Grab the first two open seats you can find at this monstrous, 50,000 square-foot dining and drinking hall. Tucked away on two acres of land, this is where locals and visitors come to sip on some of Minnesota’s finest IPA’s while scarfing classic comfort food. Downstairs has plenty of hearty pub fare and upstairs is a New Haven-style pizza restaurant. If the date is going well: Head out back to play a game of Bags or Cornhole (depending on where you’re from), and warm up by one of the many bonfire pits that seem to be built for Paul Bunyan.

Floor to ceiling windows let in the golden-hour sunlight, with a panoramic view of Loring Park from the northwest corner. Small plates and appetizers are a good route with a wider range of flavors from the menu. Date night specials on Sunday evenings for visiting this romantic restaurant on a budget. If the date is going well: Take a stroll through the serene Loring Park, while holding hands (maybe?) Or cross the bridge over Hennepin Avenue into the iconic Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to see Minnesota’s most photographed spots: Cherry and Spoon.

This restaurant inside the Walker Art Center is dishing out some serious food served by a high-end staff in a moody, yet striking ambiance. Add to that a menu designed by one of the best chef’s in the nation, Doug Flicker, and it’s the perfect recipe for a successful happy hour, brunch, or dinner. If the date is going well: Head upstairs to enjoy the epic views of the Minneapolis skyline over some artist-built mini golf during sundown (just check the hours before planning on putt-putt).

Now an oasis for nostalgic 80’s and 90’s babies. Justin Sutherland has revamped this place into what is a bar and arcade. The menu is filled with ideal first date night, finger food like pizza rolls, mini corn dogs, and an updated Pop-Tart dessert. Then wash  that down with a boozy snow cone or a Tang cocktail. If the date is going well:  Challenge your date to vintage arcade games, like video bowling or classic Pac Man. This venue is perfectly situated kiddy-corner from CHS field, it’d be a great spot to get to know each other before catching a Saint’s game.

Bowling, burgers, and beers, the Nook has mastered the art of cheese stuffed burgers, fresh cut fries, and a long list of cold beers. If the date is going well: Grab a bowling ball, pencil, and a score sheet and hit the lanes downstairs. Prepare to keep score, because this old-school joint makes you keep track yourself. It’s a good way to test your date’s math skills.