Matt’s Bar has earned its place in Minneapolis dining history through a simple formula that has captivated locals for over 70 years.
This unassuming dive bar creates molten-cheese magic in every burger, turning first-time visitors into lifelong devotees.
The restaurant’s legendary status stems from its authentic, no-frills approach to serving what many consider the original Jucy Lucy burger.
How Matt’s Bar won locals’ hearts
Matt’s Bar became a Minneapolis institution through a combination of legendary origin story and unwavering dedication to quality.
In 1954, when founder Matt Bristol first opened his neighborhood eatery, a regular customer requested something different – two hamburger patties with cheese sealed in the middle.
When the customer bit into this experimental creation, he exclaimed “that’s one juicy Lucy!” and culinary history was made.
The restaurant’s rise to local fame accelerated through word-of-mouth recommendations and their commitment to serving the same high-quality beef with molten hot American cheese that made the original burger legendary.
Matt’s has received numerous awards and appeared in publications ranging from The New York Times to being featured on Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food and Food Wars, where they won for best tasting Jucy Lucy in town.
The restaurant’s motto “Fear the Cheese” perfectly captures the experience that keeps locals coming back – that first bite of carefully handmade, molten hot cheese that requires both courage and patience! 🧀🔥
Food Highlights
- Jucy Lucy: The legendary $10.75 burger featuring two quarter-pound patties with American cheese sealed inside, creating a molten-hot core that requires careful eating
- Double Cheeseburger: A hearty $10.75 option for serious appetites, delivering flavorful beef with cheese on top rather than inside
- Hamburger with Fried Onions: The $4.75 classic elevated with sautéed onions that provide satisfying crunch and burst of flavor
- French Fries: Crispy shoestring fries served in full orders for $8.25 that perfectly complement the gooey, juicy burgers
- Grilled Cheese: A $4.75 comfort food favorite that showcases their cheese expertise beyond burgers
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Atmosphere 🏪
Matt’s Bar delivers an authentic dive bar experience with no glitz and glam – just the essentials.
The restaurant features booths, tables, and bar seating in a compact space where you can watch burgers being grilled on a 36-inch flat top right off the bar.
The bustling, noisy environment creates an energetic atmosphere where the aroma of grilled onions and sizzling meat hits you immediately.
It’s cash-only with friendly service and moderate noise levels that make it great for groups seeking an authentic Minneapolis experience! 💵
Bottom Line
Matt’s Bar deserves a visit for the authentic Minneapolis landmark experience, legendary Jucy Lucy that won Food Wars, incredibly affordable prices with tax included, authentic dive bar atmosphere, and the chance to taste culinary history dating back to 1954! 🍔⭐
Address: 3500 Cedar Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55407
📞 (612) 722-7072
🕐 11 AM–11 PM Daily (last orders 10:15 PM)