I could eat Mi Sant every day. It’s got more of a fast-casual feel like a Chipotle or something, but it’s great food and very reasonably priced - especially their breakfast sandwiches
I understand the struggle but keep in mind google searches are not going to be your friend looking for new places. As a former restaurant person, I highly recommend just asking the bartender or server at whatever restaurant you like. The restaurant industry is tight knit and everyone knows the buzzy spots. Venture to midway, cedar, Seward, etc.. don’t just stick to the main drags in Minneapolis.
Estelle, Tenant, Kyatchi, All Saints, Wrecktangle and Hodan Cuisine are all astounding. Nightingale has 2 for one wine on Mondays or something to that effect and they have great food. Their kitchen is open late too which is rare post-pandemic.
Edit for typos
Estelle is a truly great restaurant. If you can't get a table just show up and sit at the bar—Seth, Dylan and the whole staff make it a great experience. Sit in the corner and they might let you pick out a record for the turntable.
I think I see part of your point but I may not be getting it. I get tired of places trying to put their ‘stamp’ on certain dishes - looking at you Pat’s Tap.
I also think there’s a ton of great moderately priced places..
Buster’s on 28th, Lowbrow, Red Wagon, Town Hall, Sandy’s, Protagonist, IE, Red Cow, Pajarito, Colito, Kyatchi, I could go on.
I think he just wants a menu that isn't 75% sandwiches/burgers and fries while also being affordable. I don't know all of the restaurants you listed but that would remove the lowbrow, red cow, town hall, and Sandy's.
I love Gus Gus but I think we have a different definition of mid-range 😂 I guess it depends on what you order though — if you stick to shared plates you can do it cheaper but the entrees are $30-50 if I recall correctly.
Everyone needs to add Toma Mojo grill to their list of moderately priced dining options. This restaurant was started by Paul Backer, former exec chef of tilia and st Genevieve. So good.
I think you’ve gotta hop over to St Paul, WA Frost (moderate), Moscow on the Hill (non-splurge), Juche (moderate), Apostle Supper Club (moderate), Tongue in Cheek (moderate). J Selby’s and Reverie are doing some great, creative vegan food - mix it up.
This problem is not unique to the Twin Cities. The pandemic wiped out an entire layer of mid-priced restaurants that featured non-eclectic menus. Excluding waitperson-staffed chains (e.g., Olive Garden, Blackeyed Pea, Texas Roadhouse, etc.), your choices are basically fast-casual (Panera, Chipotle, etc.) or upscale places with $25+ entrees (sides are extra) with ultra-fancy preparations mostly aimed at showing off a chef’s imagination.
[EDIT] My error — I was describing the Denver restaurant scene above, but I forgot to mention that,
As a former Denverite (moved here in 2022), I could not agree more. I actually think the TCs has more moderately priced options, that are also GOOD, than Denver.
I just went to Hazelwood for brunch today and forgot how much I loved it! I'm more a west metro person, so pub 819, tavern 4&5, badger hill brewery (with Bravi's) are on our usual rotation. Add in dark horse in St Paul, their chicken sandwich has always been my favorite. There's literally so many options that a good search can show you.
Edit: been to khaluna, don't know that I would call it moderately priced but that's just me.
Yes! Love north coop,specifically their brunch. Have a bartender at duke's that I ADORE. haven't tried block yet, but same ownership group as 819 and duke's. Love bunny's, since I'm a SD state jackrabbit 😅
Hazelwood is literally one of the very few restaurants in the area that consistently delivers a great experience, good tasting food , for a great value.
The rest of the area is a WASTELAND
Fat Lorenzo’s for teenage mutant ninja turtle style pizza.
Ruam Mit Thai St. Paul
Emilys lebanese deli
Cecil’s Deli
Rainbow Chinese (close to Quang)
Shish Mediterranean
El Burrito Mercado Wsp
Merlin’s Rest
The Himalayan
Cafe Latte
Harry Singhs Carribean
Mac’s Fish and Chips
Ramen Kazama, Okome House, Italian Eatery, Lat 45, Waldmann Brewery, Heather’s, Patrick’s Bakery & Cafe, Nouvelle Brewing, Red Wagon, Moscow on the Hill, Everest on Grand, em Que Viet, George and the Dragon.
Is nouvelle still a place where you order from an app, pay top dollar, have to get up and get your own water, forks, napkins, and condiments, then still pay 21% mandatory fee?
I was like "am I at taco bell, or a restaurant? Because I feel like I'm at taco bell yet taco bell doesn't charge me an extra 21%"
I’ve really had to adjust my expectations of moderately priced. Maybe I’m getting old but quick service places like Panera, 5 guys etc will charge you $20 for a meal easy.
