Saint Paul's Best Dive Bars

Simplistic in nature and easy on the pockets, these shabby joints are your go-to spots for a true dive bar experience. It's here where you’ll find dim lights, cheap drinks, and a piece of the local community.

Burger Dive

There’s an abundance of dives in this little pocket of the city but start the day with this one that serves breakfast alongside the beer and booze. Burger Dive moved into this historic space and upgraded the menu with its namesake burgers, but the crispy fried chicken wings with giardiniera aioli are the secret star of the menu, alongside affordable drinks and a blessedly dark interior.

Gopher Bar

This watering hole has been a staple in the Lowertown community since the 30s. Stop in for a sip and stay a while to delve into its most iconic item on the menu, the Coney Dog.

Grand 7

This comfy bar has been serving West 7th for over 40 years. Since Grand 7 is not far from downtown, it can get a little rowdy before events, but that’s alright. Just grab a cheap beer and settle in for a good long drink.

Half Time Rec

Half Time Rec was voted one of the best bars in America by Esquire in 2026! Walking into the establishment, the bar dominates the room. As it should be. The weathered bar top bears the scars of years of drinks. Scrape back at a chair and order up an affordable beer or cocktail. There’s a full food menu that’s worth exploring, stacked with fried goodies to take the edge off a beer or few. For those who like a drinking activity, the basement bocce court is always a good time.

Skarda's

This long-standing neighborhood bar is known for its laid-back atmosphere and simple, yet essential, bar amenities including a jukebox, pool table, dart boards, TVs to catch the big games, and of course, Heggies pizzas.

Skinner’s

It’s best to enter this bar from the parking lot. The door, simply marked with an address, leads right into the heart of Skinner's, with 70s-era mirror backed and staffed by folks who know a regular’s drink order before they make it to an available seat. The kitchen turns out grade-A bar snacks including a legendary pizza and crispy chicken wings.

Sweeney's Saloon

A fool and his money are always welcome at Sweeney's! Established in 1979, this Art Deco bar welcomes locals and visitors to pull up to the counter to enjoy a lineup of iconic bar fare, a cold pint, and good comradery.

The Spot Bar

This joint is an icon in the city; The Spot is a small dive that has zero ambition to be anything other than a watering hole untouched by time. Look for the Hamm’s and Pig’s Eye signs on Randolph and don’t be surprised if heads turn to take in a newcomer. Settle in, order a beer or a shot, and soak in the vibe.

Turf Club

The Turf Club is one of the best venues to catch a local show and the subterranean clown lounge is a true legend to local drinkers. There’s music every night of the week, including some bigger traveling shows. Check the schedule and head down for local band nights, strong drinks, and Saint Paul swagger.