Dining: The hot five for Sept. 25

THE HOT FIVE Enjoy the weekend at a brewpub.

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

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

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.

612-821-0101, www.theherkimer.com

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

Camp out at the pool tables and enjoy the ever-changing variety of brewed refreshment.

800 LaSalle Av. S., Minneapolis,