Like so many other institutions in Minneapolis, the thriving drag scene stumbled during the pandemic. The yo-yo stress of re-opening, adjusting to crowd size limits, and maintaining concern for the safety of all meant that several Twin Cities drag brunch locations closed permanently.
However, after weathering those storms, a few survivors have stepped back into the spotlight.
Today, we’re toasting those survivors by highlighting all the best places for drag brunch in the Twin Cities.
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Map of the Best Drag Brunch in Minneapolis and St. Paul
Flip Phone Events
One of your best bets for drag brunch in the Twin Cities is Flip Phone events. For years they’ve brought the mid-morning fun to downtown Minneapolis venues, and they’ve become most popular ticketing agency for drag events around the metro.
Pre-pandemic, their drag brunches happened primarily at Union Rooftop Bar and Grill. In 2021, drag brunches hopped rooftops down Hennepin Avenue to CRAVE American Kitchen. That’s good news for anyone who enjoys the straightforward, no-frills brunch menu at CRAVE.
What to expect at a Flip Phone drag brunch?
- Plenty of advanced tickets – Flip Phone has drag brunches scheduled 3-4 months in advance so that you can book well ahead.
- The most creative brunch themes – Right now, Flip Phone’s Minneapolis drag brunch lineup includes everything from Real Housewives and Golden Girls to Spongebob and friends. Even if you’ve been to one of their drag brunch events in the past, you’ll get a brand new experience every time.
- A safe and inclusive event – Chad Kampe, the owner of Flip Phone events, takes pride in hosting more than 300 LGBTQ+ friendly events each year. Expect plenty of laughs, a decent brunch menu, and a welcoming environment.
Address: CRAVE – 825 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Website: Flip Phone Events
The Gay 90’s – Eggs and Drags Brunch
A downtown Minneapolis institution, The Gay 90’s has put on some of the best drag shows in the Midwest for decades. On the first Sunday of the month, they open the doors to the nightclub early (and for all ages) for their monthly Eggs and Drags Brunch. Advertised as “brunch with a side of drag,” expect top performers, a buffet brunch, and lots of fun. There’s limited seating for brunch, and table reservations fill up quickly. If you miss brunch, though, check the events calendar; The Gay 90’s has drag shows 4-5 nights each week.
Address: 408 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Website: The Gay 90’s
Other Spots For a Great Drag Show in Minneapolis/St. Paul
While Flip Phone and the Gay 90’s continue to rock the drag brunch shows in town, it’s not the only chance to get your fill of fishnets and sequins. Check out these Twin Cities bars for some great nightlife and the top drag shows in town.
The Black Hart of St. Paul
Located in the old Townhouse Bar building, the Black Hart in St. Paul continues a long tradition of drag shows in the Midway neighborhood. Located just a few blocks from Allianz Field, the bar hosts midweek shows and feature performers every Friday and Saturday night. Every Thursday night, stop in for their Pumps and Pearls drag revue to see up-and-coming Twin Cities talent.
Address: 1415 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104
Website: Black Hart of St. Paul
The Pourhouse
While not exclusively host to drag, the Pourhouse in the Minneapolis Lumber Exchange building hosts several shows worth putting on the calendar each season. Tickets for their events range from $10-$30 and typically have a comedy theme. On their current calendar is a Golden Girls-Themed Drag Game Show night.
Also, when the stage is not set for drag events here, it features a 25-foot projection screen, making this one of the most popular spots for Vikings games downtown.
Address: 10 S 5th St #11, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Website: The Pourhouse Minneapolis
The Saloon
The Saloon in downtown Minneapolis has been a staple in the Twin Cities LGBTQ+ community since the 1970s. They host a Hot Pink Drag Show twice per week, every Tuesday 10 pm-Midnight and every Saturday 8 pm-10 pm. Both shows follow up with top DJs to round out a fun night out at one of the top clubs downtown.
Address: 830 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Website: The Saloon
First Avenue – Flip Phone Series
Once per month, Flip Phone events host the top Twin Cities drag performers for a night at the world-famous First Avenue stage. With rotating events, their ad promises to “bust you out of your usual night-at-the-bar rut.” Tickets run up to $40 for VIPs and frequently sell out.
Address: 701 N 1st Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Website: First Avenue
