15 Must-Try Brunch Places East of the Cities

1. The Buttered Tin – St. Paul

Step into a bright, welcoming café in Lowertown where the scent of freshly baked pastries instantly feels like a warm hug. The Buttered Tin has a menu that elevates classic breakfast comforts—fluffy lemon-ricotta pancakes, buttery breakfast tacos, and the ever-popular Soft Scramble—each made with house-baked ingredients. The pastry case bursts with cinnamon rolls and hand pies that pair perfectly with their top-tier espresso drinks. Beverages include lattes, turmeric and matcha options, cold-pressed coffees, lavender- or ginger-lemonades, and creative mimosas. Weekend waits might pop up, but the cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and feel-good food reward every minute.

2. Gorman’s Restaurant – Lake Elmo

Gorman's Restraunt, a nostalgic, family-run landmark serving up hearty, no-frills breakfasts and comfort classics all day in a retro-diner setting. Favorites include cinnamon French toast, Denver omelets, and loaded fries piled high with cheese and bacon. The ice-cream drive-thru delivers stand-out shakes—like Turtle Mocha or raspberry—and the coffee is regularly topped up to keep the warmth flowing. With its homey décor, welcoming booths, and Midwestern hospitality, Gorman’s feels like a long-lost friend’s kitchen—generous, comforting, and effortlessly familiar.

3. Urban Olive & Vine – Hudson, WI

Urban Olive & Vine, an artsy, laid-back café in charming downtown Hudson where mornings begin with delicate crepes (think lemon ricotta or Nutella banana), flaky pastries, and excellent drip and espresso coffee. The leafy interior and softly curated playlists make it a favorite for slow coffee sipping and quiet conversation. As afternoon begins, the vibe shifts—with live acoustic music, wine by the glass, and small plates like bruschetta or cheese boards. Whether you're in for a refined breakfast or a relaxed early evening, it balances casual elegance with an artistic touch.

4. Oasis Café – Stillwater, MN

With its classic diner charm and friendly vibe, Oasis Café is a local staple for big, satisfying breakfasts. A must-order is their signature giant cinnamon rolls—baked until golden and ooey-gooey—alongside perfectly crispy hash browns and plate-sized pancakes. The warm, retro setting—complete with neon accents and classic diner booths—sets the stage for nostalgia-driven comfort food. Friendly servers hustle through the day, filling coffee cups, offering friendly conversation, and making it hard not to linger a while. Whether you're craving a hearty stack of pancakes or a relaxed morning coffee, Oasis delivers with genuine flair.

5. Keys Café & Bakery – White Bear Lake

Keys Café & Bakery, a beloved Minnesota-based family chain, is famous for generous portions and homey bakery vibes. Sink into a plate that matches the scale of their cinnamon rolls—big, gooey, and perfectly sweet. The everything omelet is a crowd favorite, packed with fresh ingredients and served alongside their house-baked bread and jam. The light, airy dining area faces a display case brimming with cakes, cookies, pies, and their superb chocolate cake. Community-oriented and family-friendly, Keys’ consistently reliable food and comforting ambiance make it a feel-good destination for leisurely weekend brunches.

6. Colossal Café – St. Paul

Tiny on space but not on flavor, Colossal Café wins hearts with its signature Flappers—airy, yeasted pancakes that are a house specialty, and overstuffed biscuit sandwiches that bring savory satisfaction. The café’s cozy, counter-style setting is breathing room for big flavors—think pillowy pancake stacks and ooey-gooey biscuit breakfast sandwiches. It’s a go-to for those craving that homemade feel with a playful twist. Weekend mornings see happy had-to-wait diners who wouldn’t trade that bright, bustling energy for anything.

7. The Watershed Café – Osceola, WI

A peaceful riverside retreat just across the border, Watershed Café embraces a locally sourced menu paired with warm hospitality. Popular dishes like the farm-fresh scrambles and house-made pastries make it a favorite for those seeking a slower-paced morning. The interior offers a soothing mix of wood tones and natural light, with seating that looks out over the scenic waterway. Calm, friendly servers add thoughtful service to the experience, and the river-town atmosphere makes each morning visit feel refreshingly restorative.

