Quaint Cafes
The best of the lesser-known Twin City cafes
By: Marie Ronnander
It’s autumn in the Cities; leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and school is slowly becoming more intense. Now is the time to find your favorite hole-in-the-wall, grab a hot drink, and settle in to study for hours. These charming cafes are the perfect places for just that.
ROSE PATISSERIE
171 Snelling Avenue, Saint Paul
Walking into the Rose Patisserie feels like entering the tent of the Great British Baking Show. This authentic French patisserie prides itself on having world-class ingredients while maintaining a neighborhood feel. Every tiny treat is stylishly laid out for you to drool over. Choose anything from savory quiche, bonbons, to olive baguettes. Their buttery pain au chocolat is one of the best that the cities offer, especially paired with their signature oat milk draft latte. Located right on the corner of Snelling and Selby, you can pop into one of the many local shops while enjoying your french delicacies.
MAYDAY CAFE
3440 Bloomington Avenue, Minneapolis
Right next to Powderhorn lake, this cafe is the perfect stop after a long hike. Decked out with mismatched chairs, Mayday serves an eclectic but cozy, small-town vibe. They serve hearty sandwiches and soups with a bakery menu that changes daily but is packed with unique flavors. You’ll be surrounded by local art and calming music as you nibble on a basil cheese scone. Be sure to order a warm mug of tea, seeing as they make their blends.
MIM’S CAFE
1435 N Cleveland Avenue, Saint Paul
Craving something a little heavier than brunch? Mim’s cafe has all your bases covered. This Middle Eastern cafe sits just across the street from the Saint Paul campus, making it accessible for a quick coffee or a quiet meal after classes. Milk substitutions are free of charge (I’m right there with you, my lovely lactose intolerants), and if you tip, you might receive an extra falafel. Mim’s employees are the nicest people you’ll find and take care to cook your meal to perfection every time.