St. Paul’s Pub Culture: More Than Just a Drink
Ah, St. Paul. The capital city of Minnesota, often overshadowed by its bustling neighbor Minneapolis, but possessing a charm and character all its own. And when it comes to its pub scene, St. Paul truly shines. Forget generic sports bars; here, you’ll find historic taverns steeped in lore, cozy neighborhood joints with fiercely loyal followings, and modern craft beer havens celebrating local brews. As a long-time resident and avid pub explorer, I’m thrilled to share my curated list of the best pubs in St. Paul, places where the beer flows, the conversations spark, and the St. Paul spirit truly comes alive. Whether you’re a local looking for a new haunt or a visitor seeking an authentic taste of the city, this guide is for you.
A Pint of History: St. Paul’s Historic Pubs
St. Paul has a rich history, and many of its pubs are living testaments to that. These aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re repositories of stories, echoing with the laughter and conversations of generations past.
The Nook and The Red Lantern Room
Let’s start with an absolute icon: The Nook. Located at 459 Rice Street, The Nook is a St. Paul institution. If you’re looking for a quintessential dive bar experience with incredible burgers, this is your spot. Their “Juicy Lucy” – a burger with the cheese melted inside – is legendary and a must-try. The atmosphere is unpretentious, the beer selection is solid (especially if you’re a fan of classic domestics and a few local taps), and the service is always friendly. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; inside, you’ll find a warm, welcoming vibe. Adjacent to The Nook, but with a distinctly different feel, is The Red Lantern Room. This is the Nook’s more upscale, speakeasy-style sibling. Think moody lighting, expertly crafted cocktails, and a refined atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a date night or a sophisticated catch-up with friends. The transition between the two spaces is seamless, offering a versatile experience depending on your mood.
Tom’s Watch Bar – St. Paul
While technically a bit newer than some historic gems, Tom’s Watch Bar (multiple locations, but the St. Paul one is great!) captures a certain energy that feels timeless. Located at 400 N Robert St, right in the heart of downtown, it’s a premier destination for sports enthusiasts. What sets Tom’s apart is its sheer scale and the panoramic views of the games from virtually every seat. They boast an extensive drink menu, with a strong emphasis on beer, featuring a vast array of drafts from local breweries and beyond. The food menu is extensive, catering to a crowd that loves pub fare alongside their game-watching. It’s a lively spot, especially on game days, and the energy is infectious. It’s a great place to experience the communal excitement of watching a game with fellow St. Paulites.
The Happy Gnome
For the serious beer aficionado, The Happy Gnome at 435 Selby Avenue is a pilgrimage site. This gastropub is renowned for its unparalleled selection of craft beers, often featuring rare and seasonal brews that you won’t find anywhere else. Their beer list is extensive, meticulously curated, and constantly rotating. They have a knowledgeable staff who are passionate about beer and can guide you through their offerings. Beyond the beer, The Happy Gnome also excels in its food. Their gastropub menu is inventive, featuring delicious dishes that perfectly complement their beer selection. It’s a place where you can truly savor both the brew and the bite. They often have special events and tap takeovers, so it’s always worth checking their schedule. Exploring their offerings is a journey in itself, and for anyone interested in the craft beer movement, this is a must-visit. For more on the evolving craft beer scene, check out dropt.beer’s insights.
Neighborhood Gems: Local Hangouts You’ll Love
St. Paul’s neighborhoods are its heart, and its pubs are often the pulse of these communities. These are the places where you’ll find locals unwinding after work, catching up with friends, and truly feeling at home.
Merlin’s Rest Pub
Nestled in the Highland Park neighborhood at 3601 W 70th Street, Merlin’s Rest Pub offers a unique British pub experience right here in St. Paul. Stepping inside feels like you’ve been transported across the pond. They have a fantastic selection of British and Irish ales on tap, alongside a good range of American craft beers. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with dark wood, comfortable seating, and a friendly buzz. Their food menu is a highlight, featuring classic pub fare like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash, all done with authentic flair. It’s a fantastic spot to relax, enjoy a hearty meal, and perhaps even catch some live music on occasion. The staff are welcoming, and it’s a true neighborhood gathering spot.
Shamrock’s Irish Pub
For a more traditional Irish pub experience, Shamrock’s Irish Pub at 972 W 7th Street is a go-to. Located on the historic West 7th Street corridor, it’s known for its friendly atmosphere, live music (especially traditional Irish sessions), and a great selection of Irish whiskeys and beers. It’s a place that embodies the spirit of Irish hospitality, making everyone feel like a regular. The pub is often lively, especially on weekends, and it’s a great spot to experience some authentic Irish culture in St. Paul. They serve up hearty pub grub as well, perfect for soaking up some of that Jameson or Guinness.
