Such a cool and fun experience! We were in the area for dinner and on a whim decided to check out the "speakeasy" in the area. We had no idea where to go, but heard to go down an alleyway behind up-down and then saw a random door that we had no idea was the entrance until another group came over! We knocked and they slid the door hole open to speak, it was so fun! Felt like a real speakeasy. Once we were in, we were seated in the back. There was an hour and 1/2 limit, but that was plenty of time for us to have a drink. I ordered the Me Espresso and my husband ordered the special of the day, which was a scotch with a special twist. Both were delicious! Definitely a little pricier, but the atmosphere made up for the cost. Overall I would definitely recommend! Next time we may wait for a booth to be served out of a window in the wall, did not know about that until we got there! Such a fun touch. read more

See all

I came here on a Wednesday around 6:30 PM under new ownership. It was pretty quiet in there. I loved the vibe and the jazzy music they were playing though. The waiter was nice, but I'm not sure if he was new. He didn't know what the specials were. He didn't know what the wine was. It says on the menu, red or white and he didn't know what either brand was or the food specials on the menu. sometimes it took a while for him to come over because he was chatting up another booth behind us. We ordered the chicken that was on the menu and it was a very small piece of chicken and it was supposed to come with broccolini and there was three skinny little stalks, and there was some kind of purée underneath it. Not sure if that was potatoes or what, but the chicken had a very good flavor. It was just very small. That's my complaint on that so we ended up ordering the sweet potato fries and that was a good portion and very good. I would definitely order those again. There is parking behind the building, but you need a parking pass to park there. read more

See all

I thought I knew what to expect when I end to Volstead's. Or rather when I arrived. I got out of the Uber solo, and looked around for the place and all i saw was a beauty shop and a costume shop. I did read something about it having a speakeasy vibe but didn't realize it was a full on hidden spot. I tried the doors but they were locked. A couple living on the street were hanging out there so it was feeling a little sketchy. It was then i saw a gal walk down the dark side alley. I thought, correctly, it was be around back. Luckily I had a reservation, or the guy behind the door acted like I wasn't getting in. I got a spot at the dimly lit bar right as the 1st set was starting. The band was fun; a 4 piece with Trombone lead. They were playing some jazz standards which was good for this crowd. The bartender was great. She made a couple unique drinks, including one off the menu called airmail, which was a version of a French 75. It was a great night all around, and I hope to make it back again while I'm in town. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I'm hesitant to write a review about Volstead's, it really should remain a hidden gem. At the same time, it's so worth talking about. Love all the drinks. You truly can't go wrong. The bites there are also fantastic. It's the right place to go for a night out, especially if you're with a smaller more intimate group. I always enjoy bringing visitors to check it out, since it really does stand out as a fun cocktail spot in MSP. read more

Long time fan of this place, decided to go last weekend. Definitely wanna make reservations when going here, it was packed. Door is kind of hidden in the alley and have to find street parking. Knock on the door and they greet you through a peep hole. If you dont have reservations, could be waiting outside for a bit. Staff always super friendly and helpful with food and drinks. Old school speak easy vibes inside, and they had live music the night I went. Sat in a booth and you press a button for service. Booth is cool but they dont really check on you much so sometimes it felt like a wait for service. Could have been cause they were so busy. Drinks were great and this was my first time trying rhe burger and it was delicious! Will be going back. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Lemon head cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

See all

So after the Twins game, we wanted to check out at least one speakeasy bar in Minneapolis. A local friend recommended this one. We did have some trouble finding the entrance but thanks to Google and Yelp photos, we were able to decipher where the door is located! You knock on the door once you find it, and I wish they had some secret word or whatever, but they didn't. You just tell them how many people in your party and then you wait. Fortunately they were able to get a table for us (party of 5) even without a reservation. Once we got downstairs, there's a door that lets you into the bar - the ambiance is very much speakeasy - dim lit, kinda rustic, kinda dingey... there was a jazz band playing and we were seated right in front of the stage. We ordered two rounds of drinks to explore their menu and most of us were pretty happy about it. Good enough to reduce the anxiety we had about going back to our haunted air bnb read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

See all

So cute and fun!! We made a resy for Friday night and it was great. Drinks are obviously on the expensive side, but they were also delicious. I got the Collins drink and thought it was great. The interior is so gorgeous, really feels like you're on a movie set or something. And the night we went they also had live music! read more

