Reviews of Ideal Diner. (Restaurant) in Minneapolis (Minnesota).

Ideal Diner

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383 Comments

Restaurant

Diner

1314 NE Central Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55413, United States

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Information of Ideal Diner, Restaurant in Minneapolis (Minnesota)

Discover the opening times, the location, contact, popular times, photos and real reviews by internet users.

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Reviews of Ideal Diner

James Mattson

Cute old school diner with about 15 stools and a couple chairs against the back wall but enough for my baby to be in the stroller sideways. Love ma & pa's breakfast joints like this but also serve burger and sandwiches with all the sides in-between. Staff is extremely efficient and always keep coffee hot & fresh in your cup. Even if your not in the area it's worth going out of your way to fill up at this northeast staple. I suggest my recent favorite the Chorizo Benedict if you're in the mood for breakfast

M R

Drive by this spot often and have been wanting to check it out since the sign read "homemade corned beef" NO LIE didn't disappoint!! I also got a Ruben and a slice of their lemon pie for lunch later..yumm (the chips were a bit stale but who cares). New breakfast spot and I couldn't believe their prices! I'm used to paying close to $20 for one meal my tab was $22.90 for all the food I got! Blew my mind!

Aiya

Nordeast omelet yummy with good hash browns, steak and eggs really good, cooked perfectly! Steak was huge! Small space when filled to capacity. Friendly staff and great cook! Thanks Ideal Diner 😃

Mary Secor

I had the veggie Bennie with hollandaise on the side. Super delish!!! Mushrooms finished onions and move with poached eggs on English muffin. Friendly service great coffee. My pals French toast was delightful as well.

phil humphrey

Great little old school diner. Food and atmosphere were spot on. Be prepared to wait about a half an hour for your food because they are super busy, worth it though.

Phillip Sterner

Very excellent friendly efficient service that makes you feel at home on the first visit. There is a team of 4 to serve you. Food is excellent and served with a smile. Lemon meringue pie, pancakes, eggs, daily specials are all good. It’s something to try for all. Great independent business to support.

Tierney Winter

Breakfast was spot on! Although there is no seating indoors right now, they have a cute little back patio to have breakfast. The woman who answered the phone and handled us at the window was super sweet! The breakfast was just like any dependable breakfast place. No surprises, straight to the point.

Gina Esterbrooks

This is the only and the best place to eat breakfast if you're staying in northeast or live in Northeast! My boyfriend had the corned beef hash which was the best he's had in his entire life! We loved here! Please support local and visit the ideal Diner!

Sigmund VanDamme

Good quality food in an old school diner. All seating is at the bar and the staff is efficient and friendly. Had the steak and eggs and an omelet and both were delicious.

Gary Carver

Absolutely delicious and delightful ambiance. Had the breakfast buddy sandwich and gobbled it all up. The French toast was delicious too. Can’t wait to come back for more!

Jill Barrette

A classic single bench counter diner with quality no nonsense flat top grilled meals. All of the food options are exactly what you could want or expect, and the variety of dishes is plentiful. There is no bathroom here so plan ahead, and not really the place to go with a group of people due to the limited seating, but wonderful for grabbing a plate on your way. It’s great to have an opportunity to support a local restaurant that has been around for so long, and I would happily recommend it to anyone who has or hasn’t been before.

Jenelle “Jaye”

Great family owned Diner! Was my 1st time at this diner and I lived in this area most my life. The food was delicious I had breakfast! Service was great. It's small but it don't even matter your in and out without feeling rushed!

Harold Forte

A Twin Cities Hidden Little Gems! The Pancakes Were Awesome!! Thank you 😋

Michael Hutchcraft

I stayed in Minneapolis recently for work and walked in to this diner on a Monday morning and ended up eating breakfast there every day that week. Every meal I ordered was amazing, omelet, French toast, biscuits and gravy and pancakes with sides of eggs and coffee. The eggs were cooked to perfection and my coffee cup was always filled. Highly, highly recommend the Ideal Diner!

