Rochester, MN is a treasure trove of eclectic restaurants, bars, and pubs that offer cocktails you can only find here. Whether you want to decompress after work or enjoy a night out with friends, you’re sure to find a libation that hits the spot. Here’s our list of the five unique Rochester cocktails you’ve got to try.
Knobs & Hollers at The Half Barrel
The Half Barrel is a Rochester favorite where you can enjoy some of the world’s finest whiskeys in a casual, friendly environment. With a massive menu of over 400 scotch, bourbon, and blended options from the U.S. and abroad, there’s a selection for every palate. Sure, you can order a classic old fashioned, but may we suggest the Knobs & Hollers?
This proprietary twist on the classic cocktail blends the essential ingredients whiskey, sugar, and bitters in the form of Single Barrel Knob Creek bourbon, demerara sugar, and Dashfire Old Fashioned bitters. Add in a splash of top-shelf chocolate liqueur Tempus Fugit créme de cacao and a dash of cacao nib tincture for added chocolaty goodness. The result is a sensory experience that combines the warmth of an old fashioned with the spicy goodness of vanilla and cinnamon undertones. This one’s not on the regular menu anymore, so make sure to ask for it by name.
Location: 304 First Ave. SW
Hours: 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday
100 Year Old Cigar at Olde Brick House
A local staple, the Olde Brick House is an Irish pub in downtown Rochester featuring an Old World architectural style that combines comfort and class. Known for its authentic Irish fare like corned beef and cabbage and shepherd’s pie, it’s also home to some delectable drinks. If you’re looking for a fun alternative to your usual pint of Harp, consider the Olde Brick House’s very own 100 Year Old Cigar.
Don’t let the name deceive you. It might have the flavor and appeal of a vintage cigar, but it’s all rolled up into cocktail form. This bespoke libation is a meticulous blend of rum, whiskey, and bitter spirits reminiscent of aged tobacco. It starts with Diplomatico Reserva dark rum and Laphroaig 10 Year Old single-malt scotch whiskey for a complex, smoky base. Then, they bring in a touch of herbal bitterness with a combination of Angostura bitters, Bénédictine French herbal liqueur, the classic anise-flavored spirit Absinthe, and Cynar, an Italian apéritif. Sláinte!
Location: 19 First Ave. SW
Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday
Yeah Buddy! at Bitter & Pour
Bitter & Pour is a hidden gem nestled in the basement level of the Merchant Exchange building in downtown Rochester. A cozy nook with dim lighting, a stylish atmosphere, and a massive selection of fine wines, craft beers, and handcrafted drinks, this cocktail bar is the perfect place to meet friends after work or spend the evening with a date. It might be classy, but don’t expect stuffy. After all, there’s only one place you can order a Yeah Buddy!, and it’s Bitter & Pour.
Speaking of that delectable drink, the Yeah Buddy! is perfect for anyone who wants a refreshing cold beverage with a kick of heat. Move over, bloody mary — there’s a new spicy cocktail in town, and this one doesn’t taste like ketchup. St. George Green Chile vodka and fresh jalapeño combine to pack a smooth punch, while pineapple cordial, a squeeze of lime, and a sea salt garnish balance it all with a fruity finish. One drink of this one-of-a-kind creation will have you saying, “Yeah, buddy!”
Location: 18 3rd St. SW
Hours: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Monday through Saturday
What She’s Having at The Tap House
With a name like The Tap House, it comes as no surprise that this Rochester pub has a plentiful drink selection. Just don’t expect fancy from this casual, feel-good joint. Wash down bar food classics like onion rings and cheese curds with one of their 50 craft beers on tap, or check out the drink menu for a perfectly mixed cocktail. When the bartender asks, tell them you’ll have What She’s Having.
This cleverly named cocktail is a sweet, bubbly concoction sure to please more than just the ladies in your group. A beautifully balanced mix of vodka, pomegranate liqueur, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, champagne, and lemon, the What She’s Having is a fun drink with substantial flavor. Both fruity and floral, it’s a big hit for a bridal shower, a bachelorette party, or a breather after a long day at the office.
Location: 10 Historic Third St. SW
Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 pm. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
PB&J at Bleu Duck Kitchen
Ideal for a first date or a fun occasion, Bleu Duck Kitchen is a dining experience that offers it all. From dine-in to catering to carryout meals, this Rochester hot spot puts a new spin on American dishes. For those eating in, there’s a cocktail — or “ducktail,” as they call it — to complement every menu option. If you’re looking for something a little different, embrace your inner kid with Bleu Duck Kitchen’s own PB&J ducktail.
The PB&J got its start here, and even the official recipe can’t help you replicate it anywhere else. That’s because they make it with their house-made peanut butter whiskey. Although it’s a delight on its own, mixing it with the sweet stickiness of PX sherry and a dash of walnut bitters makes the PB&J the perfect grown-up spin on a childhood classic. It’s sweet, it’s fruity, and it’s nutty. You won’t even miss the bread.
Location: 14 Fourth St. SW
Hours: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday When you’re ready to hit the town and try these signature cocktails, make sure you get a designated driver. Sweeten the deal by offering them the keys to your new Kia so you can both have a safe, comfortable ride. Visit the Tom Kadlec Kia team at 4444 U.S. 52 N. in Rochester, and we’ll help you find the Kia of your dreams!
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