Also known as “Pigs Eye” and “The Saintly City,” St. Paul offers people near and far much to do during their stay.
Nestled along the Mississippi River, it also holds the title of Minnesota’s state capital, is one of its oldest cities, and stands east of its neighboring city Minneapolis. Consider visiting the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory if you have free time during your day.
If you’re looking for a nice meal to start your day, there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious brunch options. Besides eggs and pancakes, you can find other specials to enjoy with a fresh mimosa or bloody mary.
However, with so many restaurants available, you may have this question on your mind: which ones are worth the time?
Thankfully, I compiled this list of the best places for brunch in St. Paul to help you narrow down where to eat with your friends before exploring the city’s top attractions. That way, you can find menu options that grab your attention.
Holman’s Table
644 Bayfield St, St Paul, MN 55107
Phone: 612-261-1620
Visit Website
Holman’s Table is a retro-chic New American restaurant found on Bayfield Street, near the Mississippi River.
Their culinary team prepares each scratch-made dish with locally sourced ingredients to give guests an elevated dining experience bursting with international inspiration.
They serve the best Mushroom Toast & Eggs, Short Rib Omelet, Grapefruit Brulee, and Black & Bleu Burger near the St. Paul Downtown Airport.
Don’t miss out on their Gingerbread Cheesecake or Black Forest Gateau if you have room for dessert.
As far as brunch beverages go, I recommend trying their Air Mail 2.0, Big OJ, or Holman Abides if you’re looking for an ideal pairing with your meal.
Colossal Cafe
Multiple locations
Visit Website
First up on my list of the top restaurants offering brunch in St. Paul is Colossal Cafe. You can find it on Grand Avenue and Como Avenue.
This homey and cozy restaurant offers seasonal American brunch fare to help you start your day right. They also serve excellent coffee and pastries if you prefer treating yourself early.
I recommend ordering their Scandinavian Frittata, Egg, Cheddar and Bacon Breakfast Sandwich, Roasted Pork Shoulder Bowl, or Ham, Hash Browns and Swiss Omelet.
Additionally, their sweet and savory scones and croissants rotate throughout the week, so be sure to try one with an espresso or flavored latte.
The Buttered Tin
237 7th St E, St Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-224-2300
Visit Website
Next up on my list of the top places serving brunch in St. Paul is The Buttered Tin, found in the city’s Lowertown District, on 7th Street East, near Mears Park and CHS Field.
Besides the usual breakfast and lunch fare, this homey and simple restaurant offers scratch-made baked goods for anyone craving something sweet.
Consider trying their signature Buttered Tin Hash, Walleye Cake Benedict, Pig’s Eye Breakfast, or Smashed Avocado Toast.
In addition, many of their menu items are gluten-free, plant-based, and vegetarian-friendly. Feel free to stop by their bakery for a cinnamon roll. Their cupcakes and pie flavors rotate daily.
Moscow on the Hill
371 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-291-1236
Visit Website
Nestled in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood on Selby Avenue, Moscow on the Hill is your best option for enjoying a Russian-inspired brunch in St. Paul.
This cozy and refined destination offers signature house vodkas you can enjoy with your meal for an international dining twist. Their outdoor patio has an excellent view of Boyd Park.
Consider trying their Moscow Benedict, Fried Mortadella Ham Sandwich, Sweet Cheese and Raisin Blintz, or Siberian Pelmeni Dumplings.
Don’t forget to craft a customizable Bloody Mary at their bar to enhance your meal. If that’s not your style, try their hot tea, espresso, or lemonade.
Saint Dinette
261 5th St E, St Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-800-1415
Visit Website
Another restaurant near CHS Field offering a tasty brunch menu is Saint Dinette, located on 5th Street East.
This refined, old-school restaurant offers classic American brunch fare every weekend for anyone starting their day in the Downtown area.
Executive Chef Adam Eaton incorporates several international flavors into each dish.
I like ordering their Flapjacks, Cheeseburger, Kale Salad, or Eggs Benedict whenever I book my reservation.
