Your ultimate guide to eating in downtown Minneapolis

The blinking lights atop the Foshay Tower, the blue-gray reflection of the windows on the IDS Center and the exuberance of Mary Tyler Moore’s hat toss outside of the Dayton’s Building on Nicollet Mall: even in this modern hybrid era, downtown Minneapolis has retained its identity.

As more workers return to the city’s center, navigating the labyrinth of a skyway system, there’s still a bit of metropolitan magic in both the stately details of the old guard as well as the sleek new buildings. But for those who haven’t spent much time downtown since the pandemic forever changed the landscape, or if you’re new to the area, it can be a challenge to track down a good place for a quick lunch, or an off-site meeting.

We’re here to help, from exceptional local coffee and a breakfast sandwich to jump-start your morning, to midday pho made with a family recipe, bargain lunch bites and a serious steak dinner sure to impress, there is something here for every downtown Minneapolis visitor to enjoy.

The 20-year-old Maple Plain coffee shop recently expanded to the downtown skyway, meeting its faithful customers where they work. There’s an extensive drink menu with everything from cheese cold foam and popping boba to a maple cinnamon cream chai and chocolate raspberry matcha latte. Breakfast sandwiches start the day, and there are plenty of wraps for lunch.

100 S. 5th St., skyway level, blackwatercc.com

This bright and airy skyway level of the local coffee chain has all the good lattes, pour overs, selection of tea and several rotating beverage specials. The grab-and-go case is stocked with fresh sandwiches, yogurt parfaits and more. At the counter are Cardigan doughnuts, Honey & Rye pastries and a few hot options - including breakfast sandwiches. The shop does have some seating available for offsite working.

333 S. 7th St., skyway level, frgmntcoffee.com

801 Marquette Av. S.; 901 Marquette Av. S.; 900 LaSalle Av.; Dayton’s Project, skyway level, 700 Nicollet Mall; grayfoxcoffee.com

This coffee shop at the bottom of the Central Library building employs at-risk youths, sharing knowledge and building job skills with the goal to strengthen the community. Stop in for a latte or grab a muffin to go.

300 Nicollet Mall, bit.ly/MochaMommasMN

David Fhima’s family heirloom, a 130-year-old sourdough starter, is at the core of this expanding Parisian-esque coffee shop. Lattes abound, and anything with bread is a good place to start, but don’t miss the giant chocolate chip cookie, a meal in and of itself. The latest Mother Dough just opened at U.S. Bancorp Center.

U.S. Bancorp Center, 800 Nicollet Av., ground floor; Capella Tower: 225 S. 6th St., ground floor and skyway level; motherdoughbakery.com

50 S. 6th St., skyway level, skcoffeeplease.com

The casual counterpart to the Four Seasons’ fine dining at Mara, this coffee shop and cafe offers plenty of grab-and-go food options along with a lineup of teas and espresso drinks. It’s a lovely setting for a work break, surrounded by windows and growing greenery — including an indoor tree.

245 Hennepin Av. S., bit.ly/SoccaCafe

This lush greenery-filled sanctuary is tucked into the back of Hotel Emery’s first floor. There are several spaces for seating to meet or enjoy a quiet moment with a good cup of coffee. Standard latte and other options are available, along with roasted beans to bring a taste home or back to the office. Food options include a range of grab-and-go breakfast and lunch options, including pastries, breakfast sandwiches, burritos, egg bites, salads, hummus bowls and more.

215 S. 4th St., spyhousecoffee.com

601 Marquette Av. S., skyway level, vitalityroasting.com

An icon of old-school dining in downtown Minneapolis, the Band Box dates back to 1939 with a reliable selection of breakfast options and burgers. From the white and red building to the linoleum floor and the centerpiece grill, everything about this place feels like a throwback to another era. Order the giant pancakes in the morning or a satisfying burger and crisp onion rings midday.

729 S. 10th St., instagram.com/bandboxmpls

Home to the moistest old fashioneds around, this bakery has two locations, one in City Center (closer to Target Center) and another at the skyway level of the IDS Center, which also serves ice cream doughnut sandwiches. At the IDS location, enjoy views of the famed Crystal Court (known for its “Mary Tyler Moore Show” cameo) while enjoying a glazed masterpiece.

City Center, 40 S. 7th St.; IDS 80 S. 8th St., cardigandonuts.com

601 S. Marquette Av., eggflipmn.com

Breakfast is the star of the show at this restaurant, which is served all day. Famous for its lemon ricotta hotcakes and Mahnomin wild rice porridge, there’s a lot to love about this subterranean eatery with a full bar. The decor leans into the name, with macabre artwork, but the vibe is chill and comfy.

