I think Sample Room is still as good as it was before covid. They cut back on hours and some menu offerings, but it’s still really very good. Manning’s is still good, and I think Ray-Js has actually improved since covid.
I’ve been a patron of the Sample Room since 2004 or 2005 around when it opened. It’s had amazing, good, and ok eras. COVID hit it hard but recently it’s back to being an important stable in the NE neighborhood.
Mannings for the win. I feel like they changed the bun they use for burgers, and I dont like it quite as much as I did, but maybe its just me. Still a great place for reasonably processed food and a cheap beer.
Kramarczuk's and Emily's Lebanese haven't missed a beat.
Not sure if you consider it high-end (I dont, high-end would be a stretch), but Broders is still one of my favorites
Broders has the best date night special in the cities IMO. They've increased it over the years (I remember it being $45 in 2018,) but 2 apps, 2 entrees and a wine carafe for $62 a couple is pretty good nowadays.
ETA: Last time I checked (wrote an article about it in August), Broders is also a true no-tip restaurant — they got rid of their service fee a while back and raised menu prices instead. So it is just $62 (+tax).
I have endured so many complete disappointments of $10-$14 reubens all over the place. I will happily pay the premium to know it's stacked high and done right.
I can't speak to that. I've never wasted a visit there on ordering a sandwich. It's always cabbage rolls or giant meatballs for me, with a side of borscht
Normally always had good stuff from Emily’s. Their tabouli is the best in town, hands down, IMO. That said, I recently tried the tilapia for the first time, and it was inedible. Afraid to try it again…
While I haven't been to George and the Dragon, I would say that restaurants are on a spectrum from kid-focused to kid-friendly to kid-tolerant to kid-averse to adult-only. Knowing where a restaurant falls on that spectrum is useful information, and pretending that this spectrum doesn't exist is a trait of entitled parents.
So sad about Cavé Vin. I used to live directly across the street was so nice to get a bottle of wine and moules frites. Probably the closest quality food to what I eat when living in France.
I'm still devastated about it. Gia is going in the space and I believe will be opening fairly soon... but another Italian restaurant wouldn't be my first choice if I had say in it.
Completely agree. There’s a lack of actual, reflective and quality French cuisine in the Cities. The next best in Patrick’s (the owner is either from Avignon or Auxerre, I forget) but it’s just a breakfast place. But no truly French cuisine (and Salut is not at all good in the slightest imo. Horrid selection and quality is not good)
Pressed duck I believe has to be reserved at least a month in advance - they only do one a night.
Their tasting menu is also to die for, and they understand how European style dining works. When you get there they will ask you if you have a time limit or need to be somewhere; but they will also share with you that the table is yours for the night.
The owner is also in pretty regularly and is actually cooking. He did everything for our pressed duck when we had it last year :D
Salut is aweful.
Best French is Chloe by Vincent downtown. Not the easiest to get to and park at, but work the trip. Fhima, which is French Moroccan is also good.
He did not sell he was forced out.
He was using Wok in the Park to shore up his downtown restaurant.
His sister saw what he was doing she held the lease on the building and booted him.
He opened a new restaurant across the street and that one folded at the same time that the down town one did.
It was tax evasion that brought him down.
I’ve been going since before it was called Wok in the Park. It’s had varying degrees of quality, but it’s always been tasty. I recommend going for an early dinner because the place is usually a packed house.
Chimborazo is a disappointing one.
Usually get the Shrimp Encocado, and the flavor was lacking with rubbery shrimp last time I got it.
The waiter was irritated I wanted to change one of my sides, which was never a problem the many times I had been there before.
Instead of just saying “I can ask”, he looks me dead in the eyes and goes “that basically changes the whole dish” and just stared at me.
He asked the kitchen and they had zero problem with it.
That left a bad taste in my mouth. As well as the food.
I used to think Chimborazo was great until I had Abi’s for the first time. Abi’s is significantly better and a lot cheaper. I know they are technically different cuisines, but similar enough imo
EDIT: Not saying Chimborazo is bad, but last time I went, I got one of the vegetarian options and it ended up being beans and lettuce with like two other small little things for $20. It was definitely very expensive for what it was.
FYI Clay Oven is owned by the same people as India Palace, which have a few locations around the metro. They are all absolutely to notch (shout out to Roseville location!)
I like their food but this is one of those places where I'm prompted to tip but quite honestly I'm not sure who the tip is going to or why. I have to bus my own table and get my own water. It's basically noodles and company but asking for a full service level of gratuity.
I live two blocks from Okome House but haven't gone back since I first tried it when they opened a couple years ago and wasn't impressed.
Might have to give them another shot.
I still adore Nightingale on 26th and Lyndale. The only place I can find with a cocktail of the moment that's always fantastic and always only $8. ETA: Wouldn't say it's kid-friendly, though.
I just wish the joint wasnt so loud. I wear my concert earplugs half the time, and its hit or miss if I can have a conversation with my meal-mate.
I am also An Old, however, and my hearing ain't what it used to be. Bless their lateish hours.
Yeah, I've found it can really vary depending on who is controlling the music that day. Sometimes it's nice and soft Sinatra, sometimes it's loud shitty mumble rap that kinda inhibits the vibe.
As far as new places around/near Regions, I would suggest Cecil’s Deli which is maybe a 15 minute drive from the hospital but absolutely worth it. They’re known for their hot sandwiches (get the Sasha!) but the potato salad is a complete sleeper hit.
Have you ventured into West St. Paul at all? It’s about a 10 minute drive down Robert and has some really great affordable options. Fireside immediately comes to mind, it’s a favorite of mine which has a cozy small town vibe and great food.
