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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Central Minneapolis

Food spots

A crisp, fresh salad is the only thing that feels right when you need a meal that is both satisfying and light.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Trieste Cafe image 1
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Greek restaurant

Cozy Greek deli with Mediterranean vibes and fresh, made-to-order meals creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Limited seating and a steady lunch rush reflect its popularity among locals. Walls adorned with artwork and music add character to the quiet, friendly setting.

Salads come freshly made to order with the #5 salad chopped right in front of you. They offer fresh-made cold pasta salad and serve it with pita and hummus on the side.

Fresh, authentic Mediterranean dishes bring wonderful flavor to every meal. A beautiful Lebanese family serves food that captures the essence of old Minneapolis in a small, charming setting.

People are saying

"I loved watching them chop the veggies fresh for my salad."

"I could eat the gyros lunchbox daily; it's the best lunch spot."

"I found the food here to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait during the noon hour due to high demand.

2

They are open only for lunch from 12 to 2 pm on weekdays.

3

The line moves quickly, even during peak hours.

02
OCOCO image 1
Asian restaurant

Skyway-level Asian restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with fresh, flavorful Malaysian and Thai street food. Seating feels comfortable and spacious, with a kiosk ordering system at the entrance. The place attracts those looking for generous portions and unbeatable prices in a quiet setting.

Salads feature fresh ingredients and come with flavorful satay skewers as a great value. Options like the tofu salad bowl balance health and taste well, though some salads may lack dressing.

Food here is authentic and packed with flavor, featuring freshly prepared Thai and Malaysian dishes. Lunch orders come out quickly, making it a solid choice for a flavorful meal on a break.

People are saying

"The tofu salad bowl here is delicious, satisfying, and perfectly balanced."

"I found the food delicious and affordable."

"The food here is so tasty and yummy!"

Good to know

1

Order at the kiosk at the entrance for a quick service.

2

Parking is available in a paid garage or on the street nearby.

3

Expect a slight wait of 10-15 minutes during busy lunch hours.

03
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.

Fresh Mexican bowls feature steak, pineapple salsa, and sour cream over white rice. Salads include options like Barbacoa and come with sides such as chips and guacamole.

Food comes fresh and tasty with fast casual style and boozy drinks available. The menu offers reasonably priced options that stand out from typical fast food.

People are saying

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

"The barbacoa here is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor."

"I loved creating my own salad bowl with so many toppings."

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.

04
St Pierre Steak and Seafood image 1

Upscale restaurant with exposed brick and intimate booths facing a large bar creates a lively yet cozy atmosphere. The vibe balances modern design with classic touches, attracting diners seeking elegant seafood and steak dishes. The space feels inviting despite occasional loudness, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience.

Cauliflower salad stands out with its pickled flavor and a fennel seed pop. Crab and seabean salad offers a fresh, unique mix.

Food here is consistently delicious and creative, with dishes that go beyond expectations. Service complements the fabulous flavors, making dining a complete experience.

People are saying

"The pickled cauliflower salad has a nice pop from fennel seeds."

"The food here is superb, flavorful, and satisfying."

"You have to try the food, especially the potato pave."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking is available for $15, but street parking can be challenging.

3

Gluten-free options are available, making it accommodating for dietary restrictions.

05
Berlin image 1
Live music bar

Intimate jazz club with moody interior and thoughtful layout featuring booths and a small stage. Atmosphere stays quaint and romantic with live jazz performances by talented local musicians. Venue offers late-night music and a swanky vibe suited for relaxed evenings.

Innovative salads include the Gem Salad and the winter salad, which stands out as a favorite. Options like tuna belly and duck confit add variety beyond typical greens.

Food includes Dover Sole and Chicken Schnitzel with a slightly higher price but great taste. Cocktails and drinks complement the friendly staff atmosphere.

People are saying

"The jazz vibe here is moody and intimate."

"I thought the food here was very tasty and perfectly suited lighter eats."

"The seating areas are intimate and thoughtfully designed."

Good to know

1

Free jazz performances are available on many nights, with no cover charge before 7pm.

2

Arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure a good spot, especially for popular shows.

3

Street parking can be difficult to find due to the busy area around the venue.

06
Stock & Bond MN image 1
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.

Beet salad stands out with its generous size and spot on flavor. Appetizer salads come in great tasting portions that satisfy.

Food here is consistently great with a focus on delivering an exceptionally good dining experience. The combination of amazing service and atmosphere complements the meals well.

People are saying

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

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

"The Wagyu Bavette was flavorful and cooked perfectly."

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.

