Volstead's Emporium

Staff, atmosphere, vibes, cleanliness, taste was all great! I got the Minnesota goodbye it it was the most tastiest whiskey drink ever! It's a sweet tea like drink with no bitterness smooth and light and refreshing. It's not your typical South sweet ice tea but I couldn't ask for a better drink if you want something light! My party also ordered me espresso which was one of the most best tasting espresso martinis! And we also got a pink drink which was a trat refreshing drink with a brightness to it! Super cute highly recommend for a date hight! (It's a speakeasy and to find it jist go to the back of the building and knock on the metal door!)

Look for red light in alley. Drinks good but not the best. Definitely speakeasy vibes but a little dingy. Kyoto Sour the best out of the three drinks (Old Fashioned and The Lost Empire) ordered.

Amazing food and atmosphere! The speakeasy concept was fun and the staff is so kind. The chef went above and beyond to make me a vegan dish. Best gnocchi I have ever had, highly recommend! Our drinks were delicious and the staff was helpful in narrowing down what we would like. If I lived closer, this would be my new go to for fancy dining/drinks. Cannot recommend enough!!

The cocktails were tasty, but The Martinis were microtinis the same $15 but half the size (I hate this trend) service was fantastic and there are three false doors inside. It really had the feel of a true speakeasy. We will be back (despite the small martinis)

I love the concept of this place, though even with reservations and all the pre-planning that goes into a date night, it was still a bit tricky to find—we even opened the door to a completely different restaurant by accident. I think the ambiance and secrecy would still hold strong even if there were a slightly clearer map to the entrance [ SEE REVIEW PHOTO]. Those of us who plan the outing can be in on the joke while keeping our friends or dinner dates in the dark, which adds to the fun. Once inside, we enjoyed two excellent cocktails, a delicious charcuterie board, and the standout baked onion dip with toast—highly recommend. Overall, a memorable and enjoyable experience. Highly recommend reservations to secure a spot and help the staff.

New owner is crushing it and really turning this place around! She brought in a new chef and the menu is incredible. The drinks are amazing and overall vibes are great in there. Love seeing this place thrive.

Love that the new owner is elevating everything about this place! Amazing experience, food, and drinks. The entire vibe is really swanky and fun. Every time I come here, it’s a good time.

Was here with a larger group for dinner in the "coal room". Firstly they didn't put out the correct number of chairs so the entire room had to be re-arranged to fit all the guests. It was also oddly warm considering this place is in a basement. Then they weren't offering their full menu as represented on their website. It was a much smaller menu due to their oven being broken. Nowhere on their website does it mention this. The dish I ordered was good but much too small to be a satisfying dinner so had to get food elsewhere as our group moved on with our evening. Cocktails are not overly expensive except they are very small for what you get. We only had one server for a group of 24 people so it took a ridiculous amount of time for us all to receive and pay our bills. I would not recommend this place for a large group, maybe you would have better luck with a small group at a regular table and not in a private room.

Gorgeous place with delicious drinks and SOLID service. Definitely worth making a reservation beforehand. They live up to the speakeasy vibe beautifully. The live music on the evening I went was a little loud for my taste, but I imagine it's different depending on the band that's in. I will still absolutely return again!

GROSS. Like racism? Hit up Volstead's! Have been here multiple times before and have really enjoyed it. Never again. Tonight we encountered the new white bespectacled door man who looked us up and down and slammed the door. The mix of our party was different tonight and the door guys made that clear. 15 people out, only a couple particular white people in.

I was hoping to write a nice review, but the door man ruined that. Saturday night, the d-bag door man screamed at an older gentleman with a cane that was moving too slow up the stairs for his liking. Extremely disrespectful and distasteful. I run 29 buildings, and I would not hire that door man if he was free. I am not sure if the door man is trying to "act" or "play a part" because it is a speakeasy, but he is a total jackass.

Wow. This speakeasy has all the vibes. Doorway in alley complete with sliding peephole to verify guests. The ambiance was excellent and we were sat next to a hidden room which you gained access through a bookshelf. Most important were the cocktails! We each had two and each one was perfectly balanced and expertly created. My naked and famous was the best version I've had. I had another pear forward drink from the menu and it was delicious. My husband went with dealers choice which was bourbon based. He loved it!

