My Peace City | nonviolence & social change

By Sadie Norlean

The Twin Cities, Minnesota: known for its culture, charm, its originality, its liberal populous & activists, and- for hosting the Republican National Convention in 2008. One of these things is not like the other…one of these things just doesn’t belong. But, we will make the best of our situation, and welcome protesters from around the country to come and partake of our wonderful Twin Cities’ food, nightlife, and people.
It’s important to have some fun while taking a stand against the evils of this country whether it be drinking the night away, getting a caffeine fix, chowing down on great food, or just looking for some socialization in an alien state where our elongated pronunciation of vowels seems somewhat bizarre. Really, it doesn’t matter what group you identify with, if any at all, because we have a sanctuary for you.
If you happen to be a gay man looking for leather and “a stiff one”, The Eagle is where you want to be. This self proclaimed “leather bar” located downtown on Washington Avenue has another bar attached to it called The Bolt. The Bolt has occasional karaoke, and constant videos of a specific nature to enjoy as you suck down incredibly potent drinks. Down the block from The Eagle and Bolt is the Gay 90s. Notorious for its drag shows, dinners, multiple dance floors, and drinks of which you really only need one, The 90s is a blast for anyone gay or straight. Also in downtown Minneapolis is The Saloon, a smaller place with two rooms, a wonderfully relaxing patio, a dance floor, and a few computers along the wall with free internet access. Near Loring Park there is also the 19 Bar. A dimly lit, small place with extremely kind bartenders, a marvelous jukebox, pool tables, and a comfy smoking patio away from the music inside. For straight and
gay alike, across the street is Market BBQ full of eccentric bartenders, great food and an interesting crowd. Not looking for booze but still want to chill in a place full of people you can identify with? The Wilde Roast is a coffee shop in North East Minneapolis on the corner of Central and Hennepin where you’ll feel right at home.
If you’re spending most of your time in Saint Paul however, Camp Bar on Robert is somewhere you may want to check out with its karaoke, cabaret, and experienced bartenders. There is also a newer bar called Innuendo located on 4th Street boasting fantastic karaoke and a more upscale vibe than many other gay bars in the Twin Cities area. If you’re not near downtown Saint Paul and you’re looking for drag queens, good music, and some drinks, The Townhouse, Saint Paul’s oldest GLBT bar, is a spot you’ll want to hit located on University Avenue not far from I-94. Down University a mile or so is the Turf Club as well. Not a gay bar, but a place where anyone is welcome. A small stage sits at the back of the bar, all throughout are tables and booths, and in the front corner they have an oldschool photo booth. Mostly bands with a smaller following play frequently, but you’ll only hear good things at the Turf Club.
Now if you’re a chick who’s diggin’ the chicks, we have something for you as well. Pi is a bar and just general hang out where you can have food, some drinks, partake in some karaoke or dancing, and/or just relax. Located away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Minneapolis on 25th Avenue S near Riverside, Pi is a bit hard to find but once you’re there you’ll want to be staying awhile. Just down the road from Pi is The Hexagon Bar. Not a girl bar, but a great small music venue and bar with intensely interesting staff. One of which is Rose, a woman who looks to be around 70 years old, yelling at drunks with the best of them, and described by a fellow coworker as being “hardcore”. When asked how long she’s been working there, the only answer I could get was, “a very long time.” Not too far from Pi is The Kitty Cat Club on 14th Avenue in Dinkytown on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The Kitty Cat Club is a bar
that hosts a girl night called ‘Twilight’ full of comfortable couches, one huge bar, and a usually packed dance floor. If coffee is what you seek- you can get the good stuff and sit in a unique atmosphere at Vera’s; a coffee shop located on Lyndale Avenue near Lake Street. Another place for caffeine is 2nd Moon on E. Franklin Avenue with its eclectic atmosphere, relaxed vibe, and delightful coffee.
