Food + Drink: Blitzed by the Basilica

MICHAEL RIETMULDER | Updated 9/7/2012

As 25,000 people prepare for the Basilica Block Party this weekend, let this be a reminder to enjoy rock 'n' roll the way it was meant to be -- with a bit of a buzz. After springing for tickets, parking and sunscreen for your pasty Minnesotan skin, save on pre- and post-show drinks at these nearby spots.

Lavender martini at Bar Lurcat.
Dml - Star Tribune

Bar Lurcat

1624 Harmon Place, Mpls. • 612-486-5500 • www.cafelurcat.com

Just across the street from the Basilica, the sumptuous companion bar to the fine-dining favorite Cafe Lurcat is prime real estate for pre-show lubricating. Before wandering into the show, get your sophisticated drink on during the daily bar-area-only happy hour from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., featuring half-priced taps and rail drinks, and discounted red and white wine options.

Loring Kitchen and Bar

1359 Willow St., Mpls. • 612-843-0400 • www.loringkitchen.com

If you can't find something you like on special during this parkside restaurant's daily happy hour, you have a problem. Enjoy $3 taps, $4 house wines and rails, $5 sangria and mimosas, $6 martinis, plus a host of discount food options from 2 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. There's really no reason not to tip back a few at the Loring before and after the show.

Bullfrog Cajun Bar

1111 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. • 612-339-0638 • www.bullfrogcajunbar.com

If you're looking for a place a bit more casual to plant your concert-going backside, the pilsner-pouring, lager-loving folks at this beer bar will happily lend you a stool. Belly up every day from 3 to 6 p.m. (and again from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.) for $2 and $3 PBR and Labatt's Blue taps (respectively), $4 rails and $5 wines. Take in some Cajun cooking with $4 to $6 select appetizers.