Rose Lol

Amazing atmosphere. The whole restaurant is set up like a classic hole in the wall diner where you get to watch the chef elaborately dance their way across the stove, guaranteeing that everyone is satisfied. The place does fill up quick however so be sure to avoid rush hour.

Matt Gregg

It doesn’t get better than this for breakfast in the twin cities. Literally. It’s small but so friendly, hot amazing diner food for great prices. I almost don’t want to post a review and have more people find this place. It’s better left as is.

Andrea Hannem

Yum! We are always after a good diner, with 12 bar stools and 8 window seats this place is great! Priced well and very friendly and attentive staff. Ordered the breakfast burrito and the corn beef hash both of which came up quick and we’re delish! Not too big, just the right serving size we left full and has to take our blueberry pie to go. Cannot wait to devour that too.

Zachary Ryan Toms

One of the best breakfast establishments around! Thank You Ideal Diner, see you again soon!! ❤️✊🏾

Jon Vasko Carlson

🔥This little diner is BIG deal!Every meal is delicious and very satisfying! Tried the pancakes and they don't disappoint! Then you fall in love even more because of the prices! This place is amazing! …

Heather K

This place is exactly what you would expect. A hole-in-the-wall diner serving hole-in-the-wall food. The food is great and affordable. We have only ever had breakfast, but have been wanting to come for lunch. The omelets are delish, good ol diner coffee. Service is spectacular and quick. Small space with few seats, but boy, do these guys get it done. You've gotta check this place out. It's super ideal.

Nicole Chai Britson

Dined in for the first time and loved it! Very organized and efficient system they have for orders, seating, and cooking. Small space with a counter across from the cook and overflow seating along the windows. They were packed literally out the door when we got there. Our orders were taken and we were handed our coffee while we waited for a seat. Menu is basic diner fare, definitely no gluten free or such items, small grill makes for easy cross-contamination so not the place for avoiding food allergies to bread meat and eggs. With the cramped space also not a good space for those with physical disabilities. Once seated our food was ready within a few minutes and we got water and coffee refill. Both our meals and coffee were standard diner fare which is what we went for. Creamer available with my coffee which was nice. I had 2 French toast, 2 eggs scrambled and wheat toast. Husband had bacon, hash browns, 2 eggs over easy and rye toast. They had sriracha and a couple hot sauces available as well. Good, hearty food. Lots of laughs between staff and regulars and between the staff as they worked - happy place. Very friendly and efficient staff - despite being regulars we didn’t feel out of place. Good prices too. For our meals, coffee and tip we got out for $30. Pro tip there is a small parking area to the left of the building. Aside from that street parking.

Diana “Electric” Current

The Menu brought me back to old school soda fountain foods, Biscuits N Gravy. Bomb number #12, I can almost guarantee you will come back after eating ANY OF THEIR NUMBER #1DISHES. It was better than Moms, Sorry Mom.

Valerie Kinley

Great hole in the wall diner. Not many seating options but that’s the charm. Great prices for some normal diner food in Minneapolis. 10/10 would recommend!!

Daniel Pino

Est. 1949 Layout/atmosphere *Neon sign out front; 14 stools (similar to Al’s Breakfast); parking in side lot Service *Good Food *Polish Man (two eggs, Kielbasa, hash browns & toast) - Good *Buttermilk Pancakes - Good; thin; irregular shape

Japanda Joy

Best restaurant in the Twin Cities hands down. If I could rate it 10 stars I would. Don’t miss it or you will regret it. Honestly should be Michelin rated

Dylan Vogel

I wish I could give them 6 stars! Absolutely amazing food. Had their Reuben yesterday and the One Eyed Jack fried egg burger today. If you want classic amazing diner flavor, look no further!

Suzanne Durkacs

My son and stopped by for all-day breakfast at noon on Friday and the place was packed! We sat at the counter-lined window waiting for seats at the counter. We were immediately greeted by the woman behind the counter who handed us a menu and asked if we wanted coffee. I said yes to coffee and sat down. The coffee was good! She took our order—2 working man breakfasts. That’s 2 eggs (over medium), hash browns, and sausage or bacon, with wheat toast. It took about 15 minutes for 2 stools to open up at the counter. Our tasty order was delivered soon after we sat down. It’s a very small place. You can watch the cook making your eggs and hash browns as you sit at the counter. Highly entertaining! The pie looked good but we were too full of the working man breakfast to order any. Maybe next time.