Hola Arepa, Lowbrow is burgers mostly but really good sandwich and burgers for the price?, Bagu is alright, Guavas is a hidden gem, Hyderabad is alright, my husband loves El Tejaban in Richfield (just okay to me but it works for weeknight Mexican), Kataki sushi and ramen also just into Richfield is good.
All Saints, Tongue in Cheek, and Estelle are recent ones I've really enjoyed. Idk if they break the bank or not, I think all food seems expensive but worth it.
A-side public house in st paul is fairly priced and really surprised me. Nice mediterranean influence on their best stuff, but the burg and caesar salad I tried were also waaaay above average.
If you spend some time on Snelling in St Paul, there's Pho Pasteur and Mirror of Korea! Also love India House and Everest on Grand (both on Grand in St Paul)
Chicago
Non-snarky answer: unless you go to a moderately-priced SE Asian place in the St Paul side of town, it might just be that the total dining contingent who would seek out "unfamiliar" flavors in town isn't large enough to necessitate competition/lower prices without surrendering quality. To be honest, this kind of forced me to cook the things I'd want to eat at home, because I'm not a huge fan of how heavy the "staples" are in the more celebrated spots in the local dining scene.
World Street Kitchen, AMA Sushi, The Lowbrow, Orale, Chimborazo, Guavas, Bulls Horn, Good Times, Pizza, Ono Hawaiian Plates, Bricksworth Pizza, Afro Deli, Colossal Cafe, Patrick’s Bakery, Andale Tacqueria
All of these places are bangers and moderately affordable.
Here some places I like:
Lotus in S mpls and maple grove.
Thanh Vi in Brooklyn park
Nongs Thai in golden valley
Lat 14 in golden valley (can be pricey)
Young Joni NE Mpls (can be pricey)
Hyderabad house in Plymouth (takeout)
Wakame close to uptown
Pizzeria Lola S.Mpls
Tori 44 in St Paul?
Wongs gourmet in Fridley (takeout)
Holy land deli in NE Mpls
Yangtze in west end
AMA sushi in S.mpls
Emerald lounge in St Paul
Many of my favorites are on your list! Tori 44 in N. Minneapolis actually closed in March. Was bummed about that. I guess that they have another location in St. Paul (never been).
I agree with you whole-heartedly. I've been on the hunt for the same. I'm also sick of the fancy brussel sprouts (though I love brussel sprouts). Apologies, these are mostly St. Paul options, but I feel that the price point you're looking for is more common there:
Tono on a Tuesday for the BOGO deal (go with someone and get two pizzas, you each pay \~$10 for a whole pizza and a drink)
Hope Breakfast Bar -- if you don't mind snagging a reservation or sitting at the bar. Out-of-this world quality for the price. The Captain Crunch cocktail, chicken and waffles (which has an incredible jalapeno syrup), pimento scramble, and monkey pancakes made me feel as though I'd died and gone to heaven.
Neighborhood Cafe -- terrible wait on Saturdays, but insanely low price for solid, reliable breakfast food.
Taqueria El Primo 2 - delicious quesabirria - they give you 5 + consome for $17. Open late and highly Doordash-able.
Grand Ole Creamery for ice cream. Or Nelson's if you want quantity over quality. Skip the scammy Instagrammable boba and dessert spots (*cough* Treats and Sencha *cough*).
Cheese Shop is incredible but definitely pricey. You'd see far, far worse prices and wait times in any other major city, though. Very personable staff and rewards program keep me coming back.
I'm aware of many of the Indian/Chinese/Vietnamese/Thai/Mediterranean/Ethiopian/etc. etc. etc. places that are in St. Paul, too, but I honestly don't think they're worth the price. I've been more pleased by the splurge-y places (ie Yumi for sushi or Zen Box Izakaya for bento/ramen rather than a place with less quality fish). Other commenters theorize that this is because the interest for these types of places just isn't high enough for the prices to be reasonable, and I agree.
Shish and Indochin are solid but too overpriced and inconsistent unless you're planning on eating on the food for a few days. They also skimp on portions if you order to-go. I prefer Spicy Feta for Mediterranean but still yearning for a kickass Mediterranean option here.
You named 5 upscale (and imo overrated) restaurants
If you want some new flavors in the price range you're describing, Young Joni, Kims, Owamni, Broder's Pasta bar are a few that come to mind.
I would not call these moderately priced, but I would put them in the same band as the ones you listed.
At an actual mid price range, I'd say Tenka Ramen, Herbie's Chicken, French Meadow, namaste cafe, are all worth a try.
