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Local picks in Saint Paul

Coffee and lunch spots

A coffee shop that serves a real lunch instead of just a pre-packaged snack from a cooler.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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East African restaurant

East African restaurant offers a cozy neighborhood vibe with friendly, welcoming staff and a back room for billiardettes. Seating includes sturdy tables, sofas, and a large screen TV, creating a relaxed atmosphere for long chats or solo visits. The place stands out for its authentic Eritrean, Sudanese, and Ethiopian cuisine served in generous portions.

Roasting their own coffee beans stands out, with strong East African coffee served alongside food. Espresso drinks are delicious, and some beans are available for purchase.

Generous portions of tibs, kitfo, and doro wat make lunch hearty here. Meals come in sizes that can challenge even a big appetite.

People are saying

"Their strong East African coffee is delicious and so good."

"The Embetito Dnish sandwich's warm potatoes contrast with cool romaine."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing East African flavors and great hospitality."

Good to know

1

Expect a variety of Eritrean community events throughout the year.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes at reasonable prices.

3

Free parking is available for customers.

02
BOGA image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Walk-up takeout spot with a spacious outdoor patio and picnic tables creates a calm, friendly atmosphere. Kids play with provided chalk and bubbles, while dogs enjoy pup cups and fresh water. Indoor seating is small and cramped, emphasizing outdoor dining and casual vibes.

Espresso here has good quality and stands out in drinks like the iced vanilla latte. The latte often comes with a caramel drizzle, adding a sweet touch to the delicious espresso base.

Stops here offer a solid lunch option with straightforward meals. Good for grabbing a quick bite when you don't bring food from home.

People are saying

"You have to try their phenomenal gyro; it's terrific!"

"The burgers here are perfectly seasoned and delicious."

"The espresso in the coffee here is really delicious."

Good to know

1

BOGA is a walk-up establishment with no indoor seating.

2

Prices for combo meals are around $12.

3

BOGA serves halal meat, catering to dietary preferences.

03
Hey Bear! image 1
Lunch restaurant

Small cafe in a cute old building offers a cozy atmosphere with bright, clean interior and friendly vibe. It attracts people looking for affordable, high-quality breakfast and lunch in a casual, homey setting.

Coffee here tastes artisanal with a good texture and smell. It comes from Roundtable nearby, ensuring a high-quality brew made with pure water.

Made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch items offer unique sandwiches and classic twists. Food, prices, and service make it an easy and delicious spot to pop in for lunch.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast sandwich with homemade biscuits and sausage unreal."

"I'd go back for the delicious, flavorful sandwiches at this Lunch Spot."

"I found the coffee and breakfast sandwich to be fantastic."

Good to know

1

The cafe isn't open on Mondays.

2

Both breakfast and lunch options are served all day.

3

They frequently have daily specials for sandwiches or bowls.

04
The Perfect Coffee image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Classic American diner with mid-century style and a modern remodel offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with natural light and colorful booths. The space feels clean and well-maintained, inviting for both casual meals and work with free Wi-Fi. It balances a homey vibe with fresh, updated furnishings.

Excellent drip coffee and a full coffee bar menu with many options create a solid coffee experience. Quick and friendly service complements the calm breakfast joint vibe.

Offers a reliable spot for both breakfast and lunch with options to dine in or take out. Serves consistently during lunch hours, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food portions here are huge and a total bargain."

"The Coffee here is delicious with very generous portions."

"I thought their burger was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back.

2

The portions are big and will definitely fill you up.

3

The restaurant offers a full coffee bar menu with many options.

05
Joseph's Grill image 1
Bar & grill

Large indoor space combines dark wood decor with multiple TVs for sports viewing. Atmosphere stays busy but manageable, with outdoor patio and private rooms adding variety. Shuttle service and homemade Bloody Marys enhance the casual dining experience.

Coffee here is consistently fresh and delicious. The service makes sure every cup is great.

Offers value prices and excellent service at both the bar and tables. Meals come out quickly, often within 45 minutes, making it easy to get a satisfying lunch without a long wait.

People are saying

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

"You have to try this breakfast sandwich at the Lunch Spot; it's awesome."

"I thought the coffee here was great and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Joseph's Grill offers a shuttle service to home Wild games for $2.

3

Open mic night takes place on the patio every Wednesday at 7pm.