I've never been to a speakeasy before, and this was a great place to introduce me to them! I loved coming here. We had reservations on a Sunday evening. They accept walk ins, but reservations are probably the best idea. I went with a friend that lead the way to the entrance but without them, I would not be able to find this place I fear, though I know it's in the design and history of speakeasies. We got our own little booth that had curtains. To order, we pushed the button and the mirror on the wall opened to the kitchen for a waiter to take your order and bring your food! Super cool. They had a good selection of cocktails, but I'm a mocktail person at heart. We got the Phony Espresso Negroni and Dilly Dally. I'm not a Negroni person so I didn't really enjoy but mine was good! The food can be hit or miss. The Grilled 'Niman Ranch' Cheeseburger was honestly the best burger I've ever had. It had a great combination of different flavors that all meshed together so well. We also got the Grilled Vegetable Flatbread, Crispy Roasted Potatoes, and Handmade Potato & Cheese Pierogis. The flatbread was a bit salty for me, the potatoes didn't really stick out to me, and the pierogis were nice but I wish the dip was a bit more flavorful. We ended with the Creme Brûlée which tasted so good. Overall, I really loved everything we ate! The music was lovely, the place itself also had a nice ambiance. We had the option to tip the artists via Venmo, which is very appreciated. I will definitely come back again! read more

See all

The entrance alone gives it at least four stars. I thought i was Frank Sinatra or Al Capone for a second The ambiance blew me away. The food was cool, service was superb. My advice would be to sit in a booth if you can get one. Live music - jazz style. Would recommend. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Forgot the name of this drink, but it was grape flavored and good - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

It took us a while to find the entrance but once we did, it did NOT disappoint. Such a fun experience. Great food, great drinks and a great atmosphere. Would highly recommend read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Definitely the speakeasy vibes. Reservations suggested. Good old fashioned and Kyoto Sour. Kind of dingy looking but nice for a quick cocktail. read more

See all

I am obsessed with this place! The atmosphere is incredible--so many thoughtful little details make it feel like you're stepping back in time. I've been here twice now, and somehow, I love it even more each time. The drinks are amazing, and the food is just as impressive. I found out today that the chef changes the menu almost daily, which makes every visit feel special. The bar manager served us tonight, and she was fantastic--super knowledgeable and great to chat with! Now, onto the drinks: * My partner got the Hot to Go and said it had a perfect balance of flavors. * I had the Herby Fully Loaded, which was so good. The basil wasn't overpowering, and the shrub wasn't too vinegary. The ice really mellowed everything out beautifully. * My second drink was the Blossom, and it was my favorite--sweet, fresh, and absolutely delicious! For dinner, we had the burgers, potatoes, and pierogies. The pierogies were the standout for me--the dill and cabbage salad made them so fresh and flavorful. Don't expect your typical bar food here; the chef clearly puts so much thought and love into every dish! And of course, we couldn't skip dessert. We got the churro crème brûlée and the devil's chocolate cake--both were phenomenal. Truly, everything here is top-notch. Can't wait to come back! read more

See all

Wow. This speakeasy has all the vibes. Doorway in alley complete with sliding peephole to verify guests. The ambiance was excellent and we were sat next to a hidden room which you gained access through a bookshelf. Most important were the cocktails! We each had two and each one was perfectly balanced and expertly created. My naked and famous was the best version I've had. I had another pear forward drink from the menu and it was delicious. My husband went with dealers choice which was bourbon based. He loved it! read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

See all

This place is poppin'! Really cool and swanky vibes. I love the new menu. Overall just a nice ambiance and makes you feel like you are in a different world when you walk in. Live music is really fun. This is a great spot to go for a drink or a full night out. Highly recommend going!! read more

A unique dining experience. The food is very good with a cozy atmosphere. We have always had very good service. I'd recommend making reservations though so you're sure to get a spot without waiting too long. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Gold Digger cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

What a find! A sweet Speakeasy. You must enter from the back parking lot. Drinks were great! Band was awesome read more

See all

Absolutely loved it. The drinks were nice and the service was good. What a nice vibe and they had a live band. Would 10/10 recommend read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

While a password isn't required for entry, Volsteads Emporium may be the best, most true to theme, "speakeasy" in the cities. From the back alley entry that leads you down into a basement of a 100 year old building, to the trap doors and passages taking you to hidden rooms, and the food and drink menu disguised in hard bound books - this place will have you taking a step back in time. The service was outstanding and made the entire experience in my opinion. The bartender took time to answer any questions I had about the cocktail menu and explained where some of his inspirations came from in building the menu. Beyond that, the manager took time to show my buddy and I around, giving us a little tour of the space and all the fun hidden areas. I had two different drinks and loved them both. Then my friend and I shared some mulled wine and that was also fantastic. We didn't eat on this visit but given the amount of passion I got from the bartender and manager I am guessing the food is also very good. read more

