Best Upscale American Restaurants in Minneapolis | Upscale American Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale American Restaurants in Minneapolis | Upscale American Food

• Volstead's Emporium — American · rated 5/5: Hidden behind an unassuming facade, this clandestine retreat transports guests to the height of the Prohibition era with its dim, amber lighting and plush velvet seating. Masterfully crafted cocktails and artful small plates take center stage, served against a backdrop of soulful jazz that echoes through the intimate, wood-paneled space. It is a sophisticated haven where the thrill of the underground meets modern culinary refinement, perfect for an evening of whispered conversations and timeless indulgence.
• The Kitchen by Baked Brands — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood destination pulses with a creative energy where the nostalgia of custom cereal bowls meets the bold, savory allure of slow-cooked stuffed turkey legs. The kitchen balances soulful indulgence with modern vitality, serving up crisp vegan cauliflower wings alongside refreshing sea moss smoothies and vibrant cold-pressed juices. Whether you are settling in for an all-day breakfast or a nutrient-packed pick-me-up, the atmosphere invites a playful yet nourishing escape from the everyday.
• Public Domain — American · rated 5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of Edison bulbs and the rhythmic pulse of an urban soundtrack, Public Domain serves as a vibrant social hub where industrial textures meet a sophisticated, communal spirit. Here, the boundaries between kitchen and guest dissolve over artfully composed plates of seasonal fare and meticulously balanced cocktails, creating an atmosphere where every seat feels like the center of a shared culinary discovery.
• Blue Door Pub — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood haunt invites guests through its namesake entrance into a space buzzing with energy and the irresistible aroma of bubbling fryers and searing griddles. The experience centers on playful indulgence, from the satisfying crunch of golden-brown "totchos" and beer-battered pickles to the legendary "Blucy" burgers that reveal molten, savory hearts with every bite. It is a sanctuary of elevated comfort food where cold drinks and inventive, shareable snacks like the spicy Latin Kisses create the perfect backdrop for spirited conversation and casual cravings.
• Dual Citizen Brewing — American · rated 5/5: This sun-drenched taproom pulses with a communal energy, inviting neighbors to gather over a diverse spectrum of pours that range from cloud-like hazy IPAs to crisp, crystal-clear lagers. The air is alive with the clink of glasses and the vibrant aromas of citrusy hops and tart summer berries, creating a welcoming sanctuary where experimental sours and spiced winter ales celebrate the evolving art of the craft.
• Falling Knife Brewing Company — American · rated 5/5: This modern taproom pulses with a creative energy, where the industrial gleam of brewing tanks meets a warm, communal atmosphere designed for spirited discovery. The experience flows through a diverse tap list that ranges from the crisp, old-world precision of a Freischütz lager to the playful, neon-bright nostalgia of the Grape Vape sour. Whether sipping on the hazy, tropical depths of Hidden Temple or the bold intensity of Cosmic Trailblazer, guests are immersed in a sensory journey that celebrates the art of the pour and the joy of a shared pint.
• Savory Bake House — American · rated 5/5: The air inside this sun-drenched neighborhood haunt is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted grains and melting butter, drawing passersby into a space filled with the warmth of a glowing oven. Artisanal doughs are transformed into golden, flaky masterpieces that marry rustic textures with bold, savory depths, offering a soulful experience that celebrates the timeless craft of the baker.
• Cosmi Coffee — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through floor-to-ceiling windows at Cosmi Coffee, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the rich, nutty aroma of freshly ground beans create a serene sanctuary for the modern urbanite. Patrons linger over velvety lattes and artisanal pastries in a space that balances sleek, minimalist aesthetics with a welcoming warmth, making it an ideal retreat for a quiet morning reflection or a spirited mid-day catch-up.
• Dutch Bar — American · rated 5/5: Stepping into this moody, wood-paneled retreat feels like discovering a hidden corner of Amsterdam, where the warm flicker of candlelight dances across a bar stocked with botanical gins and artisanal spirits. The air hums with the low murmur of a discerning crowd enjoying golden-hued snacks and masterfully shaken cocktails, offering a sophisticated yet soulful escape from the bustling streets outside.