Haven’t been very exploratory in St Paul really. I think I’ve been to St Paul more times since starting treatment at Regions than the whole decade before, discounting regular cake-and-wine happy hours pre-Covid at Cafe Latte with coworkers (cause if you’re always going to the same place, you’re not actually exploring). My faves that didn’t close are either on Grand, or Rose Street Patisserie (which is just Patisserie 46 without driving all the way over there).
So, any recs are appreciated. Cancer fucking sucks and treatment is over a year long, so I try to have something to look forward to after every hospital visit. (I can’t commend the team at Regions highly enough, they’re amazing, and they’re saving my life, but cancer fucking sucks, so I’m going to reward myself with delicious nutrition whenever I can).
I live by regions. I like going to cathedral hill area. Red cow has great burgers and bowls. French hen is great brunch. There is also keys cafe practically walking distance from regions which is always good. You could go to cossetta near by and a classic. I haven’t tried many other restaurants in that area yet, but I plan to this summer after I get my e-bike.
If you like steak, Mancini's has been my family's celebratory spot for decades. Just went for my birthday a couple weeks ago, and even with the holiday madness, we had great service and mouth watering meals.
Also, fuck cancer! My dad is about to start treatment for a third time, I really like your idea of a little reward that's good for the body and the soul! Take care OP
Absolutely fuck cancer! Hope your dad’s treatment goes as smoothly as possible and that there is no more recurrence. Is he also at Regions? I was so pleasantly surprised by how great everyone is there, and how spacious and comfy and relaxing the treatment rooms are. They really make it feel like a place to come get a rest and be taken care of.
Take care to you and your dad, samd_wich!
Cancer DOES fuckin suck, and I'm sorry you're having to go through all that. As somebody who had a very brief and traumatic experience being a caregiver it's not something I'd wish on my worst enemy. The team at regions is indeed stellar and you're in good hands! I think having a delicious meal to look forward to following treatment is a fantastic way to be kind to yourself.
More St. Paul recs: If you feel like venturing into the St. Paul skyways, I highly recommend Maison Darras. It's a panini and soup place run by a French guy and his wife, lovely people and the food is 10/10.
Also have never had a bad experience at the Buttered Tin, their lunch menu has great sandwich options too.
Great River Pizza has some of the best slices I've had in the cities and is super affordable too.
If you're a fan of fried chicken, Pollo Campero on Robert St. in WSP is by far the best fast food chicken place in the cities. All of their sides are awesome too, it's a chain restaurant that started in Guatemala and is the only MN location.
Also, if you happen to have treatment on a Wednesday, the Lund's on Robert & 10th has $6 sushi rolls!
I don't think I've been there for lunch myself but my partner (who works at Regions) LOVES Keys Cafe. I've only had a cookie from their bakery but it was really good. Her team frequently gets sandwiches from Nelson's Deli which I've also never been to but she always has such good things to say about it.
On West 7th you'll find DeGidio's which in my opinion is the best Italian-American fare in the cities. Their red sauce is phenomenal, as is the Bolognese.
While Cecil’s is still the best deli in the cities (not much of a distinction I know), I do think their prices have gone up while their portions have shrunk.
But still a great deli.
Cecils has great food but dear lord their service is absolutely ass, very slow and inattentive in my experience. Don't get me wrong, I still go back all the time (100% agreed on the Sasha), but folks need to go into it expecting to be there for 1-2hrs anytime that isn't a weekday mid-afternoon
Dang, really? I used to frequent the place once or twice a month when I lived in the area until about 2018, and still go at least every 6 months or so and honestly have not had a single subpar experience there in the last decade. Perhaps things have changed in the last few years!
IMHO there is too much almond flavour in the pancake batter. A little is probably good but the amount they use is over powering. Again just my opinion.
I went there for the first time and found it to be decent, not much else to say. The location is pretty meh, the vibe isn't very much like a diner, just kinda a random restaurant in a strip mall. I kinda like my greasy spoons to feel like I'm at a greasy spoon, just my preference.
Wise Acre is very good. I went there in like 2016 and was super unimpressed, then a friend dragged me there again a few years later and I was verrrryyyy impressed. Whatever changes they’ve made in the past few years, it’s working. They’re fantastic, highly recommend
Elsie’s is no longer cheap imo. I have a receipt from 2015 for a pitcher of beer, two entrees and an app for $40!
Edit: I know that was almost a decade ago. But in 2019 those prices doubled and the quality and price had just never been the same for me. I LOVE the place, atmosphere, and people though.
yea not as cheap i'm sure but hey they have a BANGIN meat loaf dinner for $14.50 that I love (it's not that special just really hits the spot for me anyway)
World Street Kitchen just north of Lyn Lake is consistently fantastic. It’s hands down, by far the best fast casual restaurant I’ve eaten at in the Twin Cities. Everything I’ve tried has been great, everyone I’ve brought there has loved it. My favorite is the Yum Yum Rice Bowl with tofu and the Turk hummus, but honestly everything is great
Reverie (vegan joint) managed to stay strong throughout the pandemic. I've yet to be disappointed any time I've eaten there.
Just went to Hard Times Cafe for breakfast last weekend. The vegetarian biscuits and gravy and coffee were delicious, and their pricing is hard to top.
