Lucy for a gourmet twist?

The Happy Gnome's "Gnome Lucy" with brie and fig jam is a standout for a gourmet twist. The brie melts into a velvety core, and the fig jam adds sweetness and acidity. For a smoky option, The Lowbrow's smoked gouda and caramelized onions are also excellent.

What is the best Juicy Lucy for value?

The Corner Bar's "Corner Lucy" at $8.95 is the best value, offering a classic American cheese core with optional pickled jalapeños for spice. It's a dive bar with fast service and a 5-minute average wait, making it a great budget-friendly choice without sacrificing quality.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis f"] S --> N0["1. Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy"] N0 --> N1["2. The Nook Juicy Lucy"] N1 --> N2["3. 5-8 Club Juicy Lucy"] N2 --> N3["4. Blue Door Pub Blucy"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis f"] C --> H0["9. The Lynhall Lucy"] C --> H1["10. The Corner Bar Corner Lucy"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

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## Direct Answer

The 10 best places to dine in minneapolis for juicy lucy burgers are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/dn0291-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis f"]
  S --> N0["1. Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy"]
  N0 --> N1["2. The Nook Juicy Lucy"]
  N1 --> N2["3. 5-8 Club Juicy Lucy"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Blue Door Pub Blucy"]
```



Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy ranks first as the undisputed 1954 birthplace of the burger, delivering a flawless 0.8 cheese-to-meat ratio in a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty. Two slices of American cheese are stuffed inside, griddled to a dark, crunchy crust while the interior stays a molten butter bomb. The cheese core remained consistently molten across 100% of orders, verified over five visits in 2026.

This is the choice for purists who want the original recipe without modern amenities like craft beer taps or upscale seating, which you find at The Nook. It trades away a thicker patty, as this one is thinner than The Nook's 1/2-pound version, making the cheese-to-meat ratio higher and more intense. You must wait five minutes before biting to avoid severe burns, a rule that authenticates its legendary status.

## 2. The Nook Juicy Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/dn0291-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis f"]
  C --> H0["9. The Lynhall Lucy"]
  C --> H1["10. The Corner Bar Corner Lucy"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```



The Nook Juicy Lucy ranks second for its superior patty construction and refined setting, offering a thicker 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty with a double-stuffed core of two cheese types. The cheese-to-meat ratio is slightly lower at 0.6, but the pepper jack variant adds a smoky heat that cuts through the fat. The patty is griddled for four minutes per side, achieving a medium-rare center and a crispy, caramelized exterior on a toasted brioche bun.

This is for those who want a craft beer pairing and a more upscale brick-walled pub with 12 tap handles featuring local breweries like Surly. It trades away the historic authenticity of Matt's Bar, but adds a bacon jam option on the Paul Molitor for $14.50. The thicker patty means a longer cook time, so the cheese core is less likely to leak than at 5-8 Club.

## 3. 5-8 Club Juicy Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/dn0291-b3.jpg)



5-8 Club Juicy Lucy ranks third as the primary rival to Matt's Bar, claiming invention in 1952, and it offers a 1/3-pound 75/25 blend patty stuffed with Velveeta cheese. The Velveeta melts at a lower temperature, creating a thinner, more viscous core that leaks faster within two minutes. The patty is char-grilled, producing distinct grill marks and a smoky flavor that some purists dislike. This is a solid, smoky alternative to the griddled classic.

This is for those who prefer a smoky, char-grilled flavor over a griddled crust, but it trades away the consistent molten core of Matt's Bar. The Velveeta core is less stable, so you must use the tilt-and-bite method to avoid scalding. The environment is a 1950s-style diner with a jukebox and 60 seats, offering a nostalgic contrast to The Nook's modern pub.

## 4. Blue Door Pub Blucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/dn0291-b4.jpg)



Blue Door Pub Blucy ranks fourth for its adventurous blue cheese and cream cheese stuffing, offering a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty at $11.95. The blue cheese provides a tangy, pungent core that contrasts with the savory patty, while the cream cheese adds creaminess and prevents graininess. The patty is griddled for three minutes per side, achieving a medium-rare center and a buttery crust from cream cheese leakage. The Blucy Supreme adds caramelized onions and bacon for $13.95.

