- Attraction: 5-8 Club
- Location: 5800 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55417
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.5-8club.com
Picture biting into a burger so legendary that Time Magazine called it one of the most influential burgers of all time. At the 5-8 Club in Minneapolis, that dream becomes deliciously real.
This isn’t just another burger joint – it’s the birthplace of culinary history, where prohibition-era bootleggers once gathered and where today’s food lovers make pilgrimages for the ultimate Juicy Lucy experience. What started as an underground speakeasy in 1928 has evolved into one of Minnesota’s most celebrated dining destinations.
The Travel Channel ranked it #1 in America for tastiest place to chow down, while City Pages included eating a Juicy Lucy here on their bucket list of “50 Things To Do Before You Die.” The old 58th Street Club has maintained its rebellious spirit while perfecting the art of cheese-stuffed perfection.
Burger Highlights You Can’t Miss
The Original Juicy Lucy: This is the burger that made the 5-8 Club famous – molten American cheese cooked inside a perfectly seasoned beef patty that creates an explosion of gooey goodness with every bite. You’ll need patience as the cheese cools, but the wait is absolutely worth it for that first incredible taste of Minneapolis history.
The Saucy Sally: Perhaps even better than the original, this messy masterpiece stuffs the patty with both American cheese and a secret sauce, then tops it with shredded lettuce, raw onions, more cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. It’s exactly as indulgent as it sounds, and you’ll definitely need those extra napkins they recommend.
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Keep Exploring →Cheese Variety Options: Unlike their famous rival down the street, the 5-8 Club offers four different cheese options for your Juicy Lucy – American, Swiss, pepper jack, and Amablu bleu cheese. The bleu cheese version creates an especially rich and tangy experience that elevates the entire burger.
The Five to Eight Special: Stuffed with American cheese and topped with their signature 5-8 sauce, bacon, and an onion ring, this staff favorite combines multiple textures and flavors into one spectacular creation. The onion ring adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the juicy patty below.
Creative Specialty Burgers: Beyond the classics, you’ll discover unique options like the PB&J burger and the Buffalo Chicken Lucy, which stuffs ground chicken and pepper jack cheese then tosses it with bleu cheese and buffalo sauce. These inventive creations show how the kitchen continues pushing boundaries while honoring tradition.
Essential Sides and Appetizers
Legendary Onion Straws: These impossibly thin, crispy strands of fried onion have earned their own devoted following. Sliced paper-thin and fried to golden perfection, they provide an addictive crunch that many consider the restaurant’s hidden gem.
Wisconsin Cheese Curds: The genuine white cheddar curds arrive with a light, crisp breading that lets the squeaky cheese shine through. Served alongside marinara sauce, they’re consistently praised as some of the best cheese curds in the Twin Cities.
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Discover MoreLoaded Jojos: These thick-cut potato wedges get topped with cheddar-jack cheese, chives, and bacon, creating a hearty appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. The potato wedges themselves are crispy outside and fluffy inside.
Hand-Breaded Fried Pickles: Served with ranch dressing, these pickle chips offer a tangy, crunchy start to your meal that pairs wonderfully with the rich burgers to follow.
Atmosphere & Décor
Spacious Family Environment: Unlike some cramped burger joints, the 5-8 Club offers plenty of room to breathe with comfortable booths, regular tables, and a separate bar area with high-top seating. The divided dining room creates intimate spaces while accommodating larger groups easily.
Casual Sports Bar Vibe: The décor leans into half-hearted kitsch with a clean, bright suburban feel that’s more reminiscent of a well-maintained chain restaurant than a dive bar. Small TVs are scattered throughout, though they’re better suited for casual viewing than serious sports watching.
Historic Touches: True to its speakeasy roots, you’ll enter through the rear entrance, which remains the main way in as a nod to its prohibition-era past. The building’s history as an illegal drinking establishment adds character to your dining experience.
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Keep Exploring →Enclosed Patio: The outdoor seating area provides additional space, though it’s completely enclosed and can feel somewhat confined with tall fencing. Road noise from nearby Cedar Avenue can be noticeable, making it better suited for casual drinks than intimate conversations.
Other Considerations
Mid-Tier Pricing: Expect to pay around $14-18 for specialty burgers, which represents fair value considering the generous portions, quality ingredients, and the restaurant’s legendary status. The pricing sits comfortably between fast food and upscale dining.
Parking Convenience: Unlike many Minneapolis establishments, the 5-8 Club provides its own parking lot, making it easily accessible without the hassle of hunting for street parking. This convenience factor makes it particularly appealing for families and larger groups.
No Reservations Policy: The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so you might wait during peak times. However, the larger dining space means tables turn over relatively quickly compared to smaller competitors.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The spacious layout, kid-friendly menu options, and casual environment make this an excellent choice for families. The staff efficiently handles large groups and busy periods with practiced ease.
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Discover MoreLocation Accessibility: Situated just off Highway 62 and Cedar Avenue, the restaurant is easy to spot but can be tricky to access depending on your direction of approach. The proximity to the airport also makes it convenient for travelers wanting an authentic Minneapolis experience.
Happy Hour Specials: Monday through Friday from 3-6 PM, you’ll find drink specials that pair perfectly with their hearty bar food. The restaurant serves beer and wine only, keeping the focus on the food rather than elaborate cocktails.
5-8 Club
📍 5800 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55417
