Jomfru Ane Gade is the axis of Aalborg's nightlife — a pedestrianised street in the old town with bars and restaurants packed side by side for its entire length. It's one of the longest and busiest bar streets in northern Europe, and on summer evenings the terraces fill completely. The atmosphere is convivial rather than rough; a mixed crowd of students, locals, and visitors. Aalborg Akvavit, distilled in the city since the 16th century, is the drink to try.
The waterfront area around the Utzon Centre and Nordkraft has a more relaxed, design-conscious cafe culture: coffee shops and small restaurants with Limfjord views. Nordkraft itself houses several food outlets and a bar that draws an arts crowd. For something quieter, the cafes around Nytorv in the old town are good for daytime coffee.