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Definitions of the Local Eat Scene

Category: Guides

Some downtown Saint Paul restaurants are beloved not just for what they serve, but for the role they play in the city’s daily life. Below is a list of classic, timeless and must trys that have stood the test of time.

1
The Saint Paul Grill
350 N Market St
Saint Paul, MN 55102

Located in the celebrated The Saint Paul Hotel and overlooking picturesque Rice Park, The St. Paul Grill is brimming with dynamic nostalgia and to-die-for dishes.

The iconic restaurant is a recognized dining destination with a diverse menu that includes everything from prime steaks and thick-cut chops to succulent poultry and fresh seafood. The Grill’s classic and impressive mahogany and brass bar is filled with the finest selection of rare spirits and wines.

2
Mickey’s Dining Car
36 7th St W
Saint Paul, MN 55102

An iconic Saint Paul institution, Mickey’s Dining Car serves classic American comfort food in a historic railcar setting. Open late and steeped in nostalgia, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a true downtown classic.

3
The Buttered Tin
237 7th St E
Saint Paul, MN 55101

Known for scratch-made comfort food and baked goods, The Buttered Tin offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch favorites made with care. Its downtown location is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

4
Meritage
410 St Peter St
Saint Paul, MN 55102

Meritage, located in downtown St. Paul's historic Hamm Building, is a renowned French brasserie and oyster bar founded by Chef Russell Klein and Desta Marée. Open since 2007, it offers seasonally driven, locally sourced French cuisine and a robust wine list, boasting a 4.6-star rating and a popular, flower-lined outdoor terrace. Don’t miss out on tickets to their annual Oysterfest!

5
Herbie’s on the Park
317 Washington St
Saint Paul, MN 55102

Overlooking Rice Park, Herbie’s on the Park combines classic American fare with a lively downtown energy. It’s especially popular before a Wild or Frost hockey game or an Ordway performance, offering a relaxed place to gather and dine.

From global cuisine and beloved institutions to casual cafés and sweet treats, downtown Saint Paul offers a food scene that is walkable, locally rooted, and full of personality. Whether you’re planning a dining destination or discovering your next favorite spot, these culinary experiences highlight why downtown Saint Paul continues to punch above its weight.