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Lunch dinner spots in Central Minneapolis

A reliable place to sit down for a meal is essential whether the sun is high or the day is ending.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Stock & Bond MN image 1
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Restaurant

Art deco design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere with elegant, modern decor reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era. The space feels carefully curated and visually stunning, offering a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Valet parking and coat check add to the hassle-free, comfortable experience.

Works well for business lunch meetings with space for 20+ people. Offers a relaxed vibe at the bar and quieter times during weekdays. Lunch options stand out more than dinner here.

Dinner here offers a fully available main menu with dishes that suit special occasions like birthdays and Thanksgiving. The meals consistently deliver an extraordinary and excellent experience.

People are saying

"The Wagyu Bavette steak was flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic and full of flavor."

"Our server Daniel was amazing and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially for special events.

2

Valet service is not recommended due to past negative experiences.

3

The restaurant offers a private room for events like wedding receptions.

02
Star Bar & Bistro image 1

Space combines mid-century modern design with twinkling starburst ceiling and neon-lit walls creating a retro, artsy vibe. Live music fills the room, sometimes loud, adding energy to the atmosphere. Comfortable seating and cocktail tables encourage relaxed conversation and socializing.

Lunch offers a different vibe than the cozy bar area, creating a unique atmosphere. Food and service stand out, making lunch feel like an experience rather than just a meal.

People are saying

"The smashburger at this Lunch Spot is a must-try."

"The mellow groove and soft lights create a cool, mellow vibe."

"The chicken sandwich at this dinner spot was crispy, salty, and slightly sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for happy hour to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

03
Spice & Tonic - Indian Cuisine & Bar image 1

Small, dimly lit space with exposed wood beams and stone walls creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Background music plays softly, supporting a relaxing, comfortable vibe suited for casual or romantic dinners. Secluded booths and elegant decor add to the sense of privacy and charm.

Lunch offers affordable options with hefty portions. Vegetarian choices like the Veggie platter #2 and dishes such as dal makhani, coconut chicken curry, and butter chicken come with naan.

Dinner offers a nice setting especially before a show at the Guthrie. The food stands out as amazing with strong flavors and good variety.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious coconut curry with its authentic flavors."

"The Indian dinner spots here are full of authentic, flavorful spices."

"The staff here are so kind and attentive during lunch."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available in the lot next to the restaurant.

2

Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful and perfect.

3

Their lunch menu offers great affordable options with hefty portions.

04
Lyon's Pub image 1

Pub offers an authentic British atmosphere with an old English feel and European-style outdoor seating. Music often plays loudly, creating a lively, party vibe that can overshadow dining moments. Walls display sports memorabilia, attracting fans during local games.

Lunch features Prime Rib Sandwich and Reuben options. It suits casual meals with beers and offers a spot to watch the game.

Quick dinners work well here with options like a great dinner salad. The spot suits casual, fast meals without fuss.

People are saying

"The staff at this pub were simply wonderful and friendly."

"The French dip and pulled pork sandwich are amazing lunch spots."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and amazing."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Friday with a lively crowd and song requests welcome.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Live music performances occur on Saturday nights, featuring local artists.

05
PURALIMA Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant atmosphere featuring creative art and a flower bar. Music plays a key role, creating a lively and welcoming vibe. Fresh margaritas stand out as a popular highlight alongside flavorful dishes.

Large portions make lunch stretch into dinner. Service is fast and friendly, ideal for a quick, affordable meal. Options lean toward healthy and satisfying, with a consistent crowd during lunch hours.

Large portions make it easy to have dinner and save lunch for the next day. Staff are kind and service is quick, fitting well for a casual dinner after a workout or a quick meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and authentic."

"This lunch spot has amazing, fresh food made from scratch."

"The dinner spots here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect smaller protein portions compared to other restaurants.

2

Extra toppings incur additional charges after three.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

06
EaTo image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and patio seating create a lively and engaging setting with cool atmosphere and great vibes. Space balances high and low top tables spaced to avoid crowding, supporting comfortable conversations. Artistic touches like live dog drawings add unique charm to the experience.

Lunch combos offer great value and include options like a grilled chicken sandwich. The patio seating provides a nice spot to enjoy lunch outdoors.

