Top 10 Speakeasies in Minneapolis in 2027

1. How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each Minneapolis venue against what people actually optimize for on a night out, using patterns from Eater, Thrillist, Time Out, The Infatuation, Yelp, and Google Reviews, plus venue calendars and door policies where published. The weighting:

• Atmosphere and vibe — 25%
• Drinks and menu — 20%
• Music and entertainment — 20%
• Crowd and service — 15%
• Value for the tier — 10%
• Location and access — 10%

A spot with a famous name but a brutal door and weak pours drops fast. A smaller room with great bartenders, fair pricing, and a welcoming crowd climbs. The winners balance all six for speakeasies in Minneapolis.

1. Volstead's Emporium 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Type: Speakeasy / Craft Cocktail Bar | Price: $$ | Best for: The definitive speakeasy experience with prohibition-era authenticity

Volstead's Emporium is a standout speakeasy in Minneapolis for anyone building a craft cocktail night. Located in the North Loop, this hidden bar requires entry through a faux storefront, maintaining the prohibition-era illusion. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early or reserve where the venue allows it; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Volstead's Emporium features live jazz some nights and curated playlists on others, and the difference between a Tuesday and a Saturday is real. If you care about music, check the calendar before you commit. If you care about conversation, aim for earlier hours or the quieter corners. Drink pricing tracks the $$ tier honestly: craft cocktails run $14–$18, beer and wine stay more approachable, and happy-hour windows can soften the bill.

Pros:

• Authentic speakeasy atmosphere with hidden entrance
• Reliable bar program with staff who can steer first-timers to the right order
• North Loop location for pairing with dinner or a late-night bite nearby
• Live jazz on select nights adds to the ambiance

Cons:

• Peak-night waits can be long without a reservation
• Limited seating means smaller groups have better luck

Verdict: Volstead's Emporium earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — book or arrive early on big nights, and match the room to your group's mood.

2. Lawless Distilling Co. 💎 BEST VALUE

Type: Distillery / Cocktail Bar | Price: $ | Best for: Maximum atmosphere per dollar without overspending on cover

Lawless Distilling Co. is a standout distillery and cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the Seward neighborhood, this distillery produces its own spirits and serves them in a warm, rustic-industrial space. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Lawless Distilling Co. rotates live music and events depending on the night, and the difference between a Tuesday and a Saturday is real. Drink pricing tracks the $ tier honestly: cocktails run $10–$14, distillery tours are affordable, and happy-hour windows can soften the bill.

Pros:

• House-distilled spirits make for unique cocktails
• Casual, welcoming atmosphere without pretension
• Seward location offers a quieter alternative to downtown
• Tours available for spirit enthusiasts

Cons:

• Limited late-night hours compared to dedicated bars
• Smaller space can fill up quickly on weekends

Verdict: Lawless Distilling Co. earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — arrive early for the best experience, and enjoy craft cocktails at fair prices.

3. Marvel Bar

Type: Speakeasy / Craft Cocktail Bar | Price: $$$ | Best for: Serious cocktail enthusiasts seeking a hidden underground experience

Marvel Bar is a standout speakeasy in Minneapolis for anyone building a craft cocktail night. Located beneath the Bachelor Farmer restaurant in the North Loop, this subterranean bar requires descending a staircase to find its intimate, dimly lit space. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early or reserve where the venue allows it; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Marvel Bar focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with no loud DJs or live music — the room itself is the entertainment. Drink pricing tracks the $$$ tier honestly: cocktails run $16–$22, reflecting the quality of ingredients and technique.

Pros:

• Hidden, intimate setting perfect for date nights
• Exceptional cocktail program with knowledgeable bartenders
• Quiet atmosphere for conversation
• North Loop location near other dining options

Cons:

• Higher price point for cocktails
• Limited seating — reservations strongly recommended
• No food menu beyond bar snacks

Verdict: Marvel Bar earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — book ahead for a refined cocktail experience in an underground hideaway.

4. Parlour Bar

Type: Cocktail Bar / Restaurant | Price: $$ | Best for: Craft cocktails paired with one of the city's best burgers

Parlour Bar is a standout cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the North Loop, this dimly lit bar is connected to the Parlour restaurant and serves some of the city's best craft cocktails alongside its famous burger. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early or reserve where the venue allows it; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Parlour Bar focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with curated playlists setting the mood. Drink pricing tracks the $$ tier honestly: cocktails run $13–$17, and the food menu adds value.

Pros:

• Excellent craft cocktails from a skilled bar team
• Famous burger available at the bar
• Intimate, moody atmosphere
• North Loop location for bar-hopping

Cons:

• Can get crowded during peak dinner hours
• Limited bar seating — arrive early for a spot

Verdict: Parlour Bar earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — arrive early for a cocktail and the burger, and soak in the dimly lit atmosphere.

