Best March Madness Dining

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


Jason’s Picks

How’s your March Madness bracket looking? A disaster? Who cares when you’re watching the game at these spots.

Shamrock’s Irish Pub: Why are you waiting in line at The Nook when you can get the best burgers and Juicy Nookies in town right here? Bonus: Free popcorn. (West 7th, St. Paul)

Halftime Rec: Classic St. Paul bar vibe meets incredible food. Paddy Shack at the Rec has the best fish & chips in town, and tons of TVs. (Como, St. Paul)

Joy’s Picks

Even if you’re not a hoops fan, the excitement inside these bars is infectious.

Skinner’s Pub: It’s a family owned dive bar with proper Midwestern thin crust, square-cut pizzas. Order the mound of fresh-fried tortilla chip nachos and a crazy cheap BOMB (Beer of the Month). (West 7th, St. Paul)

Lyon’s Pub: Downtown thumping music, huge TVs and some of the most reasonably priced beer and munchies in the 55402. (downtown Minneapolis)