James Ballentine Post 246 VFW

James Ballentine "Uptown" VFW Post #246 is a veteran non-profit organization housed in a recently renovated mid-century building in the Uptown neighborhood of Minneapolis. Proceeds from the venue's bars and restaurant support 501(c)(3) veteran organizations. The original ballroom has been converted into a music and private event space seating 145 guests or accommodating up to 440 standing. A professional performance stage with full PA system, a massive dance floor with professional lighting — including hazers, lasers, and a disco ball — and digital video projection screens make the space well suited for corporate events, fundraisers, private parties, luncheons, and live music performances of all genres. Three separate bars are integrated throughout. A second bar — the karaoke lounge established in the 1950s and left largely untouched since — was featured on Esquire TV's Best Bars of America and has earned multiple Best Karaoke wins from City Pages' Best of the Twin Cities. On-site catering from Chef Miguel Urrutia offers a fusion of Latin and Mexican cuisine alongside craft cocktails, with dinners, buffets, and family-style service all available. Complimentary off-street parking is available in the back.