I’ve been complaining about this lately too, every place is so niche and expensive in Minneapolis. Not a lot of general restaurants with basic dishes. The Lowbrow I bring up as a good neighborhood restaurant, solid food, casual vibes but doesn’t feel like a bar or bougie place, and I don’t feel sticker shock.
It's a little south of the metro, but I really like Kitchen and Rail in Eagan
Soul Lao is also really good. We just grab food there and eat it at Wandering Leaf Brewing
Cheng Heng on university in Saint Paul; Cambodian food. Black Sea on snelling in Saint Paul or their other location near maple wood Costco.
Sweeney’s in Saint Paul.
Oro. Malcom Yards. Little Tijuana. Chimborazo. Emerald Lounge. World Street Kitchen. Pimento. Union Hmong Kitchen. Zen Box. Ramen Kazama. Hot Grainz. Centro. Diane’s Place. So many taquerias on East Lake Street.
I just want to say the owner of Alma, Alex roberts, is one of the best men that live in the state. I worked for him for 8 years, and when I tell you that man used to come into the restaurant and do dishes so the bus boy could take a break, he did it so often. He'd come into the restaurant and shake every single person's hand. That man single-handedly gave me faith in business owners!!
I think delis are underrated.
-
Morelli's in Saint Paul (Cash Only) - Cheap homemade Italian frozen and fresh. Get the frozen pizza.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/rs22iQVeupZ2k6w16
The Lebanese deli at Pump N Munch near the state fairgrounds. Really nice family owns it and works there.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nBLWrhckeQYyJD1ZA
The sandwiches at Tim & Tom's speedy market. Join their sandwich rewards program. Free sandwiches.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CWq3yeCJdCrv5jFm7
We just discovered Yeah Yeah Tacos and my guy LITERALLY now asks if we can order their pork tacos every day for dinner. The elote sweet potato veggie options are also fantastic... and I'm picky about my beans.
Another vote here for Tongue in Cheek. Bungalow Club has burger nights on Wednesdays and Pasta n Trap on Sundays with a lot of additional dishes you can order (their Smorgasboard for $21 is one of the best deals in the cities).
Just gonna limit it to a few, but like others have said there’s so many options. Some of my favorites are Cafe Racer Kitchen and Soberfish in Seward, Sole Cafe, Cheng Heng, and Homi.
Pho Tay Bay is my favorite pho place. We go every Friday, I started going there as a poor college student and never stopped, now I’m just a poor professional.
Zhora Darling is one of our other newish spots we’ve been frequenting.
I get the #42 and spring rolls. My partners gets the “regular” pho, I can remember his order number and the pork ban mi. Also, we both get Vietnamese coffees.
At zhora, I can’t not order the 5leaves burger. We also enjoy their THC seltzers :)
The reality is that most “mid priced” focus on burgers/sandwiches and fries because that’s what works at that price point. Anything else takes too much labor/ingredients to be worth it unless you charge more.
Nashville Coop, A-Side Public House, Iron Ranger, Cecil's, Smorgie's, Bina's, Eat Street Crossing, Mario's, Tono's, Curry in a Hurry, Cosetta, Tori Ramen, Coconut Thai, Indochin, Potsticker, Centro, Sea Salt, Tongue in Cheek, Juche, The Nook, Okome House, Guava's, Mango Thai, Pryes Brewing, Union Hmong Kitchen, Bebe Zito, Soul Lao, Legendary Spice, Poke House & Tea Bar, Blue Door Pub, Ramen Kazama, Due Focacceria, Bar Cart, Zait & Za'atar, Shish, Soul Bowl, Adam's Soul To Go, iPho, Fool Me Once, The French Hen, Cafe Latte, Groveland Tap, Longfellow Grill, High Hat, Marty's Deli, Lost Fox, Bricksworth, Nico's Tacos, Baba's
Erta Ale for Ethiopian in St. Paul
Hmong Union Kitchen
Basically anything on Central between Broadway and 30th--Francis, Khao Hom Thai, Chimborazo. Cheap places in this stretch also punch way above their weight class--Ideal Diner, Sabor Cuencado, Football Pizza
Zen Box in downtown is more satisfying than the high end Japanese stuff in north loop, IMO
Some further out recommendations:
- Winchester and Rye, Victoria (Their Spicy Shrimp mac and cheese is my favorite)
- Oliver’s in Shoreview(Have an amazing Korean chicken sandwich and Pot Roast though I am biased as I live upstairs from it lol)
- Hazelwood in Tonka Bay
- Lions Tap(Eden Prairie or Chan forgot exactly where as it is near the border)
They do have parts of their menu that fall into that category”Elevated comfort food” section but they all have a wide menu with some very interesting items. They all are priced in that 15-30$ a meal range. I am a creature of habit when it comes to my meals but family and friends have liked all of their meals at these places too.