However, if you prefer something sweet, I recommend trying their beignets. They also have a wide selection of brunch cocktails to pair with your meal.
If you prefer something besides a bloody mary or mimosa, try their Orange Julio or Dinette Old Fashioned.
Hope Breakfast Bar
1 S Leech St, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-330-8996
Visit Website
Nestled on the corner of South Leech Street and Grand Avenue, minutes from Irvine Park, Hope Breakfast Bar is an excellent contemporary brunch spot for enjoying your favorite morning dishes. They also offer takeout for anyone too busy to stay before spending a day at the park.
My favorite dishes are their Banana Bread Pancakes, Bacon Tacos, Cheddar Cheese French Toast, Fried Pickle Waffle, and Midwest Riviera Burger.
I prefer ordering them with a sticky bun or cheesy grits on the side. They also taste great with a Spiked Watermelon Lemonade cocktail or Sea Salt Caramel Espresso from their coffee bar.
Parlour St. Paul
267 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-207-4433
Visit Website
If you prefer giving your brunch experience a bit more class, consider booking a weekend reservation at Parlour St. Paul on 7th Street West, near the Alexander Ramsey House.
This hip, elegant restaurant offers gourmet, upscale fare and a luxurious wooden bar for enjoying the finest cocktails, boozy malts, and tap beer.
In my opinion, their best dishes are Seared Whitefish, Avocado Tartine, Ham and Cheese Toastie, and Shakshuka.
I like ordering them with a side of fries or hash browns. Be sure to try them with a refreshing Underwater Tea Party or Corporate Zombie cocktail before or during their daily happy hour.
The French Hen Cafe
518 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-222-6201
Visit Website
Can’t find any restaurants offering brunch in St. Paul with a French and Creole touch? Then, consider stopping by to eat at The French Hen Cafe, located on Selby Avenue, in the heart of the Cathedral Hill neighborhood.
It has a cheerful, cozy vibe ideal for enjoying quality brunch dishes to start your day in St. Paul.
I recommend sampling their Catfish Benedict, Quiche Lorraine, Sweet Crepe, or Parm Crusted BLT with a side of fruit salad, fried green tomatoes, or hash browns.
Feel free to order a refreshing Blood Orange Mimosa, True Stone Cold Brew, or Chocolate Milk to wash everything down.
Handsome Hog
173 Western Ave N, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-219-4013
Visit Website
If you’re craving a Southern-style brunch in Cathedral Hill, Handsome Hog is your best option. It’s on the corner of Western Avenue North and Selby Avenue.
I was surprised by its hip and trendy ambiance. Executive Chef Justin Sutherland crafts each dish with authentic Southern flavors to satisfy anyone’s mid-day hunger.
Every weekend, Handsome Hog serves an enticing menu with many pig-centric choices. I’m a fan of their Handsome Hog Hot Brown, BBQ Chopped Salad, Shrimp Po’Boy, and Brisket Hash.
Don’t forget to order Texas toast or bacon on the side. I also prefer ordering these dishes with a Bourbon Bloody or Bottomless Mimosa.
J. Selby’s
169 N Victoria St, St Paul, MN 55104
Phone: 651-222-3263
Visit Website
Are you having trouble finding St. Paul brunch restaurants that are suitable for vegan dietary preferences?
If so, look no further than J. Selby’s for your plant-based brunch needs. You can find it off the corner of North Victoria Street and Selby Avenue.
However, they currently offer pickup services, but their airy and peaceful atmosphere is something to embrace.
I recommend starting with their Chickin’ Fried Mushrooms and trying their Bungalow Bean Burger, Falafel Gyro, Clubhouse Sandwich, or House Chili with a refreshing Arnie Palmer or Kombucha. Then, treat yourself to their Soyclone or Root Beer Float if you have room for a sweet dessert.
Tongue In Cheek
989 Payne Ave, St Paul, MN 55130
Phone: 651-888-6148
Visit Website
Overlooking Payne Avenue stands Tongue In Cheek, a chill and retro restaurant offering tasty American dishes for anyone passing through the city.