07
The Bulldog Downtown image 1

Bar and grill with edgy wall art and a clean sports bar environment offers a relaxing, low-key vibe with plenty of TVs for game watching. Music variety and games like darts and pinball add to the cozy atmosphere. Reasonable prices and a rotating tap list make it a solid downtown choice.

Ahi tuna salad stands out with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Side salads come with meals like the Teriyaki steak sandwich and offer a delicious, crisp complement.

Food comes out quickly and tastes amazing with reasonable prices. The menu pairs well with a solid beer selection.

People are saying

"Spencer, the bartender, was incredible and managed everything."

"I enjoyed the great food here."

"I loved the ahi tuna salad."

Good to know

1

Bingo events occur regularly and are not disruptive to dining.

2

The bar has limited handicap accessibility.

3

Prices are reasonable for a downtown establishment.

08
Dave's Downtown image 1
American restaurant

Cafeteria-style setup with clearly designated hot and cold food areas creates an efficient flow. Comfortable and welcoming atmosphere features large jars of fruit or lemon water and outdoor seating with a nice window view. The place draws a steady crowd seeking quick, tasty lunches in a relaxed skyway environment.

Buffalo chicken salad stands out with its bold flavor. The menu includes chicken tender salad and a variety of wraps and salads that often draw a line.

Food comes out fresh and warm with a variety of options including a notable double D special featuring 3.5 ounces of beef on a pretzel bun. Meals arrive as ordered, offering cafeteria speed without the usual blandness.

People are saying

"This lunch spot is fast and friendly."

"The food here is tasty, fresh, and served hot."

"I found the salad to be great."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines between 11:30 and 12:15 on weekdays.

2

The place closes early, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

The line moves quickly, even during busy hours.

09
Green + The Grain image 1

Restaurant inside a skywalk offers large portions and a wide variety of dressings during weekday lunch hours. The atmosphere is busy and lively, often with long lines during peak times. Prices are moderate but do not include tax, and the setting is clean and pleasant.

Salads come with many customizable ingredients and options. They serve large bowls quickly with crispy pita crackers as a popular topping.

Food here is consistently fresh, healthy, and filling. Fast food options impress with their quality and taste.

People are saying

"I thought the salads here were the best I ever had."

"The salads here are delicious and offer lots of options."

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and filling."

Good to know

1

They are only open during weekday lunch hours from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

2

The line can be very long, so plan to arrive early.

3

Prices do not include tax, so factor that into your budget.

10
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.

Cobb salad stands out with fresh ingredients and solid flavor. Other options include a beet salad and a classic Caesar salad.

Food features delicious flavors and good-sized portions with consistently high quality across dining venues. Service enhances the experience, making meals enjoyable.

People are saying

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

"The smashburger and herb fries are delicious food."

"I thought the Cobb salad was one of the best I ever had."

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.

11
Andrea Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant in a skyway building offers massive selection of New York-style slices with light, tender crusts and varied toppings. Lunch hours bring a busy, grab-and-go atmosphere with limited dine-in space but plenty of seating nearby. Prices remain reasonable, and pre-packed sauces and sides add efficiency.

Salads here are basic but good, pairing well with the pizza. They offer a simple, tasty option without much fuss.

Pizza stands out as beyond delicious and notably filling. Limited dining space leads to many choosing to-go orders during busy lunch hours.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has amazing pizza slices with a massive selection."

"This pizza food is beyond delicious and the best I've had."

"The salad options here are tasty and varied."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch rush hours from 12-2 PM.

2

The lunch special costs around $8, making it a great deal.

3

Parking is available on the street, with easy access to the restaurant.

12
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.

Salads stand out with the Caesar salad and apple gorgonzola salad both tasting excellent. Garlic bread sticks often accompany the salads, adding to the meal.

Food features amazing flavors and delicious dishes served with phenomenal service. Meals cater well to families and offer a consistently great dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

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

"The Caesar salad portions were small, enough for two people."

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.

13
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.

Salads here feature unique ingredients like pomegranates instead of dried cranberries and options such as the shaved Brussels Sprouts salad with shrimp. The fig and prosciutto salad and the beet salad offer fresh, inventive flavors.

Food stands out with excellent quality and thoughtful preparation. Service complements the dining experience, making meals consistently enjoyable.

People are saying

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

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

"The Caesar salad here is tasty."

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.

14
Trax Burgers and Bar image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Traditional American restaurant offers an open feel with a private patio overlooking the street. Atmosphere combines nostalgic music and a cool vibe that suits pre-show cocktails and casual dining. Crowd enjoys unique burgers and specialty beers in a lively yet comfortable setting.

Salads come fresh and creative with crispy cheese curds and legit chicken. The BLT Wedge Salad offers a tasty twist with ranch dressing instead of blue cheese.