80 S. 9th St., hellskitcheninc.com

Whatever you’re craving, they serve it — and usually with a twist. There’s healthful choices like avocado toast and oatmeal, opulent offerings like banana bread French toast and Crab-Baby Eggs Benedict and all the breakfast classics. There’s a full bar, too; we won’t tell if you order your fresh-squeezed orange juice with a side of vodka or bubbles. Take dessert back to the office; the bakery case is not to be missed.

114 S. 8th St., henhouseeatery.com

114 S. 9th St., keyscafe.com

A blend of quickly served African and Middle Eastern fare, Afro Deli serves crispy, stuffed sambusas and flatbread-wrapped sandwiches at this mostly take-out stand. (There are a few tables if you need a quick sit.) The Chicken Fantastic with grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables and a cream sauce served over rice or couscous, is a signature dish.

705 Marquette Av. S., skyway level, afrodeli.com

This New York-style pizza place remains one of the best downtown lunch values. Get a slice for less than $5, and a free fountain drink if you buy two slices or a slice and a salad. There are always several varieties ready to roll (we stand by the veggie pizza) — bad for decision fatigue, good for moving lines. Andrea’s says they serve the biggest slices in town, and we have no reason to doubt them; they’ve been at it since 1975.

Capella Tower, 225 S. 6th St.; 811 LaSalle Building, 811 LaSalle Av.; Towle Building, 330 2nd Av. S.; andreapizza.com

Canadian Pacific Plaza, 120 S. 6th St., skyway level, asianmax.restaurant

A fast-casual Vietnamese restaurant that’s good for a light bowl of pho, bánh mì or crisp and chewy spring rolls. Part of the fun is personalizing a soup order with proteins, mix-ins and sauces. Most regulars have their list down, but workers are happy to help you find your perfect flavor combo.

100 S. 5th St., skyway level; LaSalle Plaza, 800 LaSalle Av. skyway level

This skyway-level deli’s roots go back to 1935, when the owner’s grandparents opened Mike’s Deli. When his father and uncle took over the business in 1959, they re-christened it as Brothers Deli. The business grew to several locations; now it’s down to just the one. But that hasn’t slowed its dedication to doing things properly: house-roasted pastrami on fresh-baked rye, long-simmered soups and sour pickles on the side. There’s often still a line out the door during lunchtime, with the man carrying on the legacy, Jeff Burstein, behind the counter, taking orders and moving everybody along quickly.

50 S. 6th St., skyway level, thebrothersdeli.com

220 S. 6th St., skyway level, theburgerplace.com

Hit the sweet spot on the go, with cookies in a variety of flavors from this truly classic skyway baker. Choose from the daily array of classics displayed in the case or choose one of the gluten-friendly crispy rice treats.

200 S. 5th St., skyway level, mplsclassiccookie.mysite.com

A tiny slip of an eatery, it’s best to enter from outside on Nicollet Mall and move through the stand to the interior of the Medical Arts Building, where there are a few tables. There are several types of pho, served with a light broth, including a breakfast option with meatballs, potatoes and a boiled egg. Bánh mì sandwiches similarly come with all kinds of filling options, from traditional to jerk chicken.

825 Nicollet Mall, ground level, come-pho-soup.com

555 Nicollet Mall, bit.ly/DamicoGaviidae

Folks who fly frequently might recognize these salad vending machines from the ones at the airport. Stocked with jars of layered salads, they’re ideal for veggie-craving introverts or those looking for a meal that won’t weigh them down. Plus, this is a great purse (or laptop bag) snack to bank for long office days. Vending machines are open 24 hours.

Several downtown locations, including: 350 S. 5th St.; Two22, 222 S. 9th St.; RBC, 250 Nicollet Mall; 100 S. 1st St.; HCMC, 730 S. 8th St.; RSM Plaza, 801 Nicollet Mall; 901 Marquette Av.; Butler Square, 100 N. 6th St.; farmersfridge.com

Frequently a two-man operation, this ground-floor restaurant serves a menu of fusion fare, often globe-trotting through each sandwich, salad or bowl on the menu. A bonus is that all dishes are available vegan. Order at a kiosk and take food to go, or find a table outside in the building’s common space.

900 2nd Av. S., foodontheflymn.com

121 S. 8th St., ginellispizza.com

The locally owned salad chain has streamlined ordering for their signature salads — it’s now one-size-for-all. The first outpost opened in 2014, when healthy choices in the skyway were a rarity. Now there are six locations — four in downtown Minneapolis — all serving the signature but customizable salads. If you’re in a rush, order ahead for pickup to avoid the lines.

