Located in the heart of St. Paul, Minnesota, the Commodore Bar is a renowned establishment that has been serving the community for over 90 years. This iconic bar has become a staple of the city's vibrant nightlife scene, offering an unparalleled experience that combines exceptional drinks, delectable cuisine, and a unique ambiance. As you step through the doors, you're immediately immersed in the bar's rich history, which is evident in its meticulously preserved 1920s decor and the vintage photographs that adorn the walls.
The Commodore Bar's extensive menu features an array of craft cocktails, each carefully crafted using premium spirits and house-made mixers. With over 20 signature drinks to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect libation to suit your taste. From the classic Commodore cocktail, made with bourbon, Aperol, and lemon, to the more adventurous options like the Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned, there's something for every palate. The bar also offers an impressive selection of wine and beer, including local brews and rare vintages.
In addition to its exceptional beverage program, the Commodore Bar is also known for its innovative cuisine. The kitchen serves up creative, farm-to-table dishes that showcase the best of the region's seasonal produce. From small plates like the Burrata appetizer, featuring fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, and basil, to heartier options like the Pan-Seared Walleye, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. The bar's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish is not only flavorful but also sustainable.
Key Points
- The Commodore Bar is a historic establishment with over 90 years of service in St. Paul, Minnesota.
- The bar offers an extensive menu of craft cocktails, wine, and beer, including local and rare options.
- The kitchen serves innovative, farm-to-table cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- The bar's unique ambiance is characterized by its preserved 1920s decor and vintage photographs.
- The Commodore Bar is a must-try experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in St. Paul's vibrant nightlife scene.
A Brief History of the Commodore Bar
The Commodore Bar’s story began in the 1920s, when it was first established as a sophisticated cocktail lounge. During the Prohibition era, the bar operated as a speakeasy, with patrons gaining access through a secret door. Over the years, the bar has undergone several transformations, but its commitment to excellence and dedication to preserving its historic charm have remained unchanged. Today, the Commodore Bar is a beloved institution, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique blend of history, ambiance, and exceptional hospitality.
Signature Cocktails and Cuisine
One of the highlights of the Commodore Bar is its inventive cocktail menu, which features a range of creative drinks made with house-infused spirits and fresh ingredients. The bar’s mixologists are constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques, ensuring that the menu stays fresh and exciting. Some of the standout cocktails include the Commodore, made with bourbon, Aperol, and lemon, and the Paper Plane, featuring bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon. The bar also offers a selection of classic cocktails, including the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, each crafted with precision and care.
In addition to its impressive cocktail program, the Commodore Bar is also renowned for its innovative cuisine. The kitchen's focus on using locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish is not only delicious but also sustainable. From small plates like the Roasted Beet Salad, featuring pickled beets, whipped goat cheese, and walnuts, to heartier options like the Grilled Pork Chop, served with roasted vegetables and quinoa, there's no shortage of mouth-watering options to choose from. The bar's commitment to using seasonal produce means that the menu is constantly evolving, with new dishes being added regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients available.
| Cocktail | Ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Commodore | Bourbon, Aperol, lemon | $12 |
| Paper Plane | Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, lemon | $14 |
| Old Fashioned | Bourbon, sugar, bitters | $10 |
| Manhattan | Whiskey, vermouth, bitters | $12 |
Events and Live Music
The Commodore Bar is also a popular destination for live music and events. The bar hosts a range of performances, from jazz and blues to rock and indie music, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to enjoy. The bar’s events calendar is constantly updated, with new acts and performances being added regularly. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic evening out or a night on the town with friends, the Commodore Bar’s live music events are the perfect way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Private Events and Parties
In addition to its regular events and live music performances, the Commodore Bar also offers private event spaces for parties and gatherings. The bar’s sophisticated decor and exceptional service make it the perfect destination for corporate events, birthday parties, and weddings. The bar’s events team is dedicated to ensuring that every event is tailored to the client’s specific needs, providing a unique and memorable experience for all guests. From customized cocktail menus to personalized service, the Commodore Bar’s private event spaces offer the ultimate in luxury and sophistication.
As a testament to its exceptional service and commitment to excellence, the Commodore Bar has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the best bars in the city by local publications. The bar's dedication to preserving its historic charm and providing an unparalleled experience for its patrons has made it a beloved institution in St. Paul, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique blend of history, ambiance, and exceptional hospitality.
What is the Commodore Bar's history?
+The Commodore Bar was first established in the 1920s as a sophisticated cocktail lounge. During the Prohibition era, the bar operated as a speakeasy, with patrons gaining access through a secret door. Over the years, the bar has undergone several transformations, but its commitment to excellence and dedication to preserving its historic charm have remained unchanged.
What types of cocktails does the Commodore Bar offer?
+The Commodore Bar offers a range of creative cocktails, including signature drinks made with house-infused spirits and fresh ingredients. The bar's mixologists are constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques, ensuring that the menu stays fresh and exciting. Some of the standout cocktails include the Commodore, made with bourbon, Aperol, and lemon, and the Paper Plane, featuring bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon.
Can I host a private event at the Commodore Bar?
+Yes, the Commodore Bar offers private event spaces for parties and gatherings. The bar's sophisticated decor and exceptional service make it the perfect destination for corporate events, birthday parties, and weddings. The bar's events team is dedicated to ensuring that every event is tailored to the client's specific needs, providing a unique and memorable experience for all guests.
In conclusion, the Commodore Bar is a must-try experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in St. Paul’s vibrant nightlife scene. With its exceptional cocktail program, innovative cuisine, and unique ambiance, the bar offers an unparalleled experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Commodore Bar is a destination that should not be missed. So why not stop by and experience it for yourself? With its rich history, exceptional service, and commitment to excellence, the Commodore Bar is sure to become your new favorite destination.