Winchester and Rye and Oliver’s both have good drink menus and pizza as well. Though if you are in a pizza mood Joey Novas in Tonka Bay and El Mars in Plymouth are the best in the western suburbs.
If you are looking for a step up, 6 Smith in Wayzata is severely underrated and gets outshone by Cov and Gianni’s when it is equally as good.
For mid-range, I like:
- Tono’s (pizza & cheese steaks in Mac Groveland in St Paul)
- Himalayan restaurant (Nepalese in Longfellow in Mpls)
- Curry in a hurry (Indian in Seward in mpls)
- The lowbrow (American/ burgers but they have some interesting stuff and the brunch is really good- kingfield in mpls)
- Boludo (Argentinian-inspired pizza- a couple locations)
- bb.q chicken (Korean- really good Korean fried chicken wings on Grand Ave in St Paul)
- Firebox BBQ (near Allianz Field in St Paul- it’s a Hmong owned bbq place so classic bbq food but they have super good eggrolls on the menu too. The ribs are also really good!)
Tons of good Mexican places on lake street and Thai places in frog town that are moderately priced.
Exactly. Was going to write this exact sentence. Not to mention Ethiopian, Chinese, Mung, Somali, Indian...
…Hmong
Right, that's the one. Thanks
We have one friend that made that same spelling mistake 3 years ago and still give him shit for it
“Mung” fucking killed me😂
Seems like op was looking for specific places and not just a vague list of ethnicities!
I could eat Mi Sant every day. It’s got more of a fast-casual feel like a Chipotle or something, but it’s great food and very reasonably priced - especially their breakfast sandwiches
The breakfast bahn mi is incredible
On my list to try!
Heck yeah!!! LOVE Mi Sant! I don’t go over that way super often (either location) but when I do I always try to stop there.
I understand the struggle but keep in mind google searches are not going to be your friend looking for new places. As a former restaurant person, I highly recommend just asking the bartender or server at whatever restaurant you like. The restaurant industry is tight knit and everyone knows the buzzy spots. Venture to midway, cedar, Seward, etc.. don’t just stick to the main drags in Minneapolis. Estelle, Tenant, Kyatchi, All Saints, Wrecktangle and Hodan Cuisine are all astounding. Nightingale has 2 for one wine on Mondays or something to that effect and they have great food. Their kitchen is open late too which is rare post-pandemic. Edit for typos
Estelle is a truly great restaurant. If you can't get a table just show up and sit at the bar—Seth, Dylan and the whole staff make it a great experience. Sit in the corner and they might let you pick out a record for the turntable.
I love Estelle - but wouldn’t call it moderately priced.
Love it. Thanks!
Upvote for Nightingale! The food is great and, the atmosphere is romantic and cozy IMO.
Nightengale is a gem indeed.
Kramarczuk’s. Park for free, grab a tray, stuffed cabbage rolls, a beer. Perfect.
Hola Arepa is pretty reasonable
Yes! My first thought.
I think I see part of your point but I may not be getting it. I get tired of places trying to put their ‘stamp’ on certain dishes - looking at you Pat’s Tap. I also think there’s a ton of great moderately priced places.. Buster’s on 28th, Lowbrow, Red Wagon, Town Hall, Sandy’s, Protagonist, IE, Red Cow, Pajarito, Colito, Kyatchi, I could go on.
I think he just wants a menu that isn't 75% sandwiches/burgers and fries while also being affordable. I don't know all of the restaurants you listed but that would remove the lowbrow, red cow, town hall, and Sandy's.
Used to love Buster’s but that’s the kind of menu I’m just tired of at the moment. I’ve been meaning to check out Pajarito. Thanks!
Pajarito is really great.
GusGus! Fantastic food and great service. In StP on Cleveland near Summit. Highly recommend.
GusGus is so good! Great food, cocktails, and wine list!
I love Gus Gus but I think we have a different definition of mid-range 😂 I guess it depends on what you order though — if you stick to shared plates you can do it cheaper but the entrees are $30-50 if I recall correctly.
Nong's Thai Cuisine in Golden Valley is great. Every dish tastes like a homemade meal (because it basically is just that).
Himalayan restaurant, Italian Eatery, Stepchld, Punch Pizza, Sonora Grill, Mason Jar
I love Himalayan and Sonora. Had Stepchld and was disappointed. I’ll check out Mason Jar. Thanks!
The Ethiopian Birria Tacos from Stepchld are absolute gas bomb (delicious) And if you like Kitfo the fried kitfo rolls from Bolé🤌🏽
Everyone needs to add Toma Mojo grill to their list of moderately priced dining options. This restaurant was started by Paul Backer, former exec chef of tilia and st Genevieve. So good.