If you’re sporting a Subhuman’s patch, own a black leather jacket covered in pyramid spikes, or just really dig The Dillinger Four, head over to Cedar Avenue near 1-94, The Triple Rock is where you’ll find people like you. Not only do they have a stage, an incredibly unique atmosphere, an amazing vegan, veggie, and omnivore menu , but also…psst… one of the guitarist/vocalists of Dilliger Four is a bartender there. Speaking of Billy Morisette, he also runs one of the best music stores in the Twin cities area; Extreme Noise. I strongly suggest you check that out if you’re into the scene. Best selection of metal/punk/hardcore seen anywhere in the area and the volunteers who work there can pretty much answer any question you have on the topic. Another place you’ll find good music, interesting waitresses, booze, and good people is the CC Club on Lyndale. Whether you’re the type to socialize or the sit in the corner with a drink type,
there is always nonstop eye candy at the CC Club along with tables for larger groups. Across the street is The Bulldog; a bar with superb food and a good crowd. Usually a pretty hoppin’ spot on the weekends, and really any day of the week. All types of people frequent the Bulldog, which also makes it a great place to hang. One other non-bar destination I must mention is Arise!. Arise! is a radical and progressive bookstore on Lyndale Avenue where there are frequent musical events and speakers. Need a copy machine for flyers or cover art for a band’s promo CD? Screw Kinko’s, Arise! has one, and instead of ten cents per side you can use theirs for five cents a page.
If you don’t prefer any particular type of crowd and choose not to designate yourself to a specific group of people, there are plenty of places to chill such as First Avenue. A very well known music venue and bar, Prince, a native of Minnesota, frequented in the 80s and is actually where his movie Purple Rain was filmed. First Ave. has a fantastic dance floor and on any given night you could catch a local hip-hop show, a black metal show, and/or a punk, industrial, folk, sadcore, or hardcore show. I think you get the drift; there’s something for everyone on one of the stages or floors of First Avenue. If live music is your goal, check out the calendars at The Rock (Maplewood) and Station Four (downtown St. Paul) as well. Although they are a drive if you’re staying in Minneapolis, they always have awesome people around, drinks, and a super chill atmosphere. The Dubliner is another one of my favorite places in the metro area. It’s on West
University in Saint Paul, and if you didn’t pick this up from the name, it’s an Irish Pub. With a copper-top bar where you can literally see years of rings left from the drinks set upon it, a tiny stage, and if you’re lucky- you’ll catch an evening where you can take or just watch Irish dancing lessons. They also have live music at least once a week, usually Irish bands. If you haven’t heard Irish music, do yourself a favor and check out Flogging Molly, you won’t be sorry. One more bar I need to mention is the Dinkytowner. Over in the quaint neighborhood of Dinkytown (obviously), in the basement of a building, it has a small stage where, usually local, hip-hop artists perform or a DJ massages your eardrums with fantastic bass. The Dinkytowner has a unique and wonderful food menu and a few pool tables in the back. There isn’t a whole hell of a lot of seating, but if you check out the Dinkytowner, you won’t be sorry. For good
coffee head to Spy House on Nicollet which is also an art gallery. The work they have hanging seems to be carefully selected; each piece forces you to stop and look. Their seating is fantastic with couches, easy chairs, kitchen table like spots, and bar seats. Spy House also serves only great coffee.
If after you’ve had your fill of the last legal drug, the bars are a’closin’, you’re stumbling to a cab, bus, or light rail station and you realize you’re starving or you just have the “I’m drunk let’s eat” frame of mind, here are a few places I can guarantee will curb your munchies: (in Minneapolis unless mentioned to be in Saint Paul)Little Tijuana’s (Little T’s) on East 26th Street- Mexican food of course, huge portions, spots for large groups, open late, fun staff, great food.
Caffrey’s on Lyndale Ave. near Lake St.- Hot and Cold Subs, Salads and desserts. Open till 3 am, fast delivery also till 3 am, good prices, vegetarian options, and really, really good food.
Hardtimes on Riverside Ave.- Vegetarian Restaurant and Coffee House, extremely chill, alternative feel, vegan options, lower prices, and excellent desserts.
The Bad Waitress on E 26th St.- Coffee shop and restaurant, serves alcohol, great food, outdoor seating, unique atmosphere.
PIZZA:
Pizza Lucé in Uptown on Lyndale Ave., in Downtown on North 4th Street, Seward on E. Franklin Ave., and in Saint Paul on Selby- a very popular Minnesota chain, endless topping options, vegan options, pasta and sandwiches, great atmosphere, amazing desserts, serves alcohol, offers pizza by the slice, open late with late delivery also.