Dinner features a three-course menu option and attentive service from staff like James and Chloe. The atmosphere suits both solo diners at the bar and large groups, with helpful planning support for big dinners.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and authentic Italian."

"Their Bolognese was a no-brainer for our wedding catering."

"I hoped the Double Standard burger would stay on the menu."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great deals on drinks and bites.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events in the designated room.

3

The menu includes personal pizzas called pizzetes during happy hour.

07
Murray's image 1
Steak house

Upscale steak house with an old-time feel and warm, relaxing atmosphere. Dining room shows old school elegance combined with modern quality, while the bar contrasts with a typical sports bar look. Valet parking and table-side carving add to the experience.

Lunch offers affordable prices with a modest menu that delivers tender steak and satisfying sandwiches like hot chicken and cheesesteak. The setting suits group meals and casual gatherings.

Handles large groups smoothly with efficient service and high-quality food. Works well for business dinners and formal gatherings.

People are saying

"The steak here is outstanding and cooked to perfection."

"I've had the best steak I've ever eaten at these dinner spots."

"I had the most tender steak for my Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

The happy hour menu includes shareable sliders and wings at great prices.

08
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Underground setting with eclectic decor featuring old photos and celebrity memorabilia creates a cozy, intimate vibe. Guests gather around large round tables with lazy Susans, enjoying classic Italian tunes and a lively atmosphere. The place blends homey charm with a memorable, authentic feel.

Lunch offers quick service that fits well with tight schedules. Staff handle large groups smoothly and allow ordering from a lunch menu with single servings.

Hosts large groups easily with space for about 24 to 30 people. Offers affordable prices for dinner and drinks. Suitable for special occasions like rehearsal dinners and birthday celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The family-style dinner portions are massive and perfect for sharing."

"The Lunch Spot portions are huge and meant for sharing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 11 PM.

2

Everything at Buca di Beppo is served family style.

3

Guests should come hungry because the portions are large.

09
noa Minneapolis image 1
New American restaurant

Modern space with spa-like ambiance and trendy decor featuring floral touches creates a calm yet upscale vibe. Bar area stands out with a frost rail keeping drinks cold and unique cocktail presentations. Crowd varies from business diners to casual groups, with a setting suited for both conversation and events.

Lunch here suits group meals and quick stops alike. The spot offers a casual atmosphere and efficient service for midday breaks.

Large group dinners happen here with ease, including special events like rehearsal dinners. The menu features a miso-glazed cod that stands out as a popular dinner choice.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be delicious and juicy."

"The fried chicken sandwich lunch spot has a steady, delicious heat."

"The food at these dinner spots is all delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm on weeknights with great food and drink deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for private events and busy times.

3

Paid street parking and parking garages are available nearby, but can be challenging.

10
Sonora Mexican kitchen and bar image 1

Large industrial space with open kitchen and modern decor creates a bright, authentic vibe. Patio offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area with a great atmosphere. Loud music and echo in the dining room make conversation challenging.

Quick, attentive service stands out during the lunch rush. Staff remain friendly and efficient even when busy.

Dinner features attentive service and a lively environment that enhance the meal. Both dinner and dessert often exceed expectations.

People are saying

"The brisket burrito and chicken nachos were amazing Mexican food."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos were fantastic and flavorful."

"The tacos and guacamole at these dinner spots are really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm on weekdays with $6 margaritas and half off appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers all tacos for $3, featuring savory meats.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid a wait during peak hours.

11
Salt & Flour Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and open concept design create a lively setting with DJ music enhancing the mood during brunch and dinner. Seating is tightly packed, making the space feel busy and energetic. Decor mixes expensive elements with casual touches, resulting in a unique but sometimes confusing atmosphere.

Memorable lunches come from the teamwork of Matthew and Chef Gary. They create a noteworthy experience that stands out during midday meals.

Patio dining offers a nice setting for dinner. Staff like Matthew and Gabe contribute to a great experience with friendly service.

People are saying

"The game liver mousse at these dinner spots was out of this world."

"The peanut butter tart dessert is like a gourmet Reese's, but way better."

"Matthew's attentive service made our Lunch Spot visit memorable."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from Sunday to Thursday, which is rare on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

Parking is available in a nearby ramp for $10.