• Sociable Cider Werks — American · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched industrial bones and a sprawling, lively patio set the stage for this vibrant neighborhood hub where the crisp snap of dry-hopped ciders meets a spirited, communal energy. Effervescent, apple-forward pours range from bone-dry to botanical-infused, creating a refreshing backdrop for afternoons spent lingering over bold food truck fare and the constant hum of friendly conversation.
• Wise Owl Cafe — American · rated 5/5: This intellectual sanctuary invites guests to retreat into a world of soft lamplight and well-worn wooden tables, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of roasted beans and freshly baked treats. Sunlight dances across cozy reading nooks as the kitchen turns out wholesome, hand-crafted plates that nourish both the body and the mind, creating a peaceful haven for quiet reflection or spirited conversation.
• Gold Room — American · rated 5/5: The Gold Room pulses with a vibrant energy, drawing guests into a stylishly bold setting where the air is thick with the savory aroma of Southern-inspired indulgence. Tables overflow with shareable treasures like zesty buffalo shrimp and crisp fried green tomatoes, while decadent bowls of spice-kissed Cajun pasta offer a soulful heart to a menu built for social dining. It is a place where every bite—from the crunch of golden-fried okra to the rich, melted pull of loaded Philly fries—celebrates the joy of comfort food elevated by a touch of modern flair.
• Treats — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this whimsical neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted flour and melting chocolate. Every bite serves as a celebration of life's small luxuries, from buttery, flakey layers to rich, velvety finishes that turn a simple afternoon into a decadent escape.
• Marty's Deli — American · rated 5/5: Marty’s Deli hums with the rhythmic sound of the slicer and the comforting aroma of griddled eggs, welcoming guests into a bright, bustling space where the art of the sandwich is elevated to a craft. From golden, overstuffed breakfast rolls that kickstart the morning to towering lunch stacks layered with premium meats and crisp, garden-fresh greens, every paper-wrapped creation delivers a satisfying harmony of textures and nostalgic flavors. It is a neighborhood anchor where the simple joy of a perfectly constructed meal turns a quick midday break into the soulful highlight of the day.
• May Day Cafe — American · rated 4/5: May Day Cafe is a sun-dappled neighborhood gem where the sweet perfume of freshly baked pastries and spiced breads fills the air, inviting guests to linger over buttery, fruit-studded danishes and hearty, golden-domed muffins. From the vibrant tartness of raspberry-cranberry jam to the comforting, earthy warmth of sweet potato and zucchini breads, every bite celebrates the simple, soulful joy of artisanal baking in a welcoming, community-focused space.
• Fletcher's Ice Cream & Cafe — American · rated 4/5: This sun-dappled neighborhood gem welcomes visitors with the irresistible scent of buttery, hand-pressed waffle cones and the deep, nutty aroma of freshly pulled espresso. Artisanal scoops in a kaleidoscope of inventive flavors share the spotlight with delicate pastries and savory cafe staples, creating a whimsical retreat where every bite feels like a celebrated childhood memory.
• Pumphouse Creamery — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood gem celebrates the purity of local agriculture, churning farm-fresh dairy into velvety scoops that sing with the vibrant, honest flavors of the season. The sweet, caramelized aroma of hand-pressed waffle cones fills the air, drawing guests into a nostalgic space where every artisanal creation offers a cool, creamy escape from the everyday.
• Bogart's Doughnut Co. — American · rated 4/5: This minimalist, sun-drenched shop invites guests into a world of buttery aromas where the art of the brioche doughnut is elevated to a meticulous craft. Each golden, hand-stretched pastry boasts a cloud-like texture, finished with sophisticated glazes like their signature nutty brown butter that melts on the tongue for a refined take on a classic morning indulgence.
• Boom Island Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant taproom blends industrial charm with a soulful spirit, where the rhythmic pulse of live jazz often fills the air and gleaming fermentation tanks stand as a backdrop to lively conversation. Guests gather around communal tables to explore a sophisticated lineup of Belgian-inspired ales, each pour revealing complex layers of spice and toasted malt that celebrate traditional brewing artistry in a warm, community-focused atmosphere.
• My Burger — American · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with the irresistible sizzle of the griddle, where hand-pressed patties are seared to savory perfection and tucked into buttery, toasted buns. Vibrant toppings and melted cheeses invite diners to craft their own ideal bite, all enjoyed within a bright, modern space that celebrates the simple, soulful joy of a classic burger paired with a thick, hand-spun shake.