Uptown Pizza on West Lake St.- Great Pizza, is open and delivers late.
Mesa Pizza in Dinkytown on 4th St. SE- Pizza by the slice, cheap, huge slices, vegetarian options, tiny dining area, open till 3 am Thu. Fri. Sat. extremely unique toppings such as Macaroni and Cheese, Chicken Penné Alfredo (my own personal favorite), Black Bean, and Guacamole. By far the best pizza I’ve had in my lifetime.
6. Mickey’s Diner on West 7th Street, Saint Paul- Classic 1950s diner car, been around since just before W.W.II, is a historic landmark in Minnesota, open 24 hours, and was even featured in a few Hollywood movies. Of course…they also have some yummy yummy food.

BREAKFAST:
Al’s Breakfast on 14th Ave SE in Dinkytown- Open WAY early so if you’re up till the break of dawn there’s somewhere to eat, TINY place- sometimes you have to wait your turn because the place only seats around a dozen, an absolutely fantastic atmosphere, you watch them cook your food, small-town feel. If you look around Al’s there are hundreds of little yellow tab books from people who were low on cash and needed some eats. I really hope they actually pay them back once in awhile. Their food is completely worth the occasional short wait and you’ll be back whenever you can after eating at Al’s.
Our Kitchen on 36th St. W.- Small cottage-like place, you watch them cook your food, similar to the description of Al’s and nearing in tastiness. If you have a moment to listen to conversation while you eat, you’ll notice most of the people eating are regulars.
Uptown Diner on Hennepin Ave.- A larger restaurant serving breakfast all day, exceptional food (Crab Patty Eggs Benedict is mind-altering), comfortable and chill atmosphere, interesting and kind wait staff, open late.
Famous Dave’s on Lake and Hennepin- Don’t dismiss Famous Dave’s for breakfast or brunch if you’re not a big fan of the barbecue. They’re breakfast buffet is one of the best in town. Things like pecan sauce (heavenly), pancakes, waffles, egg casseroles quiche, and various sausages, adorn the buffet tables. Best of all, three dollar Mimosa’s. The Twin Cities, Minnesota: known for its culture, charm, its originality, its liberal populous & activists, and- for hosting the Republican National Convention in 2008. One of these things is not like the other…one of these things just doesn’t belong. But, we will make the best of our situation, and welcome protesters from around the country to come and partake of our wonderful Twin Cities’ food, nightlife, and people.
It’s important to have some fun while taking a stand against the evils of this country whether it be drinking the night away, getting a caffeine fix, chowing down on great food, or just looking for some socialization in an alien state where our elongated pronunciation of vowels seems somewhat bizarre. Really, it doesn’t matter what group you identify with, if any at all, because we have a sanctuary for you.
If you happen to be a gay man looking for leather and “a stiff one”, The Eagle is where you want to be. This self proclaimed “leather bar” located downtown on Washington Avenue has another bar attached to it called The Bolt. The Bolt has occasional karaoke, and constant videos of a specific nature to enjoy as you suck down incredibly potent drinks. Down the block from The Eagle and Bolt is the Gay 90s. Notorious for its drag shows, dinners, multiple dance floors, and drinks of which you really only need one, The 90s is a blast for anyone gay or straight. Also in downtown Minneapolis is The Saloon, a smaller place with two rooms, a wonderfully relaxing patio, a dance floor, and a few computers along the wall with free internet access. Near Loring Park there is also the 19 Bar. A dimly lit, small place with extremely kind bartenders, a marvelous jukebox, pool tables, and a comfy smoking patio away from the music inside. For straight and
gay alike, across the street is Market BBQ full of eccentric bartenders, great food and an interesting crowd. Not looking for booze but still want to chill in a place full of people you can identify with? The Wilde Roast is a coffee shop in North East Minneapolis on the corner of Central and Hennepin where you’ll feel right at home.
