The first taproom to open remains a good-time with great beer, service that feels like a neighborhood pub, and hefty sandwiches. Kids can order up a hot dog or burger for just $6.

Home to an iconic lobster, this North Loop restaurant sports a fantastic patio and a giant lobster boil roiling at the heart of this two story restaurant.

At the ground level, Nolo’s Kitchen is an all-day restaurant that’s become a regular hang for the neighborhood with dishes created by chef Peter Hoff. Dishes like the chicken rigatoni and crispy chicken sandwich have a way of becoming edible obsessions. Downstairs is a fun kind of modern dive bar with decadent snacks, affordable drinks, and good times.

The only thing outnumbering the TV's at this sports bar are the tap handles of their 100 beers. Pair one of those beers with their duck Reuben, served with citrus/tarragon/apple sauerkraut, gruyere cheese, and Russian dressing on marble rye.

Bring the whole crew to this mammoth palace of Irish pride. Get an expertly-poured pint of Guinness (or any of their myriad beers), and order up some pot roast sliders and some chicken shots (crispy-fried nuggets of chicken, tossed in a tangy/sweet whiskey sauce) and cheers a Twins win with a mighty “Sláinte” to any and all fans.

The Loon is a Minneapolis staple. In a culinary scene that’s ever-changing, this is the hallmark of the old bar regime in the Warehouse District. Cold beer and Grape Apes harken back to a previous era, but the real money is on a bowl of chili as a primer before a crisp springtime game. Turkey, chicken, veggie, beef, and pork chilies are all options.

If short on time, Pizza Lucé is your savior. Grab a slice (or two!) of cheese, meat, or veggie. Take some of their tuna caliente from the deli case; simple twist on tuna pasta salad spiced with a hint of fresh jalapeños. It’s perfect for walking and eating.

Dip into James Beard Award winning chef Isaac Becker’s original restaurant for above board bar snacks like cauliflower fritters, or a jaw-dropping burger with brie on an English muffin. The swank room serves serious cocktails and a date-night worthy wine list.

Forget about fusion sauces and dehydrated dry rubs, Runyons proudly serves original, saucy Buffalo wings. Lick every finger on both hands and let that bright orange sauce ring your mouth like a little kid eating ice cream, and wash it down with an ice cold beer. Innovate all you want on new gastropub menus, but an original classic is a classic for a reason.