On the industrial southern edge of Fargo, shadowed by the towering silhouette of the Flying J, sits The Windbreak. It is a venue that makes no apologies for its scale or its mission. While other spots in town vie for the title of most "artisanal," The Windbreak is content to be the region's high-decibel living room--a cavernous, newly remodeled sanctuary where the floor is built for dancing and the bar is built for efficiency. The Economy of Joy In an era where a movie ticket and a popcorn can trigger a minor financial crisis, The Windbreak offers a staggering return on investment. The cover charge--often a modest $5 or $10--grants entry to a lineup of the region's hardest-working rock and country bands. It is arguably the best entertainment value in the Red River Valley; for the price of a fancy coffee, you secure a front-row seat to a light show and a sound system that would feel at home in a much larger city. The Pour The philosophy at the bar is refreshingly straightforward. This is not the place for meticulously peeled citrus garnishes or artisanal ice spheres. * The Drink: When you order a Jack and Coke here, you receive what can only be described as a "heavy pour." It is a drink served with the generous hand of a bartender who knows you're there for a long set, not a chemistry lesson. It is honest, potent, and perfectly suited to the room's high-energy vibration. The Room and the Ritual The space itself is sprawling. A recent remodel has expanded the dance floor to a massive 500 square feet, providing ample territory for the "two-steppers" and the "head-bangers" alike. Flanking the stage are pockets of activity--blackjack tables where the focus is intense, and pool tables where the click of the break provides a rhythmic counterpoint to the bass guitar. The Human Tapestry Perhaps the most compelling aspect of The Windbreak is the crowd. On any given Saturday night, the demographic is a true cross-section of the North: corporate executives fresh off a flight, local agricultural workers, university students, and retirees who have been coming since the doors first opened. It is a rare "no-judgment zone" where the only requirement for entry is an appreciation for live music and a decent drink. All types are not just present; they are welcome. The Verdict The Windbreak is a testament to the enduring power of the American roadhouse. It is big, loud, and unapologetically fun. It doesn't ask you to be anyone other than who you are, provided you're ready to have a good time. For those seeking the pulse of Fargo's nightlife without the pretense, the search begins and ends on 39th Street. read more

Live music starts too late for public transportation and it is not as much fun before that

Went to The Windbreak for the first time. It did us dirty. Started off with some pretty sticky vibes - like literally. The people & the floors. The night consisted of my friend showing her tits to the cover band (in which she did get a free tshirt - score) My other friend was so drunk she got locked in the bathroom, pissed her pants, & broke her wrist dancing all in a matter of about 20 minutes. I held my other friend back from roughly 1.5 fights. This random birthday girl kept trying to kiss me all night (very flattering but I'm straight) The drinks are 80% ice. But the shots are basically free from strangers buying them & then realizing they bought too many. So if you want to piss your pants, kiss a few birthday girls, get in a couple fights, or show your tits - then this is the bar for you! Oh & you can also gamble here. read more

Stopped in for a couple drinks about 7pm. Quiet, not busy. Joshua L. Was the bartender. He did a great job. I got a buy one get one free drink by checking in using the yelp app. Joshua L said I was the second person in a week that brought it in. They have a drink special at 9pm and a country band starting at 10. read more

I have mixed feelings about this place. Live music and dancing is my favorite so we've been there several times and we always have fun. It gets crazy busy on the weekends, so make sure to get there early if you want to get in and not wait in a long line. The service is sub-par unfortunately. The bartenders have always seemed "annoyed" by the patrons. I understand they probably get sick of drunk people, but they are working in a bar. For those of us who tip well and treat servers well you'd think we'd get a smile/common courtesy in return. I'll be back- don't get me wrong. But I don't go for the service :) read more

Mixed review. Friday night.... people sitting around the bar not there for the nightclub scene. Bartender Brian is super great guy. 8:00 some workout stud with a security shirt tells us we have to pay a $7 cover or leave. Band is nowhere in sight, haven't even started warming up. 10 people in the bar. Ok, goodbye. Next time I'll go to the bar n grill at Petro. read more

Ok pub, excellent stage, lights and bands for mostly country music. Good music production, sound and lights . Things that are lame. You cant start a tab. I tried starting a tab at 7 pm on a Thursday. I was told to go get cash. There were few to no customers. So in my mind It was "OK" you dont want my money cause I want to use a debit card. Really bullshit customer service as well. Outside of the professional music and music staff the rest of the bar appeared to be run by young 21+ idiots. Tipping them well did not even get me better service. Good looking crowd of college types if that is your thing. For me its not a place that will bring me back in the door often unless a good band is there. read more

Worst service I've ever experienced. In this trashy truck stop its impossible to get a beer on Sunday night after paying a $5 cover. I'll never attempt to spend another dollar in this place. read more

So many awesome live bands and a great dance floor! There are great specials every night. I usually make it for $1 or $2 you-call-it's, smallish glasses but not watered down and cheap enough to get a few of them. Kind of hard to find parking if you get there late. I always have an awesome night when I go. Great atmosphere! read more