THE BEST OF THE REST

Porter & Frye: It opened in a downtown dead zone, but this restaurant inside the Ivy is worth a look for its excellent drinks list. (1115 2nd Av. S., Mpls., 612-353-3500, porterandfrye.com.)

Chambers: Made a comeback this summer with a remodeled courtyard. Look for the ice bar to return this winter. (901 Hennepin Av., Mpls., 612-767-6900, chambers minneapolis.com.)

Bank: Inside the Westin sits this big, beautiful and underappreciated bar. (88 6th St. S., Mpls., 612-656-3255, bankmpls.com.)

St. Paul Grill: Classic bar, classic bartenders, just plain classy. (350 Market St., St. Paul, 651-224-7455, stpaulgrill.com.)

Cosmos: This standout at the Graves is more restaurant than bar, but it remains timeless. (601 1st Av. N., Mpls., 612-312-1168, cosmosrestaurant.com.)

FireLake: Located inside the downtown Radisson, this is where your rich uncle comes to drink in style. (31 7th St. S., Mpls. 612-216-3473, firelakerestaurant.com.)

TOM HORGEN