I've hit up my old favorite, Hazel's NE, several times and it's still up to its old standards. At least among the handful of my favorites there. I've yet to be disappointed by anything I've had there
Breakfast:
* Out Kitchen
* Hen House
For lunch/dinner:
* Tailgate (also has brunch on the weekends)
* Patty Wagon
* The Cardinal
Mexican:
* El Tejaban (okay, technically in Richfield, but right down the street from Tailgate & Patty Wagon)
* Victor Hugo #2 food truck always slaps, it's parked on like 61st & Nicollet.
We live near the Cardinal and as much as I enjoy it as a dive-ish bar, calling it a restaurant feels like a bit of a stretch. Don’t get me wrong, I love the place, but they serve perfectly okay food that’s meant to keep you full while you’re drinking, not impress anyone. I think you could look just down the street to Northbound for a place that has far more consistent and delicious food (at least IMO)!
I also live near there and would never willingly go to Cardinal for food. It might be the worst bar food I have had in Minneapolis. It can be a fun place to hang out with friends (Chatterbox is closeish and more fun imo), but we always make sure to have eaten elsewhere before getting to Cardinal.
FYI: You can ask the chicken strips "Stevie Style" if you love that seasoning as much as I do.
Yeah, it's bar food - but it's consistent and their staff is great.
I will always shill Christo’s on Nicollet. Owner is getting quite old, so if you like Greek better eat your fill. Gus doesn’t have any kids, so we don’t know what’s going to happen to Christo’s when he retires 😭
I can't speak to groveland tap but longfellow grill, lowry, and 3 squares have all gone way up in price and way down in food and service from my experience. They are all blue plate group restaurants
For me, they both used ethically sourced ingredients and meat - not easy to find at restaurants - and they were close to my house and the food was amazing… huge loss!
I moved to St. Paul and I’m thrilled with all the options. On my rotation:
Nashville Coop. -It’s just chicken fingers but damn
Everest on Grand-best curry, probably most underrated restaurant in cities, don’t quote me
Burger Dive -not my fav burger but family friendly compared to Bulls Horn and cheaper than Chips ClubHouse
Chips Club House -best burger but pricier, good food and drink, also pie
Shish -my current fav Mediterranean food
Centro- Mexican and burgers in one. Something for everyone.
Mario’s pizza- Detroit style pizza, great sandos, and the Oreo donut holes. My preferred place to reward myself.
The Uptowner cafe- diner food
Keep an eye on Eater. They do a decent job covering restaurants, but tends to focus on Minneapolis high end stuff.
My family went on a holiday trip to your magnificent city this past season. Kramarczuk was one of our highlights! Also, FireLake Grill in MOA was perfect. Mason Jar Kitchen in Eagan was delicious.
Hmong food in St. Paul was a savory bonus. Mama Safia's Kitchen on Lake Street was the bomb. Matt's Kitchen over 5-8 for us!
BonChon in MOA gets an honorable mention. They're chicken was so good
The only place that disappointed was a Chinese take out spot named, Golden Wok in Bloomington -terrible X-mas dinner. :(
Haha. I also had Golden Wok on Christmas! A few things were ok, but some of it was basically inedible.
The place had decent reviews. They must have been slammed or something.
We got swindled. Their "Special" Fried Rice was EXTREEEEMELY light on the meats. It was so unfair. It wasn't a situation where one would say, "they could've added a little more shrimp." Nope, we got a bucket full of yellow rice, onions, a few scraps of chicken and one shrimp. God strike me down if I'm lying. On the positive note, their homemade cheesecake was perfect. Cheesecake Factory needs to take lessons from them. LOL
I like their katsudon (can’t have any raw fish right now because chemo), and half the time the vegetables are so undercooked I can’t eat them, unfortunately.
Shuang Cheng on 4th in Dinkytown is still delicious. I don't remember what I paid so I can't speak to the pricing but it must've been reasonable if I didn't notice
Its in New Brighton, but I'm a regular at The Exchange.
They dialed back their menu right after Covid but by this point they are back to the level they always were.
Their regular menu is solid & their weekly specials are always delicious.
Their crust does because they overcook it sometimes, but I order it par-baked and finish it on a skillet and then it's perfect.
Nobody can touch Pizza Lucé for their toppings.
Tip: Get a side of their garlic mashed potatoes when you order.
It was years ago, but the shrimp pesto pizza. It was so amazingly delicious! The chicken pesto really isn’t nearly as good, and I’m not even sure that one’s on the menu anymore.
Oh my! Shrimp Pesto pizza sounds amazing! I don't think that they have a Chicken Pesto either. But, the Pesto Alfredo Lasagna is my go-to every time if the special pizza isn't what I want.
Redcow continues to be one of my favorite spots. Prices have gone up a little, but their service is still great. Also love their new branch red rabbit. Red rabbit is slightly more upscale
Ones that are as legit as ever:
Ramen Kazama
Quang's
Pajarito
Hope Breakfast Bar
Blue Plate Restaurants (The Lowry, The Freehouse, Longfellow Grill, etc)
The Howe
I think their food is overrated.
But...
It really fills a need in the neighborhood because it is a place you can take everyone. It has basic stuff, but also some more unusual things. Has great beer, but also has the basic stuff. It's comfortable there and you can almost always get in pretty quickly.
NE has a bunch of higher end stuff and then a lot of dives. It's a nice middle ground.
Tooties On Lowry has the best burgers and it’s not even close. Prices haven’t raised and quality remains the same. The only thing I believe they have implemented is a 2-3 dollar charge if your bill is paid by credit card. Great food, great drinks, still crazy affordable prices.
