April 6, 2012
Visited on a Wednesday afternoon following a meeting. This is a seriously difficult place to describe. As you first walk in, it very much looks like a traditional corner bar, yet there is a stage off to one side, and restaurant seating in nooks and crannies throughout the place. Not to mention the African / Ethiopian design elements. This place has live music some nights, and it is certainly designed to fit a crown around the bar. There was also a Patio that looked nice. The beer lineup here focuses on locals, with some very unique tap handles. In addition to a couple beers, I ordered the Sambusa Fooni and Baajiya, which were both tasty. Service was great, despite the fact that the bartender was new. He was quite honest about his beer knowledge and was willing to give samples. The highlight of the visit was overhearing a conversation around the cultural identity of Eritreans who left during Ethiopian rule. This, as it often does, spun into a larger discussion around the broader implications of arbitrary border definitions, normal bar talk all around.

Must visit spot in Minneapolis.

April 6, 2012
The Blue Nile is an off-the-beaten-path spot full of characters among whom one can enjoy an ever-revolving selection of craft beers. Calvin is my guy as I’m a Tuesday regular; while he’s young and doesn’t have Al’s reservoir of knowledge, he’s a great guy and has come to know my taste so he makes superb suggestions. I wouldn’t rate this place as highly if I didn’t stop in so frequently, but I’ve had the chance to sample lots of brews I wouldn’t because the selection changes so often and often suits my taste. I get a kick out of the run-down, "take me outside Minneapolis" vibe and it seems I can’t go more than two weeks without meeting a few new interesting regulars. More worthwhile to frequent than to stop in, for sure.

December 5, 2011
Stopped here on a Monday night at about 615pm place was completely empty we were seated at an uncomfortable booth but moved to a table, beer selection was good but not huge, surly furious and deschutes abyss were the standouts, food is unique and service is really good plenty of water and advice on the unique menu, eclectic mix of music and decor was cool neat place

October 24, 2011
This place was not at all what I was expecting. In fact, when I finally found the place I thought it was closed. Walking in there is a fairly large bar with a decent draft selection, but not overwhelming. Fairly unusual atmosphere. The food is all Ethopian. It smelled great, but I honestly did not have a chance to eat. The staff seemed informed for the most part. From a pure beer selection standpoint, there are much better places in this city, and I am surprised that this place is as highly rated as it is. Personally, I would spend my time up at Acadia or Republic if I were in this area.

July 14, 2011
Very excellent tap selection. Al is very knowledgeable. Food is also very good. A great beer option in Minneapolis

July 8, 2011
Great selection, great service and great prices.

January 1, 2011
The vibe here is very unique and reminds me of being in South America. The big draw is a man named Al - the bar manager... aka "The Monk". A Great guy who introduced me to the world of specialty beer. Started frequenting this place when I worked downtown and have been a fan ever since. An always revolving collection of unique beers and great pricing adds up to an awesome experience anytime! Highly recommended. Cheers!

November 14, 2010
Stopped in at 4 p.m. on 10/30/10. It just so happened that they were doing some sort of stoutfest. I was in heaven. Didn’t try any food as all the beers were meals in themselves. Cool looking place with very good service and amazing beer. And the bartender seemed receptive when I told him their Dark Horse distributor sent them the wrong keg (was supposed to be Plead the Fifth and was definitely Fore). I realized stoutfest isn’t every day, but I’m rating this place based on the only visit I’ve made there.

June 7, 2010
Have popped in here a couple times to check the place out. Kind of a werid atmosphere but I liked it. Lots of beers on tap. I went when it was crazy busy and didn’t get the best service but liek I said it was extremely busy so I’m not complaining. Haven’t eaten here yet but want to go back and try some fare. Good Surly selection.

January 12, 2009 [ Updated March 7, 2009 ]
Always reliable for an assortment of great beers. Unique African atmosphere, and pricing is very reasonable. If Al is around, you can strike up a very enjoyable conversation with a guy who really knows his stuff - makes the experience twice as fun!