The Best of St. Paul MN

Introduction

St. Paul, Minnesota, combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering visitors and residents an impressive range of dining experiences. From chef-driven tasting menus to casual neighborhood gems, the capital city’s restaurant scene reflects its cultural diversity and strong sense of community. This guide highlights some of the best restaurants in St. Paul, MN, showcasing where to enjoy memorable meals for every occasion and taste.

Meritage

For refined French cuisine in the heart of downtown, Meritage is often considered a benchmark restaurant in St. Paul. Located near Rice Park and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, it is ideal for a pre-theater dinner or a special night out. The menu emphasizes classic French techniques, seasonal ingredients, and carefully executed dishes, with highlights such as steak frites, moules frites, and impeccably prepared seafood. Known for its oyster bar, Meritage curates a rotating selection of East and West Coast oysters, making it a destination for shellfish lovers. The comprehensive wine list, professional service, and elegant yet comfortable atmosphere contribute to an elevated dining experience that appeals to locals and visitors alike.

Saint Dinette

Transitioning from classic French to modern American fare, Saint Dinette in Lowertown offers a creative menu that balances comfort food with refined technique. Just steps from CHS Field, this restaurant is a popular choice before or after a Saints baseball game, yet it stands on its own as a culinary destination. Diners can expect inventive takes on familiar dishes, such as their celebrated burger, house-made sausages, and shareable small plates that highlight bold flavors and quality ingredients. The dining room is contemporary and welcoming, reflecting the vibrant revitalization of the Lowertown neighborhood. With a thoughtful cocktail program and a well-edited wine list, Saint Dinette is a strong choice for both casual evenings and special occasions.

Spoon and Stable St Paul Pop Ups and Influence

While Spoon and Stable is technically located across the river in Minneapolis, its influence on the Twin Cities dining scene, including St. Paul, is significant. Many chefs and hospitality professionals who have passed through its kitchen have gone on to shape menus and service standards at restaurants throughout St. Paul. Pop-up dinners, collaborative events, and guest chef appearances frequently connect Spoon and Stable’s culinary philosophy with St. Paul’s thriving restaurant community. As a result, diners exploring top restaurants in St. Paul will often notice similar commitments to seasonal produce, local sourcing, and refined yet approachable dishes that echo this influential establishment’s style.

Holman’s Table

For a dining experience with a distinctive setting, Holman’s Table at the St. Paul Downtown Airport offers a unique blend of aviation atmosphere and upscale comfort food. Overlooking the runway, the restaurant allows guests to watch planes take off and land while enjoying dishes that range from creatively composed salads to hearty entrées like roasted chicken and steak. The interior is stylish and modern, yet relaxed enough for weekday lunches, business meetings, or weekend date nights. With a strong brunch service, well-crafted cocktails, and easy access from downtown, Holman’s Table adds variety to St. Paul’s culinary landscape.

W. A. Frost and Company

Situated on historic Cathedral Hill, W. A. Frost and Company is widely recognized for its romantic, old-world ambiance and impressive patio, often considered one of the most attractive outdoor dining spaces in the city. The restaurant occupies a beautifully restored 19th-century building, featuring brick walls, antique details, and cozy seating areas. The menu highlights New American cuisine with a seasonal focus, offering dishes like seared fish, artisan pastas, and carefully prepared meats paired with robust vegetable sides. The wine list is extensive, and the cocktail program pays homage to classic recipes with updated twists. W. A. Frost is particularly popular for anniversaries, celebrations, and leisurely evenings that call for a refined yet inviting setting.

Brasa Rotisserie

Moving toward a more casual but equally memorable option, Brasa Rotisserie specializes in slow-cooked, rotisserie meats and Southern- and Caribbean-inspired sides using Midwestern ingredients. With a location in St. Paul, Brasa attracts families, groups of friends, and solo diners looking for flavorful, comfort-driven food that accommodates a range of dietary preferences. Signature items include rotisserie chicken, slow-roasted pork, and tender beef, all complemented by sides such as collard greens, rice and beans, seasonal vegetables, and cornbread. The service is efficient and friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and takeout options are well organized, making Brasa a reliable choice for both dine-in and carryout meals.

Mucci’s Italian

For those craving Italian cuisine, Mucci’s Italian offers a cozy neighborhood atmosphere paired with rich, satisfying dishes. Located in the West 7th area, this restaurant has gained a loyal following for its indulgent pizzas, fresh pasta, and nostalgic Italian-American specialties. The pizza dough is known for its unique texture and flavor, while the menu also includes meatballs, house-made sauces, and classic desserts. Weekend brunch service adds another dimension, with Italian-inspired breakfast dishes and pastries drawing regular crowds. Mucci’s approach emphasizes hearty portions, approachable flavors, and a casual environment, making it a welcoming option for both families and date nights.

Revival St Paul

Revival brings Southern-style comfort food to St. Paul with a focus on fried chicken, smoky flavors, and classic sides. The restaurant has earned widespread attention for its crispy, juicy fried chicken offered in various spice levels, including a hot chicken option for adventurous diners. Complementary dishes such as mac and cheese, cornbread, and collard greens reinforce the Southern theme, while sandwiches and burgers round out the menu. The atmosphere is lively and informal, with a steady stream of regulars and new visitors. For those exploring the city’s food scene, Revival offers a flavorful contrast to more traditional Midwestern fare.

Kincaid’s Fish Chop and Steakhouse

Overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown St. Paul, Kincaid’s Fish Chop and Steakhouse delivers a classic steakhouse experience with a scenic backdrop. The menu focuses on premium steaks, fresh seafood, and traditional sides served in a polished, professional setting. It is a popular destination for business dinners, special celebrations, and pre-event meals before concerts or theater performances. The interior features comfortable seating, white tablecloths, and expansive windows, enhancing the sense of occasion. With attentive service and a well-curated selection of wines and cocktails, Kincaid’s appeals to guests seeking a timeless, upscale dining option.

The Lexington

To round out the list of standout restaurants, The Lexington on Grand Avenue offers a storied history combined with updated classic American cuisine. Originally opened in the 1930s, it has long been a local institution, recently refreshed to meet modern expectations while preserving its vintage charm. The menu features steaks, chops, seafood, and elevated comfort dishes, all served in richly appointed dining rooms that evoke a supper club atmosphere. Live music on select nights and a rooftop patio during warmer months add to its appeal. For visitors wanting to experience old-school St. Paul hospitality with contemporary culinary execution, The Lexington is a compelling choice.

Conclusion

From elegant fine-dining destinations to relaxed neighborhood favorites, the best restaurants in St. Paul, MN, reflect the city’s history, diversity, and creative energy. Whether you are planning a special celebration at a landmark institution, enjoying a casual meal before a ballgame, or exploring new flavors in revitalized districts like Lowertown and Cathedral Hill, St. Paul offers a wealth of options. By seeking out these notable establishments, diners can experience not only exceptional food and drink but also the distinctive character that makes St. Paul a memorable Midwestern culinary destination.

• Best Restaurants in St. Paul MN