If you’re spending most of your time in Saint Paul however, Camp Bar on Robert is somewhere you may want to check out with its karaoke, cabaret, and experienced bartenders. There is also a newer bar called Innuendo located on 4th Street boasting fantastic karaoke and a more upscale vibe than many other gay bars in the Twin Cities area. If you’re not near downtown Saint Paul and you’re looking for drag queens, good music, and some drinks, The Townhouse, Saint Paul’s oldest GLBT bar, is a spot you’ll want to hit located on University Avenue not far from I-94. Down University a mile or so is the Turf Club as well. Not a gay bar, but a place where anyone is welcome. A small stage sits at the back of the bar, all throughout are tables and booths, and in the front corner they have an oldschool photo booth. Mostly bands with a smaller following play frequently, but you’ll only hear good things at the Turf Club.
Now if you’re a chick who’s diggin’ the chicks, we have something for you as well. Pi is a bar and just general hang out where you can have food, some drinks, partake in some karaoke or dancing, and/or just relax. Located away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Minneapolis on 25th Avenue S near Riverside, Pi is a bit hard to find but once you’re there you’ll want to be staying awhile. Just down the road from Pi is The Hexagon Bar. Not a girl bar, but a great small music venue and bar with intensely interesting staff. One of which is Rose, a woman who looks to be around 70 years old, yelling at drunks with the best of them, and described by a fellow coworker as being “hardcore”. When asked how long she’s been working there, the only answer I could get was, “a very long time.” Not too far from Pi is The Kitty Cat Club on 14th Avenue in Dinkytown on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The Kitty Cat Club is a bar
that hosts a girl night called ‘Twilight’ full of comfortable couches, one huge bar, and a usually packed dance floor. If coffee is what you seek- you can get the good stuff and sit in a unique atmosphere at Vera’s; a coffee shop located on Lyndale Avenue near Lake Street. Another place for caffeine is 2nd Moon on E. Franklin Avenue with its eclectic atmosphere, relaxed vibe, and delightful coffee.
If you’re sporting a Subhuman’s patch, own a black leather jacket covered in pyramid spikes, or just really dig The Dillinger Four, head over to Cedar Avenue near 1-94, The Triple Rock is where you’ll find people like you. Not only do they have a stage, an incredibly unique atmosphere, an amazing vegan, veggie, and omnivore menu , but also…psst… one of the guitarist/vocalists of Dilliger Four is a bartender there. Speaking of Billy Morisette, he also runs one of the best music stores in the Twin cities area; Extreme Noise. I strongly suggest you check that out if you’re into the scene. Best selection of metal/punk/hardcore seen anywhere in the area and the volunteers who work there can pretty much answer any question you have on the topic. Another place you’ll find good music, interesting waitresses, booze, and good people is the CC Club on Lyndale. Whether you’re the type to socialize or the sit in the corner with a drink type,
there is always nonstop eye candy at the CC Club along with tables for larger groups. Across the street is The Bulldog; a bar with superb food and a good crowd. Usually a pretty hoppin’ spot on the weekends, and really any day of the week. All types of people frequent the Bulldog, which also makes it a great place to hang. One other non-bar destination I must mention is Arise!. Arise! is a radical and progressive bookstore on Lyndale Avenue where there are frequent musical events and speakers. Need a copy machine for flyers or cover art for a band’s promo CD? Screw Kinko’s, Arise! has one, and instead of ten cents per side you can use theirs for five cents a page.
If you don’t prefer any particular type of crowd and choose not to designate yourself to a specific group of people, there are plenty of places to chill such as First Avenue. A very well known music venue and bar, Prince, a native of Minnesota, frequented in the 80s and is actually where his movie Purple Rain was filmed. First Ave. has a fantastic dance floor and on any given night you could catch a local hip-hop show, a black metal show, and/or a punk, industrial, folk, sadcore, or hardcore show. I think you get the drift; there’s something for everyone on one of the stages or floors of First Avenue. If live music is your goal, check out the calendars at The Rock (Maplewood) and Station Four (downtown St. Paul) as well. Although they are a drive if you’re staying in Minneapolis, they always have awesome people around, drinks, and a super chill atmosphere. The Dubliner is another one of my favorite places in the metro area. It’s on West
University in Saint Paul, and if you didn’t pick this up from the name, it’s an Irish Pub. With a copper-top bar where you can literally see years of rings left from the drinks set upon it, a tiny stage, and if you’re lucky- you’ll catch an evening where you can take or just watch Irish dancing lessons. They also have live music at least once a week, usually Irish bands. If you haven’t heard Irish music, do yourself a favor and check out Flogging Molly, you won’t be sorry. One more bar I need to mention is the Dinkytowner. Over in the quaint neighborhood of Dinkytown (obviously), in the basement of a building, it has a small stage where, usually local, hip-hop artists perform or a DJ massages your eardrums with fantastic bass. The Dinkytowner has a unique and wonderful food menu and a few pool tables in the back. There isn’t a whole hell of a lot of seating, but if you check out the Dinkytowner, you won’t be sorry. For good
coffee head to Spy House on Nicollet which is also an art gallery. The work they have hanging seems to be carefully selected; each piece forces you to stop and look. Their seating is fantastic with couches, easy chairs, kitchen table like spots, and bar seats. Spy House also serves only great coffee.