8. The Wild Hare – Stillwater, MN

Eclectic, fresh, and modern. Wild Hare brings a blend of thoughtful options—from veggie scrambles to Korean-style bowls and gluten-free goodies like onion rings made from scratch. The menu embraces variety, featuring Moroccan cheese curds, coconut curry soup, seafood tacos, and crispy fries. The vibe is casual but stylish, perfect for everything from brunch out with friends to a laid-back lunch. With its bold flavors and welcoming atmosphere, it appeals to those who like a twist on classic café fare.

9. Cafe Astoria – St. Paul

Cafe Astoria crafts a bright and Instagram-ready brunch experience in the heart of St. Paul. Their signature smoothie bowls are artfully colorful—topped with fresh fruit and granola—while Nutella crepes, fruit-laden French toast, and latte art masterpieces add flourish. The café’s crisp, minimalist interior, paired with soft morning light, invites guests to linger over a latte and their camera-ready meal. It’s ideal for those who want elevated flavors in an aesthetically pleasing setting.

10. San Pedro Café – Hudson, WI

Tucked into downtown Hudson, San Pedro Café brings vibrant Caribbean flair to the Upper Midwest. Favorites include plantain hash, jerk-seasoned scrambles, and tropical-style eggs Benedict loaded with bold island spices. The laid-back, colorful décor—evocative of a beachside escape—pairs perfectly with a spicy house Bloody Mary or tropical-inspired juice. It offers a mini tropical vacation without leaving Wisconsin, especially popular in the warmer months when you can soak in sunshine alongside bold brunch flavors.

11. The Lumberjack – Stillwater, MN

This isn’t just a café—it’s an experience. The Lumberjack pairs good food with good fun in a retro-industrial space hosting axe throwing, skee-ball, darts, foosball, and more. Grab loaded tots, breakfast burgers, or waffle fries, and wash it down with craft cocktails like their spicy hot "Aztec" cocoa or inventive mocktails. The energy buzzes with friendly competition and the clink of game tokens, making it a brunch spot where fun takes center stage.

12. Hope Breakfast Bar – St. Paul (and Woodbury)

Housed in a historic building, Hope Breakfast Bar feels vibrant and life-affirming—just as its name suggests. The menu dazzles with playful dishes like German chocolate pancakes, pork belly biscuits, and banana churro waffles, often served alongside karaoke-worthy mimosa towers. Their coffee is strong, drinks are creative, and there's a hot happy hour vibe all weekend long. The bright, open dining rooms and outdoor patio make it feel like brunch is the celebration of the morning.

13. Cobblestone Café – White Bear Lake, MN

Cobblestone Café is where comforting generosity meets neighborhood charm. Known for huge portions like the Southern skillet and eggs Benedict, plus cinnamon rolls so big they barely fit the plate—this place brings real Midwestern hospitality. Seating ranges from cozy indoor booths to outdoor patios around a fireplace. The vibe is relaxed, inclusive, and ideal for families, friend groups, or anyone settling in for a long, comforting brunch.

14. No Neck Tony’s – Stillwater, MN

No Neck Tony’s brings casual vibes and bar-style brunch to Stillwater’s riverfront scene. Think cheese boards, burrata plates, gourmet burgers, and fresh seafood sandwiches—all served up with craft beers, hearty cocktails, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. It’s great for a late-morning bite or easy afternoon hangout in a space that’s unpretentious but full of character.

15. The Brickhouse – White Bear Lake, MN

Modern and stylish, The Brickhouse crafts an American brunch menu with midday flair. Favorites include fluffy pancakes, savory skillets, and trendy avocado toast. The space—warm lighting, exposed brick, stylish décor—feels contemporary and welcoming. Their drink menu includes creative mimosas and handcrafted cocktails, making it a solid choice for weekend meet-ups or a chic, energizing brunch experience.