5. Tattersall Distilling

Type: Distillery / Cocktail Bar | Price: $$ | Best for: Craft spirits and cocktails in a lively distillery setting

Tattersall Distilling is a standout distillery and cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the Northeast Arts District, this spacious distillery produces its own spirits and serves them in a modern, industrial-chic space. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Tattersall Distilling hosts live music and events regularly, and the difference between a Tuesday and a Saturday is real. Drink pricing tracks the $$ tier honestly: cocktails run $12–$16, and distillery tours are available.

Pros:

• House-distilled spirits with creative cocktail menu
• Spacious interior with plenty of seating
• Live music on select nights
• Northeast location in a vibrant arts district

Cons:

• Can be loud during events and busy nights
• Limited food menu — mostly snacks and light bites

Verdict: Tattersall Distilling earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — visit for craft cocktails in a lively distillery setting with a local arts district vibe.

6. Constantine

Type: Cocktail Bar | Price: $$$ | Best for: A sophisticated, European-style cocktail experience

Constantine is a standout cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the North Loop, this bar channels a 19th-century European aesthetic with velvet banquettes, dark wood, and a marble bar. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early or reserve where the venue allows it; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is upscale smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Constantine focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with a menu that emphasizes classic and original creations. Drink pricing tracks the $$$ tier honestly: cocktails run $16–$20, reflecting the quality of ingredients and presentation.

Pros:

• Stunning interior design with European flair
• Exceptional cocktail program with unique ingredients
• Sophisticated atmosphere for date nights
• North Loop location near other dining options

Cons:

• Higher price point for cocktails
• Reservations recommended for weekend evenings

Verdict: Constantine earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — dress up and book ahead for an elegant cocktail experience in a beautifully designed space.

7. The Bachelor Farmer

Type: Restaurant / Cocktail Bar | Price: $$$ | Best for: Scandinavian-inspired cocktails in a warm, rustic setting

The Bachelor Farmer is a standout restaurant and cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the North Loop, this acclaimed restaurant features a cozy bar area serving Scandinavian-inspired cocktails. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early or reserve where the venue allows it; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. The Bachelor Farmer focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with a menu that highlights Nordic flavors and ingredients. Drink pricing tracks the $$$ tier honestly: cocktails run $15–$19, and the food menu is excellent.

Pros:

• Unique Scandinavian-inspired cocktails
• Warm, rustic atmosphere with exposed brick and wood
• Excellent food menu if you want dinner
• North Loop location for bar-hopping

Cons:

• Higher price point for cocktails and food
• Reservations recommended for dinner and bar seating

Verdict: The Bachelor Farmer earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — visit for Nordic-inspired cocktails in a warm, rustic setting with excellent food options.

8. Eat Street Social

Type: Cocktail Bar | Price: $$ | Best for: Craft cocktails in a lively, neighborhood setting

Eat Street Social is a standout cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located on Eat Street (Nicollet Avenue), this bar offers craft cocktails in a warm, neighborhood setting. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Eat Street Social focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with a menu that changes seasonally. Drink pricing tracks the $$ tier honestly: cocktails run $12–$16, and the food menu offers small plates.

Pros:

• Creative, seasonal cocktail menu
• Neighborhood atmosphere without pretension
• Eat Street location near diverse dining options
• Reasonable prices for craft cocktails

Cons:

• Small space can fill up quickly
• Limited seating — arrive early for a spot

Verdict: Eat Street Social earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — visit for creative cocktails in a welcoming neighborhood setting on one of the city's best food streets.

9. Meteor Bar

Type: Cocktail Bar | Price: $$ | Best for: A hidden, intimate cocktail experience in a former auto shop

Meteor Bar is a standout cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the North Loop, this hidden bar is tucked away in a former auto shop and requires finding its unmarked entrance. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Meteor Bar focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with a menu that emphasizes classic techniques and seasonal ingredients. Drink pricing tracks the $$ tier honestly: cocktails run $13–$17.

Pros:

• Hidden, speakeasy-style entrance
• Intimate atmosphere with limited seating
• Well-crafted cocktails from a skilled bar team
• North Loop location for bar-hopping

Cons:

• Hard to find — look for the unmarked door
• Limited seating — small groups have better luck

Verdict: Meteor Bar earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — seek out the hidden entrance for an intimate cocktail experience in a unique converted space.

