You’re driving down River Road, past the industrial stretches and the quiet riverside views of the Mississippi, and there it is. King of Diamonds Inver Grove Heights MN. It’s a landmark that most locals know by name, even if they’ve never stepped foot inside. Honestly, it’s one of those places that feels like a vestige of an older Twin Cities era, tucked away in a suburb that’s otherwise known for family parks and the Rock Island Swing Bridge.
But if you’re planning a visit or just curious about why this specific spot gets so much talk, you’ve gotta understand the "why" behind it. It isn’t just another club. It’s one of the few places in the metro area that manages to bypass the "alcohol vs. nudity" headache that plagues Minneapolis and St. Paul establishments. Because of its location in Inver Grove Heights, it doesn’t have to follow the strict cabaret laws of the big cities. That basically means you get a full-service bar alongside full nudity. For a bachelor party or a random Tuesday night out, that’s a massive logistical win.
The Vibe and What to Expect
Walk in, and you’ll realize pretty quickly that it’s not trying to be a high-glitz Vegas lounge. It’s comfortable. Kinda unpretentious. The layout is dominated by two main stages with poles that reach up toward a ceiling that’s seen decades of history. There’s a lot of wood and neon. If you’re looking for a spot where you can actually hear your friend talk while sitting at the bar, this is usually a better bet than the deafening clubs downtown.
King of Diamonds Inver Grove Heights MN really leans into its "neighborhood" feel. You’ll see guys in suits who just left a corporate meeting in Eagan sitting next to guys in flannel shirts who spent the day working on a construction site. It’s an equalizer.
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The Famous VIP Lounge
If you want to spend a bit more, the Diamond VIP Lounge is the "club within a club." It opens a bit later than the main doors—usually around 4:30 PM. It’s a semi-private area with leather couches and its own individual stages. You aren’t just watching a rotation; you’re getting a much more personalized experience. They’ve got the high-end stuff here too, like Dom Pérignon, if you’re trying to go full "baller" for a night.
The Weird History and Local Drama
You can’t talk about this place without acknowledging the drama. It’s been a bit of a lightning rod for Inver Grove Heights city officials for years. There was a huge spat about eminent domain back in the day because the city wanted to build a pedestrian trail right through the property.
Then there’s the family history. The club was famously owned by Larry Kladek, who ran into some serious tax trouble with the IRS. It eventually passed to his ex-wife and then his daughter, Debra Kalsbeck. The fact that it’s still standing after bankruptcy filings and legal battles is honestly impressive. It’s like the business has nine lives.
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The Menu (Yes, People Actually Eat Here)
Look, strip club food is a meme for a reason. But King of Diamonds Inver Grove Heights MN actually has a reputation for decent bar fare. The wings are frequently cited as the standout. You’re getting standard Minnesota pub grub:
- Wings: They’re crispy, messy, and better than they have any right to be.
- Pizza: Think Heggie’s style or similar high-quality frozen-to-oven types that hit the spot after a few beers.
- Appetizers: Standard fare like mozzarella sticks and fries.
The drink specials are where the value really hides. They do a "Progressive Beer Special" during the week. If you get there early, between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM, you’re looking at $2 Busch Lights or $2.50 premium taps. By the time 9:30 PM rolls around, the prices go up slightly, but they stay way more reasonable than what you’d pay at a club in the North Loop.
How to Not Look Like a Total Rookie
If it’s your first time at a gentleman’s club, or just your first time at this specific one, there are unwritten rules. Honestly, they’re mostly common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people forget them.
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- Cash is King: Yes, there’s an ATM. No, you don’t want to pay the $5+ fee. Bring a stack of singles with you, or get them at the front.
- Hands Off: This is a universal rule. Respect the performers. If you’re unsure about where the line is, don’t cross it.
- The "Big Shoe": If you’re there for a birthday or a bachelor party, they might put the guest of honor on the "big shoe" on stage. It’s a whole ritual involving inflatable props and a bit of lighthearted embarrassment. Just lean into it.
- Tip Your Bartender: The dancers aren’t the only ones working hard. The staff at KOD is known for being pretty chill, but they remember who treats them well.
Logistics and Hours
The club is located at 6600 River Road. It’s a bit of a trek if you’re coming from the West Metro, but it’s only about 15-20 minutes from the Mall of America.
- Monday - Saturday: 3:30 PM to 2:00 AM.
- Sundays: Closed. (They also close for major holidays like Christmas and Labor Day).
- Cover Charge: Usually free before 5:00 PM. After that, expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 depending on the night and if there’s a special event.
Why It Still Matters in 2026
In a world where everything is becoming sanitized and corporate, King of Diamonds Inver Grove Heights MN remains unapologetically itself. It hasn’t changed much in decades, and for its regulars, that’s the draw. It’s a slice of "Sin City" in a suburb that is otherwise very quiet.
Whether you're there for the $2 beers, the wings, or the main entertainment, the club offers a specific type of Twin Cities experience you can't really find elsewhere. It’s survived tax scandals, city council feuds, and a changing cultural landscape by sticking to a simple formula: cold beer, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Lineup: Their website often updates with which "entertainers" are working the day or night shift.
- Designate a Driver: River Road is dark and curvy at night. Don't risk it; Ubers do service the area, though they might take an extra 10 minutes to arrive.
- Dress Code: It's relaxed. You don't need a suit, but don't show up looking like you just finished mowing the lawn in gym shorts.
- Arrival Time: If you want a seat by the stage, get there before 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. It fills up faster than you’d think.