06
Little Brazil MN Market & Cafe image 1

Cafe combines authentic Brazilian style with a small grocery market offering Brazilian imports and foods hard to find elsewhere. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, vibrant with colorful decor and plenty of seating both indoors and on a spacious patio. TVs show Brazilian football, creating a lively spot for groups and casual gatherings.

Offers Brazilian coffee with a good balance of quality and price. Coffee pairs well with empanadas and mortadella sandwiches.

Lunch features steak specials and beef empanadas with hot sauce. Portuguese is commonly spoken during lunch, adding to the atmosphere. Plates are available throughout the day with tasty options.

People are saying

"The food at this grocery store is amazing, especially the chicken sandwich."

"I found the coffee here to be absolutely delicious."

"The beef empanadas make a perfect lunch."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays, they have a special feijoada available.

2

The cheese bread costs only $1.50 each.

3

Food options are available for under $10.

07
Black Sea image 1
Turkish restaurant

Minimalist decor reflects authentic Turkish style in a simple, no-frills setting with a family feel. Atmosphere is chill and easy, often accompanied by random YouTube videos playing. Primarily a take-out spot with a few tables, it offers affordable prices and quick preparation.

Coffee here includes Turkish coffee with a strong, pleasant aroma. The coffee is enjoyable but not an authentic Turkish brew.

Lunch here draws a steady crowd just before the rush, with easy street parking right out front. The No. 15 with rice and hot sauce stands out as a go-to choice for a quick, satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and delicious."

"I adored the coffee and baklava."

"The gyros meat at this Lunch Spot is carved right off the spit."

Good to know

1

Black Sea is primarily a take-out place with limited dine-in options.

2

Prices at Black Sea are very reasonable, typically around $10 for a meal.

3

The restaurant closes early, so plan your visit accordingly.

08
ZAO Bakery + Café image 1
Chinese bakery

Bright, clean space with modern design and natural light creates a welcoming, peaceful atmosphere. Seating is spacious and self-service amenities like microwaves and water stations support a relaxed pace. The vibe blends cozy comfort with a fresh, airy feel reminiscent of morning street food scenes.

Cold brew coffee stands out with a smooth, refreshing taste. Ginseng coffee offers a unique flavor at a reasonable price, and the Coconut Coffee Cloud drink adds a tropical twist to the menu.

Busy Sundays do not slow down the quick service. Options include congee, noodles, and drinks paired with pastries for a solid sit-down lunch.

People are saying

"The bakery's savory pastries are a taste from childhood."

"The coconut cream buns and coffee here are so good."

"The buns and pastries here are fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be limited on weekends.

2

The bakery sells out of items quickly, so arrive early.

3

A minimum purchase is required for card payments.

09
Neighborhood Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Small diner with a charming back patio offers a friendly, local vibe reminiscent of a small town. Seating shows wear, but the atmosphere stays warm and casual. Outdoor area provides a quiet oasis where dogs are welcome.

Coffee here stays great and amazing with steady refills. The quality keeps coming strong every time.

Lunch offers a brunch and lunch menu with options from healthy to decadent. Prices stay reasonable, but service can be slow during the lunch rush with limited check-ins and no water refills.

People are saying

"I found the pancakes to be great and perfect."

"I found the coffee here to be amazing."

"The Lunch Spot service was attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult; street parking is available but can be limited.

2

Expect long waits for seating on weekends; weekdays are easier for tables.

3

The bathroom is accessible for walkers and wheelchairs.

10
Hot Hands Pie & Biscuit image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy breakfast spot with bright windows and vintage baking tools creating an inviting atmosphere. Nostalgic music plays at a lively volume, filling the space with energy. Seating options include ample outdoor areas, and the kitchen is visible through windows, showcasing food preparation.

Coffee comes with no bitterness and pairs well with pastries and biscuit sandwiches. Options range from simple coffee to iced drinks and full meals.

Offers a relaxing lunch atmosphere with options for a quick bite or a more leisurely meal. Serves well for breakfast and lunch with a consistent appeal for those times.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast sandwiches here to be great and satisfying."

"The biscuits here are flaky and scrumptious."

"The coffee here is pretty good, never burnt or bitter."

Good to know

1

The place gets busy quickly, especially during peak hours.

2

Free parking is available in the lot behind the building.

