When you’re a college student, finding the perfect date night spot that won’t break the bank can be a real challenge. Luckily, the University of Minnesota area is teeming with delightful venues and experiences that are perfect for a memorable and budget-friendly date night. Whether you’re a freshman looking to impress someone special or a long-term couple seeking a new adventure, here are some of the best date night spots near the University of Minnesota.
1. Stepchld
Rating: 4.5⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheap-Medium
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Description/Tips: Stepchld is an elevated haunt with industrial features, wall art, and plant accents, offering a fusion of diverse cuisines paired with an excellent wine selection. Located in The Meritex Company, this restaurant provides a stylish atmosphere for your date night. Service options include dine-in, kerbside pickup, and delivery. For a glimpse of their menu and the opportunity to make reservations, visit their website at stepchld.com.
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2. Owamni by The Sioux Chef
Rating: 4.7⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheap-Medium
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Description/Tips: Owamni is a polished restaurant that specializes in Indigenous cuisine, offering a unique menu that includes tacos, sandwiches, and salads. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to explore Indigenous flavors. While they don’t offer delivery, you can make reservations through resy.com. Located at 420 S 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States.
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3. Red Rabbit Minneapolis
Rating: 4.6⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheap-Medium
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Description/Tips: Red Rabbit is a rustic-chic spot that combines craft cocktails and wine with a delectable menu featuring pizzas, pastas, oysters, and Italian small plates. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a casual date night, Red Rabbit has something for everyone. They offer dine-in, takeaway, and no-contact delivery options. Explore their menu at redrabbitmn.com.
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4. The Cove
Rating: 4.6⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheaper-Medium
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Description/Tips: The Cove is a casual counter that offers custom poke bowls, rice bowls, and a variety of Asian-fusion eats, including sushi burritos. Located in Venue at Dinkytown, it’s a great spot to enjoy Asian flavors in a relaxed setting. They provide dine-in, kerbside pickup, and no-contact delivery services. For more information, check out their menu at thecovempls.com.
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5. Bar La Grassa
Rating: 4.7⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Medium-Expensive
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Description/Tips: Bar La Grassa is an acclaimed Italian eatery that presents a delightful array of pastas, small plates, and an extensive wine list in a bustling and lively space located in the TractorWorks Building. Perfect for an Italian-themed date night. They offer dine-in and takeaway services. Learn more about their offerings at places.singleplatform.com.
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6. The Beacon
Rating: 3.6⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheaper-Medium
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Description/Tips: The Beacon is a gastropub that offers refined, region-influenced small plates along with craft brews, all served in a woodsy-chic atmosphere. Located in Graduate Minneapolis, this warm and inviting neighborhood gastropub is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can find their menu on graduatehotels.com.
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7. Spoon and Stable
Rating: 4.7⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Medium-Expensive
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Description/Tips: Spoon and Stable is a hip pick for a French-inspired menu served in a cozy, rustic-chic vintage carriage house. This restaurant offers dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services. Located at 211 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States, it’s a great place for a romantic dinner. Explore their menu at spoonandstable.com.
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8. Northeast Social
Rating: 4.5⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheaper-Medium
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Description/Tips: Northeast Social is a relaxed bistro featuring refined American and Continental cuisine, plus a playful tiki bar. Located in PNA Hall, it’s an ideal spot for a casual yet delightful date night. They offer dine-in, kerbside pickup, and delivery services. Learn more about their offerings at northeastsocial.com.
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9. The Test Kitchen
Rating: 4.8⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheaper-Medium
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Description/Tips: The Test Kitchen is a versatile restaurant that provides various service options. You can explore their menu and place orders for takeaway and delivery at thetestkitchenmn.com. Located at 825 Washington Ave SE Suite 101, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States.
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10. Stub and Herbs
Rating: 4.2⭐ (Google)
Pricing: Cheaper-Medium
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Description/Tips: Stub and Herbs is a longtime collegiate haunt offering burgers and other pub grub, plus happy hour specials and a wide selection of tap choices. Located in the University of Minnesota area, it has been a campus landmark since 1939. For more information, visit their website.
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