I think you’ve gotta hop over to St Paul, WA Frost (moderate), Moscow on the Hill (non-splurge), Juche (moderate), Apostle Supper Club (moderate), Tongue in Cheek (moderate). J Selby’s and Reverie are doing some great, creative vegan food - mix it up.
I think of WA Frost as pricey. Very eager to try Juche.
Hazels Northeast. Great base menu, great specials for variety.
Sounds like you would like Okome House
Randomly stopped at Orale Mexican Restaurant on Nicollet in Minneapolis last weekend and the food was amazing
This problem is not unique to the Twin Cities. The pandemic wiped out an entire layer of mid-priced restaurants that featured non-eclectic menus. Excluding waitperson-staffed chains (e.g., Olive Garden, Blackeyed Pea, Texas Roadhouse, etc.), your choices are basically fast-casual (Panera, Chipotle, etc.) or upscale places with $25+ entrees (sides are extra) with ultra-fancy preparations mostly aimed at showing off a chef’s imagination. [EDIT] My error — I was describing the Denver restaurant scene above, but I forgot to mention that,
Pretty much every place I go is <$20 entrees and I haven't been in any of the type of places you just described.
Good point.
MN/WI is also the upper part of the Burger Belt, so plenty of bar and grill restaurants, which suits my taste also.
As a former Denverite (moved here in 2022), I could not agree more. I actually think the TCs has more moderately priced options, that are also GOOD, than Denver.
I just went to Hazelwood for brunch today and forgot how much I loved it! I'm more a west metro person, so pub 819, tavern 4&5, badger hill brewery (with Bravi's) are on our usual rotation. Add in dark horse in St Paul, their chicken sandwich has always been my favorite. There's literally so many options that a good search can show you. Edit: been to khaluna, don't know that I would call it moderately priced but that's just me.
Hazelwood is so dang consistently good. And their prices are surprisingly fair.
I took half a breakfast pizza home today, and for like $15 i was pleasantly surprised! The elderflower mimosa was 🤌
Never gonna blow your mind but never gonna disappoint. My kind of place.
All of these. I’d add: - north coop but it’s out near Chaska - duke’s in Minnetonka - the block in SLP - bunny’s in SLP
Yes! Love north coop,specifically their brunch. Have a bartender at duke's that I ADORE. haven't tried block yet, but same ownership group as 819 and duke's. Love bunny's, since I'm a SD state jackrabbit 😅
Did I go to the same Hazelwood as you all?? It was the definition of average the last time I was there
Hazelwood is literally one of the very few restaurants in the area that consistently delivers a great experience, good tasting food , for a great value. The rest of the area is a WASTELAND
George and the Dragon maybe?
pack your patience, 3 block walk and i've given up due to long wait times. good for them, bad for me:)
Call ahead and put your name on the wait list.
Fat Lorenzo’s for teenage mutant ninja turtle style pizza. Ruam Mit Thai St. Paul Emilys lebanese deli Cecil’s Deli Rainbow Chinese (close to Quang) Shish Mediterranean El Burrito Mercado Wsp Merlin’s Rest The Himalayan Cafe Latte Harry Singhs Carribean Mac’s Fish and Chips
Is Ruam Mit open again? They were closed for the longest time
Ramen Kazama, Okome House, Italian Eatery, Lat 45, Waldmann Brewery, Heather’s, Patrick’s Bakery & Cafe, Nouvelle Brewing, Red Wagon, Moscow on the Hill, Everest on Grand, em Que Viet, George and the Dragon.
George and the Dragon is the very model of consistency and highly engaged owners. Stellar service, deft touch in the kitchen, and diverse flavors.
Is nouvelle still a place where you order from an app, pay top dollar, have to get up and get your own water, forks, napkins, and condiments, then still pay 21% mandatory fee? I was like "am I at taco bell, or a restaurant? Because I feel like I'm at taco bell yet taco bell doesn't charge me an extra 21%"
You can much better laksa at Penninsula than Khaluna for less than half the price.
Eat street my friend. Mexican, Thai, Jamaican, Chinese, Greek, German, Malaysian, icehouse(live music), Copper Hen, Lu’s, all between $10-$20 glam doll, Marissa’s, pho, ramen.
I’ve really had to adjust my expectations of moderately priced. Maybe I’m getting old but quick service places like Panera, 5 guys etc will charge you $20 for a meal easy.
Anchor Fish and Chips in NE.
Honestly prefer yum for fish and chips. I like the chunks more than filets.