I think it’s a great place to energize yourself during the middle of the week if you’re looking to try farm-to-table dishes and refreshing craft cocktails.
Tongue In Cheek’s menu offers dishes that guests can ask to be adjusted for gluten-free and vegan diets.
Whenever I book a brunch reservation, I typically order their Belgian Waffle, Weekend at Bennies, or Market Omelet with bacon or a side salad. Feel free to spice your weekend up with their signature Cosmonaut Jack or Espresso Martini.
Lowry Hill Meats
1934 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Phone: 612-999-4200
Visit Website
If you’re looking for brunch in the Lowry Hills neighborhood, why not order something at the aptly-named Lowry Hill Meats, nestled on Hennepin Avenue in the neighboring Minneapolis?
This casual butcher shop is an excellent option for anyone interested in enjoying a sandwich to-go before going to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
I love their Ham and Bacon Breakfast Sandwich, Turkey Melt, Smoked Salmon, and Hanger Steak. They also offer a wide assortment of meats, soups, and pantry items for you to enjoy at home with your peers. I prefer ordering these dishes with A’ Siciliana or Circle Kombucha to complete my dining experience.
Red Cow St Paul
393 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-789-0545
Visit Website
Don’t know where to find the best burgers for brunch in St. Paul? In that case, stop by Selby Avenue and enjoy a succulent meal at Red Cow St. Paul.
This casual and stylish eatery is an excellent place to unwind before touring the rest of the city. They also have a full bar and outdoor patio if you’re looking for more.
You should consider trying their Breakfast Burger, Berry French Toast, Pastrami Hash, or Bagel Burger.
However, my favorite option is their Turkey Burger. Be sure to order a 16-ounce milkshake to experience an unforgettable creamy and meaty blend.
Groundswell
1340 Thomas Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104
Phone: 651-645-6466
Visit Website
If you’re in the mood for quality specialty coffee with your brunch, consider Groundswell on Thomas Avenue to give you a much-needed morning or afternoon boost.
Its rustic-chic vibe gives the venue a classy air, complete with the subtle aroma of fresh brews. Their cafe also offers vegan alternatives for solo or group patrons.
I prefer ordering their Earl Grey Waffle, Biscuits and Gravy, Banana Bread French Toast, or Sweet Potato Waffle Poutine with a Caramel Cinnamon Roll or Cupcake Flight.
Be sure to pair any of their bakery specialties with a vanilla latte or espresso. They also have an extensive kids’ brunch menu, perfect for dining with your family.
Keys Cafe & Bakery
Multiple locations
Visit Website
With locations in St. Paul’s Downtown District on Robert Street and North Raymond Avenue by South St. Anthony Park, Keys Cafe & Bakery is an excellent brunch alternative for anyone who loves fresh-baked pastries with their brunch.
This cafe chain has a casual and friendly vibe, welcoming anyone craving tasty scratch-made goodness.
Their Cinnamon French Toast, Veggie Scrambler, Chorizo Omelet, and Cajun Skillet offer some of the city’s freshest, boldest flavors you should sample during your stay.
I love enjoying these dishes with their Caramel Latte, Raspberry Lemonade, or Chocolate Shake. After that, consider having a slice of their Banana Cream Pie or HoHo Cake.
Grand Catch
1672 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Phone: 651-348-8541
Visit Website
If you’re traversing through the Tangletown neighborhood, the best place for brunch in St. Paul you should look out for is Grand Catch, located on Grand Avenue.
This stylish, upscale setting offers quality shellfish and cocktails for anyone interested in more than the usual egg and skillet plates.
I recommend ordering their King Crab Benedict, Lobster & Avocado Toast, Shrimp & Grits, or a customized Seafood Bowl.
Their daily shellfish options rotate daily, so be sure to ask your server what’s available. Don’t forget to top off your brunch with a tasty Sangria Slushie, Grand Old Fashioned, or Why Isn’t This Purple cocktail.
