St. Paul

Red Rabbit isn't a destination wine spot, but it's a reliable neighborhood Italian that respects wine enough to stock Bollinger and Soave Classico alongside the wood-fired pies. The markups keep it from climbing higher, but for a lively Grand Avenue dinner, the list does its job well.

Mancini's is a St. Paul institution and the wine list reflects that — it's there, it's fine, and it's not trying to be anything other than a supporting player to one of the best steakhouse experiences in the Twin Cities. Order the house white, get the ribeye, and let the room do the rest.

The Lexington is a reliable wine stop if you know the playlist and like the songs. It won't surprise you, but it won't let you down either — just go in with eyes open on the markup and order the Jordan.

Mario's isn't a wine destination, but it's a wine-friendly one — and at these prices, ordering a glass feels like beating the system. Come for the sandwich, stay for the fact that your $8 Tuscan red isn't embarrassing anyone.

Hyacinth isn't trying to be a wine destination, but the list it's built is thoughtful enough that wine drinkers won't feel like an afterthought. If you're eating pasta on Grand Avenue, this is where we'd want to be drinking.

Joan's in the Park is a reliable, well-run neighborhood wine bar that won't blow your mind but absolutely won't let you down. Send a friend here for a quiet date-night bottle with dinner — just don't send them expecting anything they haven't seen before.

Meritage is the strongest wine program in downtown St. Paul and one of the more serious French-focused lists in the Twin Cities — the markups could loosen up, but the depth, staff knowledge, and by-the-glass Champagne program earn their keep. Send a friend here; just tell them to order by the glass.