Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, artistically contrived martinis and cocktails… yes, please! When it comes to the science of concocting new cocktails or putting new twists on the classics, the mixologists of Fargo-Moorhead know what they’re doing and they do it very well.

Here are a few restaurants with great cocktails and what we'd recommend from each.

 

 

Mezzaluna

Watching the mixologists at Mezzaluna is like watching a surgeon operate. Care, precision, and skill go into every cocktail, no matter the complexity.
 
What to try: The House Old Fashioned – made with Russel’s 10-year bourbon, Demerara Gomme syrup, and bitters – or the Bad Penny – Hibiscus infused gin, honey pineapple syrup, falernum, lime juice, and bitters.

309 Roberts St N, Fargo | (701) 364-9479

The Boiler Room

Tucked away off the beaten path in the basement of a historical Downtown Fargo building, The Boiler Room serves up more than amazing comfort food. If you’re joined by beer drinkers, the tap line-up will please them just as much as the cocktail selection does you.

What to try: Manhattan – Whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters, orange peel, and brandied cherries

210 Roberts Alley, Fargo | (701) 478-1990

Proof Artisan Distillers

Fargo-Moorhead’s first distillery since prohibition, Proof not only makes award-winning gin, whiskey, and vodka, they use them to create killer cocktails!

What to Try: Fargo Bulldog – Proof's own coffee liqueur, cream liqueur, and 2 Docks vodka, with a little bit of Coca-Cola

414 4th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 353-5853

Harold’s On Main

An auto shop turned cocktail bar, it’s easy to see why Harold’s has become a local favorite. From the mid-century decor and warm feel to the perfect combination of upscale meets dive bar, the one-of-a-kind cocktails (or Hamm’s on tap) will not disappoint.

What to try: The Har Marr – (Named after one of the owners, Har Marr Superstar, Minneapolis-based musician) Amber rum, ginger simple, fresh lime juice, cream of coconut, pineapple/jalapeno shrub.

1330 Main Ave, Moorhead | (218) 233-3477

46 North Pints & Provisions

Cozy up to a beautiful bar and enjoy the views of Downtown Fargo through floor to ceiling windows while sipping on one of 46 North's methodically crafted cocktails.

What to try: The Lavender Aztec – Lavender and chocolate infused Epsolon tequila (infused in-house for 5 days), St. Germain, Aztec chocolate bitters, basil simple syrup, honey, and egg white, served as a martini with floating chocolate bitters

635 2nd Ave N, Fargo | (701) 532-0986

The Toasted Frog

Located on the main drag in Downtown Fargo, The Toasted Frog whips up a mean cocktail. From the go-to classics to in-house creations, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to try: Aviation – Gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice

305 Broadway N, Fargo | (701) 478-7888

Vinyl Taco

What goes well with tacos? Margaritas, of course! Both of which Vinyl Taco does extremely well. Sit inside with the giant buffalo in the middle of the bar and mosaic portraits of famous musicians, or hang outside on the sidewalk patio next to the open garage style doors.

What to try: House margarita – Three different flavors to choose from, served in a mason jar, and garnished with a stick of rosemary

520 1st Ave N, Fargo | (701) 365-8226

 

Looking for other great places to grab a drink? Find your crowd in Downtown Fargo's bars.