The Twin Cities can be an open-24-hours metropolis.

The grill is always fired up at Flameburger, where a spot at the retro counter is the place for jumbo burgers and crinkle fries, enormous breakfast platters and other greasy-spoon classics.

2534 Rice St., St Paul, 651-483-8444

Sure, the Hard Times Cafe shuts down every day for two hours (4 to 6 a.m.), but that minor technicality shouldn't stand in the way of inexpensive and appealing vegan and vegetarian fare, served in bare-bones surroundings.

1821 Riverside Av., Mpls., 612-341-9261

During the work week, Taqueria la Hacienda cooks to midnight, but on the weekends, the doors stay open around the clock. Go for the pozole and the tripe soup, stay for the tacos al pastor.

334 E. Lake St., Mpls., 612-822-2715, www.taqueriaslahacienda.com

RICK NELSON