The Sonder Shaker is a cocktail bar and restaurant at 130 E Hennepin Ave, in the historic corridor where Northeast Minneapolis meets the St. Anthony Main riverfront, a few blocks from Nicollet Island. Locals come for creative cocktails built on house-made ingredients and a menu of eclectic New American plates that rewards sharing.
The kitchen turns out elevated street fare that borrows from several global cuisines and changes with the seasons, so expect the menu to shift throughout the year. The bar program is the main draw. Many of its drinks have playful names and rely on bitters, syrups, and infusions made in house, which gives familiar spirits unexpected twists. The setting is a cozy older building with the relaxed feel of a neighborhood lounge. Low light and close tables make it a strong pick for date nights or a long, unhurried round of drinks (source: [The Great Northern](https://thegreatnorthern.org/place/the-sonder-shaker/)). Tripadvisor reviewers rate it 4.3 out of 5 (source: [Tripadvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g43323-d13981060-Reviews-The_Sonder_Shaker-Minneapolis_Minnesota.html)).
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Weekend evenings fill up quickly, so reserve ahead or arrive early on a weeknight for an easier seat at the bar. Hours and menus change, so call 612-353-6557 before you go (source: [Chamber of Commerce](https://www.chamberofcommerce.com/business-directory/minnesota/minneapolis/restaurant/2007067039-the-sonder-shaker)). The venue is within walking distance of several riverfront sights:
- Nicollet Island
- Father Hennepin Bluff Park
- The Stone Arch Bridge, a good spot for a walk before or after dinner
Metro Transit buses run along East Hennepin Avenue, and street parking nearby is limited during events.
