The Most Enjoyable Breakfasts in Saint Paul Loved by Locals

335 Broadway Ave, St Paul Park

(651) 459-7201

Park Cafe in Saint Paul is a hidden gem for breakfast lovers like me. It's a small and cozy spot with great food at good prices, and the service is impressive. My history with this cafe goes back over 20 years when my grandpa first brought me here, knowing it was one of the best places to eat. In 2020, it became our regular breakfast spot after moving to the area. The owners are wonderful people who create a welcoming atmosphere. I'm a creature of habit, and the smothered Kirby never disappoints, no matter how many times I order it. The plain grilled chicken breast salad is also a favorite for takeout; it's generously sized and filled with fresh ingredients. Plus, the quick service is a bonus – my order is usually ready in just 10-15 minutes, even when I call ahead. The typical cafe atmosphere is charming, and though parking can be a bit tight, I usually find a spot just a block away. Going to Park Cafe reminds me of the small diners I grew up loving, like Mickey's. The staff quickly serves coffee or your preferred beverage, and the friendly waitstaff make you feel right at home. Frequent visits mean they start recognizing you by name, which adds to the community vibe. My grandpa's go-to is the Hot Beef with a Malt, while I enjoy a hearty mushroom omelette with hash browns, always with leftovers to take home. Overall, Park Cafe is a fantastic place with everything you'd want from a local diner. Everything good to say about this place! Love this diner!

171 Snelling Ave N, St Paul

(651) 556-4488

Upon arriving at Rose Street Patisserie during a busy time, I was impressed by how quickly they handled our somewhat complicated order. The pastries we tried were delightful, and I'm eager to return for more. While the patisserie didn't quite meet our expectations for sandwiches—the baguette proportions seemed off—they excel when it comes to pastries and bread. My daughter was delighted with the macarons, though they weren't my personal favorite. However, the chocolate mousse was decent, and their tarts truly stand out. I haven't found better tarts anywhere in Minnesota. While the bread was good, I did notice some imperfections—sometimes the crumb and crust fell short. Yet, I know this might suit some preferences. The monkey bread and croissants, unfortunately, felt dry and seemed old, and the chocolate in the croissants wasn't great. Customer service is consistently top-notch, making the experience pleasant even when parking requires a bit of hunting down a side street. The café itself has a nice, laid-back atmosphere. The variety of baked goods is impressive, and they sell out quickly—I regretted not snagging the olive sourdough sooner! Overall, while some items didn't quite hit the mark, there's plenty of charm and quality here, especially if you focus on their standout pastries. I'll definitely return to try more offerings. If you found this review helpful, give it a thumbs up!

867 Grand Ave, St Paul

(651) 228-1017

Bread & Chocolate is a fantastic spot to enjoy breakfast in Saint Paul, whether you're flying solo or catching up with a friend. The cozy atmosphere immediately drew me in, and the cappuccino I ordered was delightful. Their food is fresh, and I must say, the croissants are a standout. If you visit, make sure to try them! They also offer a variety of sandwiches and salads, perfect for breakfast or lunch. One thing to note, the coffee tends to be on the sweeter side, so if that's not your preference, I’d suggest asking for less syrup. The staff here are incredibly friendly, adding to the positive experience. However, the cleanliness could use some attention. Tables weren’t the cleanest, and I had to clear one myself. It would be great if the staff could tidy up more consistently after rushes. Usually, the service is top-notch, but during my recent visit, one staff member seemed a bit out of it. His sandwich-making skills left much to be desired, with ingredients sloppily put together. Thankfully, another staff member expertly prepared my panini and side salad, which were both delicious. Overall, Bread & Chocolate is a morning must-visit in Saint Paul. With a bit more attention to cleanliness and consistent service, it would be a perfect spot for breakfast or lunch.

