Bar & restaurant deals 4/26: Best of the film fest

MICHAEL RIETMULDER | Updated 8/17/2012

With the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival wrapping up May 3, cinephiles are flocking to St. Anthony Main. Catch a pre- or post-film buzz and a bite at one of these nearby riverfront restaurants.

Aster Cafe

Not only does the Aster boast one of the city's most charming patios, but its daily happy hour from 3-6 p.m. also warrants a visit. A mere $3 gets you one of their sophisticated taps, a glass of house wine or a cheese plate for your nibbling pleasure during the Euro-style cafe's happy hour. Craving the hard stuff? Try a rotating specialty cocktail for $6.

Wilde Roast Cafe

Sure, the dinner-and-a-movie date is as classic as "Casablanca." But with 21st-century ticket and meal prices, it's not always the most affordable. The Wilde Roast softens the financial blow with its Monday-through-Thursday date-night special. For $28 lovebirds can enjoy a pair of select entrees from its salad and pizza menus and bottomless glasses of wine. For the sake of other moviegoers, go easy on that never-ending glass - no one wants you crawling over their lap mid-movie to get to the restroom.

Vic's Dining

It might pay to scroll through Facebook or Twitter before heading to St. Anthony Main. Already known among winos as a great place to enjoy an affordably priced bottle of vino, Vic's might even be giving away bottles to in-the-know patrons the day of your visit. Mention the social-media special and your wine buzz might not cost a dime.