The Commodore Bar and Restaurant Reopens in St. Paul After Five-Year Hiatus
The wait is over—one of Minnesota’s most historic dining destinations is returning. The Commodore Bar and Restaurant, a 1920s-era landmark in St. Paul’s Cathedral Hill neighborhood, will reopen on October 27, 2025, after a two-year renovation and a five-year pandemic-related closure.
A Storied Past
First opening its doors in 1920, The Commodore quickly became a centerpiece of St. Paul’s social scene. During Prohibition, the upstairs bar closed, but a speakeasy in the basement kept the party alive—drawing writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and even members of organized crime. After Prohibition ended, The Commodore reopened in 1934 and continued to be a hub for dining and entertainment.
Owner John Rupp, who has been instrumental in Cathedral Hill’s revitalization since the 1970s with establishments like W.A. Frost & Co., first acquired The Commodore in 1984. Over the decades, he rebuilt parts of the space lost to a gas explosion and completed a major revamp in 2015.
The Reopening Experience
The soft opening this fall will feature evening hours Thursday through Sunday with a cocktail-forward menu and snacks. By November, The Commodore plans to expand with a full dinner menu, longer hours, and live entertainment. Weekend brunch will also debut later this year. The venue will continue to host private events, maintaining its reputation as a premier gathering space.
Cathedral Hill’s Dining Renaissance
Today, Cathedral Hill is one of the Twin Cities’ most vibrant dining destinations, with acclaimed restaurants like Handsome Hog, High Hat, Moscow on the Hill, and Aubergine drawing consistent praise. The return of The Commodore adds another crown jewel to this already thriving neighborhood.
Why It Matters
For locals and visitors alike, the reopening of The Commodore is more than just a restaurant comeback—it’s a revival of Minnesota history. Its blend of jazz-age nostalgia, fine dining, and timeless architecture makes it a must-visit destination in St. Paul.
Whether you’re planning date night, brunch with friends, or simply want to soak in the atmosphere where F. Scott Fitzgerald once sipped cocktails, The Commodore promises an unforgettable experience.
If you’re considering moving to St. Paul or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help you find a home close to this vibrant neighborhood. Reach out today to talk real estate in Cathedral Hill, Crocus Hill, or anywhere in the Twin Cities.
