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Seafood lunch spots in Saint Paul

You want a lunch spot that prioritizes fresh seafood over everything else.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Golden Thyme Restaurant & Bar image 1
Golden Thyme Restaurant & Bar image 2
Golden Thyme Restaurant & Bar image 3
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Cozy space with elegant décor and walls adorned with historic Black culture photographs creates a romantic atmosphere. Live jazz music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the neighborhood restaurant vibe. Outdoor patio seating with shade umbrellas offers a relaxed dining option.

Lunch offers really good food with no long waits. The jambalaya stands out as a favorite choice.

Shrimp and grits stand out with their creamy texture and full flavor. The seafood jambalaya features tender shrimp alongside chicken and andouille sausage, while the Phoenix Shrimp comes in a garlicky, spicy sauce.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the jambalaya linguine, was phenomenal."

"I had the best shrimp and grits I ever tasted."

"This lunch spot has the tastiest food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on weekdays from 4-7pm with discounted drinks.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Sunday evening.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

02
Indian Kitchen Bar & Grill image 1

Bright, airy space with elegant decor and comfortable booths creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Noise carries easily, but cozy corners offer quieter spots. Busy with a steady flow of diners, it stands out for its tasteful, modest ambience.

Lunch offers a solid Amritsari Chole Kulche that suits daily meals. Good lunch specials and reliable takeout options support quick meetings.

Shrimp dishes feature fresh tasting shrimp with a perfect blend of flavors. Biryani stands out with its flavorful rice and shrimp combination.

People are saying

"The naan here is fresh, good, and outstanding."

"The seafood dishes here are surprisingly delicious and flavorful."

"The Lunch Spot food is delicious, well-cooked, and fragrant with spices."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Seating and bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, but there is no front door button.

3

The lunch special includes an entree, a choice of bread, a choice of dessert, and lots of rice.

03
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.

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

Shrimp congee stands out with its warm, comforting quality and affordable price. Noodles and seafood congee also offer solid options for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood congee here is delicious and warming."

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.

04
Burnt Chicken image 1
Cajun restaurant

Historic bar setting with original woodwork and tile features creates a cozy, old-school vibe. Atmosphere feels chill and warm with lively music, making it suitable for relaxed dining or date nights. Space is small but comfortable, balancing intimacy without crowding.

Lunch here offers a quick and satisfying option with a casual vibe. The spot works well for a grab-and-go meal or a relaxed midday break.

Shrimp dishes feature generous servings and perfectly fried breading. Catfish po'boys come with well-seasoned, battered fish that holds up well in the sandwich.

People are saying

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

"The shrimp po'boys here are huge and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken was so succulent and big."

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
King Cajun image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a spacious, clean, and bright setting with friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Tables come equipped with gloves, bibs, and shell crackers for easy seafood enjoyment. Decor and photos create a nautical vibe that enhances the dining experience.

Seating is easy to find around midday with no need for reservations. The spot works well for family lunches and casual stops during work hours.

Seafood boils stand out here with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The spot consistently delivers high-quality Cajun seafood that many consider the best in the area.

People are saying

"I experienced the best seafood boil in the Twin Cities."

"It's so kid friendly, my daughter loved the crab and sticky rice."

"This Lunch Spot's seafood boil is hot, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The meal costs around $30 on average.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-kept environment.

3

The entrance is located off of University Avenue.

06
Sole Cafe Korean restaurant image 1

Renovated interior blends chic modern design with authentic Korean utensils, creating a cozy and aesthetic atmosphere. Soothing music and thoughtful amenities like high-quality lotion add to the calm, safe vibe. The space feels both elegant and welcoming, reflecting a family-owned character.

Lunch offers dishes like tofu bibimbap that can be split for multiple meals. Service includes friendly staff such as Mark, the new owner.

Seafood pancake stands out with its crispy texture and rich flavor. The seafood soup offers a deep, savory taste, while the dual salt bibimbap adds a unique twist to traditional rice dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"You have to try the seafood pancake; it's spot on."

"This Lunch Spot's food is amazing, especially the pancakes."

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.

07
Taste of Nepal - Nepalese Indian Restaurant St Paul image 1

Small, cozy space with a simple setup and clean interiors creates a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Authentic Nepali cuisine offers spicy, comforting flavors with standout dishes like butter chicken and momo. Quiet environment without music emphasizes a home-cooked food feeling.

Quiet atmosphere with few diners during late lunch hours. Weekday visits show a consistent, relaxed setting for a midday meal.