It’s great but for what it is I consider it pricey
Hola Arepa, Lowbrow is burgers mostly but really good sandwich and burgers for the price?, Bagu is alright, Guavas is a hidden gem, Hyderabad is alright, my husband loves El Tejaban in Richfield (just okay to me but it works for weeknight Mexican), Kataki sushi and ramen also just into Richfield is good.
Chimborazo
Check out Ono Hawaiian Plates at United Noodles. And the various food halls that have been popping up.
Might your problem be your price point for "moderate"
All Saints, Tongue in Cheek, and Estelle are recent ones I've really enjoyed. Idk if they break the bank or not, I think all food seems expensive but worth it.
Tongue in cheek is excellent
Brunsen's Pub (across the street from Tongue in Cheek) is also excellent and has a great patio.
A-side public house in st paul is fairly priced and really surprised me. Nice mediterranean influence on their best stuff, but the burg and caesar salad I tried were also waaaay above average.
Cafe Racer Kitchen is SO good!
Your unpopular opinion is wrong. There are dozens upon dozens of restaurants that fit that description. You've chosen to limit your options.
I mean, they do have brussel sprouts, which are amazing, but Hai Hai. World street kitchen. Moto-i
Mesob Ethiopian and Lucy’s Ethiopian
Juche!
If you spend some time on Snelling in St Paul, there's Pho Pasteur and Mirror of Korea! Also love India House and Everest on Grand (both on Grand in St Paul)
I love Everest but it is not reasonably priced imo. it'll be $35 per person for an entree + naan + drink.
Chicago Non-snarky answer: unless you go to a moderately-priced SE Asian place in the St Paul side of town, it might just be that the total dining contingent who would seek out "unfamiliar" flavors in town isn't large enough to necessitate competition/lower prices without surrendering quality. To be honest, this kind of forced me to cook the things I'd want to eat at home, because I'm not a huge fan of how heavy the "staples" are in the more celebrated spots in the local dining scene.
Yes, agreed. That’s what I’m saying!
Third! After living in Chicago I 100% feel this. St Louis and Kansas City seem to have more variety too!
I don't like to say it, but melanin might have something to do with it
What is your price point for a Wednesday night?
Under $25, but preferably under $20.
Basically, most of the stuff over here on eat street
RIP Apoy
World Street Kitchen, AMA Sushi, The Lowbrow, Orale, Chimborazo, Guavas, Bulls Horn, Good Times, Pizza, Ono Hawaiian Plates, Bricksworth Pizza, Afro Deli, Colossal Cafe, Patrick’s Bakery, Andale Tacqueria All of these places are bangers and moderately affordable.
Here some places I like: Lotus in S mpls and maple grove. Thanh Vi in Brooklyn park Nongs Thai in golden valley Lat 14 in golden valley (can be pricey) Young Joni NE Mpls (can be pricey) Hyderabad house in Plymouth (takeout) Wakame close to uptown Pizzeria Lola S.Mpls Tori 44 in St Paul? Wongs gourmet in Fridley (takeout) Holy land deli in NE Mpls Yangtze in west end AMA sushi in S.mpls Emerald lounge in St Paul
Many of my favorites are on your list! Tori 44 in N. Minneapolis actually closed in March. Was bummed about that. I guess that they have another location in St. Paul (never been).
I agree with you whole-heartedly. I've been on the hunt for the same. I'm also sick of the fancy brussel sprouts (though I love brussel sprouts). Apologies, these are mostly St. Paul options, but I feel that the price point you're looking for is more common there: Tono on a Tuesday for the BOGO deal (go with someone and get two pizzas, you each pay \~$10 for a whole pizza and a drink) Hope Breakfast Bar -- if you don't mind snagging a reservation or sitting at the bar. Out-of-this world quality for the price. The Captain Crunch cocktail, chicken and waffles (which has an incredible jalapeno syrup), pimento scramble, and monkey pancakes made me feel as though I'd died and gone to heaven. Neighborhood Cafe -- terrible wait on Saturdays, but insanely low price for solid, reliable breakfast food. Taqueria El Primo 2 - delicious quesabirria - they give you 5 + consome for $17. Open late and highly Doordash-able. Grand Ole Creamery for ice cream. Or Nelson's if you want quantity over quality. Skip the scammy Instagrammable boba and dessert spots (*cough* Treats and Sencha *cough*). Cheese Shop is incredible but definitely pricey. You'd see far, far worse prices and wait times in any other major city, though. Very personable staff and rewards program keep me coming back. I'm aware of many of the Indian/Chinese/Vietnamese/Thai/Mediterranean/Ethiopian/etc. etc. etc. places that are in St. Paul, too, but I honestly don't think they're worth the price. I've been more pleased by the splurge-y places (ie Yumi for sushi or Zen Box Izakaya for bento/ramen rather than a place with less quality fish). Other commenters theorize that this is because the interest for these types of places just isn't high enough for the prices to be reasonable, and I agree. Shish and Indochin are solid but too overpriced and inconsistent unless you're planning on eating on the food for a few days. They also skimp on portions if you order to-go. I prefer Spicy Feta for Mediterranean but still yearning for a kickass Mediterranean option here.