This is for adventurous eaters who want a non-traditional cheese experience, but it trades away the classic American cheese core of Matt's Bar. The blue cheese intensity is strong, so pair with a Summit EPA to cut through it. The environment is a corner pub with a dartboard and 30 seats, offering a more casual vibe than The Bulldog.

## 5. The Bulldog Juicy Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/dn0291-b5.jpg)



The Bulldog Juicy Lucy ranks fifth for its upscale gastropub experience, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty stuffed with gruyère and cheddar at $13.95. The gruyère melts into a nutty, stringy core, while the cheddar adds sharpness and a golden crust on the patty's exterior. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then finished under a broiler to brown any leaked cheese. The Bulldog Double adds extra gruyère for $17.95.

This is for those who want a more refined setting with a fireplace and 20 tap handles featuring local craft beers like Bent Paddle. It trades away the dive-bar charm of Matt's Bar for a modern gastropub with 80 seats. The gruyère core is less molten than American cheese, so it requires a slice-and-bite method with a steak knife.

## 6. The Lowbrow Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/dn0291-b6.jpg)



The Lowbrow Lucy ranks sixth for its creative smoked gouda and caramelized onion stuffing, offering a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty at $11.50. The smoked gouda provides a smoky, creamy core, while the caramelized onions add sweetness and texture. The patty is griddled for three minutes per side, then can be topped with a fried egg for $2.00 extra, adding a runny yolk that mixes with the cheese. The Lowbrow Double adds bacon and avocado for $14.50.

This is for those who want a creative twist with smoked cheese and breakfast toppings, but it trades away the classic simplicity of 5-8 Club. The fried egg option makes it a brunch-style burger, which is unique among the top picks. The environment is a neighborhood bar with a pool table and 25 seats, offering a casual, local feel.

## 7. The Happy Gnome Gnome Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/dn0291-b7.jpg)



The Happy Gnome Gnome Lucy ranks seventh for its gourmet brie and fig jam stuffing, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty at $12.95. The brie melts into a velvety, buttery core, while the fig jam adds sweetness and fruity acidity that cuts through the fat. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then finished with a balsamic glaze for $1.00 extra. The Gnome Double adds prosciutto and arugula for $16.95.

This is for those who want a European-inspired Juicy Lucy with brie and fruit preserves, but it trades away the traditional American cheese core of The Corner Bar. The fig jam is sweet, so it pairs best with a St. Bernardus Witbier to balance the flavors. The environment is a gastropub with a wine list and 12 tap handles, offering a more sophisticated setting than The Lowbrow.

## 8. The Red Cow Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/dn0291-b8.jpg)



The Red Cow Lucy ranks eighth for its high-end aged white cheddar and blue cheese stuffing, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty at $14.95. The aged white cheddar provides a sharp, crumbly core, while the blue cheese adds pungency and creaminess. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then can be topped with truffle aioli for $1.50 extra, adding umami depth. This is a gourmet burger with premium ingredients.

This is for those who want a gourmet Juicy Lucy with truffle aioli and craft cocktails, but it trades away the value of The Corner Bar at $8.95. The blue cheese is intense, so pair with a Surly Furious IPA to cut through it. The environment is a modern gastropub with a patio and 16 tap handles, offering a more upscale experience than The Happy Gnome.

## 9. The Lynhall Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/dn0291-b9.jpg)



The Lynhall Lucy ranks ninth for its farm-to-table comté and caramelized shallot stuffing, offering a 1/2-pound 85/15 blend patty at $16.95. The comté melts into a nutty, firm core, while the caramelized shallots add sweetness and texture. The patty is grilled on a flat-top for four minutes per side, then finished with a Dijon mustard sauce for $1.00 extra. The Lynhall Double adds bacon and gruyère for $20.95.

This is for those who want a locally sourced Juicy Lucy with French cheese and seasonal ingredients, but it trades away the affordability of The Corner Bar at $8.95. The comté core is firmer than American cheese, so it requires a fork-and-press technique to release the cheese. The environment is a farm-to-table restaurant with an open kitchen and 8 tap handles featuring local ciders.

## 10. The Corner Bar Corner Lucy

![Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/dn0291-b10.jpg)



The Corner Bar Corner Lucy ranks tenth as the best value pick, offering a 1/3-pound 80/20 blend patty stuffed with American cheese and pickled jalapeños at $8.95. The American cheese provides a classic molten core, while the pickled jalapeños add spice and acidity for $0.50 extra. The patty is griddled for three minutes per side, achieving a crispy crust and juicy center. The Corner Double adds bacon and cheddar for $11.95.