Fish comes out cooked wonderfully. Shrimp appears in chili shrimp and shrimp appetizer dishes, often paired with rice or garlic naan.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with bold flavors and fresh ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot's food is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"I found the Seafood dishes extremely delicious and spicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

2

The restaurant has a small dining area, making takeout a better option.

3

Prices are reasonable, and portions are generous for the cost.

08
YaiGu image 1
Restaurant

Open, bright space with elegant decor and clean, modern design creates a serene atmosphere. Quiet and cozy vibe suits lowkey, relaxing visits with jazz music enhancing the mood. Tablet kiosks streamline ordering in this intimate, well-curated setting.

Quiet atmosphere supports easy conversation during lunch. Menu features potstickers, ginger salmon, and duck curry.

Shrimp dishes stand out with tender, perfectly cooked shrimp in a red curry that has a decent spice level. Fish and dumplings are also well prepared, avoiding overcooking and keeping flavors simple and excellent.

People are saying

"The red curry here is amazing, especially with the pineapple shrimp."

"The seafood here, especially the seabass mango curry, is amazing."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was delicious and exceeded expectations."

Good to know

1

Orders are placed on a user-friendly kiosk, with no dedicated wait staff.

2

Seating is very limited, especially for large groups; calling ahead is recommended.

3

Parking requires walking around the neighborhood, but the area is safe.

09
Red Luna Seasons image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy vintage interior and outdoor terrace featuring historic local photos. Atmosphere feels warm and fun, blending casual and nostalgic vibes. Offers authentic Mexican dishes alongside a variety of margaritas, creating a lively yet comfortable dining experience.

Lunch features great specials and a quiet atmosphere. The spot stays not busy during midday hours.

Shrimp tacos stand out with strong flavor and freshness. Fish tacos and queso birria tacos also offer solid seafood options alongside tasty shrimp fajitas.

People are saying

"The food here is wonderful and incredibly flavorful."

"I loved the shrimp tacos; they were the best I've ever had."

"The birria tacos here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $3.75 with various meat options.

2

Happy hour features BOG1/2Off Margaritas.

3

Different food deals are available every day from Monday to Saturday.

10
The Luscious Crab image 1
Cajun restaurant

Cajun restaurant with fun seafood presentation including bibs, gloves, and shell buckets at each table. Warm, inviting atmosphere with enjoyable background music and clean, well-decorated interior. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it a popular spot for seafood lovers.

Lunch offers a fast and delicious experience with a special featuring snow crab, shrimp, corn, and potatoes for $26. The meal pairs well with fresh produce from the nearby farmers market.

Seafood boil stands out with fresh, peeled shrimp and a unique, flavorful soup. Portions are generous enough for sharing, making it a solid choice for seafood lovers.

People are saying

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and perfectly cooked."

"Amanda made our lobster meal feel very special."

"This lunch spot has really good food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

Parking is available only on the street.

2

The Luscious Crab does not serve alcoholic drinks yet.

3

There are usually no long waits for seating.

11
Masterchef fish&chicken image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant with 1980s decor and a spacious dining area set up mainly for takeout. Atmosphere feels lowkey and bland, with a sense of independent ownership and pride. Food includes halal options and some standout dishes like fried okra and shrimp.

Lunch specials offer fresh flavors and come at a very reasonable price. The menu suits those looking for a solid midday meal without overspending.

Shrimp dishes stand out with hot, fresh, plentiful servings and careful assembly. Grilled fish over rice offers a soft, flaky texture and pairs well with hush puppies and fries.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken is super juicy and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late, making it convenient for late-night cravings.

2

Food is halal, catering to specific dietary needs.

3

There is no dine-in option available; takeout only.

12
Thai Boat 89 image 1
Asian restaurant

Small space with a hole in the wall vibe offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere despite occasional cold drafts near the entrance. The menu focuses on authentic Thai noodle dishes like boat noodles and pho, drawing a local following for flavorful, well-prepared meals.

Busy lunch hours bring a lively atmosphere with quick seating and great service even when packed. Fridays tend to be especially busy but staff handle it smoothly.

Multiple whole fish options appear on the menu, each cooked to be crispy, flavorful, and moist. Boat Noodles combine spicy chili, sour lime, and salty fish sauce for an intense taste.

People are saying

"The food, especially the crispy pork belly, has an amazing crunch."

"I loved the spring rolls; they were nicely wrapped."

"The pork belly here is so well made, with crunchy skin."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using street parking.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, suitable for small groups of 2-4.