The Lexington
1096 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Phone: 651-289-4990
Visit Website
Located in the heart of the Summit Hills neighborhood, The Lexington on Grand Avenue is your best option for an upscale brunch experience.
Its vintage aesthetic gives it a touch of class that immerses you in its environment as you enjoy your food. They also have several private dining rooms and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
This restaurant offers brunch every Sunday. In my opinion, you should consider trying their Lexington Omelet, Corned Beef Hash, Eggs Chesapeake, or a signature Chicken Pot Pie with a fresh cinnamon roll. Be sure to try their freshly squeezed grapefruit or orange juice to give your meal a tangy addition.
Herbie’s On The Park
317 Washington St, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-726-1700
Visit Website
Herbie’s On The Park is a cozy, retro, and elevated eatery located on Washington Street, near Rice Park and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts.
Enjoy their Moscow cocktails near their fireplace for a more intimate and homey start to your afternoon. They also offer catering services for weddings and other special events.
After starting with their Pretzel Bites or Cobb Salad, order their Chicken Bacon Swiss Melt, Bacon Bleu Burger, or Mushroom Risotto.
I prefer ordering these dishes with a Bourbon Sweet Tea, Vodka Lemonade, or Minnesota Manhattan cocktail if you don’t have any red, white, or sparkling wine preferences.
The Uptowner Cafe on Grand
1100 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Phone: 651-224-0406
Visit Website
If you prefer dining in a more casual setting, consider stopping for brunch at The Uptowner Cafe on Grand, located on the corner of Lexington Parkway South and Grand Avenue.
Although small in stature, this lively and popular diner offers as many tasty omelets as the other restaurants in the city.
Consider trying their Veggie Scramble, Eggs and Pancakes Combo, Chili Cheese Omelet, or Cajun Breakfast Special.
They also have a wide assortment of sides you can add to any meal, so don’t miss out on their Minnesota Malted Waffle, Oatmeal, or Yogurt Parfait with Fruit and Granola. If that’s not your style, try their sandwiches or burgers.
French Meadow Bakery & Café
1662 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Phone: 651-789-8870
Visit Website
The best place for an organic brunch is the local French Meadow Bakery & Café, found on Grand Avenue, by Macalester College.
It has a casual and rustic ambiance, complete with an outdoor patio surrounded by atmospheric trees. I think it’s a great change of pace from the other brunch spots in this lineup.
This restaurant’s organic menu also offers gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian dishes anyone can enjoy. My favorites are their Egg & Bacon Croissant, Blueberry Corn Pancake, Salmon Eggs Benedict, and Vegan Quesadilla.
The best brunch cocktails you should try are their Peach Bellini, Brass Monkey, Grapefruit Mimosa, and Screwdriver.
Black Dog Cafe
308 E Prince St, St Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-228-9274
Visit Website
Last but not least on my list of the top restaurants offering brunch in St. Paul is Black Dog Cafe, a lively bistro located on East Prince Street in the Lowertown neighborhood.
I enjoyed having their brunch on their outdoor seasonal patio. They also had live music performances every night if you stopped by later for dinner.
Besides their usual weekend brunch, they offered daily breakfast, sandwiches, and pizza. During my last visit to this restaurant, I had their Florentine Benedict, Spinach and Goat Cheese Omelet, Black Bean Quesadilla, and Pulled Pork Benedict.
I also liked starting with shareable cheese curds and fish tacos with my friends.
If you’re eager to see everything in St. Paul, you’ll need to start your day with an energizing brunch to power you throughout the day.
Hopefully, this list can help you find a new favorite place to enjoy brunch, especially if they offer dining options later during the day.
Don’t know which restaurants to visit for dinner? If so, browse through this list of the best steakhouses in St. Paul for a mouth-watering sirloin.
Did I miss any of your favorite brunch spots on my list? Leave a comment below to let me know, and I’ll check them out.
This is a very nice write-up. I like the fact that it contains a lot of relevant details. Thanks for posting.