LaSalle Plaza, 800 LaSalle Av., skyway level; Baker Center, 109 S. 7th St., skyway level; U.S. Bank Plaza, 200 S. 6th St., skyway level; Forum 900, 900 2nd Av. S., ground level; greenandthegrain.com

Teriyaki or hibachi proteins come with fried rice, veggies and yum yum sauce at this reliable staple that got its start as a food truck.

820 Marquette Av., ground level, hibachidarumamn.com

601 Marquette Av., skyway level, kadaimsp.com

Tucked into City Center’s skyway level is a taqueria outpost of this local, family-run Mexican restaurant. It’s popular for carnitas, birria and other slow-cooked fillings served up quickly in torta, taco, burrito or even nacho form. Order ahead online for even faster service, or enjoy at one of the few tables available inside.

40 S. 7th St., skyway level, losocampoexpress.com

This skyway burger joint may have grown to a “Minne-chain” of fast-casual restaurants across the metro, but this one is the original. Still family owned, still using fresh ingredients, and still tempting burger lovers with spicy combinations, a variety of options (veggie, fish, crispy chicken, turkey) and all the sides you need, right down to the Big Watt coffee malt.

601 Marquette Av., skyway level, myburgerusa.com

625 Marquette Av. S., northstarcenterminneapolis.com

This sweet skyway spot blends Thai and Malaysian flavors into breakfast- and lunch-friendly bites. Egg sandwiches, crispy chicken and blue coconut rice plates, crispy tofu salad and satay are staples, as is the bright purple butterfly pea flower limeade.

811 LaSalle Av., skyway level, ococofoods.square.site

Crystal Court is now the lone skyway location for this sushi restaurant, and it continues to draw lines. There are a few grab-and-go options, but regulars know the pro move is to order one of the specialty rolls or customize a bowl. They’re also open until 6 p.m., which is handy for a late lunch or to grab a roll on your way home — or both.

80 S. 8th St., skyway level, ids-center.com

IDS Center, street level, 80 S. 8th St., roti.com

A super convenient spot to stop for a lunch of fresh veggies, this City Center stand offers a build-your-own salad menu. Or, pick from one of their combinations that are also available as wraps or bowls.

40 S. 7th St., skyway level, saladbarmn.com

It’s likely the aroma of this family-recipe pho broth will find you even before you spot this skyway eatery. The menu also offers bánh mì and our favorite spring rolls in all of downtown with deeply flavorful protein options (we highly recommend the garlic beef). Fans line up on weekdays, when staff and the chef/owner often recognize regulars by their standard orders.

601 Marquette Av. S., skyway level, savourecafe.com

100 S. 5th St., skyway level, spherempls.com

As soon as the gate opens at lunchtime, a line forms outside this sushi stand that draws high-minded fish fans along with the hungry gotta-get-back-to-work crowds. Run with clockwork precision, the staff cycles through orders with breathtaking efficiency, serving rolls and nigiri worthy of a sit-down lunch. But, there are no seats at this stand. Take an order to go for a picnic in the nearby IDS Crystal court or dine solo back at the ol’ cubical salt mine.

Baker Center, 733 Marquette Av. S., bit.ly/Takatsu

Mediterranean mix-and-match bowls, wraps and salads feature gyro meat and kabobs from this fast-casual spot, a satellite of a Chanhassen restaurant.

100 S. 5th St., tazafreshmed.com

10 S. 5th St., street level, facebook.com/triestecafetwincities#

Inside it’s a dark, sexy dual-level room with deep red decor and a tall, glittering bar stocked with an abundance of agave spirits. Outside, there are open-air tables and an opportunity to dine amid the action on Nicollet Mall. No matter which perch is chosen, the correct order is to always start with queso for the table. After that, the Mexican-influenced menu is ready for exploring.

925 Nicollet Mall, barriotequila.com

One could argue that a national chain has no business on this list. One could also argue that a national chain launched by a non-Italian in a Minneapolis basement in 1993, one that winkingly salutes Italian American culture past the point of tackiness and, for better or worse, became the benchmark for Midwestern red-sauce joints, is as iconic as it gets. Dive into a family-size platter of spaghetti and meatballs at any of the 68 U.S. locations — preferably the one on Harmon Place that began it all — and discuss.

