DOWNTOWN. Popular with sports fans for its beer selection and plenty of wide-screen TVs, the 508 transforms into a dance club on Fridays and Saturdays. A great place for singles, the 508 has fantastic happy hour prices and no cover charge.

UPTOWN. Ropes and saddles foster a Southwestern theme at this upscale hangout, furthered by delicious Tex-Mex cuisine and a truly exhaustive tequila selection (about 100 brands). A pleasant patio provides a place to eat and drink on temperate evenings, but you'll probably want to move inside as the night progresses and the singles scene picks up. Choose from a healthy array of beers on tap, or get in the spirit with a signature margarita like the Green Iguana ­ one of over 25 'rita choices. DJs get your toes tapping on weekends.

UPTOWN. Named in honor famed French circus performer Vander Clyde, this edgy-yet-cozy neighborhood spot is a terrific place to soak in some European vibes, enjoy expertly-prepared cookery, and sample amazing selections of wine. Local and organic ingredients figure prominently in the daily offerings, whether it's a delicious breakfast-something or free-range organic pork. Other tidbits worth noting: great happy hour prices on appetizers, wine and taps Monday-Friday and frequent live music.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. The cozy neighborhood spot, owned by "three guys who love beer," features what may very well be the best selection of brews in town. More than two dozen varieties are available on tap (predominantly domestic craftbrews and European imports), and the bottles list includes everything from PBR to Czechvar. Indeed, they take their beer so seriously that almost every one is served in its own customized glass, and some can top $15 for a single bottle. If the need to feed arises, Buster's kitchen serves pizzas, burgers, and even a few "blue plate"-style mains.

UPTOWN. Part of a chain of Famous Dave's restaurants, this establishment took a Chicago-style blues club as its model rather than the usual Southern eatery. Sandwiches and platters include Texas beef brisket, North Carolina chopped pork, and notable St. Louis-style ribs. You'll also find a full bar, along with live jazz almost every night thanks to local bands. National acts appear several times a month. On Sunday and Monday, the music runs from 8pm till 11pm; otherwise, performances are from 9pm till 12:30am.

UPTOWN. Since Prohibition days, this dive has been around in one incarnation or another, serving strong drinks in a no-frills, locals-friendly atmosphere. Often smoky or crowded, it's a great place to ease into a gin & tonic while you jam to indie and punk tunes from one of the best jukeboxes in town (it's not really conducive to intimate conversation). Drink specials are frequent and worthwhile. Sassy, smart staff and miniscule bathrooms add to the place's odd charm.

DOWNTOWN. Come for a late dinner and conveniently bypass the cover charge at this simple yet elegant music room and restaurant. A respectable roster of jazz and blues acts keeps folks, especially couples, coming back, as do the chef's innovative takes on Midwestern specialties. Sip a selection from the above-average wine list while you ease back amid smooth grooves in the relaxed atmosphere. An outdoor mezzanine provides opportunity to mix and mingle without disturbing diners and musicians. Call for jazz club schedule and pricing.

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.

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!