We had such a nice time at Volestead's Emporium. The private room in the back was TOO COOL. All of the girls in the party were super surprised and thrilled when we got lead back behind the fake fireplace and into what felt like a bank vault. The waiters were really nice and treated us well despite how late it was. We had to wait a little while to get in, but it was worth it. I ordered one of their craft cocktails whose name is escaping me, but it was tart and yummy. I want to say it was the Pink Slip. Everybody liked their drinks and there is quite the variety. I loved how hidden this location is. Really gives you the authentic speakeasy experience.

If any of you long for the brunch that Charles used to serve at the now destroyed Town Talk diner, you can find it here. Charles came over to temporally helm Volstead's menu! The Jonny cake, the Smoked Brisket Hash, and the classic rolled omelet! Took us right back to TTD times that we enjoyed so much. Can't wait to try out his dinner menu.

While a password isn't required for entry, Volsteads Emporium may be the best, most true to theme, "speakeasy" in the cities. From the back alley entry that leads you down into a basement of a 100 year old building, to the trap doors and passages taking you to hidden rooms, and the food and drink menu disguised in hard bound books - this place will have you taking a step back in time. The service was outstanding and made the entire experience in my opinion. The bartender took time to answer any questions I had about the cocktail menu and explained where some of his inspirations came from in building the menu. Beyond that, the manager took time to show my buddy and I around, giving us a little tour of the space and all the fun hidden areas. I had two different drinks and loved them both. Then my friend and I shared some mulled wine and that was also fantastic. We didn't eat on this visit but given the amount of passion I got from the bartender and manager I am guessing the food is also very good.

Stopped in for a few cocktails and the were great. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate. The staff was courteous and friendly.

Absolutely loved it. The drinks were nice and the service was good. What a nice vibe and they had a live band. Would 10/10 recommend

I love coming here for the ambiance, live music and drinks. Finding the secret door is challenging but is located in a back alley near a residential parking lot. When you enter, you feel like you travel to the 20s era. The band is always great and the vibes are elite.

Went for Jazz Brunch. Cast iron pancake was the highlight. 10/10 would get again. Fun place. Bit hard to find but we got there.

Still one of my favorite bars in uptown. I love bringing friends here for their first time experiencing a speakeasy. The drink menu changes every few months, by season-- so I always have something new to try. They have live music on the weekends, great music that adds a lot to the ambience. Definitely a great date spot as well. I will continue recommending them!

Finding parking on a Friday night in Uptown is less than stellar. Once you find a spot, the challenge doesn't stop there. You'll then walk through alleys, knocking on random doors and finally stumble upon the right door to this speakeasy. Once inside, you finally get to relax. The interior is "on theme" with the speakeasy feel: intimately lit, 1920s-esque finishes, and a grand piano in the corner. Service was responsive and helpful throughout our experience. The gimmick of the speakeasy theme is the only real winner here though...as the food and drinks were subpar, and frankly, done WAY better at other locations around the Cities. I had the Old Fashioned, and there was nothing upscale about it: no fun ice cube, no special garnish, no smokeshow. I expect more from a $14 Old Fashioned. The Flatbread was alright, decent serving for the price, and some fun flavor. A cute spot for a date if you're in the area, but wouldn't go out of my way to stop here again.

If you're looking to have a consistent great experience look no further. This place has been a staple of birthday hangouts for me, and I've taken people here for their birthdays as well. This place has always been a hit and never a miss. As soon as you get there it's a fun time even outside as you knock at the door to await the slide of a slot that opens with a person greeting you to step in. The door opens and you walk down the stairs ro be transported back into the days of prohibition. This speakeasy provides you with amazing drinks at fair prices and delectable food and most of the time the sound of live music fills the air. This place is truly unforgettable and a must see if you are planning to have a night in Minneapolis!

You absolutely need to visit Volstead's Emporium. I made a reservation for a small group and we had a fantastic time. Was a highlight of our early January trip to Minneapolis! The theming and atmosphere were exceptional. The drinks were superb and we are now all obsessed with the Belgian coffee syphon used to make hot cocktails! A fantastic place to spend a few hours out. Highly recommend.

