Saint Paul has stepped out of Minneapolis’s shadow with a dining scene that’s confident, creative, and deeply rooted in neighborhood life.
From Lowertown to Cathedral Hill, you’ll find everything from refined tasting menus to laid‑back, globally inspired comfort food.
These five newer or newly buzz‑worthy spots are worth a reservation.
1. Hyacinth
Hyacinth is a small, charming Italian‑leaning restaurant on Grand Avenue that feels like stumbling into a neighborhood gem in Rome or Brooklyn.
The space is intimate, softly lit, and always buzzing.
The menu focuses on seasonal Italian cooking with an emphasis on handmade pastas, high‑quality ingredients, and simple preparations done perfectly.
Expect changing selections of antipasti, rich yet balanced pastas, and a few mains—like roasted chicken or steak—paired with thoughtful vegetable sides.
The wine list is compact but carefully curated, leaning toward Italian and European bottles that pair beautifully with the food.
Reservations are smart, as the space is cozy.
2. Tongue in Cheek
On the East Side, Tongue in Cheek brings a playful, modern spin to American dining and cocktails.
The room is stylish but unfussy, with a lively bar and friendly service.
The menu leans into inventive small plates and entrees that aren’t afraid of bold flavors and creative plating.
You might find dishes highlighting locally sourced meats and produce, vegetable‑driven starters, and clever takes on classics. They’re also known for “teasers”—bite‑sized tastings that let you sample multiple flavors without committing to a full plate.
Cocktails are a major focus, with both boozy and zero‑proof options that are as carefully built as the food.
3. Keg and Case Market (and its anchor vendors)
Housed in the historic Schmidt Brewery site, Keg and Case Market isn’t just one restaurant but a curated food hall—yet several of its vendors function like standalone dining destinations.
The vibe is industrial‑chic, with communal seating and lots of natural light.
Here you’ll find everything from smoked meats and wood‑fired dishes to inventive sandwiches, global street food, and creative desserts.
It’s ideal for groups or couples who like to try a little bit of everything; you can grab a beer or cocktail from the bar and build your meal from multiple counters.
Because vendors change over time, it’s worth checking which newer concepts are currently drawing the most attention.
4. Estelle
In the Macalester‑Groveland area, Estelle blends Mediterranean and Latin influences into a menu that feels both comforting and fresh.
The dining room is modern and lively, with a warm neighborhood energy.
Small plates, house‑made pastas, grilled meats, and seafood are the backbone of the menu.
You might see items inspired by Spanish tapas, Portuguese seafood dishes, or Italian comfort food—with lots of bright herbs, citrus, and olive oil tying it all together.
The bar offers thoughtful cocktails and a solid wine list, and the space works equally well for a laid‑back date night or a celebratory dinner with friends.
5. Thai Garden (new‑wave Thai spots in Saint Paul)
Saint Paul’s newer generation of Thai restaurants focuses on fresh ingredients and a mix of authentic and modern dishes. Spots like Thai Garden & Noodle and other newer Thai kitchens in the city lean into vibrant curries, noodles, and stir‑fries with customizable heat levels and plenty of vegetarian choices.
Expect spicy papaya salads, crispy appetizers, rich coconut‑based curries, and noodle dishes like pad thai, drunken noodles, or pad see ew—all with a brighter, fresher touch than your average takeout. Many also offer craft beverages, bubble teas, or local beers to round out the meal.
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