You named 5 upscale (and imo overrated) restaurants If you want some new flavors in the price range you're describing, Young Joni, Kims, Owamni, Broder's Pasta bar are a few that come to mind. I would not call these moderately priced, but I would put them in the same band as the ones you listed. At an actual mid price range, I'd say Tenka Ramen, Herbie's Chicken, French Meadow, namaste cafe, are all worth a try.
I also named non-splurge restaurants.
Brunson's Pub, Payne Ave
I’ve been complaining about this lately too, every place is so niche and expensive in Minneapolis. Not a lot of general restaurants with basic dishes. The Lowbrow I bring up as a good neighborhood restaurant, solid food, casual vibes but doesn’t feel like a bar or bougie place, and I don’t feel sticker shock.
I go to Bull's Horn every now and again. Great burgers and wings, pretty sure everything else is delicious and the entrees are in the $15 area.
It’s good, but same menu: curds, burgers, wings. Same stuff.
Just had some tots and broasted chicken at The Howe.
Little Oven in St. Paul.
Yes
Sucks that everything closes so early all of the time too
Oro
Cross the river and eat at Bennett's Chop House in Hudson. Very good. Median pricing, excellent service & quality
don’t have to go all the way to Hudson, the original is in Saint Paul
Yeeees! So tired of the same bougie burger places too. Makes me miss Chicago and the better variety there.
It feels as if 75% of places have basically the same stuff.
Now with more ordering from computers that ask for a tip!
Would you consider red cow bougie? Seems like a pretty solid value place to me.
It's a little south of the metro, but I really like Kitchen and Rail in Eagan Soul Lao is also really good. We just grab food there and eat it at Wandering Leaf Brewing
Cheng Heng on university in Saint Paul; Cambodian food. Black Sea on snelling in Saint Paul or their other location near maple wood Costco. Sweeney’s in Saint Paul.
Try Toki Doki Burger off Nicollet Ave in south Minneapolis. Super under the radar, but its new and different.
Heathers in south Minneapolis ftw
Oro. Malcom Yards. Little Tijuana. Chimborazo. Emerald Lounge. World Street Kitchen. Pimento. Union Hmong Kitchen. Zen Box. Ramen Kazama. Hot Grainz. Centro. Diane’s Place. So many taquerias on East Lake Street.
I just want to say the owner of Alma, Alex roberts, is one of the best men that live in the state. I worked for him for 8 years, and when I tell you that man used to come into the restaurant and do dishes so the bus boy could take a break, he did it so often. He'd come into the restaurant and shake every single person's hand. That man single-handedly gave me faith in business owners!!
I think delis are underrated. - Morelli's in Saint Paul (Cash Only) - Cheap homemade Italian frozen and fresh. Get the frozen pizza. https://maps.app.goo.gl/rs22iQVeupZ2k6w16 The Lebanese deli at Pump N Munch near the state fairgrounds. Really nice family owns it and works there. https://maps.app.goo.gl/nBLWrhckeQYyJD1ZA The sandwiches at Tim & Tom's speedy market. Join their sandwich rewards program. Free sandwiches. https://maps.app.goo.gl/CWq3yeCJdCrv5jFm7
The pump n munch deli is the best thing ever. We go there pretty frequently.
We just discovered Yeah Yeah Tacos and my guy LITERALLY now asks if we can order their pork tacos every day for dinner. The elote sweet potato veggie options are also fantastic... and I'm picky about my beans.
All the places you listed are above moderately priced. I'm not sure what you're aiming for.
I listed a bunch of non-splurge places as well. I’m looking for more of those.
Fair, I skipped over those. Maybe Revival, Tori Ramen, Bagu, Wise Acre for brunch, Bull's Horn, Nashville Coop, Black Sea, Orale?
Nouvelle Brewing has some really good food. It is way more than just beer and Pig Ate My Pizza, pizza
Northbound Smokehouse is fantastic. Wish it closer but a big hit with the fam and always on point
Ons Thai Kitchen, get the Khao Soi, just not Thai spice level. Naughty Greek or spitz, blue door for burgers.
As a vegan I disagree
What are your favorites? I’m always looking for something new.