First things first is definitely make sure you get a reservation, and look up how to get there based on other reviews. You need to go through an alley through the back buildings until you see a light, follow the light and knock on the door and soon you'll be entered. My sister made reservations for us on a Friday evening around 7:30 PM. I was a little skeptical when I was checking through back alleys trying to find this restaurant, but once inside I was overly impressed. It definitely gives off an old-time vibe. We were lucky enough to be seated in a booth where you could close the curtains and have a totally private experience. We were a little startled when the mirror opened and our food was given to us through a hidden compartment. Talk about prohibition! Drinks were really good, and seem to have a little something for everyone. As a vegetarian, I didn't find a lot on the menu that I could eat, this would be the one thing I would change. Otherwise the table enjoyed the charcuterie board, bacon wrapped figs, and skewers. (skip the popcorn) This is definitely a place I would bring someone who is visiting to. The overall atmosphere and fun vibe makes for a great evening out. If you haven't checked it out yet you should!

Order the cornbread! Seriously it's unbelievable. Very interesting place with an underground speakeasy vibe. I'd come back. Keep an eye on the mirrors, some are doorways. Also, does anyone know what's up the stairs?

Foods good, shouts out to my boi Tyler. Burger is fire no cap the lamb I got on VD was like butter. NA drinks got me swerve. My old ass needs some light tho. WHERE THE LIGHTS AT? Go here for a lit time

Wanted to love this spot, but sadly could not. The wait to get in (even with a reservation) was around an hour. I understand they want to make you wait as part of the "speakeasy experience," but we had a reservation, a member of our party had a broken leg, and we were outside in the cold for an hour. This doesn't seem right. Once inside, we had friendly service and decent, yet overpriced, drinks. The food was ok. I tried a flatbread pizza which was slightly cold with very few toppings on it. My friend tried the cheeseburger, which was alright but fairly standard. The service was slow and the bill was high. Speakeasy vibes were there and the ambiance was nice, but that was really the highlight for me.

Loved this place and I would have never known where it was so thank goodness for the line of people! Go down and alley and look for grey door with face slot in it. Cute underground location, live music, decent food, great drinks and very friendly staff! I would definitely go again. If you have reservations don't stand in the long line, go to the door, knock and let them know you have reservations.

Has to be one of my favorite speakeasy's I've been to yet! The ambiance and vibes in there are amazing. You really get a cool feeling being in there. They also have secret rooms and if you sit in the booths you get cool access to getting your food! I only got drinks here which were pretty pricey but it was an experience I was paying for too so I cannot argue. They also have live music which is always fun when grabbing drinks. I love coming here!

Very unique experience. Worth the effect. A bucket list place for sure! This a unique experience hiding in our midst.

Great Atmosphere! Great drinks! Great Food! The environment has certain mystic feel. My first time going I was impressed with the back door entrance that you had to knock to get in. Then the eye slot in the door opens to check out the scene like in the movies. Once inside it's dim lit and classy feel.

Went out of our way to get here on a Sunday just to find out it was closed despite the hours stating they were open until 2:00AM... checked multiple sources to confirm hours as well. I wish this place would keep their info up to date. What a disappointment.

Such a magical place! It's like stepping into a speakeasy from the 20s! The place has so many cozy spots and nooks, and is decorated with authentic antiques. The biggest surprise is how good the food is- I mean normally a place like this would phone it in- but the food here is spectacular! They have fresh squeezed juices for their one at a time made cocktails. They make their own ice-cream which reminds me of ice cream in Italy. The ingredients are high end. I asked the chef about the flourless chocolate tort and Ofcourse he uses a special ultra high end chocolate. It's a very cool place to go if you want to impress someone

We made a reservation for here at 9am and were placed at the worst table when we arrived at 8pm. We asked to move to another table after 10 minutes. At the new table we still weren't served so I asked for a waitress after 20 minutes. We got THE nicest waitress named Hannah who was sweet, kind, accommodating, and basically made our experience 3 stars from 0. She deserves a raise. This place is cool, but you need to ask for the tour of the secret rooms or you'll be given an average experience. The other waitress who took our order, completely forgot and we waited way too long for our stuffed mushrooms. When we reminded a few times, finally got them, they were aaaaamazing. Like SO GOOD. To summarize, this place has potential, but I would not waste my money here. Find better service elsewhere. Might come back. Only if hannah is working.