Shauna Valdez

Delicious! The waitress kept my coffee cup full, and the food was yummy. We loved watching the cook prepare our food. The Ideal Diner feels like a throwback to a simpler era, and I love it.

Karen Sachs

We loved the veggie omlet and veggie Benedict. Chili was homemade. It was a little too hot inside (lol). Great little diner.

Jane Rasmussen

Good spot for breakfast, today the wait was longer then usual and found an egg shell in my breakfast buddy.. service used to be super fast before Covid... Now the wait is long and you have to wait in the cold won't be so bad once it's warm. I live a ways away from here and it was worth the drive the last few times I came...

Jon Mcdonald

Great food with even better service! Small location so you might have to wait for seating but they are quick!

antonio backman

The perfect place in Northeast if you are an early riser or are having a bout of insomnia to have breakfast. The perfect time to go is between 6am-7am because you can get your food pretty quick. My go to is the Polish Man (hash browns, eggs, rye toast and a Polish sausage). A great diner.

Timothy Graham

Great, authentic diner in Northeast Minneapolis. Friendly service and unmatched atmosphere. You can watch your food being made while you wait. Prices are extremely fair for Minneapolis. The food isn't fancy, but it is excellent.

Dave Mariani

Was a little cautious about going in at first but the food was top notch and so is the service. The place only has countertop seating, with the grill and cook right in front of you. I had a Ruben which I hate to say was better than Cecils in st Paul. The prices were great also. Breakfast is served all day, and I will be going back to give it a try.

Arielle Salse

Such speedy, nice service despite the tiny space. Delicious French toast!

Mike P

Fantastic place to have breakfast! A little gem of a place. When you enter you are welcomed, and it's obvious a lot of locals frequent it too. Five stars all the way. Oh, corned beef hash and pancakes, delicious.

Cale Anderson

Great corn beef hash HAND MADE not from a can. Eggs have always been perfect, hash browns too.

Andrew McPartland

Best corned beef hash I’ve ever had. Classic diner setting—great to watch the cook work the griddle like a seasoned vet.

Tim Kelly

Always a fantastic experience here. The food is amazing, and the place is truly one of a kind. You won't find a better diner.

Matthew Erickson

Fantastic old school diner serving up classics fine right, all day breakfast and hear people watching. . Read more at FancyDinner.club and follow us on Instagram @fancydinnerclub

Simeon Wester

Back to the basics dinner experience. Be prepared to do the diner shuffle when places open up. Awesome atmosphere, even better food.

Zeeshan Shah

Truly an ideal experience. Will go back as often as possible! Food was delicious, coffee was ripping hot, and service was incredibly friendly.

Kenny Painter

Good food fast service. Couldn't really pick up the vibe of the waitress. One moment she seemed off put to be there the next kind.

John PK

Awesome no frills diner. The country fried steak was excellent, hash browns were on point and the prices are ridiculously cheap for the portion sizes. My only criticism would be that if you're on the taller side like myself, the bar stools are a little uncomfortable on the legs as they're fixed to the floor and a little close to the bar.

Jonathan Lopez

First time here even though I've lived in the area for a decade. Ordered the Breakfast Burrito, which is absolutely fantastic. I apologize for the lacking presence of a photo for this delightfully tasty morsel. Would consider a carnitas option as well as a sauce perhaps a green chili or a guacamole salsa. Will definitely be going back.

kore brent

The best in our twin cities.... Pull up n understand why there's a line.... Five stars n they deserve it... It's minnesota on a plate....

Ryan Beatt

We stopped in this morning for breakfast, and the food was really good. I ordered the country fried steak and eggs and it was delicious. My brother got the steak and eggs. Steak was perfect and hasgbrowns were also really good. Prices are really low and the service is really friendly. I'll definitely be back for a burger next time.

