Seemor

Up-Down MinneapolisC+Worth Trying

Name: Up-Down Minneapolis
Address: 3012 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408, Minneapolis, United States
Rating: 4.6

3012 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408 · Bar, Pizza restaurant, Video arcade · 4.6/5 Google (5973 reviews)

Takeout · Outdoor seating

Lively 21+ arcade bar with cheap tokens, solid-by-the-slice pizza, strong drink lineup, and inconsistent service/security experiences.

Why it gets a C+ for overall quality

Up-Down delivers a solid arcade bar experience where destination appeal and nostalgic multi-level design anchor the venue, but food quality and service consistency show meaningful variability that prevents a higher grade. Exceptional value through token specials and affordable pizza strengthens the overall proposition for the intended crowd. The 21-plus policy and peak-time crowding are intentional design choices rather than flaws—this is a purpose-built adult gaming destination, not a casual dining spot.

Restaurant Summary

Up-Down brings the Lyn-Lake strip a burst of neon nostalgia with wall-to-wall arcade cabinets, pinball, and a buzzy bar crowd. Expect lines at popular machines on weekends, but plenty of deals sweeten the night. One guest put it simply: "We played forever on twenty bucks during 2-for-1 night." Service energy swings from upbeat to overwhelmed when slammed, and late-night security moments do surface. In the kitchen, the approach is straightforward bar pizza by the slice or pie—no frills, but it satisfies between rounds of Skee-Ball. Think large specialty slices around a casual price, cold beer, and token promos rather than chefly flourishes. Game maintenance earns praise lately; fixes happen faster than before, which matters when your heart is set on Galaga. Note the strict 21-plus policy. There is no kids menu and entry with children is not allowed, even during the day. If you need a family outing, this is not the spot; if you want an adult arcade night with easy pizza and drink specials, it fits well.

At a Glance

Quarter-per-play machines and generous token specials deliver strong value
Nostalgic multi-level arcade with patio and upstairs bar
Service and security interactions vary widely at peak times
Street parking can require multi-block walks after dark
21+ only at all hours; no exceptions for minors

What Sets It Apart

quarter_per_play_arcade
strong_token_specials
multi_level_space_with_patio

What People Love

Retro game selection that sparks memories
Large specialty slices between rounds
Daily deals that stretch a small budget
Faster game repairs and better machine uptime

Points of Concern

Service can swing from friendly to dismissive when bars are slammed
Reports of late-night altercations or mishandled incidents reduce comfort for some guests
Crowding limits seating and makes walkways tight on weekends
Parking can be difficult; some felt uneasy walking several blocks at night

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$22-$35 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Share an 18-inch pizza to feed 3-5 affordably
Hit Thursday 10-cent tokens and Saturday 2-for-1 tokens
Use Friday $2 slice window before 8pm for best food value

Perfect For

After-work arcade runs with drinks
Low-key dates fueled by nostalgia
Group hangouts on token-special nights
Solo gaming sessions with a slice

Location Insights

Area: Energetic Lyn-Lake corridor with nightlife, music, and casual dining drawing young professionals and groups.

Safety: Generally busy and lit; reviews note occasional late-night incidents and discomfort walking several blocks.

Nearby: Near other bars, restaurants, and entertainment on Lyndale; mixed residential and commercial foot traffic.

Linden HillsLinden Hills is a charming, walkable neighborhood with a strong sense of community and a thriving local dining scene featuring cafes, bistros, and casual eateries. The area is known for its safety, tree-lined streets, and proximity to lakes, making it popular for both dining and leisure activities.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday15:00–02:00 Tuesday15:00–02:00 Wednesday15:00–02:00 Thursday15:00–02:00 Friday15:00–02:00 Saturday11:00–02:00 Sunday11:00–02:00

Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating

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