Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileThe Sidecar at the Tap
Minneapolis, MN · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Sidecar at the Tap delivers a beverage program that leans on craft cocktail variety and barrel-aging. Classics like the Town Hall Black Manhattan and Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned sit alongside a dedicated honey cocktail section and an extensive martini list. The beer taps feature rotating barrel-aged selections from Town Hall, and the wine list covers familiar ground with a few thoughtful picks. Cocktails are the clear draw, though service inconsistencies temper the experience.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Town Hall Black Manhattan ($15) or the Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned ($12). For something brighter, the Sidecar ($16) showcases wildflower honey. The Last Word ($13) is a guest favorite. Beer drinkers should try the rotating barrel-aged stout or the Masala Mama IPA ($7).
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts looking for a broad menu of classics and creative originals will find plenty to explore. The honey cocktail section and martini variety appeal to those seeking specific styles. Non-pretentious atmosphere and lively vibe suit casual drinkers, though those expecting attentive service may be disappointed.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are lively, and the rotating barrel-aged beer selection may vary seasonally, so ask about current offerings.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $10 to $16, with most classics around $12-$15. Beer taps are $6.50-$9.00. Wine bottles start at $34, with a glass option for La Valentina Montepulciano at $11.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- A dedicated honey cocktail section and a rotating barrel-aged beer program sourced from Town Hall, aged in whiskey and wine barrels, set this bar apart. The cocktail menu also features a robust martini list and creative originals like the South by Southwest with a red wine float.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Wide-ranging cocktail menu with classics, honey cocktails, craft originals, and a dedicated martini section.
Menu strengths
- — Broad selection across multiple cocktail styles, including a honey section and martinis.
- — Barrel-aged cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Black Manhattan show craft ambition.
Standout selections
- — Town Hall Black Manhattan: House bourbon blend, Averna, Brovo Jammy Vermouth, Bogart's Bitters.
- — Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned: House bourbon + rye blend, dark muscovado, house bitters.
- — The Last Word: North Shore Gin #6, Heirloom Genepy, Boomsma Cloosterbitter, Bordiga Maraschino.
Pricing: Classic cocktails range from $10 to $15; Sidecar is $16.
Wine
Compact but diverse wine list covering white, red, and sparkling. Descriptions are provided for each selection, indicating some curation, but the list lacks depth and community feedback.
Menu strengths
- — Includes a mix of familiar and slightly off-the-beaten-path producers like Tohu and Fogscape.
Standout selections
- — Tohu Sauvignon Blanc ($38): notes of citrus zest, tropical fruit, and fresh herbs.
- — Fogscape Pinot Noir ($50): pomegranate, red berries, dried flower, cedar.
- — La Valentina Montepulciano ($11/$42): dark plum, berry, orange peel, hints of marjoram.
Pricing: Listed bottles range from $34 to $50; La Valentina Montepulciano offered at $11 glass / $42 bottle.
Beer
Beer list features a variety of styles from lager to stout, plus rotating barrel-aged options sourced from Town Hall. Prices are reasonable. No community evidence specific to beer.
Menu strengths
- — Rotating barrel-aged beer aged in whiskey and wine barrels.
- — Includes a range of styles, from sessionable lager to rich stout.
Standout selections
- — Masala Mama IPA ($7): bitter but balanced, brewed with seven hop varieties.
- — Milk & Honey Heirloom ($9): fruity, floral, citrus, honey, and spice with soft tannin.
- — Super Strike Lager ($6.50): American session beer with German pilsner flavor.
Pricing: Tap prices range from $6.50 to $9.00.
Spirits
Spirits are integral to the cocktail program, with a wide range of base spirits including bourbon, rye, gin, vodka, rum, aquavit, mezcal, and reposado. No dedicated spirits list, but the selection is broad and used creatively.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse spirit selection supports a creative cocktail menu.
- — House blends for barrel-aged cocktails show attention to spirit selection.
Standout selections
- — Old Forester 100 Bourbon used in Blueberry Beret.
- — North Shore Gin #6 featured in The Last Word.
- — Smith + Cross Rum and El Jimador Reposado appear in craft cocktails.
Pricing: No dedicated spirits pricing; spirits appear as cocktail components.
How it sits with the food
The beer program's range from lager to stout offers flexibility for bar snacks.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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