165 Western Ave N, St Paul

(651) 292-9816

Nina's Coffee Cafe is such a cool place! The breakfast offerings are fantastic. I absolutely love the breakfast burrito - it comes with two salsas and is warmed to perfection. A must-try drink is "The Neighborhood," and you can even buy their beans to take home. In our quest for the best coffee in Minnesota, The Neighborhood might just be it. The pastries are irresistible and beautifully fresh. We couldn't resist getting three: the browned butter donut, lemon rhubarb tart, and spinach and artichoke roll. Even without being heated, they were fantastic. Located in the charming Cathedral Hall neighborhood of St. Paul, Nina's Coffee Cafe is a delightful spot. I ordered a latte with soy milk and a Nutella croissant, both delicious. Service was impressively fast, though seating was a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, we found a table for three on a Tuesday morning. The cafe's decor adds to the cozy atmosphere, and there are convenient parking options: 2-hour free street parking outside and all-day free parking on Virginia Street by the church. Highly recommend stopping by for a coffee break. The coffee, location, atmosphere, and interior are excellent, with plenty of seats inside. Service is quick, but they announce orders by the product instead of your name. Note there’s a single bathroom, and the lock isn’t obvious, even though instructions say to press a button from the inside.

771 Cleveland Ave S, St Paul

(651) 690-1173

On our visit to Highland Grill on a bustling Sunday morning, we were pleasantly surprised to be seated right away despite the crowd. The brunch atmosphere was perfect—cozy, lively, and filled with natural light. We tried the hot hash and holly and the blueberry French toast. The hash was absolutely the best I’ve had in the city, especially with the delightful hollandaise sauce. The blueberry French toast was tasty, particularly with the whipped cream cheese, although one slice of bread was a bit too hard. Still, this spot is a fantastic choice for brunch. Being a first-time visitor to St. Paul, Minnesota, I was glad my relative recommended Highland. The wait time was fair, even more so for those with reservations. The ambiance was lovely, and the food didn't disappoint. Our server appeared overworked and less attentive, as it was challenging to get her attention for refills or any assistance, so perhaps she was new. However, I enjoyed the lively atmosphere for a nice day-date. The drinks were fun, with daily specials and a happy hour. I really enjoyed my breakfast mule, and the coffee was flavorful. The breakfast salad was simple and delicious. The location is great, with options for shopping and a movie theater nearby. Despite some service hiccups, we'll definitely be back. The lemonade is unique and worth a try, though parking is a bit tight. Overall, Highland Grill offers a vibrant brunch experience with tasty dishes.

2251 Larpenteur Ave E, Maplewood

(651) 777-6344

We stopped by Mike's Corner Cafe for a late breakfast on a cool, cloudy Autumn afternoon in Saint Paul. The cafe was quiet and cozy, with a few folks here and there. We were warmly greeted and told to sit wherever we liked. As soon as we settled into a cozy window booth, our menus were brought over, and our drink orders were taken. I'm currently on a keto diet, so I was a bit unsure about what to order. We ended up choosing breakfast items without the usual toast or pancakes. Our server was amused but extremely accommodating, making sure our needs were met. The coffee was fantastic, and our food was equally impressive. My partner enjoyed a simple omelette, while I relished a plate of eggs and meat. Every bite was delicious, and the calm, welcoming atmosphere made the experience even better. We’re glad we found Mike's a year ago, and happy they're open from 7am to 7pm, except Sundays when they close at 3. Everything we've tried has been delicious. Their Reuben with fruit instead of fries is a must-try. It's a small hometown spot with amazing food and great service. Prices are very reasonable too. The menu works perfectly for breakfast, with options to suit anyone's taste. The fritter bread is a 10/10, and the basted eggs are cooked to perfection, which many places often mess up. My husband felt the American fries could have been crispier, but I thought they were just right. Mike's gives off a charming neighborhood breakfast cafe vibe. The staff is friendly and attentive. While normally I'd knock a star for mismatched dishware, here it adds to the charm. The classic menu and good price point make it a place worth visiting. If you're in the area, stop by and enjoy a meal.