12
The Nicollet Diner image 1
American restaurant

Classic diner setting combines with neon signs and open patios to create a lively, welcoming space. Energy shifts from relaxed daytime vibes to late-night buzz with an arcade bar upstairs. The atmosphere embraces diversity and community, making it a hub for all walks of life.

Offers a great selection of breakfast and lunch options with meals available throughout the day. Serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and late-night meals making it versatile for midday dining.

Dinner includes options at a classic diner open late. A night out can combine dinner, a show, and an after-party all in one building.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, elegant, and well-priced."

"These dinner spots offer a queer, fabulous experience with energetic drag shows."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is really good, with huge portions."

Good to know

1

The Nicollet Diner is open 24 hours a day, making it a late-night option.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one drinks until 7 PM on weekdays.

3

The diner hosts a popular drag show event on certain nights.

13
Dancing Ganesha image 1
Indian restaurant

Spices fill the air in a spacious, comfortable setting with India-inspired decor and cozy atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming vibe, making it suitable for dates or groups. The place offers great vegan options and nominal pricing compared to others.

Lunch offers fast service and full flavor with classics like tandoor specialties. The spot is usually not busy during weekday lunches.

Dinner offers classic tandoor specialties suitable for business or casual meals. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, fitting for both weekday dinners and special occasions.

People are saying

"I found the Indian food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The vegetarian options here are great with lots of variety."

"The Indian food here is delicious and amazing for dinner."

Good to know

1

Dancing Ganesha offers great vegan and vegetarian options.

2

The restaurant is clean and accessible for people with special needs.

3

The menu features a variety of classic Asian Indian dishes.

14
Tavola image 1
Restaurant

Open concept space with modern light fixtures and dark walls creates a moody, relaxed atmosphere. The setting feels like a hotel restaurant with a quiet, laid-back vibe during lunch and dinner hours. Copper bar accents add a distinctive touch to the decor.

Affordable and delicious food with perfect portion sizes makes lunch here solid. The menu leans heavily on pork options, and the ambience suits a laid-back meal.

Dinner features Italian flatbread, burrata, and hearty options like tomahawk porkchop and short rib. The menu includes unique items like vegetarian French fries similar to truffle fries, all served in a laid-back setting.

People are saying

"The pasta and short rib at these dinner spots were delicious."

"I highly recommend the delicious arancini."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and tasty options."

Good to know

1

The holiday pop-up event 'forged' runs through December with special menu items.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for an entrรฉe and $12 for a side.

3

The menu has limited non-pork options, which may not suit all diners.

15
Ten 01 Social image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill inside a busy hotel lobby offers casual environment with lots of seating and outdoor seating in good weather. Atmosphere is fun and energetic despite hotel setting, with no long waits even when crowded. Menu includes diverse options with some standout dishes like in-house black bean burger and delicious cheese curds.

Great service supports breakfast, lunch, and late-night drinks. Options include basic grab-and-go meals and full-service espresso and coffee drinks.

Dinner includes Reuben and BBQ pork options. The dinner roll is good. The spot suits casual drinks or a relaxed meal before events.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the artichoke dip."

"The Wisconsin cheese curds here are delicious."

"The dinner spots here have yummy Reuben and BBQ pork."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available quickly.

2

Expect to pay around $9 for a beer and $45 for a steak.

3

A breakfast bundle is available for $11, including coffee and an egg sandwich.

16
Normandy Kitchen image 1

Cozy bistro with warm atmosphere and historic charm offers outdoor cafe tables and classic cocktails. Background music includes old movies and curated playlists enhancing the inviting vibe. Space feels intimate, suited for relaxed gatherings and post-event drinks.

Lunch hours show a quiet atmosphere with few diners. Groups of four often stop by during conferences for a casual meal.

Dinner hours offer easy parking and a friendly server who shares unique stories. The spot works well for grabbing dinner.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have amazing, fresh, and flavorful food."

"The Hemingway daiquiri was unreal and perfectly made."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is amazing; they make great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Half of the menu is often unavailable, so check before ordering.

2

Parking requires a ticket from the main desk, which can be challenging.

3

Prices are high, so be prepared for a premium dining experience.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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