Lucia’s
It paved the way, and this cozy little spot still drives romance in Uptown. It’s open late, making it a great spot for hot pizza and red wine on cold nights. 1432 W. 31st St., Mpls., 612-825-1572
Kay’s Wine Bar & Bistro
The folks in Maple Grove are giddy about the arrival of a wine bar. Kay’s does it right with white linens and an upscale menu that goes beyond appetizers, making it the shmanciest table in town. 7924 Main St., Maple Grove, 763-420-6980
Sage Market and Wine Bar
First the Kowalski family opened the lovely Wine Market, and now they’ve added a neighboring wine bar offering tapas, deli items, and more of the wines they love. 730 Main St., Mendota Heights, 651-452-7000
Riverview Cafe and Wine Bar
After a movie at the Riverview Theater, head across the way to this neighborhood haunt where wine flights and snacks are often accompanied by live music. 3753 42nd Ave. S., Mpls., 612-729-4200
Heartland Wine Bar
We love the sturdy copper bar and regional cuisine at Heartland’s sibling, which is the more affordable and casual option for a weeknight dinner. 1806 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul, 651-699-3536
Bev’s
On the edge of the North Loop, this unassuming spot often looks closed, but inside it’s totally Warehouse chic, with exposed brick, candlelit tables, cheese pâté plates, and a well-edited list of wines. 250 3rd Ave. N., Mpls., 612-337-0102
Cesare’s Wine Bar
It’s a hot venue in Stillwater both for the huge wine selection and the well-regarded dinner menu, which changes frequently. 102 S. 2nd St., Stillwater, 651-439-1352
Ursula’s Wine Bar
Tucked into a corner of downtown White Bear Lake, this artsy little place is great for dates or perfect for catching up with a girlfriend. 2125 4th St., White Bear Lake, 651-429-9600