The Herkimer is unlike any other bar/pub in uptown Minneapolis. They are the only pub in the area that brews their own beer, and while I have not had the fortune to try it, I hear it's fantastic. You can view parts of the brewing process from a double-sided window. You get a view from inside the bar, as well as outside on the sidewalk.
The bar has a very simple decor, much of it wood-paneled. On a nice day, you can sit outside on the sidewalk and watch the rest of the world. If you do sit outside, though, be warned that buses pass by frequently, which interrupts conversation.
The Herkimer has great food for both the picky eater and the more adventurous. Their main specialty is burgers, and they do them right. They also have salads, chicken, and pasta, all typical fare for a pub.
The fantastic dishes here are for those willing to try a bit more. Their big burger is called the Herkiburger and lives up to mouth-watering standards. They take a plain burger and dress it up with mozzarella, bacon, barbeque sauce, and fried onions. The other great special at the Herkimer are the sweet potato fries. You can order them as an appetizer or add them to your meal for $1, and they're worth it! The taste of something sweet and fried at the same time is unusually good.
The meal prices are reasonable - they range from $7 to $12. The Herkimer website has information about the menu and beers on tap.