With the Twin Cities Film Fest kicking off Friday at the Showplace Icon Theatre at West End, film fiends are sure to wander into the various bars and restaurants in the St. Louis Park entertainment destination. But don't pick your pre- or post-screening spot at random. Aside from the festival-sponsored mixers (check the website), there's plenty of bargain boozin' to be had.
Cooper
1607 Park Place Blvd., St. Louis Park • 952-698-2000 • www.cooperpub.com
This massive Irish pub is always a comfortable place to hoist a pint. Pop in before a prime-time screening during the 2-6:30 p.m. weekday happy hour for $3-$5 taps, rails and house wines, and $4-$6 eats. A daily late happy hour offers the same discounted grub. We suggest going easy on the liquids, but otherwise be sure to nab an aisle seat at the theater.
Crave
1603 West End Blvd., St. Louis Park • 952-933-6500 • www.craveamerica.com
The American fusion chain is a sound pick for cinephiles seeking cheap nosh. Various bites from sushi to Kogi beef tacos are $3-$5 during Crave's numerous happy hours (3-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 p.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. and 9-10 p.m. Sun.-Thu.). As for libations, enjoy $3-$5 select beers, $5 house wines, cocktails, sake and specialty drinks.
Figlio
5331 W. 16th St., St. Louis Park • 952-345-2400 • www.figlio.com
The longtime Uptown happy-hour fave has found a new home in the burbs, and that's a score for moviegoers. Enjoy a nightcap at this uprooted institution during its late weekend happy hours from 10 p.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday, or 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, featuring $3-$5 taps, $4 house cocktails, $5 specialty drinks and house wines, and $4-$6 food options.
