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Salad and sandwich spots in Central Minneapolis

You want a quick, reliable meal that doesn't feel like fast food. A good sandwich and a fresh salad are the foundation of a solid lunch.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 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.

Gyro sandwiches feature freshly cut veggies right in front of you and come with options like a combo with side pasta. Falafel pita sandwiches also appear on the menu alongside pasta sides.

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 loved watching them cut the fresh vegetables for my sandwich."

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
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.

Fish sandwich stands out with fresh flavors. Both ahi tuna sandwich and ahi tuna salad offer a tasty twist. Teriyaki steak sandwich comes with a delicious salad on the side.

People are saying

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

"I found the ahi tuna sandwich to be outstanding."

"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.

03
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.

Chicken bacon ranch on a pretzel bun stands out with rich flavors. Bagel sandwiches come classic, quick, and cheap. Pita sandwiches and chicken burgers offer tasty variety.

People are saying

"This lunch spot is fast and friendly."

"I thought the chicken tender wrap was the best I tried."

"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.

04
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.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with crispy texture, balanced coleslaw, and a mix of salty and sweet flavors. Breakfast sandwiches feature seasoned ham and hollandaise, while other options like the sunrise sandwich and mushroom omelette also satisfy.

People are saying

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

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

"This chicken sandwich is crispy, salty, and perfectly dressed."

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.

05
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.

Steak sandwiches feature tender steak cooked to preference with cheese on sourdough. Options include a hot chicken sandwich and cheesesteak, often served with crispy fries and a side salad. Some find the steak sandwich a bit salty.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the steak sandwich very good and would order it again."

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.

06
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.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with options like the drunk chicken, which is a bit sweet and sometimes overcooked, and the candy bacon variety. Cheese curds also pair well with these sandwiches.

People are saying

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

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

"I craved the chicken sandwich because it was delicious."

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.

07
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.

The Hot Chicken Sandwich stands out with its gochujang glaze and kimchi, delivering great flavor. The Fried Chicken Sandwich offers a ghost pepper rub that brings steady heat.

People are saying

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

"The fried chicken sandwich had a delicious ghost pepper heat."

"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.

08
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.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with grilled chicken and a Chicken Parm option. Steak sandwiches come with mushy bread and average meat and cheese, lacking sauce and crunch.

People are saying

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

"The Caesar salad here is tasty."

"I found the grilled chicken sandwich to be exquisite."

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.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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