The have good beer, cool book shelves, secret doorways, and fantastical rooms. Check it out if you can find it. The first time I went I almost left because I couldn't locate the door.

The atmosphere, food, and drinks were all great. Only negative was the significantly downsized food menu. Since portion sizes have always been on the smaller side, having a few more options, especially side dishes, would be appreciated.

Visiting Volstead's is one of the purest dining experiences Minneapolis has to offer. From the second you walk down the alley and knock on the door with the red light, to your last sip of a premium cocktail accompanied by some smooth Jazz, Volstead's is a great date night and small group gathering place!

Actually a very cool place! Classic hidden bar u go down the alley and turn, turn! Pass the troll. Find a metal door and knock! Bar is downstairs, very dark very cozy. When we were there there was jazz so that was nice. Drinks are decent, food is meh. It's really for the vibe that you are going for.

It takes a little bit of work to find the front door of this place (check the pictures that others have posted) but it's so so so worth it! Unequivocably the best cocktail experience I've had anywhere but Las Vegas. Wonderful dark tones in the room, an expertly crafted selection of ingredients, bartenders that take their time to make a cocktail right, soft jazz playing, tasteful lighting effects, all add up to a magnificent experience. I went with their "JP" cocktail, made with Aquavit as the primary spirit. It was terrific, wonderful complex flavors and a nice easy finish. I sat at the bar and was in thralled watching the bartenders practice their craft. Prices are reasonable considering the quality of ingredients being used. I'd probably go at least once or twice a month if this place was in my hometown.

First off I would have given 5 stars but their service is pretty slow, including getting your drinks delivered. However, the wait is worth it. The drinks are very well made as well as all the entrees. I had the lamb skewers and they were very well seasoned and super tender. The stuff mushrooms were a bit on the small side but were also very delicious. Just a tip, if you want to sit at a table or especially in a booth you better make reservations, otherwise you'll be sitting at the high top tables. If you have never been here before head down the alley off lake street, make a left behind the building and then another left at the giant air conditioning machine. There will be an unmarked door with a little slide window on it and a red light above it. Also they are very strict on their policy of being over 21 to enter, they will check every persons ID.

Food was delicious, mocktails were okay. Definitely a fun vibe for a unique night out

Always a fun night at Volstead's! From their secret little nooks and crannies to their exemplary service and food we can count on Volstead's to deliver again and again. We also love the enclosed booths as they elevate private dining to a whole new level! Thanks so much, Cheers

Drinks : absinthe drink tasted super harsh and was very overpriced in my opinion. I also had the specialty rum cocktail and it was the most interesting rum drink ive ever had. It tasted exactly like rum but it didn't have any type of burn after you swallow the drink. Sooo weird. I thought mine was worth the price but I don't think I'd get it again. Food: the appetizers were amazing. We had the bruschetta and shishito peppers and both were so stinkin' delicious !!!! Portions were good and everything tasted like it was quality ingredients. Yummm. I recommend getting a few for the table to share! Atmosphere: this is why I gave this place a 5. I've never been to a speakeasy that looked this much like an underground house. It was super dark inside but everything was lit by candles so it automatically made the place seem super romantic (would totes be perfect for a date!) and the furniture and decorations all made me feel soo fancy and like I was in a different time period. I would recommend dressing up a little even if it's just for fun :) there weren't tons of options for big groups, but I had a group of 8 and we didn't have to wait for a table. We must've lucked out!

I admittedly have a thing for speakeasies. Besides the back alley way to get here... visiting by myself, i felt right at home. An intimate basement location with great lighting and even better music and drinks. Bartenders were friendly and able to recommend things I would like based on menu drinks I ordered. They even took the time to give us a tour. Wonderful people and great classic drinks.

I've been to Volstead's several times. This is one of my group's go-to spots. We love the atmosphere there the most out of the speakeasies we've been to. There are great drinks, service, and live music on certain nights. Tip: making a reservation beforehand is the way to go (this way you don't have to wait outside in line). Drinks prices are about average for a fancier cocktail place. Also, their food is impressive too (menu changes occasionally). Definitely come here if you want to impress a date or just switch things up with your friends. There are fun booths with mirrors were wait staff will serve you from (my fave).