W.A. Frost & Company
While often celebrated for its exquisite dining, W.A. Frost & Company at 374 Selby Avenue also boasts a fantastic bar and patio that deserves mention in any St. Paul pub discussion. Housed in a beautiful historic building in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood, the bar area offers a more refined pub experience. They have an impressive wine list and a creative cocktail menu, but their beer selection is also thoughtfully curated. The real draw, especially in warmer months, is their stunning patio – a serene oasis filled with lush greenery and twinkling lights. It’s the perfect spot for a sophisticated drink and light fare. It’s a bit more upscale than your typical pub, but the ambiance and quality make it a standout.
Craft Beer Havens: Celebrating Local Brews
The craft beer revolution has firmly taken root in St. Paul, and several pubs are at the forefront, showcasing the incredible diversity and quality of local brewing talent. Supporting these establishments is a direct way to support the local craft beer community.
Waldmann Brewery & Chargrill
Located in the historic Fort Road Federation building at 2500 University Avenue West, Waldmann Brewery & Chargrill is a gem. This brewery focuses on traditional German-style lagers and ales, offering a refreshing departure from the typical hop-forward IPAs. The space itself is stunning, a beautifully restored historic building that provides a unique and atmospheric setting for enjoying a pint. They also offer a delicious menu of German-inspired dishes, making it a perfect pairing for their carefully crafted beers. It’s a place that respects tradition while offering a modern craft beer experience. The intimate setting makes it ideal for focused beer tasting and conversation.
Tin Whiskers Brewing Company
While technically a brewery with a taproom, Tin Whiskers Brewing Company at 1258 Grand Avenue often functions as a community hub and a go-to spot for craft beer lovers. They brew a wide range of styles, from crisp lagers to robust stouts, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Their taproom is welcoming and unpretentious, a place where you can chat with the brewers and learn more about their process. They often have food trucks on-site, adding to the casual, community-focused vibe. It’s a fantastic representation of St. Paul’s growing craft beer scene, where passion for brewing meets a love for community. They frequently host events and offer flights, making it easy to sample their diverse offerings.
Lake Monster Brewing
Just across the river in the Midway neighborhood (technically in Minneapolis, but a very short trip from St. Paul and highly relevant to the shared craft beer scene), Lake Monster Brewing is worth mentioning for its exceptional beers and vibrant atmosphere. However, sticking strictly to St. Paul, we look to places that champion local brews. For that, consider pubs that consistently feature local taps. Many of the pubs mentioned above, like The Happy Gnome and The Nook, are excellent at this. Another spot to keep an eye on is Revival Smoked Meats at 504 Selby Avenue. While known for its incredible Southern-inspired smoked meats, they also have a well-curated tap list that frequently features local and regional craft beers, making it a great spot to enjoy delicious food and discover new brews.
Insider Tips for Your St. Paul Pub Crawl
As a local, I want to give you a few extra pointers to make your St. Paul pub experience even better:
- Check for Happy Hour: Most St. Paul pubs offer fantastic happy hour deals, typically on weekday afternoons. This is a great way to sample more beers or enjoy a meal at a lower price point.
- Embrace the Neighborhoods: Don’t be afraid to venture outside of downtown. Neighborhood pubs like The Nook, Merlin’s Rest, and Shamrock’s offer a more authentic, local experience.
- Live Music: Keep an eye out for live music schedules. Many pubs, especially Irish pubs, feature traditional music sessions that are a treat to experience.
- Food is Key: St. Paul pubs often have exceptional food menus. Don’t just go for a drink; plan to have a meal. The burgers at The Nook, the British fare at Merlin’s, and the gastropub delights at The Happy Gnome are all worth the trip.
- Transportation: St. Paul is relatively walkable, especially in core areas like downtown and Cathedral Hill. For exploring further afield, consider ride-sharing services or public transportation. If you plan on sampling multiple establishments, designate a driver or use these services.
- Seasonal Patio Seating: St. Paul summers are glorious, and many pubs boast fantastic patios. W.A. Frost’s patio is a standout, but many smaller neighborhood spots also have charming outdoor seating.
- Support Local: Whenever possible, choose pubs that feature local Minnesota craft beers. It’s a great way to taste the best of what the state has to offer and support the local economy. Websites like dropt.beer are invaluable resources for discovering and supporting local breweries and the pubs that feature them.
Beyond the Beer: The St. Paul Vibe
What makes St. Paul’s pubs so special isn’t just the quality of the beverages or the food, though those are certainly excellent. It’s the atmosphere. It’s the unpretentious friendliness, the sense of community, and the genuine warmth you feel stepping into a well-loved local establishment. Whether you’re discussing the latest Twins game at Tom’s Watch Bar, savoring a perfectly poured pint at Merlin’s Rest, or discovering a new craft brew at The Happy Gnome, you’re experiencing a piece of St. Paul’s soul. So, grab your friends, pick a spot from this list, and go explore the incredible pub scene that St. Paul has to offer. Cheers!
