Best Craft Beer Shops In Minnesota
The craft beer scene is alive and well. For those craving a cold one in the Twin Cities, you're in luck as more and more stores line their shelves with beer from small, independent breweries. The best-of-the-best can be found on our list below. Craft beer lovers can also check out WCCO's choices for Best Craft Beer Happy Hours In Minnesota.
Lakeside Wine + Spirits
1916 W. Wayzata Blvd.
Long Lake, MN 55356
(952) 404-2500
www.lakesidewineandspirits.comFolks in the western suburbs can find an impressive number of craft beers, including Minnesota-made brew, at family-owned Lakeside Wine + Spirits. The store's beer buyers, Jim and Dana, stock unique selections for those wanting to try something new and hard-to-find. If you're looking for a particular craft beer, they likely carry it or will happily order it for you. In Lakeside's unwavering quest to help you find a beer you'll love, the store even does regular beer tastings in-house or at private parties.
Lowry Hill Liquor Store
1922 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 871-2500
www.lhlwine.com
Lowry Hill was one of the first to stock Minneapolis-based craft beer favorite Surly. In fact, the store carries as much Minnesota-made beer as possible. The team at this family-owned business has a knack for seeking out the tastiest and hottest new brews. Lowry Hill's beer buyers Mo and T.R. try all the new craft beers to find that hidden gem and love sharing their latest favorites with customers. Stop in for one of the shop's tastings or contact them to put on a private tasting for a special event or party. You can event count on Lowry Hill to cater all the booze and suds you'll need for your wedding!
The Four Firkins
8338 3rd St. N.
Oakdale, MN 55128
(651) 414-6216
www.thefourfirkins.com
The education The Four Firkins staff receives on craft beer is what makes this store a stand-out in this niche. You'll always find a knowledgeable salesperson to help you track down a new brewski to suit your palate. The shop also pays special attention to protect its beers from U.V. light to keep them tasty for all of its beer-savvy customers. If you're not in the east metro, The Four Firkins also has a flagship location in St. Louis Park.
Related: Best BYOB Restaurants In Minnesota
Elevated
4135 Hiawatha Ave.
Minneapolis, MN
(612) 208-0973
www.elevatedbws.comElevated has a wide assortment of indy-made brews lining the shelves of its Minneapolis store. If you have questions about what to drink and why, certified beer servers in the Cicerone Program can help you make your selection. Want even more ale info? Check out Elevated's beer podcasts, blogs and radio shows to learn more about the craft beer craze and which brown bottles to pick up the next time you are in the store.
South Lyndale Liquors
5300 Lyndale Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55419
(612) 827-5811
www.southlyndale.com
South Lyndale Liquors carries beer from a wide variety of small, independent brewers from all over the world. Local breweries like August Schell, Blacklist and Mankato are also featured. Those who can't make it to South Lyndale can have their favorite craft suds shipped right to their door. Just buy online or call the store for a convenient delivery.
Related: Best Margaritas In Minnesota
Cortney Mohnk is a freelance writer covering all things Minnesota. She is also a public relations and event planning professional. Her most important job is mother to her young daughter, who is her partner-in-crime when checking out the family entertainment scene in the Twin Cities. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