If after you’ve had your fill of the last legal drug, the bars are a’closin’, you’re stumbling to a cab, bus, or light rail station and you realize you’re starving or you just have the “I’m drunk let’s eat” frame of mind, here are a few places I can guarantee will curb your munchies: (in Minneapolis unless mentioned to be in Saint Paul)

Little Tijuana’s (Little T’s) on East 26th Street- Mexican food of course, huge portions, spots for large groups, open late, fun staff, great food.
Caffrey’s on Lyndale Ave. near Lake St.- Hot and Cold Subs, Salads and desserts. Open till 3 am, fast delivery also till 3 am, good prices, vegetarian options, and really, really good food.
Hardtimes on Riverside Ave.- Vegetarian Restaurant and Coffee House, extremely chill, alternative feel, vegan options, lower prices, and excellent desserts.
The Bad Waitress on E 26th St.- Coffee shop and restaurant, serves alcohol, great food, outdoor seating, unique atmosphere.
PIZZA:
Pizza Lucé in Uptown on Lyndale Ave., in Downtown on North 4th Street, Seward on E. Franklin Ave., and in Saint Paul on Selby- a very popular Minnesota chain, endless topping options, vegan options, pasta and sandwiches, great atmosphere, amazing desserts, serves alcohol, offers pizza by the slice, open late with late delivery also.
Uptown Pizza on West Lake St.- Great Pizza, is open and delivers late.
Mesa Pizza in Dinkytown on 4th St. SE- Pizza by the slice, cheap, huge slices, vegetarian options, tiny dining area, open till 3 am Thu. Fri. Sat. extremely unique toppings such as Macaroni and Cheese, Chicken Penné Alfredo (my own personal favorite), Black Bean, and Guacamole. By far the best pizza I’ve had in my lifetime.
6. Mickey’s Diner on West 7th Street, Saint Paul- Classic 1950s diner car, been around since just before W.W.II, is a historic landmark in Minnesota, open 24 hours, and was even featured in a few Hollywood movies. Of course…they also have some yummy yummy food.

BREAKFAST:
Al’s Breakfast on 14th Ave SE in Dinkytown- Open WAY early so if you’re up till the break of dawn there’s somewhere to eat, TINY place- sometimes you have to wait your turn because the place only seats around a dozen, an absolutely fantastic atmosphere, you watch them cook your food, small-town feel. If you look around Al’s there are hundreds of little yellow tab books from people who were low on cash and needed some eats. I really hope they actually pay them back once in awhile. Their food is completely worth the occasional short wait and you’ll be back whenever you can after eating at Al’s.
Our Kitchen on 36th St. W.- Small cottage-like place, you watch them cook your food, similar to the description of Al’s and nearing in tastiness. If you have a moment to listen to conversation while you eat, you’ll notice most of the people eating are regulars.
Uptown Diner on Hennepin Ave.- A larger restaurant serving breakfast all day, exceptional food (Crab Patty Eggs Benedict is mind-altering), comfortable and chill atmosphere, interesting and kind wait staff, open late.
Famous Dave’s on Lake and Hennepin- Don’t dismiss Famous Dave’s for breakfast or brunch if you’re not a big fan of the barbecue. They’re breakfast buffet is one of the best in town. Things like pecan sauce (heavenly), pancakes, waffles, egg casseroles quiche, and various sausages, adorn the buffet tables. Best of all, three dollar Mimosa’s.