3

They have ample outside seating available for guests.

11
Rebe's play cafe image 1
Children's cafe

Big, open labyrinth of rooms filled with high-quality toys creates a child-centered, inclusive atmosphere. Friendly adults gather, fostering a community feel while kids play and socialize. Space supports both play and work with rooms for parents to focus as children explore.

Coffee tastes delicious and prices stay reasonable. The spot offers a cozy vibe perfect for relaxing or working while kids play nearby.

Offers a coffee bar alongside light lunch and snack options. Suitable for a quick, light meal during the day.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with a great play area and toys."

"You can grab a coffee while watching your active toddler."

"It's a cute, clean, and inexpensive Lunch Spot where kids have a great time."

Good to know

1

Play is free at Rebe's Play Cafe, with only cafe items available for purchase.

2

Expect the cafe to get busy by 9 AM, especially on weekends.

3

There is plenty of parking available in the back of the cafe.

12
Lunds & Byerlys Highland Bridge image 1

Grocery store combines modern design with an upstairs self-serve taproom and indoor-outdoor cafe seating. Atmosphere feels peaceful and welcoming, with a clean and fancy environment. Shoppers encounter high-quality food offerings alongside a lively bar experience.

A coffee kiosk offers quality Caribou Coffee with seating inside and on the patio. The spot combines a coffee shop vibe with a beer bar and hot food options for a relaxed break.

Large hot lunch bar offers a variety of options. Meals include half rack of ribs and brisket sandwich for a hearty lunch.

People are saying

"The grocery store staff are really friendly and helpful."

"It's a nice, peaceful place to grab a coffee and relax."

"You'll love the hot food bar selection here."

Good to know

1

Parking in their own ramp is convenient for shoppers.

2

The deli and meat departments offer high-quality options.

3

Happy hour prices at the eatery are appealing.

13
La Delicious Bread image 1

French-style bakery with a cozy dining room and spacious seating after recent expansion. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting despite a compact ordering area. Crowds gather early as popular for high-quality croissants and pastries.

Bold, rich Vietnamese coffee stands out with perfect temperature and a balanced sweetness. Tai tea and Vietnamese coffee tea offer rich, delicious flavors.

Offers an extensive breakfast and lunch menu with a decent variety of bakery items. Serves well for dessert, lunch, or coffee or tea.

People are saying

"I'd come back for the strawberry or spinach and leek croissants."

"The Vietnamese coffee here is bold, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"The veggie bahn mi at this Lunch Spot is pretty good."

Good to know

1

Items sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

During busy hours from 9am to 1pm, only about half of the menu items are available.

3

Expect a wait of 20-30 minutes during peak times.

14
Mickey’s Diner By Willy image 1

Classic 50s diner with retro decor and stainless art deco panels creates a nostalgic vibe. Open 24/7, it offers a cozy atmosphere with small booths and counter seating. Background music adds to the old-fashioned charm.

Coffee comes out hot and fresh, never sitting on a warmer too long. Staff serve quickly even when busy, making it easy to enjoy classic cups alongside phenomenal sweet treats.

Offers a mix of breakfast and lunch foods with options suitable for a midday meal. Welcomes repeat visits for late-night coffee and snacks as well as nice lunch experiences.

People are saying

"I loved that this diner was open 24 hours."

"The coffee here is good and not too weak."

"The chicken sandwich at this Lunch Spot is extra crispy."

Good to know

1

Mickey’s Diner By Willy is open 24 hours a day.

2

They charge over 20 dollars for a single burger.

3

Food is made right in front of you at the counter.

15
Coffee Cup image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small town cafe with a classic yet timeless style and an old school vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and cozy, often crowded with tables close together, creating a lively and sometimes over-stimulating environment. Known for huge portions, homemade baked goods, and affordable prices that attract a steady breakfast crowd.

Coffee comes in generous portions and is served quickly with attentive service. Staff keep cups full and offer a friendly atmosphere for enjoying fresh pastries or breakfast.

Huge portions stand out for lunch here. The spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with consistently fantastic meals.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the fresh and delicious coffee here."

"This lunch spot has huge portions, I ate breakfast and lunch here."

Good to know

1

Coffee Cup serves breakfast all day, making it a flexible dining option.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during Sunday brunch hours.

3

The portion sizes are generous, often enough for two or three people.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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