See all

We had such a nice time at Volestead's Emporium. The private room in the back was TOO COOL. All of the girls in the party were super surprised and thrilled when we got lead back behind the fake fireplace and into what felt like a bank vault. The waiters were really nice and treated us well despite how late it was. We had to wait a little while to get in, but it was worth it. I ordered one of their craft cocktails whose name is escaping me, but it was tart and yummy. I want to say it was the Pink Slip. Everybody liked their drinks and there is quite the variety. I loved how hidden this location is. Really gives you the authentic speakeasy experience. read more

GROSS. Like racism? Hit up Volstead's! Have been here multiple times before and have really enjoyed it. Never again. Tonight we encountered the new white bespectacled door man who looked us up and down and slammed the door. The mix of our party was different tonight and the door guys made that clear. 15 people out, only a couple particular white people in. read more

Gorgeous place with delicious drinks and SOLID service. Definitely worth making a reservation beforehand. They live up to the speakeasy vibe beautifully. The live music on the evening I went was a little loud for my taste, but I imagine it's different depending on the band that's in. I will still absolutely return again! read more

If any of you long for the brunch that Charles used to serve at the now destroyed Town Talk diner, you can find it here. Charles came over to temporally helm Volstead's menu! The Jonny cake, the Smoked Brisket Hash, and the classic rolled omelet! Took us right back to TTD times that we enjoyed so much. Can't wait to try out his dinner menu. read more

First things first is definitely make sure you get a reservation, and look up how to get there based on other reviews. You need to go through an alley through the back buildings until you see a light, follow the light and knock on the door and soon you'll be entered. My sister made reservations for us on a Friday evening around 7:30 PM. I was a little skeptical when I was checking through back alleys trying to find this restaurant, but once inside I was overly impressed. It definitely gives off an old-time vibe. We were lucky enough to be seated in a booth where you could close the curtains and have a totally private experience. We were a little startled when the mirror opened and our food was given to us through a hidden compartment. Talk about prohibition! Drinks were really good, and seem to have a little something for everyone. As a vegetarian, I didn't find a lot on the menu that I could eat, this would be the one thing I would change. Otherwise the table enjoyed the charcuterie board, bacon wrapped figs, and skewers. (skip the popcorn) This is definitely a place I would bring someone who is visiting to. The overall atmosphere and fun vibe makes for a great evening out. If you haven't checked it out yet you should! read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Finding parking on a Friday night in Uptown is less than stellar. Once you find a spot, the challenge doesn't stop there. You'll then walk through alleys, knocking on random doors and finally stumble upon the right door to this speakeasy. Once inside, you finally get to relax. The interior is "on theme" with the speakeasy feel: intimately lit, 1920s-esque finishes, and a grand piano in the corner. Service was responsive and helpful throughout our experience. The gimmick of the speakeasy theme is the only real winner here though...as the food and drinks were subpar, and frankly, done WAY better at other locations around the Cities. I had the Old Fashioned, and there was nothing upscale about it: no fun ice cube, no special garnish, no smokeshow. I expect more from a $14 Old Fashioned. The Flatbread was alright, decent serving for the price, and some fun flavor. A cute spot for a date if you're in the area, but wouldn't go out of my way to stop here again. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Flatbread - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

See all

We made a reservation for here at 9am and were placed at the worst table when we arrived at 8pm. We asked to move to another table after 10 minutes. At the new table we still weren't served so I asked for a waitress after 20 minutes. We got THE nicest waitress named Hannah who was sweet, kind, accommodating, and basically made our experience 3 stars from 0. She deserves a raise. This place is cool, but you need to ask for the tour of the secret rooms or you'll be given an average experience. The other waitress who took our order, completely forgot and we waited way too long for our stuffed mushrooms. When we reminded a few times, finally got them, they were aaaaamazing. Like SO GOOD. To summarize, this place has potential, but I would not waste my money here. Find better service elsewhere. Might come back. Only if hannah is working. read more

See all

we loved our server harrison!! great recommendations!! he truly made the experience a 10/10. i have been here once before and it was good but this time really stood out to me. it was definitely a night to remember. all the staff had such good energy, you could tell you like their job. 100x better than last time :) definitely will be back!! read more