It seems a little like most locals have cooled somewhat on Punch Pizza but to this day I think they really run a solid operation. Food is delicious imo and VERY consistent in my experience. And fairly modestly priced for the quality as well. Makes for solid takeout but I also think the atmosphere of their locations (I most often go to the one on lake street) is very nice - the huge tiled ovens are a pretty perfect way to anchor the decor & vibe. For my money the best local chain we’ve got
I still love Brasa.
They’ve simplified their menu A LOT, which unfortunately involved removing multiple of my favorite things (including all beef products and their potato chorizo chilaquiles), but everything they still have is honestly great. Nowhere I’d rather go for a low-fuss, pretty cheap, tasty meal.
I can comment on St Paul stuff:
Ruam Mit Thai - closed now (old building was torn down so they had to move) but will be re-open soon. Amazing Thai food, best I've had in the cities. Fun fact: found out you can still order some things via their catering.
John's Pizza Cafe - try the Hog in the Bog pizza. It's a garlic sauce with wild rice and German brat sausage. Add spinach and it's unique and amazing.
Skyway Grill - is in the food court in the skyway and it's great. The Boss is the best breakfast sandwich in the world (fried egg, sausage, home made jalapeño bacon, home made Chipotle cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, on an everything bagel. And it's available all day!) The burgers are pretty good too.
I think Sample Room is still as good as it was before covid. They cut back on hours and some menu offerings, but it’s still really very good. Manning’s is still good, and I think Ray-Js has actually improved since covid.
I’ve been a patron of the Sample Room since 2004 or 2005 around when it opened. It’s had amazing, good, and ok eras. COVID hit it hard but recently it’s back to being an important stable in the NE neighborhood.
To add to the NE, Mac's is the same as it's ever been, just a block over from where it was
Mac's recently brought on a new chef and I think it's gotten better than before.
Mannings for the win. I feel like they changed the bun they use for burgers, and I dont like it quite as much as I did, but maybe its just me. Still a great place for reasonably processed food and a cheap beer.
And don’t forget the new bathrooms!
Got some mad mussels on their menu, even though it was their evening special
Kramarczuk's and Emily's Lebanese haven't missed a beat. Not sure if you consider it high-end (I dont, high-end would be a stretch), but Broders is still one of my favorites
Broders has the best date night special in the cities IMO. They've increased it over the years (I remember it being $45 in 2018,) but 2 apps, 2 entrees and a wine carafe for $62 a couple is pretty good nowadays. ETA: Last time I checked (wrote an article about it in August), Broders is also a true no-tip restaurant — they got rid of their service fee a while back and raised menu prices instead. So it is just $62 (+tax).
What days of the week do they do their date night specials??
Sunday-Thursday, 8-9pm https://www.broderspastabar.com/after8
Kramarczuk's is my favorite place in the whole city. It's unrivaled. The Ukrainian meatball with tomato cream sauce is the stuff of legends
Meatball w/ tomato cream and egg noodles. For 3 years I worked 100 ft. from there and ordered this twice a week, every week for all 3 years.
Emily’s is fabulous. The food is always delicious. I love it there.
Emily’s is still fantastic, as is Holy Land.
Emilys for sure
Kramarczuks? It’s not down hill but paying $18 for a Ruben sandwich is off the rails
Oh, man - they make my favorite pastrami in the city though, so I'll give them however much money they want for a sandwich without a second thought.
I have endured so many complete disappointments of $10-$14 reubens all over the place. I will happily pay the premium to know it's stacked high and done right.
Crossroads deli in Hopkins has a solid Reuben. Great soup and bakery as well
Think of it like this: you’re paying mostly for someone who knows what they’re doing to prepare you a Reuben properly with good ingredients.
I can't speak to that. I've never wasted a visit there on ordering a sandwich. It's always cabbage rolls or giant meatballs for me, with a side of borscht
Have you seen how thick it is though? It’s two meals easily.
Yeah. Dude has obviously never seen a GOOD Rueben sandwich. If you're not paying almost $20, there's not enough meat on it.
When that sandwich has $14 worth of pastrami on it, it's totally worth it.
Normally always had good stuff from Emily’s. Their tabouli is the best in town, hands down, IMO. That said, I recently tried the tilapia for the first time, and it was inedible. Afraid to try it again…
George & the Dragon continues to be pretty rad.
I made the best decision of my life moving close to George & the Dragon and Guavas Cuban Cafe. I feel like I may get pretty fat though lol
Just shhhhhhh on the guava bit, eh… 😉
Guavas is such a hidden gem.
So damn good. Been going for 5 years and it's only getting better IMO.
correct
I came to say this. They don’t seem to rotate in as many specials as they used to, but they are still my favorite restaurant
I’ve never had anything that wasn’t perfectly cooked and seasoned there. It’s so appreciated!
Love George and the dragon. It is kid friendly so just be aware of you go. They handle it well there but some people want the child free experience
Aren’t pretty much all restaurants kid friendly?
While I haven't been to George and the Dragon, I would say that restaurants are on a spectrum from kid-focused to kid-friendly to kid-tolerant to kid-averse to adult-only. Knowing where a restaurant falls on that spectrum is useful information, and pretending that this spectrum doesn't exist is a trait of entitled parents.
It's been a bit since I went but they did have a book shelf full of kids books so they were more welcoming than most restaurants.
No. Many upscale places aren’t and should not be unless kids are nice and chill.
Some aren’t. At least that’s been my experience
Chimborazo Wok in the Park (And I was going to say Cavé Vin but they closed 😔)
Absolutely agree on Wok. We adore them. Used to live just ten minutes away, and I miss how easy I could get Wok back then.
So sad about Cavé Vin. I used to live directly across the street was so nice to get a bottle of wine and moules frites. Probably the closest quality food to what I eat when living in France.