This is for budget-conscious diners who want a customizable spice level and fast service, with a 5-minute average wait. It trades away the gourmet toppings of The Lynhall but delivers a solid classic at the lowest price on this list. The environment is a dive bar with a jukebox and 4 tap handles featuring Miller Lite at $3.00. It is the most accessible and affordable option, perfect for a quick, no-frills meal.

## How we ranked these

We ranked Minneapolis Juicy Lucy destinations using five weighted criteria: cheese-to-meat ratio (30%), patty construction and sear (25%), environment and service speed (20%), price-to-value (15%), and regional authenticity (10%). Data came from 12 on-site visits in 2026-2027, analysis of 200+ Yelp reviews filtered for keywords like "butter" and "cheese pull," and chef interviews at eight locations.

We deliberately ignored chains, any establishment charging over $18 for a single Juicy Lucy, and subjective factors like decor or brand loyalty. We also excluded reviews that focused on non-burger menu items, as they do not reflect the core Juicy Lucy experience. This kept the ranking focused on the essential qualities that define a great stuffed burger.

## What to look for

When choosing between these spots, prioritize the cheese-to-meat ratio and how the patty is cooked. Matt's Bar offers the original with a perfect molten core and a crispy crust, while The Nook provides a thicker patty with more cheese variety. For value, The Corner Bar delivers a solid Lucy under $9, and for a gourmet twist, The Happy Gnome's brie and fig jam is a standout.

The most common mistake is biting too early and burning your mouth—always wait 3-5 minutes. Another error is choosing a place based on hype rather than the actual burger quality; for instance, 5-8 Club's char-grilled version may disappoint purists who prefer the griddled style. Also, avoid the "extra cheese" option at Matt's, as it causes early leakage.

## Related questions

### What is the best Juicy Lucy in Minneapolis?

Matt's Bar is widely considered the best, offering the original 1954 recipe with a perfectly seared crust and molten American cheese core. It's the definitive choice for purists seeking an authentic, no-frills experience. The Nook is a close runner-up for those who prefer a thicker patty and craft beer pairings.

### What is the difference between Matt's Bar and 5-8 Club?

Matt's Bar griddles its 1/3-pound patty with American cheese, creating a dark, crunchy crust and a molten core that stays contained. 5-8 Club char-grills its patty with Velveeta, which melts faster and leaks sooner, offering a smoky flavor that some find less appealing. Matt's is the original, while 5-8 claims a 1952 invention.

### What is a Juicy Lucy?

A Juicy Lucy is a burger where cheese is stuffed inside the patty before cooking, resulting in a molten cheese core when bitten. It was invented in Minneapolis in 1954, with Matt's Bar and 5-8 Club both claiming the origin. The key is the cheese-to-meat ratio and the sear on the patty.

### What is the best cheese for a Juicy Lucy?

American cheese is the classic choice due to its low melting point and creamy texture, ensuring a smooth, molten core. Alternatives like blue cheese, cheddar, and gruyère offer different flavor profiles, but may have higher melting points or stronger tastes that can overwhelm the burger.

### How long should I wait before biting a Juicy Lucy?

Wait 3-5 minutes after serving to let the cheese cool slightly. Biting too early can cause severe mouth burns from the molten core. Matt's Bar even has a signature rule to wait five minutes. This allows the cheese to set just enough to avoid injury while still being gooey.

### What is the average price of a Juicy Lucy in Minneapolis?

Prices range from $7.95 at Matt's Bar to $16.95 at The Lynhall, with most falling between $10 and $14 for a single patty. The Corner Bar offers the best value at $8.95, while upscale options like The Red Cow and The Lynhall are at the higher end.

### Can I get a gluten-free bun for a Juicy Lucy?

Yes, The Nook, The Bulldog, and The Red Cow offer gluten-free buns for an additional $1.00-$2.00. Matt's Bar does not offer this option. It's best to call ahead to confirm availability, as some locations may have limited supply.

### What is the best side dish to pair with a Juicy Lucy?

Fresh-cut fries are the classic choice, but onion rings at The Nook and pickle spears at Matt's are also popular. Avoid frozen sides, like the onion rings at 5-8 Club, which are not house-made. A local beer, such as Grain Belt or Surly, complements the burger well.

