412 14th Avenue SE, Mpls. (612) 362-0427>

Located in basement digs of the former Lower Landing, the Dinkytowner Cafe has been a live music hot spot since its incarnation two and a half years ago. The Dinkytowner is an ideal hangout: There are pool tables, food until 2 a.m. on most nights; weekly entertainment includes such music series as Crossfaded and World Wide Wednesdays; and on any given evening you can spot your favorite local musician eating a plate of fries in the sparkly red booths. Underagers take note: Sunday nights feature “In the Garage,” one of the best all-ages music showcases in the Twin Cities.

– Kim Ha