1081 Payne Ave, St Paul

(651) 774-3333

Magnolias Restaurant has become my favorite spot for breakfast in Saint Paul. The old-school cooking style is right up my alley, and everything I've tried has been delicious. I decided on the soup and sandwich combo, and it was perfect, with the fish seasoned just right. My Buffalo chicken sandwich was also tasty. The service here is excellent, and I can't wait to come back for breakfast. During my visit, the friendly staff greeted us promptly, and we were seated right away. Their French toast was amazing, and paired with a generous side of bacon, it made for a delicious breakfast. My husband chose the western breakfast, which was another solid choice. The atmosphere feels like a real family restaurant, and it's a place we will definitely return to. The service is consistently great, and the weekend steak breakfast special is my go-to. But I enjoy exploring the fun choices on their menu, including weekday specials. The portions are hearty, which I appreciate. This place is truly a gem of Saint Paul’s east side, and I’m grateful it made it through the pandemic. One of my favorite experiences there was enjoying a big helping of pancakes with real whipped butter and simple blueberry syrup. I can't even decide if I prefer regular or blueberry syrup—they're both so good. The service is humble, direct, and attentive—just what you'd expect from a local restaurant. Everything about Magnolias is enjoyable, from the generous portions to the cozy and clean setting. I look forward to many more visits.

2012 Ford Pkwy, St Paul

(651) 698-3400

Stopped in for breakfast at Highland Cafe & Bakery, and I couldn't have been more pleased. We love supporting local cafes, and this one truly hit the mark with its hometown small cafe feel. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the staff, especially the waitresses, were incredibly friendly. Even though we had to wait a bit for a seat, it was well worth it. I'm so glad we decided to stop by. The food was delicious with generous portions, so we ended up with leftovers to enjoy later. I ordered the cinnamon French toast with sausage and scrambled eggs, and it was fantastic. My family shared a cinnamon roll, which was a hit. I also had a glass of milk to start my day right. Later, I enjoyed an apple fritter I took to go—perfect for a post-dinner treat. The kids' meal of chicken tenders was also quite generous, and the service was attentive, with our server thoughtfully bringing a box for my leftover taco salad. My friends enjoyed their omelettes, which they found very good. We were tempted by the dessert case and plan to try a slice of pie or cake next time. Overall, the food was great, and the service was excellent. We'll definitely be back!

1340 Grand Ave, St Paul

(651) 414-0543

My wife and I have become regulars at Colossal Cafe, visiting 1 to 3 times a week, and we can't speak highly enough of it. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making each visit feel special. The incredible staff stands out; they are consistently friendly, attentive, and genuinely care about providing an exceptional experience. It's evident that the team is well-trained and takes pride in their work, which adds to the overall enjoyment of our time there. The ownership truly sets this place apart. They are actively involved and approachable, always ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that customers are satisfied. It's refreshing to see such dedication to both quality service and the community. We feel fortunate to have this gem right in our neighborhood. Whether we’re stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, we always leave with smiles on our faces. If you’re looking for a spot that combines excellent service, great management, and a welcoming environment, this is the place to be. We wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone in the area! The biscuits are highly rated for a reason, and they did not disappoint! The matcha latte, peppermint white mocha, maple latte, cinnamon roll, almond croissant, two macaroons, and egg and cheddar biscuits were all amazing. The cinnamon roll was the best we’ve ever had. It's a great spot for a large brunch dish. The prices are decent for the portions and quality. We all had the Scandinavian frittata, which was so yummy! You must try the biscuit; it was incredible! I really want to come back and get one of the colossal cinnamon rolls. I ended up diving in before I could take a picture. The menu is interesting, and the Korean Beef bowl was delicious with a kick to it. We left with some coffee cake and will definitely be back. Enjoying what St. Paul has to offer!

1340 Thomas Ave W, St Paul

(651) 645-6466

Groundswell is a pretty standard-looking neighborhood coffee shop that kept us coming back during our visit to Saint Paul. I've tried their espresso tonic, cappuccino, and latte, and they're all good. The food is delicious, and I particularly loved the vegan avocado toast and tofu scramble. My friend enjoyed the breakfast sandwich so much he ordered one to take on our flight home. If you're in the area, I highly recommend trying their food offerings if you've only had their coffee. The portions are satisfying, and the environment is calming. The staff is super friendly, and the place is clean with a rustic yet modern vibe. I’ll definitely be back again. The avocado toast was exceptional—flavors really pop with a slight spice kick. Plus, their espresso martini is delightful. This was the first coffee shop I visited after moving to MSP, and it has quickly become one of my go-to spots. My favorites include the grilled cheese with turkey, banana bread, loaded sweet potatoes, and the banana bread French toast—all are delicious. The service is consistently great, and the staff is friendly and kind. It's an ideal spot to work on your laptop or do homework, though it can get busy on weekends. Groundswell offers a delightful coffee shop experience with exceptional coffee rich in flavor. The laid-back atmosphere provides a tranquil oasis amidst daily life. Whether you want to start your day with a quality cup of coffee or need a space to unwind, Groundswell is the perfect spot and a great part of the community!

