The Big Chill

Hankering for a low-key night, but don’t want to stay at home? The Twin Cities’ myriad options range from coffeehouse hangouts to bookstore-sponsored readings to spots for late-night movies, music, and food. All of our favorite places have an easy-going yet lively vibe, so even if you’re a current member of the lonely-hearts club, you won’t feel alone.

Since 1997, almost 100,000 people have attended Walker After Hours for art exhibit previews, films, live music from local bands, arty activities, plus food (thanks to Wolfgang Puck Catering) and drink. The evenings attract crowds of all ages, but especially twenty and thirtysomethings looking to ditch the bar scene for a night. The next After Hours, with a preview party for Kara Walker: My Complement, My Enemy, My Oppressor, My Love, is February 16. 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-375-7600.
Get a taste of what happens at Walker After Hours. Watch a video of October's event.

The Riverview Theater is a throwback to the fifties, but is progressive in its showings, often being on the film festival circuit. And best of all, it still does its longstanding Rocky Horror Picture Show on the first and third Saturdays of each month at midnight. While the film plays, the house cast ridicules the film, and prompts the audience to mock it as well. 3800 42nd Ave. S., Mpls., 612-729-7369

Even with its high ceilings and plate glass windows, The Sample Room emanates a warmth that breeds a comfortable sense of familiarity. Maybe it’s the dark wood and high-backed booths. Maybe it’s the generous pours and high-quality, unfussy fare. Maybe it’s the stay-as-long-as-you-like style of service. Whatever it is, it makes you sure you recognize that guy in the gray T-shirt from somewhere, even though you probably don’t. 2124 NE Marshall St., Mpls., 612-789-0333

Wilde Roast Cafe serves a flourless chocolate cake good enough to grace the cover of Bon Appétit, but that’s not the only reason to visit. Customers sink into velvet settees and wingbacks for quiet conversation. The old-fashioned, salon-style wine bar/café is ideal for going solo to hop on the free wi-fi, or catch up on the Times, or watch the world pass by on Hennepin. 518 Hennepin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-331-4544

When you’d rather feed your mind than your body, Open Book (1011 Washington Ave., Mpls., 612-215-2575) is the go-to spot for literary arts in the Twin Cities. Bring a book and hang out in the Coffee Gallery, or head upstairs to The Loft for lively discussions and readings by local and national authors. Micawbers (2238 Carter Ave., St. Paul, 651-646-5506) and Magers & Quinn (3038 Hennepin Ave., 612-822-4611, Mpls.) also have great lineups.

Hole up with a pint in one of The Local’s many nooks—imported Irish wooden banquettes have stained glass panels for privacy. But be warned—the Irish consider drinking alone unsocial, so if you’re flying solo, prepare to make merry with some newfound friends. 931 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-904-1000

Just a few years shy of its centennial, the Southern Theater has aged gracefully in spite of its many incarnations—theater, restaurant, warehouse, among them. These days, the intimate space is home to some of the finest performance groups in the Twin Cities, which makes it an ideal spot for a date with art. 1420 Washington Ave., Mpls., 612-340-1725