DOWNTOWN. Built in 1902 for Gluek's Brewing Co. of Minneapolis, this establishment is modeled after traditional Bavarian beer halls experienced by the company's founder. Today, it's the only place in town that serves Gluek's on tap. Expect laid-back crowds, easygoing good times, and even live music and karaoke from time to time. The menu offers typical American and German fare, including wiener schnitzel, ribs, bratwurst, and burgers. By all accounts, smoked lake trout with cheese is a favorite appetizer.

DOWNTOWN. Ike's plays up the supper club concept quite well with its vintage booths, hardwoods, kitschy framed memorabilia, and even old school-caliber mixed drinks. Burgers (good ones) and shakes characterize the afternoon offerings, and the kitchen serves up a handful of larger portions in the evenings ­ usually including a steak, blue plate special, and seafood dish. Eating aside, one look at the bar will tell you this retro spot is good destination for evening cocktails, and if you come during the work week, expect awesome happy hour prices on eats and drinks.

Channeling the vibe of a retro big city lounge, the Imperial Room is great for both avid clubbers and guests that simply want to unwind with a cocktail. If you prefer a subdued atmosphere, sip your favorite drink and order a great meal in the Imperial Room. For the true club experience, head to the Imperial Lounge, which features a DJ, dance floor and comfortable seating. Open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the Imperial Lounge features fun weekly events such as Industry Night and the Martini Music Lounge. Be sure to stop by during your visit to Bloomington.

Featuring crystal chandeliers and Cristal, Karma is clearly a posh, upscale nightclub. In the vein of some of Minneapolis' trendiest haunts, this club features sleek, modern décor, luxurious VIP seating and valet parking. A 50,000-watt sound system blasts hip hop, drawing patrons to the dance floor, and the energetic atmosphere flows to the outdoor patio. Special events fill the calendar and always attract a large number of clubgoers. Come dressed to impress because Karma abides by a dress code.

DINKYTOWN. You don't have to be a Keegan to taste the stout at this University Avenue pub, but it'll certainly earn you some cool points if you brush up on your Irish history and aren't afraid to sing a song or two. The only pub in the state to receive the Irish Pub Concept designation from the good folks at Guinness Brewing, Keegan's boasts a lovely Edwardian interior that was actually designed and built by craftsmen in Waterford and transported to the US in 2002. From the fireplace down to the wall coverings, Keegan's is as Irish as they come!

DOWNTOWN. Around since the mid-1990s, this attractive pub remains one of the most popular gathering places in the town. The decor is as authentic as can be ­ dark-stained wood, bric-a-brac celebrating Ireland in general and Guinness specifically, and a beautiful bar. There's live music on the weekends (usually Celtic) and a traditional session on Wednesday nights beginning at 9pm. Other forms of weekly entertainment include trivia nights, book clubs, open mic nights, and even poetry slams. On Sunday game days, Kieran's opens at 5pm, and a special late-night menu is available from Thursday to Saturday after 10pm.

UPTOWN. One of few wine bars in Minneapolis, and arguably the best, Lucia's is a charmingly intimate 30-seat venue, elegantly outfitted with mirrors and contemporary artwork. The bar presents an excellent selection of beer and wine, while the restaurant serves upscale appetizers, light, fresh fare and divine desserts. Their red, white and sparkling wines hail from around the world, and patrons can sample them by the glass and by the bottle.

NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS. Professional wrestler Stan Myslajek unleashed his monstrous roast beef sandwiches at Mayslack's in 1955, and ever since, this bar has been a neighborhood favorite. Local hipsters flock here to enjoy the old-school atmosphere, the drink specials and terrific live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

WEST BANK. A popular stop in the West Bank neighborhood of Minneapolis, Nomad World Pub has earned its stripes by offering folks terrific happy hour specials and a wide slate of entertainment each week. Visit on Mondays for team trivia night, or stop by any other evening for a surprise: Nomad's management books everything from DJs and hip-hop acts to New Orleans-style jazz throughout the week. The beer selection here is also impressive, to say the least.

DINKYTOWN. A cozy spot on the street corner of a buzzing neighborhood, Northeast Social has all of the lively, urbane tension that makes eating, drinking and meeting people a delight. A concise, but well-chosen selection of wine and beer serve to compliment eclectic and nuanced dishes. A kitchen that's open after 10pm makes this gastropub a must for late-night indulgences.