1204 Harmon Place, bucadibeppo.com

700 S. 3rd St., chloemn.com

Like the other Crave restaurants in this local chain, the space and menu items get dressed up. From signature sushi rolls and roasted beet-pear salads to chicken apple Brie sandwiches and truffle mushroom risotto, the proof is in the pretty plating.

825 Hennepin Av., craveamerica.com

There’s something for everyone with pizzas, burgers, beet bruschetta, skillet lasagna and more. The restaurant is full service with a bar, making it a good spot for post-work cocktails.

1070 Nicollet Mall, devilsadvocatemn.com/minneapolis

305 Washington Av. S., eatompls.com

A popular pub with downtown workers, there are burgers, sandwiches and comfort fare available for lunch and dinner. The bar pours all the favorite beverages, and there are plenty of screens to catch up on the latest scores.

800 Marquette Av. S., 8thstreetgrillmn.com

Located on the ground floor of the Hotel Emery, this Italian restaurant from chef Steven Brown is known for pastas, fresh fare and wood-fired pizzas. It’s a popular stop for happy hour, with craft cocktails, a selection of spritzes and an approachable wine list.

215 S. 4th St., dinegiulia.com

Marquette Hotel, 710 Marquette Av. S., themarquettehotel.com

Brittney and Gerard Klass opened this sit-down restaurant with the New Orleans and Soul Food influences to immediate enthusiasm from diners. From the stunning cocktails to the gorgeous food — don’t miss the crab boil wings — this restaurant is a welcome addition to downtown Minneapolis.

428 S. 2nd St., Mpls., klassicsmn.com

This pub with custom carved woodwork shipped from Ireland, stained glass, and nooks and crannies has long been a draw for its casual come one, come all vibe. The food gives the people what they want, casual handhelds such as sandwiches and burgers, while throwing in some traditional Irish fare like bangers and mash. The Irish pub is also a post-work draw for a nice, cold Guinness on tap. On warm-weather days, the Local boasts one of the best sidewalk patios along Nicollet Mall.

931 Nicollet Mall, thelocalminneapolis.com

921 Nicollet Mall, lumimn.com

This is one of those restaurants where even the pickiest of eaters can find something to enjoy: a long list of handhelds, chicken and waffles, steaks, salads and more. Or hit the appetizer menu, where Brie curds (with housemade blueberry ketchup), croquettes and a smoky pork flatbread make a fine (and shareable) midday meal. Grab a seat on the expansive sidewalk patio while the weather’s still favorable.

990 Nicollet Mall, thenewsroommpls.com

The IDS Center’s full-service restaurant takes inspiration from California cuisine emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Salads, handhelds and knife-and-fork entrees all represent. The power lunch spot can fill up fast, so perhaps make a reservation before heading over.

77 S. 7th St., noaminneapolis.com

1200 Nicollet Mall, sushitraindowntown.com

This beloved Italian restaurant has long been a favorite lunch and happy hour stop. Grab a dinner reservation for a woodfire pizza, calamari or a pear and Gorgonzola salad. It’s a good in-between walk from the Convention Center to Target Center.

831 Nicollet Mall, zelompls.com

It’s not summer without a visit to the Brit’s Pub rooftop. With lawn bowling, English-style pub fare and a vibrant green space in the heart of the city, it’s easy to see why. Stop by for lunch or dinner and a pint by the greens or on the sidewalk patio downstairs.

1110 Nicollet Mall, britspub.com

16 N. 6th St., gluecks.com

As First Avenue’s attached bar and restaurant, the spot is one of the first places that comes to mind for pre- and post-show hangs. But it’s a shame it gets overlooked as a lunch and dinner option, because Depot Tavern does bar food exceptionally well, with dishes such as the Diamond Dog. Get this bacon wrapped hotdog that’s deep fried and served on a pretzel bun with a side of Tater Tots that always come out nice and crisp.

17 N. 7th St., thedepottavern.com

Just a few steps down the block from Target Center, this pub has been famous for its chili since the invention of the Grape Ape shot (which they’re also known for). Order up some nachos and a beer before ambling over to the game.

500 1st Av. N., looncafe.com/minneapolis

16 S. 6th St., lyonspub.com

This cozy hang is part Scottish pub, part smokehouse. Start with a properly poured Guinness and watch it settle while the staff cooks up an order of the famous smoked wings. This bar has been serving downtown eventgoers and theater crowds since 1994, with an ahead-of-its-time craft beer menu.

918 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls., mackenziepub.com

A proper downtown Irish pub, O’Donovan’s has long been a stop for a pint before a Timberwolves or Lynx game, a bite before a show at First Ave, or a destination for hearty Irish/bar fare somewhere in between.