See all

This dude at the door had a tough guy attitude. Maybe that happens when you work right next to a dumpster. I love going into this joint. Once you get past this jerk at the door, the people are sweet. The food is top-notch. People say this neighborhood's gone downhill, but that only adds to the vibes. Maybe it's that bone head at the door, but when this place fills up, you don't wanna be here. What you Gotta do is pick a time when nobody's there. Bring somebody you're sweet on. Take em to one of those tables with the velvet curtain. Sharpen your wit before you go and impress somebody. Here's the thing: This is the kind of place you wear a hat, not a cap. If you're from out of town, but spend a lot of your free time in haberdasheries, this is your joint. Tip the waitress - she's pretty. read more

Amazing date spot. I can't wait to go back. Go BEFORE 8 o'clock to eat. The first time I went they had a kitchen emergency and unfortunately were not able to feed us. The second time they were shutting down when we came in. They re opened their kitchen for us and feed us amazing food. The portion size was a bit smaller than expected but the food quality was top tier. Made her and I very happy. I would love to thank the lady bartender/manager and the server. I even got introduced to the Chef. I unfortunately forgot their names. But they are amazing here for taking care of you :) read more

Still one of my favorite bars in uptown. I love bringing friends here for their first time experiencing a speakeasy. The drink menu changes every few months, by season-- so I always have something new to try. They have live music on the weekends, great music that adds a lot to the ambience. Definitely a great date spot as well. I will continue recommending them! read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

See all

A fun speakeasy that isn't that difficult to find (go all the way to the back of the building). We actually got more lost inside because there were 3 doors at the bottom of the stairs (it's the one in the middle and on your left). The environment was fun and there drinks were interesting. Our favorite was and Autumn drink that was on the menu. It "tasted like Fall". We were there early so it wasn't too busy, but there was still live piano music. We also didn't get to try much of the food--only the stuffed mushrooms, which were good but quite heavy. read more

See all

You absolutely need to visit Volstead's Emporium. I made a reservation for a small group and we had a fantastic time. Was a highlight of our early January trip to Minneapolis! The theming and atmosphere were exceptional. The drinks were superb and we are now all obsessed with the Belgian coffee syphon used to make hot cocktails! A fantastic place to spend a few hours out. Highly recommend. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Amazing staff! Super friendly. Wait staff was attentive and very personable. The chef was friendly as well as funny. The pierogi was delicious! The drinks were well made with fun names. Dark and moody atmosphere with live jazz. Great time! read more

Wanted to love this spot, but sadly could not. The wait to get in (even with a reservation) was around an hour. I understand they want to make you wait as part of the "speakeasy experience," but we had a reservation, a member of our party had a broken leg, and we were outside in the cold for an hour. This doesn't seem right. Once inside, we had friendly service and decent, yet overpriced, drinks. The food was ok. I tried a flatbread pizza which was slightly cold with very few toppings on it. My friend tried the cheeseburger, which was alright but fairly standard. The service was slow and the bill was high. Speakeasy vibes were there and the ambiance was nice, but that was really the highlight for me. read more

Loved this place and I would have never known where it was so thank goodness for the line of people! Go down and alley and look for grey door with face slot in it. Cute underground location, live music, decent food, great drinks and very friendly staff! I would definitely go again. If you have reservations don't stand in the long line, go to the door, knock and let them know you have reservations. read more

See all

Has to be one of my favorite speakeasy's I've been to yet! The ambiance and vibes in there are amazing. You really get a cool feeling being in there. They also have secret rooms and if you sit in the booths you get cool access to getting your food! I only got drinks here which were pretty pricey but it was an experience I was paying for too so I cannot argue. They also have live music which is always fun when grabbing drinks. I love coming here! read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I was hoping to write a nice review, but the door man ruined that. Saturday night, the d-bag door man screamed at an older gentleman with a cane that was moving too slow up the stairs for his liking. Extremely disrespectful and distasteful. I run 29 buildings, and I would not hire that door man if he was free. I am not sure if the door man is trying to "act" or "play a part" because it is a speakeasy, but he is a total jackass. read more

Awesome prohibition style restaurant and bar. I love anywhere with live music and a band. We had appetizers and drinks. The service is conducted through a secret compartment in the booths which is super fun. read more

Volstead's Emporium - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

See all

I love coming here for the ambiance, live music and drinks. Finding the secret door is challenging but is located in a back alley near a residential parking lot. When you enter, you feel like you travel to the 20s era. The band is always great and the vibes are elite. read more

Food and drinks were excellent. Best mussels I've had in a long time, smooth manhattan, tangy gnocchi, and tart lemon tart. Staff was really nice, chef even brought us our food directly. Low, soft lighting, and a free comedy show. A little pricey, but a great experience. read more

Very unique experience. Worth the effect. A bucket list place for sure! This a unique experience hiding in our midst. read more