With Twin Cities beer fans preparing for Saturday's massive outdoor sample-fest, the Autumn Brew Review, here are two great events to get everyone in the mood. Republic is hosting a Brewmaster's Dinner on Friday. Five courses will be paired with beers from Surly, Odell, Left Hand, 21st Amendment, Great Lakes and a surprise guest. The best part: The owners/brewmasters from each brewery will be on hand.

Over at the Blue Nile, bartender Al McCarty is hosting an event dedicated to New Belgium's small-batch series, Lips of Faith. He'll have six on tap for one night only. They are: La Folie, Dunkelweiss, Abbey Grand Cru, Super Cru, Kick and Clutch. The alcohol content in these beers is high, so try a sample set. $7 for a 12-ounce pour; $7 for three 4-ounce pours.

Guy Torry at MOA

Guy Torry has range. He's probably proud to say he starred in both "American History X" and "Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood." The comedian, known for his wheezing delivery, has a weeklong stint at House of Comedy for a good price.

  • 8 p.m. Wed.-Sun. and 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat.
  • Mall of America, fourth floor, Bloomington
  • $13-$19
  • 952-858-8558
  • www.houseofcomedy.net

Drink: not so literal anymore

One of the Twin Cities area's perennial party bars (is that a good thing?) is in the midst of a rebranding. Both Drink locations (Uptown and downtown Minneapolis) will go through remodeling and get new names. Drink Uptown will become the Uptown Tavern and Rooftop within the month (it'll stay open during the paint job). The downtown location will become Uncle Buck's, closing at some point during the next few months for major remodeling.