THE HOT FIVE Enjoy the weekend at a brewpub.
BARLEY JOHN'S BREW PUB
Draw a wild rice brown ale, order the beer-battered catfish and chips and relax.
781 Old Hwy. 8, New Brighton,
651-636-4670, www.barleyjohns.com
GREAT WATERS BREWING CO.
Downtown St. Paul's beer central features rich cask-conditioned ales and lively drafts and a crowd-pleasing menu of all-American favorites, all served in a corner of the one-and-only Hamm Building.
426 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-224-2739, www.greatwatersbc.com
HERKIMER PUB & BREWERY
Lyn-Lake's hospitable hang focuses on lagers (with a few ales). Love the grilled cheese fondue, the pretzels and the mini-burger platter. Check out weekend breakfast, served to 3 p.m.
2922 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis,
612-821-0101, www.theherkimer.com
MINNEAPOLIS TOWN HALL BREWERY
A beautifully made selection of everyday taps and seasonal choices (plus a few off-the-premises labels) paired with a mostly $10-and-under menu (love those goat cheese nachos) and served in handsome surroundings.
1430 Washington Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-339-8696, www.townhallbrewery.com
ROCK BOTTOM RESTAURANT & BREWERY
Camp out at the pool tables and enjoy the ever-changing variety of brewed refreshment.
800 LaSalle Av. S., Minneapolis,
612-332-2739, www.rockbottom.com
RICK NELSON