Nick Cardarelle

Amazing experience! The dinner is adorable, employees are friendly, and the food is AMAZING! Highly recommend!

S Chang

; Very tiny, but very good. Good size menu. Fast paced cook. Friendly service. Limited seating, but moves pretty quick. I don't recommend coming in large groups, as you may not be able to find seats for the whole party.

Logan Rempert

Super cute diner. Was incredibly busy and waited about 15 minutes for a seat. I surprisingly ate all my food, had two super strong cups of coffee, and I was ready to start my day. I most definitely will be back. Cheap eats, nice people, 15/10 stars

Brian Christian

Amazing food! Everything was delicious and perfect. Great experience all around

Mitch Diehl

Ideal diner is… well - ideal. It is a cute little diner with a flattop grill, 1 counter and 14 stools. The food is amazing and comes at a very, very reasonable price point. The entire staff is friendly, efficient, and idea. Chris runs the flat top with the skill of a surgeon. Marie is always quick to refill coffee and does so with sweet, playful banter. The only down side, if you can even call it that, is that it’ll take a while to get your order. Personally, I love talking with the staff and watching Chris work his magic so I am not bothered by the wait

Clayton Barton

Wonderful meal with a better atmosphere.

Gary wojtowicz

Always great food. Well worth the wait. Limited seating. They do a phenomenal job getting it up. The open grill and shirt order cook incredible to watch. Rita is so nice.

Jason Johnson

Too bad it had been over 10 years since my last trip to the Ideal. The atmosphere hadn't changed, and neither did the great food. Classic American Diner.

Sarah Schuchardt

Best country fried steak! And such delightful service to boot!

Mark Lucas

Fantastic spot, best pancakes I have ever had. Very reasonable prices, very friendly service. This place is excellent.

Michael Link

I live in the neighborhood and on a nice day it’s fun to walk down here for some lunch. Or on days you don’t leave the after party until early morning this a good spot to fuel up before heading to bed. If you’re vigilant look around the entrance for one of those small gnome doors. As for the food, it’s what you’d expect from a diner. The interior has always exceeded my expectations for cleanliness from an establishment of this type. It’s just one of those places where regular people feel special and special people feel regular.

Joseph Haake

Best diner in Minneapolis. Super cool staff, amazing prices. Great burgers, breakfast, atmosphere - everything is good!

Larry Davidson

This is true Americana . Good food and service by hard working people. Go there and appreciate!

Brian Tuminelly

Old school feel, friendly, good food if this is what you are looking for this is the right place. I had the corned beef hash and it was very good large chunks of corned beef were delishious. I would stop again

Kassidy Stremler

If I could leave more than five stars I would! We came up for spring break, and thought this place looked cute and tried it out. If we make it back up here from Iowa we will be coming back! The staff was so so nice and the food was amazing! It has such a cute home style vibe! Amazing amazing place!

stuart shardsly

Never once have i been even slightly disappointed with this place. Everything here is excellent, including the prices. I usually get the ruben with hashbrowns. Possibly the best pancakes in the metro ares.

Malcolm Brown

Great food and a great price and lovely people running the place. Ideal is one of a kind!

Todd Shea

Great, local, retro diner with great customer service! Yes, try it. If there is a wait, stay.

Jim Gustafson

Classic dinner. Good food and it's fun watching the cook do his magic right in front of you.

Sean Gage

This place a local gem. Awesome staff, nice people and some of the best breakfast food I've ever had. Highly recommend the Nordeast Omelette...and this place in general. Check it out.

Ben Ernst

Great family owned and operated diner! They just don’t make them like they use to! You can’t go wrong with the Polish Breakfast!

Anthony Passmore

The staff are super friendly. The pancakes were phenomenal.

S Lee

It was worth the wait. Eggs Benedict with a delicious hollandaise sauce. Muy bueno.

Mellen

small, interesting walk up and order window. great food. nice outdoor seating.

Tom Whelan

Did a job across the alley from this little diner. Smelled so good all morning we had to try it for lunch. Excellent burgers! Can't wait to work in this neighborhood again !