Our favorite cocktails were the bubbly blossom if you like champagne and the autumn nights if you like bourbon and honey. This speakeasy Bar has a neat vibe and cool ambiance. They have neat booths that only fit four people so this place is better for smaller groups. We had no trouble finding it since previous reviews were really detailed with the directions. And I didn't think the ally was scary at all since it's not that long and there were a lot of people walking around. The ally is off of Lake street between Aldrich and Lyndale. We parked on Bryant and just walked about 5-7 min. Expect to stand in line for about 10-15 min if you get here at 10 PM on Saturday night in the winter months so dress warm! The place is kinda small so I understand why they have to form a line so that it doesn't get too crowded. They want everyone to have a seat! We noticed that it cleared out more at around 11-11:30. Our group of six ended up having two bar tables pushed together which wasn't ideal but that's all that was available at the time. It's a good place to come with good friends but isn't the place to pick up people if that's your goal. Some of the bathrooms have a see through window so if you want a free toilet show then come here. Their cocktail menu is constantly changing as well and prices range from $10-$12. The drinks are unique and tasty! This is easily one of the best bars in Minneapolis. I'm glad there are places like this popping up around here now!

Of all the businesses I've reviewed, I've given ~1% of them a one-star rating. And usually that's because I felt wrongfully discriminated against. I excitedly walked to Volstead's with a group of friends. When asked for IDs at the door, I showed my passport. The dude at the door asked if I had any other form of ID, and I was puzzled but offered my bank and credit cards. But nope, he said my passport was not acceptable proof of being 21+, even though it is universally THE most valid form of identification across the world? It seemed so ridiculous to me that I thought it was a joke at first, but then he stone-cold turned me away. Backstory: I don't need to explain myself, but I didn't have my driver's license on me because I wasn't driving that night and passports are obvs legit. Also insightful: I've had a handful of similar experiences across the country... where a doorman lets in all of my white friends barely glancing at their IDs, but then stops me and won't accept mine. Just saying. Sad I'm getting the same vibes at a MPLS establishment I once respected.

OVERALL: One of my favorite places in the cities and I continue to go back again and again. I almost didn't want to review because it's already busy enough! ATMOSPHERE: this entire place is so cool. All the details put into this speakeasy do not go unnoticed. From the booths that have mirrors that flip up, to a secret room past the bookshelf or phone booth...it really makes it feel real. Especially having to go down an alley to get here! SERVICE: the person at the door always is in character and I appreciate that so much. DRINKS: I have yet to eat anything here but my favorite drink is the She's My....which tastes like, well, cherry pie. The other drinks are very strong so consider ubering or having a DD! PRICE: each drink is about $10.

This was an experience in the best way possible. A hidden (on purpose) gem right in Lyn Lake. Between Lyndale and Aldrich Ave on Lake Street is a little alleyway--take it. About 1/3 the way down (heading towards W 31st), veer left into a little pocket where there is a few parking spots, a dumpster, and a few doors. Go in to your left and you'll see a grey door with a slat across-eye level. This is how the bouncer will check to see who you are. If you come on a popular evening or weekend time, you may also find a long line, which will obviously give it away. Be ready to show IDs--21 and over only. I highly recommend making a reservation if you're planning to go--we got a high-top for four at 6:30pm on a Friday evening, but wanted a booth (you get served out of a framed mirror on the wall!). Reserve a table at: reservations@volsteads.com. Upon entering, you go down the stairs and enter the magical world that awaits you. Dimly lit (like super dark--we used phone flashlights to read the menus), dark, Victorian decor, and couples whispering to each other while sipping cocktails makes the ambience everything and more. Everyone who works here isn't just a waiter or waitress or food runner -- they play a character and a role in the experience. Our waiter was exceptional and spoke in hushed, distinctive formal tones that added to the atmosphere. He recommended cocktails and make sure our first experience here was nothing short of magical. I got the Leave It To Me gin cocktail, which was pink and fun and boozy. The Matador is a strong tequila cocktail. The fog cutter is a fun and potent cocktail that comes in a unique glass. They were not overpriced at all and were delicious and fun. We got the house chips (served with a french onion dip) and olives, which was a great start with the cocktails. For dinner, we shared 4 small plates. shishito peppers, stuffed mushrooms, cauliflower, and meatballs. The stuffed mushrooms were delicious, and the cauliflower was perfectly done with delicious creamy cheese sauce. We saw waiters come out of mirrors on the wall, found the telephone booth where if you have a private party, you enter into a secret room, and ooh-ed and aah-ed at the bartenders whipping up fabulous drinks. 10/10 recommend for a friend coming into town you're trying to wow, or something a local who has "done it all" has never done, and everyone in between.

