25 Best Diners in Minneapolis, MN in 2024
Diners in Minneapolis are a staple for dining in the area. Is there anything more quintessentially American than a good old-fashioned diner? From vintage train cars to fresh and vibrant eateries, there is such as rich culinary culture surrounding diners in Minneapolis.
Did you know that the word "diner" comes from the dining cars on trains, which were later converted into permanent restaurants across the country? while most of the diners in Minneapolis on this list are made of bricks and mortar, you'll still find some deliciously quirky spots to help with those cravings that only a good old-fashioned diner can satisfy.
Jump to Section
The 25 Best Minneapolis Diners
1. Al's Breakfast
Experience a true diner in Minneapolis at Al’s Breakfast. This cozy eatery, which serves hot breakfasts to a devoted crowd of regulars every morning, has won numerous awards including a prestigious James Beard Award for its commitment to culinary excellence.
The Vibe
Al’s is a no-frills eatery fashioned like a traditional old-school diner in Minneapolis with red vinyl stools and a homey décor.
What to Order
Order the famous Fancy scrambled eggs with cream and butter or indulge in a fluffy buttermilk blueberry pancake topped with pure Minnesota maple syrup.
Al’s Breakfast | 413 14th Ave. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 | $$
2. Our Kitchen
Enjoy breakfast at Our Kitchen, one of the best diners in Minneapolis. Serving breakfast to hungry locals since 1941, this diner in Minneapolis has made a name for itself in the community and was even voted the best breakfast in Minneapolis.
The Vibe
Our Kitchen is a cozy and casual diner in Minneapolis with classic bar seating and tables. Enjoy a friendly welcoming atmosphere and a delicious meal.
What to Order
Try the classic fried eggs and cheese sandwich on two thick slabs of toast, served with a crispy side of Our Kitchen’s famous hashbrowns.
Our Kitchen | 813 W. 36th St., Minneapolis, MN 55408 | $$
3. Victor's 1959 Café
Shake up the traditional American breakfast experience with a trip to Victor’s 1959 Café. This Cuban diner in Minneapolis is a hotspot for breakfast and authentic Cuban food. Victor’s 1959 Café has been a staple in the community for over 20 years.
The Vibe
Located in a repurposed building that was originally a Shell gas station, this diner in Minneapolis has a vibrant interior and casual atmosphere. The dining room is decorated with colorful artwork, floral patterns and graffiti covering almost every surface.
What to Order
Try the Arroz Al La Cubana breakfast plate loaded with fried eggs, white rice, plantains and yuca frita drizzled with house mojo and creole sauce. To wash it down, order one of the traditional Cuban drinks, like the cortadito, a rich, creamy coffee that'll perk you up and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Victor’s 1959 Café | 3756 Grand Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55409 | $$
4. Hot Plate
Tucked away in a quiet residential area, Hot Plate is a quaint diner in Minneapolis that opened its doors in 2005. This family-owned business offers great quality at a reasonable price.
The Vibe
Hot Plate is a funky diner, decorated with intriguing framed art, weird vintage dolls and showstopping light fixtures.
What to Order
Tuck into the seasonal caramel apple French toast with fresh apples and a generous drizzle of warm caramel.
Hot Plate | ​​5204 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55417 | $$
5. The Nicollet Diner
Looking for a 24-hour diner in Minneapolis? Make The Nicollet Diner your go-to spot. This retro diner is a popular late-night hangout for great food and stiff drinks.
The Vibe
This diner in Minneapolis has an effortless retro feel with large neon signs and polished chrome accents. Located in the heart of Downtown, Nicollet’s is casual and welcoming to all patrons.
What to Order
Satisfy your late-night cravings with a plate of poutine featuring crispy fries piled high with fried cheese curds and smothered in hearty beef gravy and topped with fresh green onions.
Nicollet Diner | 1333 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | $$
6. The Wienery
A staple in the West Bank neighborhood of Minneapolis is The Wienery, dating back to the 1980s. This diner in Minneapolis was featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and has since become a famous diner of the Midwest. Known for serving gourmet hot dogs, The Wienery is a diner in Minneapolis you don’t want to miss.