6504 Cahill Ave, Inver Grove Heights

(651) 455-4408

Cahill Diner is a little gem tucked away in a strip mall in the heart of Inver Grove, Saint Paul. While the space might be on the smaller side and a bit cramped, this adds to its cozy charm. You have the choice to seat yourself at a table, booth, or the breakfast bar, which makes it feel homey and welcoming. The service was excellent, with our food arriving at lightning speed. Ahmed, our waiter, was friendly and attentive without being intrusive, making the experience even better. The food quality was superb; I tried the Cajun Breakfast, which pleasantly indulged my senses and left me satisfied. The Sweet Moody with over-easy eggs and turkey bacon was delightful, and the French toast, although it could use a touch more cinnamon, was thick and delicious. The Hot and Spicy Bowl had a good kick and melty cheese, making it another standout dish. Prices were reasonable, and the portions were just right. While the diner does have a 50's vibe, I felt they could have gone a bit further with the decor. Despite this, the overall experience was fantastic. Cahill Diner has certainly become a spot I'll visit regularly. If you're on the way to Rochester or simply exploring new breakfast spots in Saint Paul, I highly recommend stopping here. The service and food are second to none, making it a wonderful eating establishment where fond memories with loved ones are made.

253 7th St W, St Paul

(651) 228-9500

I had a delightful experience at Downtowner Woodfire Grill for breakfast in Saint Paul. The atmosphere was cozy and sophisticated, which made for a perfect start to the day. We were warmly greeted by a gentleman in a suit, and both he and our waitress checked on us regularly, providing excellent customer service. I highly recommend this place! Our program had access to the private dining room, and my experience there was outstanding. The food was good, the ambiance was great, and overall, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy breakfast. One of the highlights for me was the freshly-baked bread served with butter – it was delicious. The meal portions were generous and filling, exactly what you want for breakfast. I ordered the Cajun and, despite being from Louisiana and knowing it wasn't truly Cajun, I was surprised by how much I liked it. It was a massive portion that could easily be shared between two people. Adding a pancake made it a perfect breakfast for me. If you’re ever in Saint Paul and looking for a good, sophisticated, home-cooked tasting breakfast, this is the spot. It's never too crowded or loud, and the ambiance is just right. I've been here four times already with my team, and it never disappoints. Plus, they have a space for private dining, which is a great option.

140 Wabasha St S, St Paul

(651) 222-2435

When you walk into Joseph's, you feel like you're stepping into one of the nicer spots in St. Paul, and that's exactly what it is. I've been here many times over the years, and it never comes with a hefty price tag. It's just a short distance from the Mississippi and downtown St. Paul. The menu is diverse and caters to even the pickiest eaters. You'll find everything from bar food to more refined dishes and comfort food. There's a dining room, a bar area, a patio, and a back room for private events, all maintained by a friendly staff. Today, the service from Ann was exceptional. There's an abundance of good things to eat, but my favorite has to be the fajitas. They come with more meat and vegetables than I can eat in one sitting, so I'm grateful for the modestly sized soft tortillas and the chance to take home leftovers. It's my first time here, and it's a charming place. The outdoor patio is nice, the staff is friendly, and the food is good. For a Saturday evening, it wasn't overly busy, which made sitting out on the patio and enjoying the weather even better. I ordered the Rachel, which was very good, and the fries are great too!

