Where to Eat on Your Birthday

Jason and Joy choose the best spots to celebrate another year

Restaurant recommendations from MnMo food critics Jason DeRusha and Joy Summers.


Joy’s Picks

Seriously, I’m about to turn 40 and I can’t decide where to go. We need great food, a modest room (unlike DeRusha’s block-sized blowout several years ago), and warm hospitality.

Saint Dinette: The ridiculously attentive service will make every diner feel like it’s their special day. The short menu still delivers on variety, from a cheese-sauce draped bologna sandwich to upscale interpretations of classic dishes inspired by locales along the Mississippi River. (Lowertown, St. Paul)

Volstead’s Emporium: You know what’s cooler than cool? Having a birthday in an actual speakeasy inside a secret room. If you can find it (look for the unmarked door with a red light above it), Volstead’s serves cocktails so good they earned the coveted Iron Bartender award—plus they have some tasty food. Get down there and scope it out for details on how to reserve the room. (Lyn/Lake, Minneapolis)

tattersall distillery, birthday dinners, restaurant recommendations, jason and joy, best bets, minneapolis
Tattersall co-founder Dan Oskey

Photo by TJ Turner


Jason’s Picks

Yes, Joy, I remember my 40th birthday party, it was only two years ago! If you don’t want to rent out the Fulton Brewery and throw a giant bash, you need a spot that says: I’m not that old, yet.

Surly Brewers Table: Pre-party in the incredible Surly Beer Hall with a super-hoppy Todd the Axe Man and some hog frites, then go upstairs for one of the best fine-dining meals in town. (Prospect Park, Minneapolis)

Tattersall Distilling: Knockout space, best cocktails in town, and a private party area? Book it for an event, or celebrate with a couple hundred new Northeast friends. (Northeast Minneapolis)