The Contented Cow

Luke L

3 years ago

Such a cool atmosphere! Amazing spot along the Cannon River to grab a drink and sit on their decks. We will be back to see live music this summer, best bar in Northfield!

Charlie Larsen

8 years ago

Let's not pretend this place is something it isn't. It's grungy, dirty, and in a musty basement. The service is a weird single file line and the bartenders aren't particularly knowledgeable or kind. But everyone is real and helpful enough. It attracts the right crowd and usually has some great entertainment. A dirty popcorn machine pumps out free delicious snacks. This is the best place in town to meet for a drink and have a conversation. Things don't get out of hand; the vibe and ambiance is just right. Non-pretentious. AMAZING two-story patio on the river. They do fun drawings and winter ice bars and so much more. They even have the best pizza place's phone number on their menu haha this place is my CHEERS. I wouldn't go anywhere else.

J E

3 years ago

This is a pub, not a sports bar or Applebee's. Like many literal British pubs owned by actual British peoples, this pub has nuances that don't mesh readily with American preconceived notions of service. It has bartenders with character and grit, and locals alike. It has a long history of great and not so great happenings. If you are taking a ride on the Contented Cow I suggest, make sure you thicken your skin when stepping up to the taps. If you are a jerk, it's highly possible you will get reciprocal treatment. 98% of the time you will get the service you are looking for. If not, politely request service. I've never had an experience I didn't enjoy here. Often has music, and much of it is good. Taps are on rotation often. It's a safe joint, and has a great coffee shop right next door as well.

Katsiaryna Zhylinskaya

a year ago

Excellent atmosphere, has some poker games, Michael and Green are friendly and hardworking folks. Can get real busy when there is live music.

Carlos Rosales

9 months ago

Nice beer and friendly staff Pool tables and plenty of events going on during the week

Christopher Tales Franklin

9 years ago

Laid back atmosphere, with a friendly staff and really good food and drinks. With the sneaky brick alleyway entrance and the riverside patio, it feels like something out of a movie, very fun!

Jonette Schue

2 years ago

This is a very unique and rare pub. The new owners obviously cleaned up the place as needed, and have really focused on service and quality of their drinks. They were very helpful and informative and the drinks were fabulous. The Irish music was fun and at 9 PM sharp the college kids started filtering in for some local jazz music. Really fun place!

Suzanne Hooker

6 years ago

Came in to check the place out. Part of me is glad they weren't around when I went to college at Carleton. I would have been more broke than I am now. They were out of Shepherd's Pie. But the Nachos were amazing. Drinking a local beer, Hitthebrix. It's lovely. Knitting at the table and being Northfield, no one even notices.

Jess

2 years ago

Food is not available, but I love that you can Door Dash food in. Good selection of beer. Staff was friendly. The multilevel patio out back is beautiful. Had the weather been nicer, I would of stayed out there all night. Walking bridge located behind the building that made it easier to get back to our hotel. Pool tables are available. Clean restrooms.

Justin Bagar

2 years ago

This is an awesome little pub! Our first time here and the Old Fashioned is fantastic! They don’t offer food but allow food in. Live music is a common theme here which is a fun environment. Quick take: come in have a drink and enjoy the environment/ music!