Coming to the Dakota to hear jazz is a rite of passage for newbies to Minneapolis, and guess what: Seasoned veterans can also be found here every night of the year, too. You might catch noted chanteuse Dar Williams, the Django-esque stylings of the Gypsy Mania Hot Club Quartet, or the down-home New Orleans brassed-off ways of the McNasty Brass Band. The room is comfortable, there isn't a bad seat in the house, and the place is full of the best jazz performers in town, bar none. Prices vary: You might catch Cassandra Wilson for $50, or you might sneak in for an 11:30pm late-night performance for a mere $5. Reservations are a must for big-name acts, so call ahead a week or two in advance, especially for Friday and Saturday nights.