New Rochester Cocktail Bar Opens Tonight for First Guests

If you love being one of the first to know when a new spot is opening in Rochester, here's a bit of good news for you. A brand-new place in downtown Rochester is ready to let people in to try its menu. Below is everything you need to know about the soft opening happening at the new Stubborn Donkey.

Soft Opening Date Announced For New Cocktail Bar in Rochester, Minnesota

A fun new spot to hang out with friends and families announced on Facebook and Instagram that they are ready to welcome you in to check out the new place and menu. Well...seating is limited...but you can get a sneak peek at the new spot before the grand opening.

If you've got the night open, on Friday, July 31st, 2026, go check out the soft opening for the new Stubborn Donkey cocktail bar in Rochester. Here are the details shared on Facebook and Instagram:

The wait is almost over…
STUBBORN DONKEY is opening its doors for our Soft Opening!
July 31
5:00 PM – Midnight
Be among the first to experience our drinks, and atmosphere before our grand opening.
- Limited seating.
- First look at our new menu.
- We’d love your feedback!

Where Is The New Stubborn Donkey Located At In Rochester, Minnesota

If you are wanting to be one of the first to check out the new Stubborn Donkey, head over to 216 1st Ave. SW in Rochester. Stubborn Donkey is on the upper level. You can find directions here.

Y-105FM is Southeast Minnesota's go-to source for local news, events, and community stories. Whether you're a lifelong Rochester resident or just discovering everything this region has to offer, we're here to help you connect, explore, and stay in the know. Know something we should cover? Reach out to jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com — we're always looking for something to talk about on the radio and write about.

Top 15+ Places to Grab a Steak in Southeast Minnesota

I grew up with cows basically at every corner of my existence in Iowa. I didn't grow up on a farm but had no problem finding a good steak if I wanted to eat one...or corn. There was lots and lots of corn around too.

Southeast Minnesota is still in the heart of the good 'ol Midwest and finding steak isn't tough, but if you are looking for a place that has THE BEST, here's a list of places in and around Rochester, Minnesota that you might want to visit.

Gallery Credit: Jessica On The Radio