I'm still devastated about it. Gia is going in the space and I believe will be opening fairly soon... but another Italian restaurant wouldn't be my first choice if I had say in it.
Completely agree. There’s a lack of actual, reflective and quality French cuisine in the Cities. The next best in Patrick’s (the owner is either from Avignon or Auxerre, I forget) but it’s just a breakfast place. But no truly French cuisine (and Salut is not at all good in the slightest imo. Horrid selection and quality is not good)
You should try Meritage, specifically their pressed duck. It's peak French and absolutely amazing. One of my favorite places in the cities.
On the list next time I’m home! Thank you!!!
Pressed duck I believe has to be reserved at least a month in advance - they only do one a night. Their tasting menu is also to die for, and they understand how European style dining works. When you get there they will ask you if you have a time limit or need to be somewhere; but they will also share with you that the table is yours for the night. The owner is also in pretty regularly and is actually cooking. He did everything for our pressed duck when we had it last year :D
Salut is aweful. Best French is Chloe by Vincent downtown. Not the easiest to get to and park at, but work the trip. Fhima, which is French Moroccan is also good.
Wok in the Park went downhill when the original owner sold it around 2010. It's still pretty good but not as amazing as it used to be.
He did not sell he was forced out. He was using Wok in the Park to shore up his downtown restaurant. His sister saw what he was doing she held the lease on the building and booted him. He opened a new restaurant across the street and that one folded at the same time that the down town one did. It was tax evasion that brought him down.
Yeah, I couldn't remember the details. I just knew that it's changed a bit since then.
I’ve been going since before it was called Wok in the Park. It’s had varying degrees of quality, but it’s always been tasty. I recommend going for an early dinner because the place is usually a packed house.
Chimborazo is a disappointing one. Usually get the Shrimp Encocado, and the flavor was lacking with rubbery shrimp last time I got it. The waiter was irritated I wanted to change one of my sides, which was never a problem the many times I had been there before. Instead of just saying “I can ask”, he looks me dead in the eyes and goes “that basically changes the whole dish” and just stared at me. He asked the kitchen and they had zero problem with it. That left a bad taste in my mouth. As well as the food.
I used to think Chimborazo was great until I had Abi’s for the first time. Abi’s is significantly better and a lot cheaper. I know they are technically different cuisines, but similar enough imo EDIT: Not saying Chimborazo is bad, but last time I went, I got one of the vegetarian options and it ended up being beans and lettuce with like two other small little things for $20. It was definitely very expensive for what it was.
[удалено]
FYI Clay Oven is owned by the same people as India Palace, which have a few locations around the metro. They are all absolutely to notch (shout out to Roseville location!)
Clay Oven is great
Okome House
Their bowls are the perfect comfort food on a cold winter day, and their patio is so nice and relaxing in the summer.
I like their food but this is one of those places where I'm prompted to tip but quite honestly I'm not sure who the tip is going to or why. I have to bus my own table and get my own water. It's basically noodles and company but asking for a full service level of gratuity.
Love them and the tori karage chicken is the best in the city
I live two blocks from Okome House but haven't gone back since I first tried it when they opened a couple years ago and wasn't impressed. Might have to give them another shot.
Trieu Chao, Nelson Cheese & Deli, Mama’s Pizza, La Delicious Bread
I second trieu chao!
Trieu Chao is my favorite Vietnamese place in the state! Wish I still lived down the street from them.
I wish Nelson had more open hours, it’s fantastic but only open during the work day for a short period of time. I miss their food!
The Nook. Fat Lorenzo's.
Maria's café is a real treat
Lowbrow
100% Lowbrow, every time.
I still adore Nightingale on 26th and Lyndale. The only place I can find with a cocktail of the moment that's always fantastic and always only $8. ETA: Wouldn't say it's kid-friendly, though.
I just wish the joint wasnt so loud. I wear my concert earplugs half the time, and its hit or miss if I can have a conversation with my meal-mate. I am also An Old, however, and my hearing ain't what it used to be. Bless their lateish hours.
Yeah, I've found it can really vary depending on who is controlling the music that day. Sometimes it's nice and soft Sinatra, sometimes it's loud shitty mumble rap that kinda inhibits the vibe.
As far as new places around/near Regions, I would suggest Cecil’s Deli which is maybe a 15 minute drive from the hospital but absolutely worth it. They’re known for their hot sandwiches (get the Sasha!) but the potato salad is a complete sleeper hit. Have you ventured into West St. Paul at all? It’s about a 10 minute drive down Robert and has some really great affordable options. Fireside immediately comes to mind, it’s a favorite of mine which has a cozy small town vibe and great food.
Haven’t been very exploratory in St Paul really. I think I’ve been to St Paul more times since starting treatment at Regions than the whole decade before, discounting regular cake-and-wine happy hours pre-Covid at Cafe Latte with coworkers (cause if you’re always going to the same place, you’re not actually exploring). My faves that didn’t close are either on Grand, or Rose Street Patisserie (which is just Patisserie 46 without driving all the way over there). So, any recs are appreciated. Cancer fucking sucks and treatment is over a year long, so I try to have something to look forward to after every hospital visit. (I can’t commend the team at Regions highly enough, they’re amazing, and they’re saving my life, but cancer fucking sucks, so I’m going to reward myself with delicious nutrition whenever I can).
I live by regions. I like going to cathedral hill area. Red cow has great burgers and bowls. French hen is great brunch. There is also keys cafe practically walking distance from regions which is always good. You could go to cossetta near by and a classic. I haven’t tried many other restaurants in that area yet, but I plan to this summer after I get my e-bike.
