Spring Cocktails in the Twin Cities

This world-famous Minneapolis restaurant is known for its food and mixologist-made drinks, including one that comes with real gold flecks. But in the summer months, head to the lounge and check out the ?Cortez the Killer,? an extra-strong sangria cocktail made with Brugal rum.

This upscale diner in South Minneapolis is known for its adult malts and unique cocktails. A refreshing and super-kicky favorite is always the Green Fairy, loaded with Bombay Sapphire, Zen Green Tea Liqueur, St. George's Absinthe, lemon, sugar and egg white for added fizz.

Now in a new and larger location in St. Paul, Il Veco Vino serves up authentic Italian fare--none of that endless bowl of pasta/heart attack--and homemade drinks like the Sangria, a fizzy, delicious and refreshing drink featuring white wine, peaches and 'secret ingredients.?

Booze lovers crawl to this Eat Street joint for the sweet La Femme Nikita, a weekly mystery drink that comes with 11 fruit juices and 11 secret liquors sure to knock your new lace socks off.

This downtown hot spot has to be famous for its drinks. It is, after all, a tequila bar, and it's owned by Tim McKee of La Belle Vie, which is famous for its award-winning menu and cocktail concoctions. Our current favorite is the Macho Camacho, a blood orange margarita with a splash of cava and muddled pepper.

Known for its menu of local and seasonal fare, the Craftsman also boasts a drink menu loaded with house-made, seasonal cocktails, like the Cosmopolitan made with the Craftman's own beet-infused vodka.

Space-age mixologly meets SoHo refinement at this Graves 601 Hotel lounge and restaurant. Master mixologists lovingly and painstakingly prepare drinks here using the freshest and most unique ingredients around--like house-made bitters, flowers, candy and more.