The Vibe
This cute hole-in-the-wall location has a casual interior and a walk-up window for ordering outside. Seats are available at the counter as well as outdoors when the sun's shining.
What to Order
Order the famous Chicago dog made with a Vienna beef hot dog and topped with relish, onion, tomato, sport pep, pickles and celery salt. This location also serves vegan and vegetarian hot dog options and offers a breakfast menu available all day.
The Wienery | 414 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55467 | $$
7. Band Box Diner
Looking for an unassuming diner in Minneapolis to enjoy a top-notch hamburger and fries? Band Box Diner is the local go-to for juicy burgers and crispy fried sides.
The Vibe
This casual diner in Minneapolis is a local hotspot known for old-fashioned burgers, fries and onion rings. The crisp red and white-striped exterior gives this restaurant in Minneapolis a cheerful old-school charm.
What to Order
Try the classic Band Box Lunch Box plate, featuring a classic cheeseburger with slaw and a side of shoestring fries.
Band Box Diner | 729 S. 10th St., Minneapolis, MN 55404 | $$
8. All Square
Looking to dine at a non-profit diner in Minneapolis? All Square is a social justice non-profit that works to invest in people affected by mass incarceration, with all proceeds from food sales going towards supporting this worthy cause.
The Vibe
The sleek modern interiors of this diner in Minneapolis offer a comfortable dining space where you can enjoy great food and connect with others in the community.
What to Order
Bite into the most popular item on the menu, the jerk grilled cheese sandwich made with an irresistible blend of Jamaican jerk seasoned chicken, mozzarella cheese and housemade guava jam.
All Square | 4047 Minnehaha Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55406 | $$
9. Keys at the Foshay
This refined diner in Minneapolis offers a gourmet breakfast menu for every occasion. A simple approach to everyday food items has made Keys at the Foshay a staple in the community.
The Vibe
The Keys at the Foshay is a casual family-owned business in downtown Minneapolis, with an interior that's as family-friendly and welcoming as the staff.
What to Order
Order the cinnamon French toast platter or warm up with a chili omelette.
Keys at the Foshay | 114 S. 9th St., Minneapolis, MN 55402 | $$
10. Hi-Lo Diner
The Hi-Lo Diner has a storied history that dates back to 1957 when a Fodero diner car traveled from Gibsonia, Pennsylvania to Minneapolis where the diner found its home. This diner in Minneapolis is a cool retro space serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails.
The Vibe
Hi-Lo Diner effortlessly blends the past and the present to create a nostalgic yet modern dining room. With a turquoise and purple color scheme and vibrant high-top seating, this diner in Minneapolis is an inviting restaurant to enjoy a meal any time of day.
What to Order
Order the homestyle meatloaf with country gravy, mashed potatoes and buttered green beans. Don’t miss out on the black-bottom banana cream pie or the old-fashioned shakes and malts.
Hi-Lo Diner | 4020 E. Lake St., Minneapolis, MN 55406 | $$
11. Flameburger
This diner in Minneapolis is famous for its burgers, sandwiches and classic breakfast plates. Flameburger is a little dive just off the highway; if you blink, you might miss it.
The Vibe
With a wrap-around kitchen, large windows and a classic red diner interior there is a lot to love about Flameburger. This family-friendly diner is casual with quick service and a great menu.
What to Order
Order the Flame platter featuring a half-pound Flame burger patty with slices of onion. Wash it all down with a classic rootbeer float for dessert.
Flameburger | 2534 Rice St., Little Canada, MN 55113 | $
12. Zen Box Izakaya
Looking for a fresh take on a diner in Minneapolis? Zen Box Izakaya is a fun Japanese bar and grill that has a casual feel making a trip here one of many great date ideas in Minneapolis.
The Vibe
The interior of Zen Box Izakaya is a celebration of Japanese culture, with a cozy dining area infused with Japanese-inspired décor. This popular ramen spot is a casual family-friendly eatery great for enjoying a warm bowl of soup on a cold winter's day.