700 1st Av. N., odonovans.com

731 Hennepin Av. S., instagram.com/parlay.mn

The key to happy hour inside this hotel restaurant’s bar is to look up. The ceiling features a twinkling installation that sets a mood inside the swank back bar. For something a little lighter, the restaurant side is flanked by windows overlooking the city streets and decorated with a modern/tropical color palette. Food is standard American fare with burgers, chops, classic cocktails and a few specialty bites. The restaurant also offers a reserve-ready meeting room with AV hookups.

618 2nd Av., starbarbistro.com

You won’t miss much of the game with television screens at nearly every turn. The menu has classic bar fare (fried pickles, nachos, wings, burgers) but also a poke bowl, salads, mac and cheese, lobster and shrimp tacos and more. There’s a great beer lineup, and craft cocktails, too. There’s also an indoor-outdoor patio for soaking up the downtown excitement.

609 Hennepin Av. S., tomswatchbar.com

530 S. 4th St., boludo.com

Italian classics, Minnesota-style, can easily feed a family. Pizzas come in creative combinations, and most can be made gluten-free and vegan. For night owls, this outpost of the popular pizza chain sells by the slice until 2:30 a.m. daily.

119 N. 4th St., pizzaluce.com

The Warehouse District’s Kickernick Building’s lobby is filled with bright, eye-catching art and at the back is a restaurant with a menu filled with Colombian street food options and a full bar of tropical and classic drinks. Choose from empanadas, arepas, hot dogs and paninis. There’s also a selection of obleas, frescas con cremas and more, and a bar for bellying up or seats for enjoying the full feast.

430 1st Av. N., vivetropico.com

801 Hennepin Av., thecapitalgrille.com

This restaurant can follow different dining moods: cozy in the bar, with the iconic penny-tile floor; a greenery-filled beer garden for a more casual party vibe; or the buzzy dining room that’s sure to impress. Regardless of where you’re perched, it’s all about the meat. The sausage sampler is a crowd-pleaser, as are the steaks (get the Japanese wagyu if money isn’t a consideration). But the sides don’t disappoint, with a favorite being the summer squash casserole topped with Parmesan and buttery Ritz crackers. Whiskey lovers, this restaurant’s for you.

1121 Hennepin Av., butcherstale.com

This restaurant is a throwback to old school steakhouses, from the staff uniforms to the dark paneled setting to the care given to service. It’s also massive with different dining rooms, a large, circular bar and private seating flanked by a serious wine list. As much as it caters to big spenders, the bar also offers enticing and affordable happy hour meals that make it a great stop post-work or pre-downtown event.

801 Nicollet Mall, 801chophouse.com/locations/minneapolis

40 S. 7th St., Mpls., fhimasmpls.com

The pro tip at Fogo de Chao is to be careful about filling up at that salad bar before the meat-a-palooza party is coming. The salad bar is a beauty with tons of options, but the fun of ordering the churrasco meal, where meats are ferried around the room, fresh off the grill on massive swordlike skewers, is the star of this experiential dining.

645 Hennepin Av., fogodechao.com

Located at the base of the Four Seasons hotel, this gilded dining room and its old Hollywood bar are two of the most beautiful rooms in Minneapolis hospitality. Enjoy Mediterranean fare from chef Gavin Kaysen for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s a bit of a walk, but only a four-minute Uber ride from the Convention Center.

245 Hennepin Av. S., mararestaurantandbar.com

26 S. 6th St., murraysrestaurant.com

Long respected as the top choice in downtown Minneapolis for seafood dining, this restaurant continues to serve a famous crab cake along with finer entree options. The decor is a mix of dark wood and blue neon lights that evoke ocean waves.

50 S. 6th St., theoceanaire.com

Conceived as a chef’s destination, Isaac Becker and Nancy St. Pierre opened 112 Eatery as the kind of restaurant they would like to go to, and it quickly turned into a must-visit destination in Minneapolis’ Warehouse District. Twenty years later, it’s still a hot reservation with dishes that have since become classics. The slim, small restaurant offers dishes like foie gras meatballs over tagliatelle, khinkali dumplings, Chinese-style pork ribs and a now-famous cheeseburger topped with a thick hunk of Brie.

112 N. 3rd St., Mpls., 112eatery.com

920 2nd Av. S., ruthschris.com

It’s almost as much fun to view this elegant dining room from the skyway level as it is walking in the front door. The opulence in this historic bank is impressive to behold. There’s classic steakhouse fare (think wedge salad, asparagus, whipped potatoes), plus a gem of a chicken dish.