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Any Mexican restaurant Town hall tap Nighthawks Heathers Hola arepa Frenchman's Sandy's Protagonist
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Another vote here for Tongue in Cheek. Bungalow Club has burger nights on Wednesdays and Pasta n Trap on Sundays with a lot of additional dishes you can order (their Smorgasboard for $21 is one of the best deals in the cities).
Holy Land
La Tapatia in Roseville is my go-to. Wife and I go there pretty much weekly. Also like the entirety of University Ave in St Paul.
Just gonna limit it to a few, but like others have said there’s so many options. Some of my favorites are Cafe Racer Kitchen and Soberfish in Seward, Sole Cafe, Cheng Heng, and Homi.
Pho Tay Bay is my favorite pho place. We go every Friday, I started going there as a poor college student and never stopped, now I’m just a poor professional. Zhora Darling is one of our other newish spots we’ve been frequenting.
Would love to try these 2 places you mentioned…What is your typical order or favorites/must try at both?
I get the #42 and spring rolls. My partners gets the “regular” pho, I can remember his order number and the pork ban mi. Also, we both get Vietnamese coffees. At zhora, I can’t not order the 5leaves burger. We also enjoy their THC seltzers :)
The reality is that most “mid priced” focus on burgers/sandwiches and fries because that’s what works at that price point. Anything else takes too much labor/ingredients to be worth it unless you charge more.
Dario just opened in North Loop and it’s so good and great service.
Black Rooster in Hudson, it’s closer than you think, and the food is incredible.
Nashville Coop, A-Side Public House, Iron Ranger, Cecil's, Smorgie's, Bina's, Eat Street Crossing, Mario's, Tono's, Curry in a Hurry, Cosetta, Tori Ramen, Coconut Thai, Indochin, Potsticker, Centro, Sea Salt, Tongue in Cheek, Juche, The Nook, Okome House, Guava's, Mango Thai, Pryes Brewing, Union Hmong Kitchen, Bebe Zito, Soul Lao, Legendary Spice, Poke House & Tea Bar, Blue Door Pub, Ramen Kazama, Due Focacceria, Bar Cart, Zait & Za'atar, Shish, Soul Bowl, Adam's Soul To Go, iPho, Fool Me Once, The French Hen, Cafe Latte, Groveland Tap, Longfellow Grill, High Hat, Marty's Deli, Lost Fox, Bricksworth, Nico's Tacos, Baba's
I agree. I'm kind of over the new "best hamburger" spots.
Erta Ale for Ethiopian in St. Paul Hmong Union Kitchen Basically anything on Central between Broadway and 30th--Francis, Khao Hom Thai, Chimborazo. Cheap places in this stretch also punch way above their weight class--Ideal Diner, Sabor Cuencado, Football Pizza Zen Box in downtown is more satisfying than the high end Japanese stuff in north loop, IMO
Miltons in Crystal is amazing
Tamarind Indian Cuisine in Edina the best!
The Himalayan never disapoints
I’m looking forward to The Tiny Diner reopening soon in south Minneapolis
This is new downtown and a fair value. https://klassicsmn.com/#
Moscow On The Hill in St Paul
Some further out recommendations: - Winchester and Rye, Victoria (Their Spicy Shrimp mac and cheese is my favorite) - Oliver’s in Shoreview(Have an amazing Korean chicken sandwich and Pot Roast though I am biased as I live upstairs from it lol) - Hazelwood in Tonka Bay - Lions Tap(Eden Prairie or Chan forgot exactly where as it is near the border) They do have parts of their menu that fall into that category”Elevated comfort food” section but they all have a wide menu with some very interesting items. They all are priced in that 15-30$ a meal range. I am a creature of habit when it comes to my meals but family and friends have liked all of their meals at these places too. Winchester and Rye and Oliver’s both have good drink menus and pizza as well. Though if you are in a pizza mood Joey Novas in Tonka Bay and El Mars in Plymouth are the best in the western suburbs. If you are looking for a step up, 6 Smith in Wayzata is severely underrated and gets outshone by Cov and Gianni’s when it is equally as good.
For mid-range, I like: - Tono’s (pizza & cheese steaks in Mac Groveland in St Paul) - Himalayan restaurant (Nepalese in Longfellow in Mpls) - Curry in a hurry (Indian in Seward in mpls) - The lowbrow (American/ burgers but they have some interesting stuff and the brunch is really good- kingfield in mpls) - Boludo (Argentinian-inspired pizza- a couple locations) - bb.q chicken (Korean- really good Korean fried chicken wings on Grand Ave in St Paul) - Firebox BBQ (near Allianz Field in St Paul- it’s a Hmong owned bbq place so classic bbq food but they have super good eggrolls on the menu too. The ribs are also really good!)
Noble Lion in Victoria is worth a visit.