What to Order
Slurp up deliciousness with a steaming bowl of tonkotsu ramen.
Zen Box Izakaya | 602 Washington Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415 | $$$
13. Pizzeria Lola
Tired of traditional American food at diners in Minneapolis? Try Pizzeria Lola for a Korean twist on an Italian classic. This neighborhood pizza joint was founded by Korean immigrant and Chef Ann Kim and named after her beloved dog Lola.
The Vibe
Pizzeria Lola features classic pizzeria décor with exposed brick, bright primary colors and a wood-fired pizza oven. This family-friendly spot is the talk of the town for pizza lovers.
What to Order
Grab a slice of the Lady Zaza with plum tomato sauce, Korean sausage, homemade napa kimchi, gochujang, scallion and sesame.
Pizzeria Lola | 5557 Xerxes Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55410 | $$
14. Nighthawks
Located in the vibrant Kingfield neighborhood in South Minneapolis, Nighthawks is putting a spin on classic diner fare. This diner in Minneapolis is known for its upscale comfort food and cozy bar atmosphere.
The Vibe
Established in 2015, Nighthawks quickly became the neighborhood gathering place. With a sleek interior, expansive outdoor patio and friendly service this restaurant is a must-visit in Minneapolis.
What to Order
Try the gourmet spicy chicken sandwich featuring breaded chicken breast, avocado crema and fresh coleslaw drizzled with locally sourced Bare Honey and Cry Baby Craigs glaze.
Nighthawks | 3753 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55409 | $$
15. Uptown Diner
Experience breakfast at one of the best diners in Minneapolis, Uptown Diner. This innovative restaurant revitalizes the concept of a breakfast eatery by sourcing local ingredients.
The Vibe
This diner in Minneapolis offers a sleek modern interior that seamlessly blends retro diner style with contemporary sensibilities. Enjoy hearty breakfast plates while basking in the ample natural light from the large windows.
What to Order
Try the eclectic Kamikaze French toast — three slices of thick-cut sourdough bread adorned with plump blueberries, pecans and fresh bananas, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
Uptown Diner | 2548 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55405 | $$
16. Ideal Diner
This diner in Minneapolis offers a classic diner feel with breakfast-only service. Ideal Diner was built in 1949 and has been a landmark ever since.
The Vibe
Ideal Diner is all flavor with no fluff. With limited seating and retro décor, this family-friendly joint is a cute little breakfast dive you don’t want to miss.
What to Order
Order the regional favorite, the Nordeast omelette stuffed with steak, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, cheddar and mushrooms.
Ideal Diner | 1314 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 | $$
17. Eggy’s Diner
Modeled after the homey diners of the 60s, Eggy’s Diner is bringing urban comfort food to another level. Don’t be fooled by the name, this diner in Minneapolis has a lot more to offer than just a breakfast menu. In fact, Eggy’s Diner has made national news for its offering and is a hotspot for foodies from all over.
The Vibe
The interior is reminiscent of a rustic modern farmhouse, with wood accents and rustic metal décor. This is a family-friendly spot with great service.
What to Order
Order the crab cake Benedict, or the famous crunchy French toast that's so good, that it was featured on the Travel Channel.
Eggy’s Diner | 120 W. 14th St., Minneapolis, MN 55403 | $$
18. Maria’s Café
Dive into traditional Colombian breakfast at Maria’s Café. Founded by Chef Maria in 1993, this is one of the best diners in Minneapolis and a local favorite.
The Vibe
This diner in Minneapolis is a beautiful, bright and fun restaurant in the heart of the historic downtown. The bright yellow interiors and fresh floral arrangements make Maria’s Café an inviting breakfast destination.
What to Order
Order Maria’s Colombian huevos pericos, featuring three scrambled eggs with diced tomatoes, onions and special seasoning, all topped with cheddar cheese.
Maria’s Café | 1113 E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55404 | $$
19. Hola Arepa
Say hello to delicous house-made arepas at Hola Arepa. This diner in Minneapolis serves South American street food with a twist including Venezuelan-style stuffed arepas, Latin American-inspired tapas and tropical cocktails.
