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Best Mixologist Bars In Minnesota

The old-fashioned task of pouring a beer or a shot has evolved into the work of a mixologist. With an overwhelming number of options for ingredients and the demand for the newest and freshest beverages, mixology has become an art form in which the art is craved by the masses. Head over to these fantastic mixology bars for some of the best and most unusual cocktails in the state.
Far North Cobbler, La Belle Vie
(credit: CBS)

La Belle Vie
510 Groveland Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 874-6440
www.labellevie.us

Located in the Loring Park area, La Belle Vie serves up unique and fresh cocktails alongside traditional French-Mediterranean dishes. If you are stopping by for just a drink, head over to the lounge area and choose one of the seasonal cocktails. La Belle Vie also offers a large selection of champagne cocktails, housemade liquors, and a professional mixologist behind the bar. Try a twist on an old favorite or just let the mixologist create something to surprise your tastebuds. Hungry? Order some pate or octopus ceviche to go with your masterpiece.

Bar La Grassa
credit: Bar La Grassa)

Bar La Grassa
800 N. Washington Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 333-3837
www.barlagrassa.com

Nestled in the North Loop neighborhood of Minneapolis and quite well known for its amazing menu and wine list, Bar La Grassa mixes up some fantastic drinks on the side. Stop by for one of La Grassa's talk-of-the-town negroni's or just order a well-crafted margarita. Many ignore the cocktail list here because wine seems to be the prominent choice, however, this may be a big mistake. The bartenders at Bar La Grassa take the time to carefully craft the perfect drinks that go great with the food or just stand alone. Try "The Keeper" off of the original cocktail list if you're looking for a new mainstay drink.

Marin
(credit: CBS)

Marin
901 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 252-7000
www.marinrestaurant.com

Downtown Minneapolis is full of mixology hot spots, and one of the best is right on Hennepin Avenue. Located in the luxurious art hotel, Le Meridian Chambers, Marin offers fresh and local ingredients in its cocktails as well as its food. Try one of the modern twists on the classics like the Marin Martini or the Marin Manhattan. Marin also occupies such a large space that patrons have the option to sit at the outdoor bar, the main bar, or the lower level Library bar. Each option has an atmosphere all its own but the same great drinks. Check out the mixology class on the first Saturday of each month and learn how to make a few cocktails of your own.

Related:  Best Cocktail Bars In Minnesota

The Red Herring Lounge
208 E. 1st St.
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 481-7318
www.redherringlounge.com

Tucked up north in Duluth, Minnesota, the Red Herring Lounge is a great place to get a refreshment and enjoy hanging with the locals. The signature drink menu is thoughtful, smart, and just about perfect. Many of the ingredients in the crafted cocktails are housemade, including grenadine, bitters, and even some of the liquors. The happy hour is one of the best deals - 2 for 1 drinks - and the ambiance is perfect. Red Herring is also a favorite hang out for local artists, musicians, and all kinds of interesting people. Enjoy a great drink and find yourself having a great evening here as well.

Meritage
(credit: Meritage Facebook Page)

Meritage
410 St. Peter St.
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 222-5670
www.meritage-stpaul.com

Located in downtown St. Paul, Meritage boasts an authentic French restaurant, oyster bar, and fantastic cocktail menu. The bar in the corner of the restaurant is as beautiful and inviting as the presentation of the drinks. The cocktail menu is also so complex and unique that many will have a hard time choosing just one. Try the Singing Violet, a lively sparkling wine cocktail, or one of the other fresh drinks on the bar menu. When it's nice out, outdoor seating options are available and strongly recommended.

Related: Best Beer Gardens In Minnesota

Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for the last 10 years. Her hobbies include exercising, driving kids around, watching Minnesota sports, and reading self-help literature. Examiner.com.
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