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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Saint Paul

Places to discover

You want to find the places that haven't been overrun by the crowd yet.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
BP Sushi (Best Price Sushi) image 1
BP Sushi (Best Price Sushi) image 2
BP Sushi (Best Price Sushi) image 3
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Unassuming spot in a strip mall serves fresh sushi at great prices. Inside feels relaxing despite a gloomy exterior. Locals love its high-quality food and simple, clean setting.

A hidden gem tucked inside a strip mall offers a relaxing atmosphere and very good, fresh food.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the best affordable sushi."

"The poke bowls here are super fresh and taste great."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem with very good, fresh food."

Good to know

1

The Wednesday carry out deal offers great value for sushi lovers.

2

BP Sushi is more of a carryout place than a sit-down restaurant.

3

They offer Pokebowls in addition to sushi rolls.

02
Abogados Cafรฉ image 1

Cozy coffee shop boasts hand-painted murals and Latin-inspired decor that create an intimate vibe. Its hidden gem status offers a quiet, tucked-away spot perfect for discovery. Bright, inviting design and boho chairs add to the unique, authentic feel.

Offers a quiet, tucked-away spot that feels like a hidden gem. The atmosphere invites discovery and a sense of exclusivity.

People are saying

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

"The Cafe staff are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"I found this place to be a great hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Come early for pastries; they sell out by 10am.

2

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

3

Lactose-free 2% milk is available for those with dietary restrictions.

03
Saint Paul Discount Grocery image 1

Small grocery store offers deep discounts on nuts, candies, and frozen foods, making it a hidden gem for budget shoppers. Quirky atmosphere and gluten-free options add variety. Clean parking and quick trips make shopping easy and efficient.

Offers great value in a small, overlooked spot. This hidden gem stands out for its discount grocery selection and affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found this place to be a great little hidden gem."

"The staff here are incredibly kind and professional."

"I found cheap groceries and snacks here."

Good to know

1

Expect a rotating selection of products that changes frequently.

2

Discounts on groceries can be significant compared to big box stores.

3

Look for gluten-free items as they often have a selection.

04
Burnt Chicken image 1
Cajun restaurant

Historic bar with original woodwork offers a cozy, old-school vibe. Enjoy Burnt Chicken, a hidden gem with unique flavor. Space feels intimate yet comfortable, perfect for relaxed dining or date nights with lively music.

Burnt Chicken stands out as a hidden gem with a unique flavor that surprises many. It offers a special experience that feels exclusive yet welcoming.

People are saying

"The bourbon chicken sandwich here is delicious and unique."

"The Mac and Cheese is nice and creamy."

"The food here is delicious with generous portions."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not have a liquor license at this time.

3

The menu features a selection of Cajun/Creole and soul food fusion dishes.

05
Manny's Kitchen image 1
Restaurant

Warm, welcoming vibe pairs with authentic Philly cheesesteak and Nashville chicken sandwich. Fresh, quality ingredients shine in LA-style tacos. Generous portions and balanced flavors make it a hidden gem for quick, tasty bites.

This spot stands out as a true hidden gem with unique qualities that make it worth discovering. It offers a distinct experience not found in typical places.

People are saying

"You have to try their tacos; they're delicious."

"I questioned how the Greek food was so good, like angels descended."

"You have to try these hidden gem burgers; they're classic smash burgers."

Good to know

1

Expect a bit of a wait during peak hours due to high demand.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the quality of food offered.

3

The portions at Manny's Kitchen are generous, providing good value for the price.

06
Yoerg Brewing Company image 1

Historic building with old-school European flair offers a large selection of beers, including Belgian and cave-aged varieties. Small space with a spiral staircase creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. Known as a hidden gem for phenomenal beer and solid food.

Offers a stellar little hidden gem experience with phenomenal beer and solid food and drinks.

People are saying

"I thought their beer selection was exceptional."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy, with comfy chairs and a fireplace."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem for its amazing beer selection."

Good to know

1

The brewery hosts a Christmas beer tasting event every December.

2

Private event space is available for parties and gatherings.

3

Themed beer flights are offered regularly, including Trappist and Oktoberfest selections.

07
Karibu Grocery & Deli image 1
East African restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic East African hospitality offers a unique selection of fresh halal meat and flavorful dishes. Ample seating inside and out creates a welcoming vibe. Feels like a mini Africa and a quiet find away from typical spots.

Offers a unique selection that stands out from typical spots. Feels like a quiet find with a welcoming vibe.

People are saying

"The Halal Philly cheese steak is delicious and authentic."

"I loved the spiced Somali tea."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

All food served is Halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a frequent choice for many customers.

3

The store is clean and well-organized, enhancing the shopping experience.

08
So Yen image 1
Bakery

Cozy bakery blends fresh atmosphere with a quiet vibe away from crowds. Unique menu items make it a low-key discovery. Large outdoor seating near farmers market adds to its charm.

Offers a quiet atmosphere away from crowds and a unique menu that stands out from typical spots. Known for being a low-key discovery that surprises many.

