Barhopping: The Muddy Pig

The Muddy Pig is not a pub for indecisive drinkers. With nearly 50 globe-spanning beers on tap, from just down the road at Summit Brewery and as far away as Belgium and most European countries, as well as dozens of bottled cold ones, there're more than enough brews to satisfy even the most pretentious and discerning beer snob. If it's the hard stuff you're after, the Muddy Pig doesn't disappoint there, either. The bar stocks so many top-shelf liquors, including single malts, Irish whiskies, and bourbons, it would be an injustice to the booze if there were any more than one really long shelf above the bar. For a delicious and buzz-inducing drink, order a sidecar. The warm-tasting brandy concoction comes in a sugar-rimmed martini glass and goes down smooth. Further separating this St. Paul establishment from typical bars is its rather wide-ranging food menu. The kitchen turns out a variety of dishes that are actually worth eating, including crab cakes, bruschetta, and specialty salads, in addition to certified Angus burgers, BBQ pork, and plenty of seafood. The Muddy Pig's laid-back, neighborhood-establishment ambience can probably be found at other local pubs. But it's the hefty drink list and food that truly make it a worthy destination.
Sept. 1-4, 2008