Dark Horse Bar & Eatery — Restaurant in Saint Paul

Caveat with this review: did not try food/drinks (read more on why).

The revamp/Dark Horse 2.0 is something I think many will absolutely enjoy. The inside is bright and colorful, and we were seated next to a lovely plant display.

Unfortunately, I have a gluten restriction and my partner has some dietary restrictions, and we had neglected to do our research beforehand (we had assumed good quality bar food would mean plenty of options for us, as the old DH had always had, and most similar establishments do these days). It felt almost as if my server was surprised when I asked about any gluten free options/substitutions. We did confirm that gluten free buns were available (not displayed on the menu), but the options were just too limited (not to mention, I did not confirm any information about the fries and their preparation). I believe the burger would have been my only option for a main (other than a salad maybe). We felt discouraged and did not feel up for forcing ourselves to make do with our limited options, so we headed out rather than giving it a go.

Overall, the menu is small but manageable for many, but not all (noting, there were a good amount of indications and options for vegan and vegetarian). The dishes are a bit more elevated than DH 1.0, which I think many will enjoy, but definitely more specific dishes.

I hope this place succeeds, as Lowertown needs some wins, and I also hope it can be as friendly for those with more dietary restrictions, including more gluten free options, in the future. That was what brought me back to the original so many times. The OG pizzas had a gf option, the wings were not breaded, and there were options like the seasonal risotto that made me feel like I didn’t have to settle for another burger with a sad gluten-free free bun up-charge if I wasn’t feeling...

NEW Dark Horse review from a local of the old Dark Horse. This review is specifically for the new Dark Horse in 2025. I was a local neighbor and regular at Dark Horse from 2021-2025.

Not a fan. My first time there after they reopened I was very hopeful if the new vibe. My second time there today confirmed it was just first time hype.

What was i hopeful for? The new plant focused vibe and continuation of a distinct menu seemed awesome. On my second visit I realized I he croquettes are pretty plain. As a huge fan of Spain I was most hopeful about these. But they're not that great. Just awesome to see croquettes in more places. But the rest of menu is pretty basic and looks like a college cafeteria with better delivery.

What am I disappointed in? It seems like they pulled half the plants the second time I walked in. Like the new Pub at the Palace it seems like the goal was to just make it feel more open. This works for dark horse because the old bar taking up space for a DJ was rough. But they just emptied the space. It doesn't feel like they've made it their own yet.

Also Im a huge rum fan. I got hooked on Dark Horse because the old staff knew other drinks/spirits, not just whiskey. The new owners seemed to cast the whiskey vibe aside but didn't replace it with anything.

Final thoughts? It's alright. It's just another "upscale dive bar" in my opinion though. Prices are higher for fancier pizza but it's still just pizza. The cocktails don't seem different than anything anybody else is doing and I wasn't a fan. Either way it's not the spot I would expect to spend hours at several nights a week as my home bar. I moved right as ownership changed but I don't think I would go here over lost fox when Im waiting for the light rail. I'll check back again I'm sure but I'm definitely...

Took a friend here for his birthday. The atmosphere of this place is upscale but not intimidating and still cozy. I was a big fan of the previous Dark Horse and this revival pays homage to the old one in the best ways possible while adding something new to the atmosphere. In keeping with the "spirit" of the old space: a refined and expansive spirits menu. Mocktail options, THC choices, a generous selction of cocktails and other things on tap. Try the wondrous punch (not pictured) - it comes with a special surprise. The food on this menu is excellent. We've got croquettes, of which there is only one pictured on the plate, because we ate them that fast. PERFECT texture. Crunchy crispy on the outside, buttery and warm on the inside. I had these for the first time a few weeks ago and when I tell you I dream about them, I do. The rigatoni had a good al dente texture and was a little on the spicier side. I enjoyed my chicken sandwich which comes with a housemade Thai basil aioli. My chicken sandwich was perfectly crisp on the outside, but juicy and tender on the inside. The breading was also well seasoned. We also enjoyed the shishito peppers. Do not be alarmed: these do not pack a punch when it comes to heat. They are chewy, fragrant, and have a sweet aftertaste which pairs well with the lime sauce and cotija cheese. It's great to see this gem return to the neighborhood and I hope to be back here...