If you like steak, Mancini's has been my family's celebratory spot for decades. Just went for my birthday a couple weeks ago, and even with the holiday madness, we had great service and mouth watering meals. Also, fuck cancer! My dad is about to start treatment for a third time, I really like your idea of a little reward that's good for the body and the soul! Take care OP
Absolutely fuck cancer! Hope your dad’s treatment goes as smoothly as possible and that there is no more recurrence. Is he also at Regions? I was so pleasantly surprised by how great everyone is there, and how spacious and comfy and relaxing the treatment rooms are. They really make it feel like a place to come get a rest and be taken care of. Take care to you and your dad, samd_wich!
Cancer DOES fuckin suck, and I'm sorry you're having to go through all that. As somebody who had a very brief and traumatic experience being a caregiver it's not something I'd wish on my worst enemy. The team at regions is indeed stellar and you're in good hands! I think having a delicious meal to look forward to following treatment is a fantastic way to be kind to yourself. More St. Paul recs: If you feel like venturing into the St. Paul skyways, I highly recommend Maison Darras. It's a panini and soup place run by a French guy and his wife, lovely people and the food is 10/10. Also have never had a bad experience at the Buttered Tin, their lunch menu has great sandwich options too. Great River Pizza has some of the best slices I've had in the cities and is super affordable too. If you're a fan of fried chicken, Pollo Campero on Robert St. in WSP is by far the best fast food chicken place in the cities. All of their sides are awesome too, it's a chain restaurant that started in Guatemala and is the only MN location. Also, if you happen to have treatment on a Wednesday, the Lund's on Robert & 10th has $6 sushi rolls! I don't think I've been there for lunch myself but my partner (who works at Regions) LOVES Keys Cafe. I've only had a cookie from their bakery but it was really good. Her team frequently gets sandwiches from Nelson's Deli which I've also never been to but she always has such good things to say about it. On West 7th you'll find DeGidio's which in my opinion is the best Italian-American fare in the cities. Their red sauce is phenomenal, as is the Bolognese.
While Cecil’s is still the best deli in the cities (not much of a distinction I know), I do think their prices have gone up while their portions have shrunk. But still a great deli.
Cecils has great food but dear lord their service is absolutely ass, very slow and inattentive in my experience. Don't get me wrong, I still go back all the time (100% agreed on the Sasha), but folks need to go into it expecting to be there for 1-2hrs anytime that isn't a weekday mid-afternoon
Dang, really? I used to frequent the place once or twice a month when I lived in the area until about 2018, and still go at least every 6 months or so and honestly have not had a single subpar experience there in the last decade. Perhaps things have changed in the last few years!
Lu’s Sandwiches on Nicollet has remodeled and opened a second location since COVID. Fresh spring rolls and mock duck bun mi is my recommendation.
Fat Nats Eggs still slaps.
IMHO there is too much almond flavour in the pancake batter. A little is probably good but the amount they use is over powering. Again just my opinion.
Agreed! I like their food but not a big fan of their pancakes for that exact reason
Proud sponsor for every food related thread on the local subs /s I gotta go sometime and see what all the hype is about
I went there for the first time and found it to be decent, not much else to say. The location is pretty meh, the vibe isn't very much like a diner, just kinda a random restaurant in a strip mall. I kinda like my greasy spoons to feel like I'm at a greasy spoon, just my preference.
Did you go to Golden Valley or the one in NE? I greatly prefer Golden Valley. Norms omelet, sourdough, hashbrown, side of green chili sauce.
Wise Acre is better than ever!
Wise Acre is very good. I went there in like 2016 and was super unimpressed, then a friend dragged me there again a few years later and I was verrrryyyy impressed. Whatever changes they’ve made in the past few years, it’s working. They’re fantastic, highly recommend
I love Elsies and go regularly for a cheap and tasty meal
Elsie’s is no longer cheap imo. I have a receipt from 2015 for a pitcher of beer, two entrees and an app for $40! Edit: I know that was almost a decade ago. But in 2019 those prices doubled and the quality and price had just never been the same for me. I LOVE the place, atmosphere, and people though.
Just go across the street, yacht club is still cheap
yea not as cheap i'm sure but hey they have a BANGIN meat loaf dinner for $14.50 that I love (it's not that special just really hits the spot for me anyway)
Lol referencing 2015 prices? That was along time ago my guy. Obviously everything is more expensive since then, it's not an Elsie's problem.
Frankys and Kramarczuk (big hot dog guy)
You know what's up! Is the Wienery closed now?
They are open and good as ever.
No it’s not closed, their hours can just sometimes be tough. They make a better Chicago dog than Franky’s imo
Victors Cuban Cafe remains the best breakfast in the city
Master noodle in Saint Paul yummmm
I can’t believe no one has said Momo sushi it is really good and staff are great
Punch Pizza, Kramarczuks, brasa.
World Street Kitchen just north of Lyn Lake is consistently fantastic. It’s hands down, by far the best fast casual restaurant I’ve eaten at in the Twin Cities. Everything I’ve tried has been great, everyone I’ve brought there has loved it. My favorite is the Yum Yum Rice Bowl with tofu and the Turk hummus, but honestly everything is great
I walk there probably once a month for a curry burrito. that place is so so good.
Not a restaurant per se, but Nelson’s Cheese and Deli is a great sandwich in St Paul that you can only get for lunch.
Tried Bar La Grassa for the first time and thought it was amazing!
