Classes are back in session at the University of Minnesota, which means two things: Students have returned, and so has the bar business. While the U is home to a plethora of drinking spots, the scene is usually unchanging and a bit dumpy. But there have been some shake-ups in recent years.
One longtime institution, Grandma's Saloon, closed this year. But on the positive side, the Varsity Theater continues to be a dominant destination for live shows. And while college students are known for their beer lust, the U has never had a serious beer bar (and one with good beer). With the rejuvenated Stub & Herb's and the relocated Acadia Cafe, it now has two.
These venues -- where a savory experience is more important than getting smashed -- show us that a college bar doesn't always have to be a college bar. That said, here are 10, traditional and nontraditional, that matter.
Stub & Herb's
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- The scene: When new owners took over last year, they let head bartender and beer geek Jon Landers run wild. He has transformed the once ramshackle place into a great beer bar. To stick out, Landers keeps the draft selection all-American -- showing that this country's craft beer landscape can stand on its own.
- Who's drinking: Beer lovers, graduate students.
- Best special: $3.50 pints during one long daily happy hour, 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. (plus 10 p.m.-midnight).
- View the full venue listing
Varsity Theater
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- The scene: This gorgeous space, run by the owner of the Loring Pasta Bar, has emerged as a favorite venue for a wide range of live shows. This month: Minus the Bear, Joan Osborne, Nikka Costa, Devin the Dude and more.
- Who's drinking: Anybody, depending on the show.
- Best special: $2.50 Pabst Blue Ribbon and Grain Belt nightly.
- View the full venue listing
Acadia Cafe
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- The scene: New to the corner of Cedar and Riverside, this transplant (from the corner of Nicollet and Franklin) gives students what they've been missing: a serious venue for singer-songwriters and an even more serious place for beer fans (28 taps and an impressive bottle list).
- Who's drinking: Boho musicians, beer connoisseurs.
- Best special: Different beer specials Sun.-Thu.
- View the full venue listing
The Library
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- The scene: When people say "college bar," this is what they're talking about. Three levels of hardcore partying. Almost 40 flat-screen TVs. One sardonic name.
- Who's drinking: Party animals of the fratty type.
- Best special: $1 drinks every night, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Sun.-Thu. and 9 p.m. -midnight Fri.-Sat. Selection varies.
- View the full venue listing
Nomad World Pub
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