Sarah Call Dodge

AMAZING diner! The food is incredible, the vibe is wonderful, and everybody is so kind and chill!

Ryan George

Awesome little mom n' pop joint in NE. Friendly service, classic meals, and affordable pricing. I'll be back

Andrea Bergemann-Phillips

Omg There's actually No Words that caneven remotely describe this establishment. Let's just say if you don't check it out you missing out BIG TIME.

Colin

Tiny dinner with amazing food and nice staff. Highly recommended for breakfast!

Jenn Massey

Great little breakfast spot. Cozy small and fast service

Linnae Nelson-Seys

The most scrumptious, satisfying pancakes I have ever had. Run, don't walk, to Ideal Diner!

Ray Wroblewski

My wife and I ate lunch (patty melt and club sandwich)at Ideal recently. Everything was delicious. I had one pancake because of all the great reviews. I want go back and eat 8 or 10 of these pancakes.

brooke moreno

This is a hidden gem in Minneapolis. The fish burger is probably the best tasting breading I have ever had. Their portions and price are unbeatable. I am glad I pulled over and decided to try. They are only open from 6am-4pm is what it looks like. They serve homemade omelets and chorizo is served as well. I know what’s good. Classy little diner with classy people.

Pad Dog

My wife and I found Ideal Diner listed as one of the top breakfast restaurants in the twin cities by Eater.com and we were pleasantly surprised by how friendly and cozy this ended up being! There is a sign inside that says something along the lines of "Where Regular will be treated like Regulars and Special Guests will be treated like Regulars" and that couldn't be further from the truth. This place is easiest the smallest breakfast joint we've been too and we are glad we went early since the place looks like it could only seat 10 people at the bar, which is the only seating space. There are no TVs, No distractions, just plain and simple old school diner style breakfast. The food was typical to what you'd expect from a classic breakfast diner, nothing too out of the ordinary but everything was done well and we enjoyed the food while listening to the conversations of what I would assume were more of the regulars. I really liked how friendly everyone was and I will definitely be coming back!

Jorge Riera

One of my favorite Diners and a staple of Nordeast MPLS. Would recommend the steak and eggs for breakfast. The staff is always friendly and make you feel that you are at home

Gregory Bernard, D.C.

Reliable consistent dinner food with good service, outside seating make shift but decent.

David Larsen

Classic diner experience! This place is a landmark you should not miss!

Tom W

Sweet little old-school diner in NE Mpls. Try the homemade corned beef hash. Everything is consistently good. Considering there are only a dozen stools at a lunch counter, the service could be better.

Coach Taylor

Excellent small Diner with the food you would expect. Really good food.

Jeana Behnke

Fantastic breakfast made fresh just a few feet away from where you're sitting. If you didn't know, the place is tiny. It's basically the kitchen and a counter. If you're worried about social distancing, or if you are feeling sick, you should not go. They also had good vegetarian options! Very friendly service!

April Ortler

I love the place,it is fantastic! The place is very cozy, home time cooking!!!!

M W

NICE! I'm a huge fan of diner food and have been meaning to eat here forEVER and got my plans to crashed by the pandemic. But today I ordered takeout from online via Door Dash, and it was great. Steak and eggs, and the steak was tender enough to cut with the plastic knife included, flavorful enough I didn't need steak sauce. I thought hash browns would be included based on what the Door Dash menu said, but that's okay, I'll gladly order an extra side next time I get steak and eggs here, because I'll be back!

Paul Berg

So great, eggs Benedict was awesome. Super friendly service, love the atmosphere

Adam Walker

Great place. Hidden jem many dont know about. The owner Kim is the best.

Emily Usoro

If you are looking for the perfect, dare I say “Ideal”, diner style breakfast….this is it! In my Denver omelette the veggies were still crunchy and my hash browns were perfectly crispy. There was a forgotten item in our order, we called and Kim fixed it right away! She was kind, sweet and happily replaced the item. We will absolutely be back!

Unstoppable red

We drive over 30 minutes each way at least twice a month To enjoy their amazing breakfast and amazing food great service and atmosphere we bring our children and our children's friends here every time that we have the opportunity Lindsay loves this place ×10000

PJ Johnson

A classic staple for breakfast in Minneapolis! A tight fit but worth the wait!