So unique and fun! A bit hard to find, you have to go through a creepy alley. The drinks here are always solid and the wait staff is always willing to create a drink if you don't see anything on the menu that truly fits your drinking needs. Their food is pretty solid as well. They change up their menu quite often. The atmosphere of this place is just amazing. Definitely a hidden gem in uptown. If you are trying to impress a date this is the place.

I come here often the drink section is phenomenal. The low lights energy is perfect for smaller dates or get togethers. They are typically quick with getting food and drinks out like the hummus a lot as well. Also very nice and friendly staff.

So I've been here twice, it's pretty good. The place is a lot of fun. The drinks are good and the atmosphere is almost unimpeachable! The only flaw is that some of the food items are not quite there. Maybe that's not the point of the place, but they could improve a little for dining.

Amazing place that everyone in Minnesota should visit at least once, if not every month! Both drinks and food are amazing, and it has the coolest atmosphere ever! Try to find the peacock room, or better yet reserve it as a private room for parties around the 4-7 people count. Excellent live music too! Thanks Andrew

This is a speakeasy with no signage on the outside. The front entrance is a gray door with a red light above it behind a building in an alley. There is a little eye-slot in the door they can open to see who is outside. We showed up around 9pm on a Saturday night and got in pretty quickly. We had cocktails and sat near the stage. There was no live music that night but there was music piped through the speakers. The cocktails were excellent! Fresh and and on point. I loved the "Leave it to Me". Try it. Service was slow but friendly. Guests sitting at the tables next to us were also very friendly and talkative. This place is unique. Great atmosphere. Neat place.

A fun speakeasy that isn't that difficult to find (go all the way to the back of the building). We actually got more lost inside because there were 3 doors at the bottom of the stairs (it's the one in the middle and on your left). The environment was fun and there drinks were interesting. Our favorite was and Autumn drink that was on the menu. It "tasted like Fall". We were there early so it wasn't too busy, but there was still live piano music. We also didn't get to try much of the food--only the stuffed mushrooms, which were good but quite heavy.

Checked this place out with my gf a couple weeks ago. Super cool spot with great aesthetic appeal. Strong drinks with a secret entry much like you would expect from a speakeasy. Only gets 4 stars because of unfriendly wait staff.

It is one of those speakeasy bars. 1. Hard to find I arrived at the place following the address and when you arrive, the address is right but the glass door was closed. I had such hard time finding the place. Turns out, you are supposed to go around the creepy 'Criminal minds' episode must be filmed here alleyway and pass some creepy big dumpsters one can dump your body. Especially when I first visited this place, it was cold, pitch dark day in February. Imagine how creeped out I was walking alone. Truly questioned if it was worth going to. 2. Long lines There's a really long line at the door. You have no clue when you will get in. Thankfully in my case, my friends were inside, so they came out to bring me in. Everyone who was standing in that line hated me and gave some major looks. 3. Drinks were good They had some interesting drinks, mostly gin based. Food was okay. 4. Very loud You need to be prepared to shout some major time and you will certainly have sore throat the next day. Extremely loud even though there was no show or anything that day. 5. Interesting interior/ hidden room Everyone was obsessed about some magical secret room which gets unlocked by the telephone booth. Naturally I had to find it and we did. Those who are wondering.. secret room picture is posted here and it has a two-way-mirror. Those who are sitting in the smaller room does not know they can be watched. All in all, it's an interesting place worth trying once. Can be fun if you come with friends. Hate how loud it was though, I got really tired from the noise.