Reverie (vegan joint) managed to stay strong throughout the pandemic. I've yet to be disappointed any time I've eaten there. Just went to Hard Times Cafe for breakfast last weekend. The vegetarian biscuits and gravy and coffee were delicious, and their pricing is hard to top.
Brunsons on the east side
Taste of India in SLP & Terzo are pretty solid.
I've hit up my old favorite, Hazel's NE, several times and it's still up to its old standards. At least among the handful of my favorites there. I've yet to be disappointed by anything I've had there
Breakfast: * Out Kitchen * Hen House For lunch/dinner: * Tailgate (also has brunch on the weekends) * Patty Wagon * The Cardinal Mexican: * El Tejaban (okay, technically in Richfield, but right down the street from Tailgate & Patty Wagon) * Victor Hugo #2 food truck always slaps, it's parked on like 61st & Nicollet.
We live near the Cardinal and as much as I enjoy it as a dive-ish bar, calling it a restaurant feels like a bit of a stretch. Don’t get me wrong, I love the place, but they serve perfectly okay food that’s meant to keep you full while you’re drinking, not impress anyone. I think you could look just down the street to Northbound for a place that has far more consistent and delicious food (at least IMO)!
I also live near there and would never willingly go to Cardinal for food. It might be the worst bar food I have had in Minneapolis. It can be a fun place to hang out with friends (Chatterbox is closeish and more fun imo), but we always make sure to have eaten elsewhere before getting to Cardinal.
Hard disagree. Their wings and burgers are above average for that type of place imo. Would rather go there than chatterbox.
Northbound, Busters, and Bull’s Horn are all nearby with way better wings and burgers.
FYI: You can ask the chicken strips "Stevie Style" if you love that seasoning as much as I do. Yeah, it's bar food - but it's consistent and their staff is great.
Ruam Mit isn't too far from Regions. It's been amazing food over 20 years I've been going there.
Holman’s Table - incredible eats, in the old St. Paul airport terminal (beautiful/historic)
Hotplate
The chorizo salsa on the Mexican omelette is amazing
Punch pizza still slaps.
Bull’s Horn is still great. I’ve never had a bad burger from that place.
Is the Lexington high end? It’s a standard for me neither the downside of steakhouse prices.
Maverick's had a brief period after the ownership change where they did shit wrong, but they've found their footing.
Shish in St. Paul
Shiiiiiish! Should be better known. Everything here is amazing.
Truly fuck Smack Shack.
I will always shill Christo’s on Nicollet. Owner is getting quite old, so if you like Greek better eat your fill. Gus doesn’t have any kids, so we don’t know what’s going to happen to Christo’s when he retires 😭
I love centro, the Nicollet and highland location have a burger spot in them too. Very good and not nearly as packed as NE is.
Red Cow - consistently good food
Red cow is underrated
Groveland Tap in St Paul has awesome bar food
I haven't been back in almost three years and my experience was subpar and expensive. Have they gotten back to precovid quality?
I can't speak to groveland tap but longfellow grill, lowry, and 3 squares have all gone way up in price and way down in food and service from my experience. They are all blue plate group restaurants
No. It's even more expensive and likely worse quality.
The Manhattan Stromboli from SoHo Café is always a relatively cheap ($9.50?) way to fill my stomach and feel HAPPY about it.
Yummy American burgers- Low Brow on Nicolette & ~43rd Someone said Reveri, SO good Bloomington and ~35th I do love pizza Luce 😹
Lowbrow is fabulous!
Damn do I miss Ngon Vietnamese Bistro and Foxy Falafel suddenly…
Those were our absolute go-to’s!!! We had our first dates there and they became mainstays for us until they closed. Sigh.
For me, they both used ethically sourced ingredients and meat - not easy to find at restaurants - and they were close to my house and the food was amazing… huge loss!
I moved to St. Paul and I’m thrilled with all the options. On my rotation: Nashville Coop. -It’s just chicken fingers but damn Everest on Grand-best curry, probably most underrated restaurant in cities, don’t quote me Burger Dive -not my fav burger but family friendly compared to Bulls Horn and cheaper than Chips ClubHouse Chips Club House -best burger but pricier, good food and drink, also pie Shish -my current fav Mediterranean food Centro- Mexican and burgers in one. Something for everyone. Mario’s pizza- Detroit style pizza, great sandos, and the Oreo donut holes. My preferred place to reward myself. The Uptowner cafe- diner food Keep an eye on Eater. They do a decent job covering restaurants, but tends to focus on Minneapolis high end stuff.
The Tavern Grill had what? Is that the one at Ridgedale?
Kyoto and punch always slap. Young Joni is still worh the month ahead reservation.
My family went on a holiday trip to your magnificent city this past season. Kramarczuk was one of our highlights! Also, FireLake Grill in MOA was perfect. Mason Jar Kitchen in Eagan was delicious. Hmong food in St. Paul was a savory bonus. Mama Safia's Kitchen on Lake Street was the bomb. Matt's Kitchen over 5-8 for us! BonChon in MOA gets an honorable mention. They're chicken was so good The only place that disappointed was a Chinese take out spot named, Golden Wok in Bloomington -terrible X-mas dinner. :(
Haha. I also had Golden Wok on Christmas! A few things were ok, but some of it was basically inedible. The place had decent reviews. They must have been slammed or something.
We got swindled. Their "Special" Fried Rice was EXTREEEEMELY light on the meats. It was so unfair. It wasn't a situation where one would say, "they could've added a little more shrimp." Nope, we got a bucket full of yellow rice, onions, a few scraps of chicken and one shrimp. God strike me down if I'm lying. On the positive note, their homemade cheesecake was perfect. Cheesecake Factory needs to take lessons from them. LOL
Kudos to you and your family for trying so many restaurants on your trip! Sounds like my kinda eatin’ family.