Matthew Schepp

True Minneapolis/Northeast "Nordeast" landmark! Great prices, huge portions, and extremely friendly service! It's a very small place (14 seats), so be prepared to have a small wait to get a spot, but it's worth it! Loved sitting at the counter and being able to watch how quickly they get these meals on and off the grill! If you can’t sit at the counter, they do a great job still servicing the few seats along the windows.

JoAnn Switzer

I have been here once and the food was delicious. Great service and great place to go only open 6am to 2pm. I wish they would stay open til at least 6pm.

Rony Lozada

this was so awesome that i can't explain it, small and cozy. and food so good i really enjoyed my breakfast there

Cori Calhoun

Great burgers, friendly service, and very affordable. THANK YOU!!

Dave Freitag

Ideal diner, good food, great people. Enough said!!! As good as always. Great food, never disappointed! Best Breakfast in town!!! Great 👍

Chiara Caldwell

Best place for an old school diner experience! Food is always amazing and the people who run it are awesome too! Updating this two years later to say, still amazing and the staff is still lovely. I don’t recommend this spot for groups of diners but if it’s just you or a pair then try it out!

Aaron Pace

Good breakfast at a good price. Friendly service 👍 …

Unbothered By you

Amazing make sure you stop by. Great prices and yummy food. It would be a mistake not to go in, but hurry up they close at 2pm.

Shaun Jacobsen

Pretty good place. We stopped at Mr tire for an oil change and went here to kill some time. Food came reasonably fast, and it was good. The toast wasn't the best, but the rest of the food was good. Pricing was pretty fair for the meals- a big meat stuffed omelet with toast was $7. My girlfriend ordered a side of bacon and toast and it came out to be almost as much. Service was really good, my glass of water was never below half full, and within a minute of finishing, our plates had been taken.

Caleb Watson

Love this place! Historic diner that has been around forever. Very small with limited seating. Always have to wait when I go but the staff is fantastic and makes sure you get coffee and a menu while you wait. They move people through pretty quickly so have never had to wait long and honestly it adds to the experience. I feel like I've stepped back in time 40 years when I go here. This is my special breakfast place that I take my 3 year old to. She loves watching them cook the food right in front of her and the staff goes out of their way to make her experience great! Food is fantastic - nothing fancy just good home cooking. The food is reasonably priced and very tasty! I highly recommend it!

kelly sarenpa

Excellent prices excellent homestyle food. Support an old school Northeast Minneapolis family business at it's best. Corn beef hash is to die for, hash browns are so fresh.

Michael Hughes

Absolutely love this place. The only drawback is the limited seating.

Jethro Oelrich

I've lived near this place for four years and have never popped in until my parents came for brunch. I quickly found that I had been missing out! Absolutely loved this place - killer prices combined with great/quick service! The pancakes were amazing! If you love a slightly crisp pancake you will love them! The dude working the grill was a marvel to watch as he sped through the orders! I will definitely be back!

Shannon Lachner

I love the Ideal Diner. Great breakfast and possibly the very best pancakes in town. This place is pretty small but it just adds to it's charm. If you get there and all the seats are taken, don't worry, they will pour you a cup of coffee, take your order and move you into an open spot by the time your food is ready.

Peter Lamm

Very traditional American style diner with all the usual fixings and sassy gravelly voiced waitress. Outside are vintage style neon lights and arrows you should notice it easily. Inside is small and a bit cramped for space, no tables, you belly up to the front counter on a stool or against the front wall. This close, its easy to talk to your waitress above the surrounding conversations. Service is quick friendly and accurate, prices are reasonable and they let you ask for what suits you. Got there around 3pm which is probably off peak hours. But almost full of customers, all locals I guess from the grandparent generation, in for a bite, meet friends, have a nice chat. Food is clean, not greasy, well presented and tasty. Older folks don't like chewy foods -- and that's exactly what I needed after recent visit to the dentist. I'd visit again definitely

