The Best Breweries in Minneapolis

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I’m calling it – Minneapolis is basically the Portland of the Midwest (or, at the very least, of Minnesota). It’s got an impressive amount of outdoor activities, restaurants to satisfy any foodie, a thriving arts community, and plenty of hipsters. On top of all that, Minneapolis has an enthusiastic craft beer scene that you definitely shouldn’t sleep on. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, flavorful porters, Bavarian-style brews, or you just want to find the best brewery with food, this guide has you covered. These are all the best breweries in Minneapolis and what makes each one so special.

This is your guide to the best craft breweries in Minneapolis.

Note: There are so many fantastic breweries throughout the Twin Cities and its suburbs, but this guide focuses specifically on the best of the best in Minneapolis proper.

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The Best Breweries in Minneapolis

Bauhaus Brew Labs

The atmosphere at Bauhaus is probably my favorite in Minneapolis (although Able is very, very close). Named after a world-famous, post-WWI art and design school, the tenets of creativity and artistic experimentation can be felt throughout the taproom and beer list. The brews here are German-inspired but usually with a creative twist. The industrial, string-lit patio is perfect on a warm day, and its large parking lot and historic location also make this spot a go-to.

P.S. If you’re curious, like we were, the neon-lit greeting above the bar is pronounced ge-moot-lik-kite. There isn’t a direct English translation, but it refers to the warm feelings of good cheer, peace of mind, kinship, and coziness (similar to the Danish “hygge”.)

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Dangerous Man Brewing Company

You absolutely must – MUST – try the peanut butter porter at Dangerous Man! All of the beers here are pretty spectacular, but the peanut butter porter is definitely a fan favorite. While they don’t have any food on-site, there’s plenty in the area that you can bring in (including Young Joni right next door – one of the best restaurants in Minneapolis). The taproom itself is pretty run-of-the-mill, although I do really appreciate the large wall painting of the hipster muskie.

NOTE: Starting October 21, 2023, Dangerous Man will be closed temporarily while they find a new taproom location.

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56 Brewing

56 Brewing loves its Minnesota roots. This is made clear by the use of local ingredients in their brewing and the gigantic wooden Minnesota wall art next to the taps. Their spacious taproom is perfect for the colder months, but, come summer, they also have a fantastic patio and garden area. Located a bit more out of reach than other Minneapolis breweries, this spot has remained a bit of a hidden gem, but 56 Brewing is just that – a gem.

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Indeed Brewing Company

Indeed has quickly become one of the most prominent breweries in Minneapolis. While they’ve always got a few solid mainstays on tap, they really shine with their eclectic and seasonal offerings. They’ve got a huge patio space for the summer months, but one of my favorite aspects about this brewery is that they commissioned local artist, Chuck U, for all of their brewery and beer can art. His work is truly something to marvel at.

If you’re hungry and don’t want to hit up whatever food truck is on-site (or if you happen to come on a non-food truck day), I highly recommend heading across the street to Centro for some fantastic tacos.

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Modist Brewing Co.

Modist doesn’t really follow the rules when it comes to brewing, which results in some tasty and unique brews. What’s more – Modist also features a custom-built brewhouse that enables them to brew with a fraction of the water and energy usage of a traditional brewery. Boom! The art and vibe in the taproom are perfect, but Modist doesn’t have much of a patio space, so plan to sit inside on your visit.

You won’t find any food here, however, Modist is right around the corner from an outstanding food hall. Pop over to Graze Provisions + Libations before or after your visit to grab a bite from one (or two) of the many delicious food stalls.

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Pryes Brewing Company

Pryes always seems to have at least a couple of beers on tap that make my taste buds go crazy. And with the cozy taproom, large patio, and the state’s first feather bowling green (think a cross between curling and bocce ball) this is one of my favorite breweries to stop at during any season. The on-site kitchen is nice to have if you’re in need of some fuel, but I would recommend sticking to the pizza over other options on the menu.

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Surly Brewing Co.

Surly is synonymous with the craft beer scene in Minneapolis. Not only is this the local beer you’ll find in every restaurant, but it’s also the company that changed the course of craft beer history in Minnesota. It was Surly’s founder, Omar Ansari, who helped pass the bill in Minnesota that allows craft breweries to operate taprooms – a law now known as the Surly Bill. The craft beer scene in Minnesota as we know it today wouldn’t exist without Surly.

Surly’s taproom is now a Minneapolis destination in and of itself. With a huge beer hall, incredible food menu, upstairs pizza restaurant, and possibly the best outdoor patio in the city, it’s easy to see why. All of that is held up by the fact that Surly beer is also really, really good. They’re most well-known for their ultra-hoppy Surly Furious IPA, but the long list of other inventive and consistently delicious taproom brews is what keeps locals coming back time and time again.

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Utepils Brewing

The Bavarian-style beers at Utepils (pronounced OOH-ta-pilz) are some of the most unique in the city. This is due, in part, to the use of spring water drawn from historic wells and custom equipment imported from Bavaria. In addition to the stellar brews, the Utepils taproom continues with the Bavarian theme, making for a pretty cool atmosphere. The outdoor Beer Garden, complete with fire pits, is also the perfect spot to spend a nice evening.

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Wild Mind Artisan Ales

Wild Mind is a go-to spot for IPAs and sour beers. The colorful aesthetics lend themselves to the fruity brews, and the open garage doors, large lawn, and dreamy patio lights make this the perfect place to relax with a refreshing beer in the summer. If you’re hungry, make sure to check the food truck schedule before you come. There aren’t really any restaurants within walking or delivery distance.

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BONUS: Sociable Cider Werks

While not a brewery, Sociable is still worthy of a mention on this list. I typically find ciders far too sweet, but Sociable’s Freewheeler Dry Cider has a spot in my fridge every autumn. If you’re keen on fruity, sweet ciders, however, don’t worry! Sociable has plenty of those as well. And while most breweries are undoubtedly more fun to visit during patio weather, Sociable offers something a bit unique during the long Minnesota winters. This cidery is home to quite possibly the largest free parking lot in Minneapolis, and come winter, part of it becomes an ice rink where they host broomball and curling leagues as well as open skate nights!

Up-and-coming Twin Cities chefs are also hosted in Sociable’s resident food truck. While it is a rotating kitchen, they host the chefs for up to a year, so you can expect consistently great food any time you visit.

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Whether you’re a local looking to cross off your Minneapolis brewery bucket list or a visitor who wants to sample the best brews in the city, these are the can’t-miss breweries in Minneapolis! This list may grow as new breweries open up, so definitely check back for the latest and greatest the city has to offer.

Are there any breweries you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments!

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