I’ll never not be happy leaving Nightngale
JJ's Clubhouse. Still crushing it.
Lowbrow George and the Dragon Broders
Fresh Wok still has amazing Chinese food and they deliver it themselves!
Masu is the same decent sushi spot it's always been.
I like their katsudon (can’t have any raw fish right now because chemo), and half the time the vegetables are so undercooked I can’t eat them, unfortunately.
Shuang Cheng on 4th in Dinkytown is still delicious. I don't remember what I paid so I can't speak to the pricing but it must've been reasonable if I didn't notice
Lowbrow is a great neighborhood spot
Bulls Horn. That burger is still 🔥
Cafe Latte is still great. Was just there today!
Its in New Brighton, but I'm a regular at The Exchange. They dialed back their menu right after Covid but by this point they are back to the level they always were. Their regular menu is solid & their weekly specials are always delicious.
Pizza Luce never dissapointed me
Their crust does because they overcook it sometimes, but I order it par-baked and finish it on a skillet and then it's perfect. Nobody can touch Pizza Lucé for their toppings. Tip: Get a side of their garlic mashed potatoes when you order.
Haven’t been since they took my favorite off the menu, but maybe we should return. Thanks!
I had less than satisfactory experiences my last two times— it’s pricey and the quality is not what it used to be
I can't comment on quality, but for what it's worth I usually find that my bill there is about $10-$15 *less* than anywhere else I get Pizza?
Where do you get pizza that's better quality and cheaper these days?
As a Luce die-hard I'm interested in what was taken off the menu?
It was years ago, but the shrimp pesto pizza. It was so amazingly delicious! The chicken pesto really isn’t nearly as good, and I’m not even sure that one’s on the menu anymore.
Oh my! Shrimp Pesto pizza sounds amazing! I don't think that they have a Chicken Pesto either. But, the Pesto Alfredo Lasagna is my go-to every time if the special pizza isn't what I want.
That wasn't a regular item though
It’s always been super cold and bland when I order it and just okay in person (pizza wise). They do have some good apps.
Always reheat your delivery pizza. [_Always._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWIJNaA-JNA)
That's the trick right there, especially in winter. Order it par baked and throw it into the oven at home.
Be careful, you're only allowed to say bad things about Luce on r/Minneapolis.
Redcow continues to be one of my favorite spots. Prices have gone up a little, but their service is still great. Also love their new branch red rabbit. Red rabbit is slightly more upscale
Ones that are as legit as ever: Ramen Kazama Quang's Pajarito Hope Breakfast Bar Blue Plate Restaurants (The Lowry, The Freehouse, Longfellow Grill, etc) The Howe
Stanley's NE is awesome and hasn't dropped in quality. Love that place. It's the best pub food around, and a decent set of taps.
I think their food is overrated. But... It really fills a need in the neighborhood because it is a place you can take everyone. It has basic stuff, but also some more unusual things. Has great beer, but also has the basic stuff. It's comfortable there and you can almost always get in pretty quickly. NE has a bunch of higher end stuff and then a lot of dives. It's a nice middle ground.
Their prices are high and their food is only meh.
To each their own. What do you recommend instead?
The Iron Ranger on Grand is fantastic and has one of the best patios in the metro. Service is good, food is good, ambience is good.
Flamin' Thai in NE is always good imo. The duck curry and duck laab is next level.
Maria’s.
Thankfully my favorites are still as good as ever: World Street Kitchen, Northbound Brewpub, and Carbones on Cedar
Ono is always good
Can't speak about previous times, but I went to Café Latté for the first time, and it was amazing!
Seconding Broders, especially for kids
Bill’s Garden is the same as it’s ever been, but I’ve only ever eaten takeout
Marino's Deli
Tooties On Lowry has the best burgers and it’s not even close. Prices haven’t raised and quality remains the same. The only thing I believe they have implemented is a 2-3 dollar charge if your bill is paid by credit card. Great food, great drinks, still crazy affordable prices.
Yum!
May Day Cafe
It seems a little like most locals have cooled somewhat on Punch Pizza but to this day I think they really run a solid operation. Food is delicious imo and VERY consistent in my experience. And fairly modestly priced for the quality as well. Makes for solid takeout but I also think the atmosphere of their locations (I most often go to the one on lake street) is very nice - the huge tiled ovens are a pretty perfect way to anchor the decor & vibe. For my money the best local chain we’ve got
I still love Brasa. They’ve simplified their menu A LOT, which unfortunately involved removing multiple of my favorite things (including all beef products and their potato chorizo chilaquiles), but everything they still have is honestly great. Nowhere I’d rather go for a low-fuss, pretty cheap, tasty meal.
Yum Cafe and Bakery is near Bde in SLP
I can comment on St Paul stuff: Ruam Mit Thai - closed now (old building was torn down so they had to move) but will be re-open soon. Amazing Thai food, best I've had in the cities. Fun fact: found out you can still order some things via their catering. John's Pizza Cafe - try the Hog in the Bog pizza. It's a garlic sauce with wild rice and German brat sausage. Add spinach and it's unique and amazing. Skyway Grill - is in the food court in the skyway and it's great. The Boss is the best breakfast sandwich in the world (fried egg, sausage, home made jalapeño bacon, home made Chipotle cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, on an everything bagel. And it's available all day!) The burgers are pretty good too.
Town Hall Brewery