• Coffee & Tea Ltd — American · rated 4/5: This storied haven for caffeine connoisseurs envelops visitors in the intoxicating perfume of freshly ground beans and sun-dried tea leaves, creating an atmosphere of refined, old-world charm. From the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine to the precise pour of a delicate oolong, every cup is a masterclass in tradition, offering a serene escape where the art of the steep and the roast takes center stage.
• Uncommon Grounds Coffeehouse — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across weathered wood and local art in this vibrant neighborhood sanctuary, where the deep, nutty aroma of small-batch roasted beans fills the air. It is a place to linger over velvety micro-foam and crusty, hand-rolled bagels, finding a cozy corner to embrace the rhythmic hum of the espresso machine and the warmth of a community-focused morning ritual.
• George and the Dragon — American · rated 4/5: This quintessentially British-inspired retreat welcomes guests with the warmth of polished wood, flickering candlelight, and the spirited hum of a neighborhood gathering spot. The kitchen elevates comfort to an art form, sending out golden-crusted savory pies and succulent roasts that fill the air with the rich, nostalgic aromas of slow-simmered gravies and seasonal herbs. Whether settling into a cozy leather booth with a perfectly poured pint or sharing a refined plate of modern pub fare, diners find a timeless sanctuary where old-world charm meets contemporary culinary craft.
• Milkjam Creamery — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant, neon-lit sanctuary pulses with a playful energy, inviting dessert lovers to explore a world of avant-garde frozen treats and boozy infusions. The air carries the sweet scent of warm, glazed donuts being pressed into signature "Jam Buns" filled with velvety, imaginative scoops, creating a sensory playground where artisanal craft meets a hip, urban aesthetic.
• Mapps Coffee and Tea — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across the minimalist counters of this serene sanctuary, where the rich, earthy aroma of direct-trade beans mingles with the delicate floral notes of expertly steeped specialty teas. Every pour is a ritual of precision and passion, inviting guests to slow down and savor the nuanced flavors of a meticulously crafted brew in an atmosphere of quiet, modern elegance.
• The Prodigal Public House — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into The Prodigal Public House feels like a soulful homecoming, where the amber glow of low-hanging lights dances across dark wood accents and the air hums with the spirited clink of raised glasses. The kitchen breathes new life into classic comfort, turning out hearty, chef-driven plates that celebrate bold flavors alongside a meticulously curated selection of craft ales and botanical cocktails. It is a sanctuary of conviviality that invites guests to tuck into cozy corners and lose track of time amidst an atmosphere of effortless warmth and timeless hospitality.
• Cardigan Donuts — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched sanctuary wraps guests in the nostalgic aroma of warm yeast and toasted sugar, offering a sophisticated twist on the classic donut shop experience. Hand-crafted treats—from airy, cloud-like brioche to dense, spice-kissed old-fashioneds—glimmer in the display case like edible jewels, perfectly paired with a velvety pour of artisan coffee. It is a place where culinary whimsy meets morning ritual, inviting a moment of pure, sugary indulgence amidst the bustle of the day.
• Buch Fermentary & Taproom — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant taproom, where the air is alive with the crisp, botanical scents of house-brewed kombucha and artisanal ferments. Guests gather around communal tables to explore a rotating rainbow of effervescent pours, each glass offering a refreshing balance of tangy complexity and seasonal brightness that celebrates the ancient art of fermentation in a modern, social setting.
• Iron Door Pub — American · rated 4/5: Step through the heavy, industrial threshold into a lively sanctuary where the clink of pint glasses and the hum of spirited conversation fill the air. Golden light spills over reclaimed wood tables laden with elevated comfort fare, from crackling-crisp appetizers to hearty, slow-cooked classics that pair perfectly with a rotating selection of craft brews. It is a neighborhood anchor that balances rugged charm with a soulful warmth, inviting guests to linger long after the final pour.
• HeadFlyer Brewing — American · rated 4/5: This airy, industrial-chic sanctuary invites guests to unwind amidst soaring ceilings and sun-drenched communal tables, where the crisp scent of hops fills the vibrant, social air. It serves as a lively hub of neighborhood connection, where a diverse array of meticulously crafted pours—ranging from citrus-forward ales to rich, velvety stouts—celebrates the art of the perfect pint in a space that feels both effortlessly cool and warmly welcoming.