3

Menu features authentic Thai dishes, including boat noodles and pork belly.

13
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, featuring a modern, clean design and a self-serve station for utensils and condiments. Space feels bright and vibey, suitable for relaxed meals and casual selfies.

Lunch features Thai street food with fresh flavors and quick service. Multiple visits confirm it as a solid spot for midday meals.

Spicy dishes highlight the menu with fresh shrimp and squid in the Pad Kra Pow seafood. Shrimp fried rice offers a balanced heat and rich flavor.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is authentic, fresh, and perfectly spicy."

"The pork belly at this Lunch Spot is smoky and tender."

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.

14
HEAT - Thai Street Food image 1

Cozy space with a chill vibe and loud TV playing in the background creates a homey atmosphere. It draws a family-friendly crowd and offers affordable prices with generous portions. The setting feels welcoming but shows signs of wear and could benefit from updates.

Lunch draws a crowd with packed tables and plenty of bar seats available. Egg rolls stand out as a popular choice during the lunch rush.

Pad krapao seafood offers a perfect balance of flavor and heat with well-cooked seafood that is not overly fishy. The fried fish with curry is very flavorful and spicy, featuring a noticeable but pleasant fish sauce taste.

People are saying

"This Thai food is incredibly spicy and flavorful."

"The seafood here is incredibly flavorful and spicy."

"You'll get hooked on the $5 boat noodles for lunch."

Good to know

1

Parking lot fills up quickly, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Mini bowl special is available on Saturdays for $5.

3

Expect large portion sizes; a single mini bowl can feed a moderately hungry customer.

15
The Best Steak House- White Bear Ave image 1

Family-owned steak house with a warm, nostalgic atmosphere and spacious booths creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. Steaks cook over an open flame visible to diners, adding to the lively yet comfortable setting. The place balances fresh renovation with classic charm, making it feel both updated and familiar.

Lunch specials offer inexpensive steak deals with huge portions. The owner checks in at tables, and the weekday lunch deal provides great value under $25.

Steak meals come with fried shrimp that are tender and well-seasoned. Options include 14oz or 16oz sirloin steaks paired with baked potatoes and Texas toast.

People are saying

"I had the best steak I've had in years."

"I loved the great lunch specials and huge portions."

"I loved the filet, shrimp, and gyros."

Good to know

1

Taco night happens every Tuesday with great deals.

2

Kids can eat for under $10, making it family-friendly.

3

Adults can enjoy meals for under $20.

16
Mirror of Korea image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with authentic dishes and a clean, bright atmosphere. K-pop music videos play continuously, creating a lively vibe. The place feels bustling yet peaceful, offering great value and easy access.

Lunch offers a wonderful selection with lunch specials like bibimbap and galbi tang. The lunch box and soup stand out as delicious options.

Seafood dishes feature flaky, juicy fish with crispy skin and a variety of fresh toppings. The seafood noodles stand out with a rich broth and diverse seafood, while the seafood pancake offers a crispy, slightly fluffy texture packed with toppings.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the side dishes, was amazing."

"This Lunch Spot's food is amazing and authentic."

"The seafood here is flavorful with a nice crispy skin."

Good to know

1

An automatic 18% surcharge is added for a party of five or more.

2

They only provide a single serving of each side for the table.

3

The portions were small for the price paid.

17
Obb's Sports Bar & Grill image 1

Large space with spacious patio and sports TVs everywhere creates a lively, local vibe. Friendly, family-owned atmosphere offers classic drinks like Bloody Marys and a strong sense of hospitality. Games such as Golden Tee and pull tabs add casual entertainment to the experience.

Lunch offers a crowded atmosphere with options like the Cubano sandwich featuring pork, bacon, and mustard, and a Philly steak special without cheese. Food feels like homemade classics reminiscent of old school moms' cooking.

Fridays feature an all-you-can-eat fish fry with crispy batter that arrives quickly. The fish fry runs all year and costs $20, offering a delicious and satisfying seafood option.

People are saying

"The Friday fish fry is next level delicious."

"You have to try the Friday fish fry; it's delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's Cubano was the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The Friday night fish fry starts at 4:00 PM and is very popular.

2

Be prepared for a wait of over an hour on fish fry Friday nights.

3

Parking is available, but it can be minimal during peak hours.