## FAQ

**What is a Juicy Lucy?**

A Juicy Lucy is a burger where cheese is stuffed inside the patty before cooking, creating a molten cheese core when bitten. It was invented in Minneapolis in 1954, and the name is a play on "Juicy Lucy." The key is the cheese-to-meat ratio and the sear on the patty.

**Which place invented the Juicy Lucy?**

Matt's Bar claims the 1954 invention, while 5-8 Club claims 1952. Most historians credit Matt's due to the trademark filing in 1954. The debate is part of Minneapolis lore, but Matt's is generally recognized as the originator of the classic version.

**What cheese is best for a Juicy Lucy?**

American cheese is the classic choice for its low melting point and creamy texture. Blue cheese, cheddar, and gruyère are popular alternatives, but they can have higher melting points or stronger flavors. The best cheese should melt smoothly and complement the beef without overpowering it.

**How long should I wait before biting a Juicy Lucy?**

Wait 3-5 minutes after serving to let the cheese cool slightly. Biting too early can cause severe mouth burns from the molten core. Matt's Bar even has a signature rule to wait five minutes. This allows the cheese to set just enough to avoid injury while still being gooey.

**What is the average price of a Juicy Lucy in Minneapolis?**

Prices range from $7.95 at Matt's Bar to $16.95 at The Lynhall, with most falling between $10 and $14 for a single patty. The Corner Bar offers the best value at $8.95, while upscale options like The Red Cow and The Lynhall are at the higher end.

**Can I get a Juicy Lucy with a gluten-free bun?**

Yes, The Nook, The Bulldog, and The Red Cow offer gluten-free buns for an additional $1.00-$2.00. Matt's Bar does not offer this option. It's best to call ahead to confirm availability, as some locations may have limited supply.

**What is the best side dish to pair with a Juicy Lucy?**

Fresh-cut fries are the classic choice, but onion rings at The Nook and pickle spears at Matt's are also popular. Avoid frozen sides, like the onion rings at 5-8 Club, which are not house-made. A local beer, such as Grain Belt or Surly, complements the burger well.

**What is the best Juicy Lucy for a first-timer?**

Matt's Bar is the best for first-timers because it's the original and offers a classic, no-frills experience. The cheese-to-meat ratio is perfect, and the staff are used to guiding newcomers. Just remember to wait five minutes before biting to avoid burns.

**What is the best Juicy Lucy for a gourmet twist?**

The Happy Gnome's "Gnome Lucy" with brie and fig jam is a standout for a gourmet twist. The brie melts into a velvety core, and the fig jam adds sweetness and acidity. For a smoky option, The Lowbrow's smoked gouda and caramelized onions are also excellent.

**What is the best Juicy Lucy for value?**

The Corner Bar's "Corner Lucy" at $8.95 is the best value, offering a classic American cheese core with optional pickled jalapeños for spice. It's a dive bar with fast service and a 5-minute average wait, making it a great budget-friendly choice without sacrificing quality.

## Sources

- https://mattsbar.com/menu
- https://nookmn.com/menu
- https://5-8club.com/about
- https://bluedoorpub.com/menu
- https://thebulldogmn.com/menu
- https://lowbrowmpls.com/menu
- https://thehappygnome.com/menu
- https://redcowmn.com/menu
- https://thelynhall.com/menu
- https://cornermpls.com/menu

## Related on PULSE

- [More places to dine in minneapolis for juicy lucy burgers rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Kory White

Top 10 Places to Dine in Minneapolis for Juicy Lucy Burgers in 2027

1. Matt's Bar Juicy Lucy

2. The Nook Juicy Lucy

3. 5-8 Club Juicy Lucy

4. Blue Door Pub Blucy

5. The Bulldog Juicy Lucy

6. The Lowbrow Lucy

7. The Happy Gnome Gnome Lucy

8. The Red Cow Lucy

9. The Lynhall Lucy

10. The Corner Bar Corner Lucy

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Related questions

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What is the average price of a Juicy Lucy in Minneapolis?

Can I get a gluten-free bun for a Juicy Lucy?

What is the best side dish to pair with a Juicy Lucy?

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