10. Young Joni's Back Bar

Type: Cocktail Bar | Price: $$ | Best for: A hidden back bar with excellent cocktails and pizza

Young Joni's Back Bar is a standout cocktail bar in Minneapolis for anyone building a speakeasies night. Located in the Northeast Arts District, this hidden back bar is accessed through the restaurant Young Joni and offers a more intimate cocktail experience. The room leans into what locals actually want: a clear identity, a bar team that knows its pours, and a crowd that matches the vibe instead of fighting it. On busy weekends you will find a line unless you arrive early; on weeknights the room is easier to navigate and the bartenders have more time to talk you through the list. Dress code is smart casual.

The programming matters as much as the build-out. Young Joni's Back Bar focuses on craft cocktails and conversation, with a menu that changes seasonally. Drink pricing tracks the $$ tier honestly: cocktails run $13–$17, and you can order pizza from the restaurant.

Pros:

• Hidden back bar with speakeasy feel
• Excellent cocktails from a skilled bar team
• Access to Young Joni's famous pizza
• Northeast location in a vibrant arts district

Cons:

• Can be crowded during peak dinner hours
• Limited seating — arrive early for a spot

Verdict: Young Joni's Back Bar earns its spot for speakeasies in Minneapolis — visit for craft cocktails and pizza in a hidden back bar setting in the Northeast Arts District.

Where Should You Go Out?

What to Look For on a Night Out in Minneapolis

• Cover and minimums — Most speakeasies in Minneapolis do not charge cover, but popular spots may have minimums on weekends; budget before you go.
• Reservations and guest lists — Tables at top speakeasies like Marvel Bar and Constantine almost always beat standing in a general line on peak nights.
• Dress code — Upscale cocktail bars enforce dress-to-impress; sneakers and athletic wear can get turned away at places like Constantine.
• Music calendar — Some speakeasies feature live jazz or events; check who is on before you choose a room.
• Neighborhood flow — Cluster your night geographically — the North Loop has the highest concentration of speakeasies and cocktail bars.
• Safety and logistics — Plan your ride home, keep an eye on your group, and know last-call times for the area you are in.

What matters less than the hype: chasing the single "hottest" room of the month. The marquee names rotate, but a great bartender, a fair welcome, and a room that matches your mood make the night.

FAQ

What is the best speakeasy spot in Minneapolis? Volstead's Emporium is our Best Overall for speakeasies in Minneapolis, combining prohibition-era atmosphere, craft cocktails, and crowd energy better than the rest of this list.

What is the best value speakeasy pick in Minneapolis? Lawless Distilling Co. is our Best Value — strong craft cocktails and distillery experience without the steepest pricing in town.

Do Minneapolis speakeasies require reservations? Many top speakeasies recommend reservations on weekends; walk-in bars are easier, but popular spots like Marvel Bar and Constantine fill up fast on Friday and Saturday.

What should I wear for speakeasies in Minneapolis? Smart casual is the safest default; upscale cocktail bars like Constantine enforce dress-to-impress, while distillery bars like Lawless and Tattersall are more relaxed.

How much does a night out cost in Minneapolis? Cocktails at speakeasies commonly run $12–$22 each, with higher-end spots like Marvel Bar and Constantine at the top end. Most speakeasies do not charge cover.

Which spot is best for a date night in Minneapolis? Marvel Bar and Constantine skew romantic and conversation-friendly, while Volstead's Emporium offers a more lively atmosphere for couples who want energy.

Are there hidden entrances at Minneapolis speakeasies? Yes — Volstead's Emporium has a faux storefront entrance, Marvel Bar is accessed via a staircase beneath The Bachelor Farmer, and Meteor Bar has an unmarked door.

Bottom Line

For speakeasies in Minneapolis, Volstead's Emporium is our Best Overall — the room that most consistently delivers the full night-out package. Lawless Distilling Co. is our Best Value, giving you real craft cocktails without overspending on hype. Use the decision tree to route big-energy nights to Volstead's Emporium and value-focused evenings to Lawless Distilling Co. , then work through the rest of the list for variety. Match the room to your mood, plan reservations and rides, and Minneapolis after dark rarely disappoints.

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Sources

• Eater Minneapolis — bars and nightlife guides
• Thrillist — best speakeasies in Minneapolis
• Time Out — best bars in Minneapolis
• The Infatuation — Minneapolis bar guide
• Yelp — Minneapolis speakeasies reviews
• Google Maps — venue ratings for Minneapolis bars
• Visit Minneapolis — nightlife guide
• Volstead's Emporium official site
• Lawless Distilling Co. official site
• Marvel Bar official site

*speakeasies in Minneapolis review — best hidden bars and craft cocktail lounges, where to go out, ratings, and a review of the top nightlife spots.*

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