The Vibe
Hola Arepa has a tropical Latin American flare, vibrant colorful décor and a spacious open-air dining area.
What to Order
Try the slow-roasted pork arepa, the one that started it all.
Hola Arepa | 3501 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55408 | $$
20. Christos Greek Restaurant
Indulge in traditional Greek fare at Christos Greek Restaurant. Opened in 1988, this diner in Minneapolis serves up classic dishes popular in the Mediterranean.
The Vibe
Escape to the sea-swept isles of Greece with the spacious, airy interior of this diner in Minneapolis. Reminiscent of an island taverna, this eatery offers a family-friendly European atmosphere.
What to Order
Order the traditional mousaka made with layers of ground beef, eggplant and potato, smothered in bechamel sauce and baked until tender.
Christo’s Greek Restaurant | 2632 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55408 | $$
21. Red Wagon Pizza Company
Grab a slice of the best pizza at Red Wagon Pizza Company. This family-owned pizzeria has been tossing dough and feeding families since 1962. This diner in Minneapolis was even featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
The Vibe
Red Wagon Pizza Company is a laid-back pizzeria serving authentic East Coast-style pies with a smile.
What to Order
Try the signature Red Wagon Pizza that was featured on "Triple D" or the Off the Wagon pizza, made with red sauce, mortadella, house and stracciatella di mozzarella cheeses, and crushed pistachios.
Red Wagon Pizza Company | 5416 Penn Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55419 | $$
22. Emily’s Lebanese Deli
Get an authentic taste of Lebanon at Emily’s Lebanese Deli. This family-owned business has been serving delicious fare to Twin Cities natives since 1973.
The Vibe
Emily’s is a quaint diner in Minneapolis that serves standout dishes and great service.
What to Order
Order the popular fried kibbi sandwich featuring spiced ground beef and fresh tomato between two house-made buns.
Emily’s Lebanese Deli | 641 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 | $$
23. Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room
Grab a beer and a bite at Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room. This diner in Minneapolis is a tavern-style eatery serving craft beer and gourmet bar bites.
The Vibe
Stanley’s has an inviting hipster atmosphere with interesting décor and friendly service. It's the perfect place to hangout and catch up with friends.
What to Order
Dig into the Hot Chic sandwich with crispy chicken, Hot Chic sauce, coleslaw and pickles.
Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room | 2500 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418 | $$
24. Uncle Franky’s
Discover the best Chicago dogs in the city at Uncle Franky’s. This diner in Minneapolis is famous for its authentic hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
The Vibe
Uncle Franky’s is a funky and fun quick-service joint serving gourmet hot dogs and sandwiches.
What to Order
Try the signature Uncle Franky dog with mustard, relish, ketchup and raw onion.
Uncle Franky’s | 728 Broadway St. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 | $$
25. Modern Times
Take a trip to the quirkiest diner in Minneapolis at Modern Times. Try one of the many vegetarian dishes made from locally sourced, organic produce. It also has a robust vegan menu.
The Vibe
This spunky retro diner mixes hippy vibes with classic diner culture.
What to Order
Try the migas, made with fresh fried corn tortilla strips tossed in a roasted vegetable ranchera and Chihuahua cheese. You can even try the vegan version.
Modern Times | 3200 Chicago Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55407 | $$
Learn To Cook Minneapolis Foods
Want to learn to create classic dishes from diners in Minneapolis at home? Explore cooking classes in Minneapolis and discover all the unique flavors of the Midwest. Learn to make restaurant-quality cuisine from a professional chef in an engaging environment, gaining expert tips and learning new culinary skills that'll stay with you forever.
From crispy fried cheese curds to hand-tossed pizza, there's something on the Minneapolis culinary scene to suit everybody. It could be that you're looking for a trendy hangout to catch up with friends, or perhaps you're looking for an easy, no-fuss spot to feed your hungry family. Whatever you need, with this list of the best diners in Minneapolis as your guide, finding somewhere to eat in the City of Lakes has never been easier.
For even more ways to explore Minneapolis and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
Join the conversation.