Juicy, flavorful burgers show care in food quality. Overall, the food is fantastic with great quality and exceptional service.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were excellent and perfectly cooked."

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The salads here are fresh and well put together."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining, especially on concert nights.

2

Expect a wait if arriving close to showtime, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located next to the light rail station.

15
Borough image 1
New American restaurant

Cozy space with warm lighting and rustic features creates a relaxing atmosphere that feels upscale without pretension. Staff contribute to a welcoming, lively vibe suited for romantic dinners or corporate meetings. Open kitchen view adds a dynamic touch to the beautiful, spacious decor.

Salads feature heirloom tomatoes with micro basil and creamy burrata, offering a fresh and rich taste. The Waldorf salad combines endive, walnuts, and crisp apples for a light, textured bite.

Food features sublime dishes like beef tartar, squash bread, and lamb pasta. Lobster linguine stands out among the exceptional offerings with great drinks complementing the meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the spicy lobster spaghetti."

"I found the food to be delicious and unique."

"The heirloom tomato salad with burrata is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for special occasions like Valentine's Day.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Portions are on the smaller side, so consider ordering multiple items.

16
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.

Salads feature fresh, vibrant ingredients like mozzarella with hazelnut dressing, burrata paired with Caesar, and a refreshing watermelon and cucumber mix. They balance salty, sweet, and crisp flavors well.

Game liver mousse stands out as a remarkable dish. Food and drinks consistently deliver excellent quality with amazing service throughout.

People are saying

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

"The food here was delicious and incredible."

"The watermelon salad is so refreshing on a hot day."

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.

17
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.

Excellent food and outstanding service create a dining experience that feels like sharing a meal with family. Every visit delivers high-quality dishes and attentive care.

People are saying

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

"The food here was amazing and the best part."

"The Caesar salad was a nice addition to our steak."

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.

18
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.

Salads feature grilled salmon and chicken as standout proteins. The Cobb salad offers a solid, classic option.

Food here is consistently fresh and high quality. Dishes and cocktails both impress with their delicious flavors.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so fresh and tasty."

"The Noa Salad with chicken was fantastic and fresh."

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.

19
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Large grocery store offers fresh produce, extensive bakery, and specialty food sections like meat and seafood. Clean, spacious layout includes free underground parking and both regular and self-checkout options with palm payment. Eating area near the entrance provides a convenient spot to enjoy ready-to-eat foods.

Varied salad bar offers fresh items and includes options like turkey breast and red farro salad that are healthy and tasty.

Fresh, healthy food fills the shelves with a wide range of frozen meals, specialty pantry items, and a large cheese section. Hot takeaway food, an olive bar, and many ready-to-eat options add variety and convenience.

People are saying

"This grocery store has so much fresh, healthy food."

"I found so many healthy and organic food options here."

"I found the salad bar to have a huge variety of fresh options."

Good to know

1

The store offers free underground parking for customers.

2

Whole Foods Market has a great selection of organic fruits and vegetables.

3

Amazon returns can be made for free without needing a box or label.

20
Maison Margaux image 1
Restaurant

Historical building hosts a spacious restaurant with dark themed underground lounge and outdoor terrace featuring Paris and Monet imagery. Atmosphere blends high energy with classy, interactive vibes. Known for an exceptional Cognac and Armagnac selection and standout cocktails.

Start with the endive salad that balances blue cheese flavor with a light touch. Beet salad also appears as a fresh, vibrant option on the menu.

Food features delicious appetizers, main courses, and desserts all prepared perfectly. The menu offers a five-star dining experience with dishes served beautifully and full of flavor.

People are saying

"The French Food, especially the short ribs and bouillabaisse, was perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The endive salad was excellent and blue-cheesy but light."

Good to know

1

Social hour menu is available until 5:45pm, with drink specials until 6:00pm.

2

Dessert orders should be placed early as the kitchen gets busy around 10pm.

3

Upstairs is a great space for small weddings and events.

21
Off the Rails image 1
Bar & grill

Long bar with many taps and patio overlooking stadium create a lively setting. Live music and DJ energize the space, especially before games when the crowd is loud and festive. Dog friendly atmosphere attracts locals who enjoy games, drinks, and casual fun.

Steak salad features bold flavors and stands out. Cobb salad offers fresh ingredients and generous portions. Some salads taste watered down and lack appeal.

Food here is genuinely delicious and high quality. Huge chicken wings stand out, and service is quick and attentive.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is genuinely delicious and great."

"I found the food here to be really delicious and enjoyable."

"I loved the cobb salad; it was so fresh and generous."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, but ask for the menu during busy times.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun activity for visitors.

3

Expect a reduced menu on days with special events at the nearby ballpark.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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