1 S Leech St, St Paul

(651) 330-8996

Hope Breakfast Bar in St. Paul is a gem for brunch lovers. I had a wonderful time with friends and family, and we all enjoyed a variety of dishes. The deviled egg sandwich and the BBLTA sandwich were both outstanding, while the biscuit and gravy and tofu scramble added nice touch to our meal. The service was warm, friendly, and quick, even in a busy atmosphere. The building itself is beautiful, although it can get quite loud. There are plenty of vegetarian options, which was great for our group. The Stuffed Poblano was a delightful spicy surprise, and the Sunrise Chili Crunch Bowl, reminiscent of a Chipotle rice bowl, was even more delicious with its spicy pickled flavor. The breakfast sandwich on a toasted everything bagel with pimento cheese, cheesy eggs, and smokey bacon was phenomenal—honestly the best I've had! The carrot cake pancakes were another highlight with perfectly spiced batter and rich cream cheese maple syrup. The biscuits and gravy were okay but didn't quite stand out like everything else. Reservations are a must, especially on weekends, as it tends to get quite crowded. Even with a reservation, they stick to scheduled times, so don't expect early seating. Despite being on the pricier side, the food and drinks make it worth the experience. They also update their menu seasonally, keeping things fresh and exciting. Overall, Hope Breakfast Bar made for a fantastic brunch outing, and it's definitely worth a visit.

237 7th St E, St Paul

(651) 224-2300

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at The Buttered Tin in Saint Paul with my husband. We ordered the soft scramble, biscuits and gravy, and bananas foster French toast. The standout for me was the biscuits and gravy—those cheddar and thyme biscuits really took the dish up a notch. At first, I was unsure about using baguettes for the French toast, but they were spot on. The loaded hash browns were a highlight too, definitely the best I've tried, with bell peppers and onions adding a wonderful touch. It's clear why this spot is a go-to for breakfast. This place is bustling, and for good reason. If you’re concerned about crowds, don’t be—the food is top-notch. Their burrito is perfect for a more filling meal, with fresh vegetables, a kick from the red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crispy bread with soft interiors and perfectly seasoned poached eggs with scallions was delightful. A local friend had recommended The Buttered Tin, and it didn’t disappoint. We visited on a Saturday, and even though it was busy, the staff was friendly, and our food arrived in about 10 minutes. The eggs Benedict, sandwich, and pastries we tried were all fresh and delicious, although the veggies with the Benedict could have been a bit firmer. Overall, it's a decent spot with a great selection to explore more menu items in the future. Can't wait to return!

767 Raymond Ave, St Paul

(651) 646-5756

I've visited several Keys Café locations before, but checking out the original in Saint Paul was a special experience. The cozy atmosphere in the narrow bar area set the stage for a memorable breakfast. Naturally, I had to try the pancakes with blueberries and banana. They arrived nice and hot, and while they were denser than I expected, they were still a satisfying start to the meal. I also went for the Benny with ham on our waitress's recommendation. Although the hollandaise wasn't quite to my taste with its sour edge, it was still a decent dish overall. As someone who always appreciates good service, I found our waitress friendly and prompt, even though she had a habit of handling cups by the rim, which felt a bit too hands-on for me. One aspect to note is the lack of alternative milk options; they only had regular milk, so those who prefer something like oat milk might need to adjust their order. But honestly, it's these quirks that make Keys a classic spot. The food has always been iconic, standing the test of time for a reason. This is definitely a casual cafe with an old town vibe that knows how to do breakfast right. Every dish was enjoyable, from the crispy American fries dipped in perfectly cooked eggs to the top-notch Italian sausage that’s arguably the best in Minnesota—juicy, spicy, and generously portioned. The pancakes and French toast, recommended by our energetic yet respectful waiter Phillip, were massive and delicious, proving why Keys Cafe remains a legend. Despite any minor setbacks, I left satisfied and wouldn't hesitate to return, especially for another caramel bun. Parking might be tricky, but the food and service make it worth the effort.