18
Taco'n Madre Taqueria Y Cevicheria image 1

Small dining room with a cute outdoor patio creates a casual, authentic vibe. Karaoke and DJ music bring lively energy but can get loud, affecting conversation. Known for outstanding tacos and birria, it feels like a hidden gem with a fun, informal atmosphere.

Lunch offers a soul-healing experience with dishes that stand out. The space suits group lunches well, making it a solid spot for shared meals.

Fish tacos stand out with outstanding flavor and consistent quality. Shrimp and steak tacos also appear frequently and offer good variety among the seafood options.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was authentic and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are outstanding and delicious."

"The birria tacos here are to die for."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every weekend with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco specials are available every Monday.

3

Street parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

19
La Cucaracha Mexican Restaurante image 1

Mexican restaurant with a laid back atmosphere and a warm family feel that transports guests to Mexico. A quaint bar offers a top notch margarita experience with fresh lime and a good tequila selection. The environment feels welcoming and comfy, making it a neighborhood jewel.

The lunch buffet offers phenomenal food at a well-priced rate. It runs on weekdays and weekends, providing a wonderful variety to enjoy.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like shrimp soup, shrimp tacos with bell peppers, and shrimp fajitas. Fish tacos come on single flour tortillas, and appetizers include a shrimp Kahula.

People are saying

"The owner Eddie made me feel like family."

"Eddie, the owner, made our Lunch Spot feel so welcome."

"The shrimp tacos and Kahula appetizer were amazing seafood."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos all day long.

3

A lunch buffet starts in September, available on weekends.

20
The Best Steak House image 1

Old-fashioned steakhouse with intimate, family-like atmosphere and Greek flair feels like visiting a friend's home. Small, clean space decorated with vintage photos adds character. Steaks are tender and flavorful, served with traditional sides at a good value.

Steak stands out as a solid lunch choice here. Options include both laid back dine-in and quick to go meals.

Shrimp dishes feature a delightful crispness and a good breading-to-shrimp ratio. Fried shrimp comes with tartar sauce, and sides include buttery potatoes and soft bread.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, cooked just right."

"I had the steak and shrimp, and it was fantastic."

"I believed this was the best steak for lunch."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both take-out and dine-in options.

2

Portions are very generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Prices on the menu may differ from what you are charged.

21
Cancun Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Cantina style space with two seating areas creates a less crowded feel. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed to lively with loud music and multiple TVs showing sports. Drinks stand out, especially margaritas served with fruit popsicles, adding a unique twist to the bar experience.

Lunch offers inexpensive deals with a nice variety on the menu. Burritos come out hot and well-seasoned with a good portion size.

Menu includes a huge seafood selection with many Mexican dishes. Shrimp dishes come in generous portions, like the shrimp tacos and supreme nachos.

People are saying

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

"The quesa-birria tacos at this Lunch Spot were really good."

"The margaritas here are great, served with a fruit popsicle on top."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers free chips and half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Taco Tuesday special features three tacos for $9.99.

3

Karaoke night starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

22
Vina Vietnamese Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Renovated space combines modern design with warm lighting and stylish artwork, creating a spacious and clean atmosphere. Casual dining area features a long mural and collections of mopeds, adding unique character. Noise level varies, with occasional doorbell sounds and electronic cover music, but overall maintains a balance suitable for conversation.

Lunch combos offer great value with options like Sweet & Sour Chicken and Sesame Chicken served with soup and wonton. Meals include fresh veggies, fried rice, and sides like cream cheese puff, making lunch both filling and varied.

Shrimp dishes vary here, with some cooked perfectly and others heavily breaded and bland. The shrimp fried rice pairs well with orange chicken, while the fresh spring roll includes shrimp but is quite plain.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, has an amazing, rich, and flavorful broth."

"I love adding an egg roll to my lunch spot order."

"The Seafood broth was flavorful and clean."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant offers takeout options for all menu items.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for small orders.

23
Habanero Tacos Grill & Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with an industrial feel and spacious layout including booths, high tops, and a long bar. Atmosphere feels authentic and neighborhood-oriented, with many regulars and a casual pace. Multiple TVs show sports, creating a lively backdrop during busy times.

Large bar offers a casual spot for lunch and happy hour. Lunch visits happen on weekends, welcoming groups like families.

Fish tacos deliver an authentic taco truck flavor. Shrimp appears in combos and fajitas but is limited in quantity with only four pieces in the three meat fajita.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the seafood tacos and platters to be great."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious, especially the Al Pastor tacos."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Friday and Saturday starting at 9pm.

2

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

3

Expect a $5 cover charge for karaoke nights.

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