People are saying

"The brioche donuts are soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet."

"These beignets are fresh, hot, and better than New Orleans' best."

"You have to try these hidden gems, especially the burnt cheesecake donut."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid sold-out items, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is free on Sundays, but downtown can be crowded.

3

Expect long lines; getting there within the first hour is best.

09
The Covington Inn image 1
Bed & breakfast

Boat-turned B&B offers rustic boat-themed furnishings and intimate river views. Cozy rooms and a great room with a fireplace create a relaxing vibe. Quiet charm and hidden gem status make it a unique city escape.

This inn stands out as a hidden gem in the city, offering a unique and less-known experience. It consistently surprises with its quiet charm and cozy atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the property unique with a very relaxing atmosphere."

"The breakfast here is simple and exquisite."

"I consider this inn a true hidden gem in the city."

Good to know

1

The inn charges $320 for a stay, which some guests found unclean.

2

Breakfast is served at 9:00 AM for one hour with self-serve coffee.

3

The common area lacks air conditioning, making it uncomfortable during hot days.

10
Prime Grocery & Deli image 1

Small deli blends authentic Thai flavors with a grocery store in a cozy spot. Known as a hidden gem, it offers generous portions and a relaxed vibe with some wait times. Spicy dishes attract those craving bold, real tastes in a casual setting.

Offers a true hidden gem experience with unique qualities that stand out from typical spots.

People are saying

"The Pad Thai here is spicy and packed with flavor."

"The papaya salad here has nice crunchy shreds and a good balance."

"These Hidden Gems are so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The wait time for a single order of papaya salad is about 40 minutes.

2

Expect generous portion sizes that may be more than one can eat in one sitting.

3

Food is made fresh to order, with an average wait time of 20 minutes.

11
Caffe Biaggio image 1
Italian restaurant

Offers a warm, rustic ambiance perfect for quiet meals or dates. Known as a hidden gem, it provides a calm, tucked-away setting. Friendly service and family-owned charm make it welcoming and relaxed.

Quiet and tucked away, this spot stands out as a hidden gem in the neighborhood. It offers a calm atmosphere that feels like a secret find.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is spectacular, especially the pasta and desserts."

"The inviting ambiance and delectable Italian flavors make it feel so romantic."

"I stumbled upon this place and found it to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Date Night special on Wednesdays.

2

The Date Night special includes soup or salad, an entrรฉe, two desserts, and a bottle of wine.

3

Parking is free and conveniently located adjacent to the building.

12
Sole Cafe Korean restaurant image 1

Renovated interior blends chic modern design with authentic Korean utensils, creating a cozy atmosphere. Soothing music and high-quality lotion add to the calm vibe. A hidden gem for Korean food offers a quiet, authentic experience away from crowds.

A hidden gem for Korean food sits quietly in the midway area. This spot offers a great Korean restaurant experience away from the usual crowds.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"The renovated interior feels so cozy and warm."

"I found this Korean restaurant to be a great hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of 30-60 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

The restaurant offers a late-night menu until 11pm on weekends.

13
Mario's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Old-school pizza joint shines with Detroit-style pizza and a retro vibe. Quiet, intimate setting feels like a hidden gem. Playful charm comes from a Super Mario arcade game.

This spot stands out as a total hidden gem with a quiet vibe. It contrasts with busier places that don't feel hidden at all.

People are saying

"I thought the deep dish pizza here was fantastic."

"I loved the house salad and dry rub chicken wings."

"The pizza here is fire, with a delicious crust."

Good to know

1

Mario's has an incredible all-day happy hour.

2

A single $25 pizza can easily feed three people.

3

Mario's can get busy on Friday or Saturday nights, so expect wait times.

14
HOT GRAINZ - Thai Street Food image 1

Small dining area mimics Bangkok street food shops with metal cutlery and table condiments. Atmosphere stays casual and cozy with a modern, clean design and a self-serve station. A true hidden gem offering a unique, bright, and vibey spot for relaxed meals.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with unique qualities that make it worth discovering. It offers a distinct experience that feels like a special find.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"The bitter beef soup was delicious and unique."

"I found this spot to be a hidden gem for authentic, flavorful Thai food."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait time during peak dining hours.

2

Parking is very limited, especially during busy times.

3

There is an additional $1 charge for a side of rice.

15
Little Asia Cafe image 1
Laotian restaurant

Spacious dining room with dim lighting sets a relaxed mood. Hidden gem tucked away offers a unique experience that surprises many. Music plays softly, creating a pleasant atmosphere for a diverse crowd.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem tucked away behind the cut. It offers a unique experience that often surprises those who find it.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is a solid, good amount."

"The beef brisket here is the best I ever had."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the pork belly skin is super crunchy."

Good to know

1

The cafe is closed on Fridays, limiting dining options on that day.

2

Expect a wait time of about 30 minutes for food orders.

3

To avoid card fees, paying with cash is recommended.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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