2445 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis

(612) 234-4224

I had a wonderful breakfast experience at The Buttered Tin in Northeast Minneapolis. It's a self-service restaurant and bakery with an amazing breakfast menu. We loved everything we ordered. The ginger lemonade and matcha drinks were refreshing, and the cinnamon buns were absolutely delicious. The buttered tin hash was also really good, though a bit on the salty side. Although I’ve been to the St. Paul location before, this was my first time at the Northeast spot. The space is bigger and more open, but it does lack a bit of the charm from the other location. However, the service was terrific, and we even got our cinnamon roll expedited, which meant we could enjoy it right when we sat down. The coffee was hot and fresh, just how I like it. I mistakenly ordered the salmon with root veggies and squash, thinking it was a walleye dish, but I decided to give it a try, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise. This was despite me not being a big fan of salmon usually. Now, I'm looking forward to trying the walleye next time. I visited with a friend on a busy Saturday morning around 10:30, and we didn’t have to wait for a table. The open concept made it a little loud for easy conversation, but the food more than made up for it. I had the smothered burrito and an iced vanilla latte. The burrito was hot and flavorful, and the latte was a nice balance of coffee and sweetness. My friend tried the grain belt breakfast and found it satisfactory. The food was a bit pricey, and the staff seemed busy, so we had to ask at the counter for things like hot sauce or getting a box. Still, the staff were friendly and helped us out quickly when we asked. All in all, I'd definitely return, especially if I’m meeting a friend in the area.

1661 County Road B2 W, Roseville

(651) 493-1222

We visited The Original Pancake House in Saint Paul for breakfast during the week, and it was a pleasant experience. Since it wasn't busy, we received great service, which added to the overall enjoyment. The highlight of the visit was, without a doubt, the food. I've always been a fan of their oatmeal, which comes with delightful sides to mix in—it's truly delicious. We also tried the strawberry banana Dutch pancake with a side of bacon, and it was fantastic. Topped with syrups and whipped cream, it felt like having dessert for breakfast. While we didn't order omelettes, they looked appetizing and came in generous portions. Although it's a family-oriented spot, a brunch cocktail option could enhance the experience. Parking was easy to find, especially when it's not too busy. On a previous visit for Sunday brunch, we had made a reservation and were seated right away, even though the place was packed. It's a popular spot, so the atmosphere can get a bit noisy, especially on weekends. While the coffee was just okay, the fresh strawberry pancakes I ordered were a hit, thanks in part to the flavorful, fresh whipped cream. However, there are some areas for improvement. Service can be slow at times, and on one occasion, there were mix-ups with orders. Overall, though, it's a solid choice for breakfast with tasty options that keep us coming back.

1950 7th St W, St Paul

(651) 698-8387

Mickey’s Diner By Willy is a fantastic breakfast spot in Saint Paul, especially if you appreciate classic diners. It’s conveniently located close to the airport, making it a perfect stop when you're heading out of town or just landing. The diner has a charming retro vibe with a few booths and a counter that adds to its vintage appeal. The service is friendly, with a one-man show handling everything smoothly and ensuring you get your food quickly. The breakfast options are delicious—our buttery eggs, yummy hashbrowns, and crispy bacon hit the spot. The omelets are particularly good, and I’m looking forward to trying the lunch menu next time. While the place could benefit from a good cleaning, it adds a bit to the greasy spoon aesthetic, which I found charming. The baked goods looked amazing too, although we didn’t get a chance to try them. Overall, I highly recommend Mickey’s Diner By Willy over any chain for a genuine diner experience with great food and friendly service.

36 7th St W, St Paul

(651) 222-5633

What's not to love about Mickey's Diner? Classic in every way, this place brings nostalgia and charm to downtown St. Paul. The food is fantastic, with dishes like the Sputnik burger that are simply to die for. I'm thrilled they're back in business after the Covid shutdown because it gave me the chance to finally check this iconic spot off my bucket list. If you haven't been yet, it's a must-visit landmark. And if you're a return guest, you'll undoubtedly feel the nostalgic pull of its history and atmosphere. The service is top-notch, with a team that works seamlessly to keep everything running smoothly. Everyone was incredibly friendly, ensuring that customers had a great experience. Even the new owner was nice and welcoming. It's a small space, so expect a wait on weekend mornings, but believe me, it's worth it for the proper diner experience. The menu stays true to its roots, serving classics alongside a few surprises, like baklava. It feels like stepping back in time, especially when you sit at the counter and watch the cooks and servers multitask expertly. The greasy spoon charm of Mickey's Diner is unmatched, and it's an all-around great spot for anyone looking to enjoy some timeless diner food.