William Kuhns

This is the best diner in town. Full stop. It's an old school counter service place with room for maybe 20 people to eat. Hi-Lo is GREAT, but it's a hipster revival of a diner. Ideal is the old fashioned real deal. You're getting coffee out of giant percolators that look like they're original to the place, menu options are inexpensive, and the food is exactly what you'd expect from a greasy spoon. Also, they have the best buttermilk pancakes in town. Seriously. I think they're 90% buttermilk and 10% binding agent of the gods. The staff is great too. They're chatty and treat everyone like a regular, one of whom you'll likely sit next too once you get your spot at the counter. If you want to walk in and eat, get there at an off-time. It's standing room only during peak breakfast hours. That shouldn't deter you though, it's worth experiencing. They've been here a long time and I hope they stick around a lot longer!

Dallas Blake

Best pancakes I've ever had. Also, one of the last diners in the city you can get a full breakfast plus coffee for less then 20 bucks. Will be coming back regularly!

Kim Schultz

I went there hungry, and was not disappointed. It's a great throwback kind of diner very popular with the locals, and was packed when we first walked in (a good sign!). However, the service was very efficient and we received coffee right away while we waited for a spot to open up. They have all your familiar favorites plus a few of their own specialties. Huge, filling pancakes and a coffee cup that never went dry.

Monick Castillo

Best pancakes and great chef 👨‍🍳!

Rhianna Peterson

Adorable micro building! This is breakfast done well. It is consistently quality basic breakfast food, nothing fancy or overly specialized. Price is so so reasonable, cheaper than Perkins and Mickey's. Everything you could possibly want out of a cozy basic breakfast diner.

Laura Erickson

The BEST! Been dining here for years. Food is outstanding. Great neighborhood diner. Your guaranteed to meet someone new and have a conversation.

brant sacker

Cool little place. Food wasn't amazing but it was breakfast food. It didn't knock your socks off but not many breakfast places do. Is it hard to cook breakfast? No. Did they screw it up? Nope. Its not worse than any other breakfast place but its hard to say its better either.

Matthew Burns

Our go to breakfast restaurant, just don't tell anyone!

Michael Antolak

Excellent spot. Classic American diner. There is limited seating, so you may have to be patient during busy hours, but it's well worth the wait. Fantastic breakfast food at reasonable prices. It's certainly one of my favorite spots in the Twin Cities!

Lori Tetzman

Great food! The owner is wonderful and the staff too! They actually sang Happy birthday on the phone to my 83 year old father just last week. We couldn't be happier than to have this business in our community!

Dustin Gray

Great food cheaper then most places in the area

Caleb Shives

Very quaint and cozy small diner. Thankfully I was alone and didn't have to wait for a seat. The food was deliciously greasy, but my hash browns were a bit burnt. The pancakes were amazing! The service was great considering the only two visible workers were a cook and a server.

Justin S

I LOVE this place. I eat there every payday like clockwork. When the pancakes are on point, they're are some of the best I've ever had (home-style cakes). The corned beef hash is the jam!! Just a delicious, no-frills dinery that I highly recommend.

L Jara

Super cute little classic diner. I’ve only been there during the week right after my night audit shift (7am) and it’s never been packed. But I’ve heard it gets really tight later in the morning and on weekends there’s long waits! It’s really small inside but worth it for a no frills, cheap breakfast if you go in early. Service has always been very warm here.

Louanna Alahem

I love this place, we've been here many times prepandemic. Today, we found that the Ideal Diner has done a fantastic job of adapting to the circumstances. Order at the window, eat on the patio or take it to go, it is the same hearty American Breakfast we know and love. Support our local businesses, stop by.

Daniel Contin

Reminds you of a tiny road-side cafe you might find in rural MN. There is usually a wait, but well worth it, and they make up for it by serving you immediately. Their timing is incredible, the food is amazing, and the prices are fantastic. My favorites are the chicken fried steak or biscuits & gravy, but I think you can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Extremely casual. Bring an appetite.

Christian Spraungel

This place rules. Best pancakes I’ve had.

Josh Anderson

What a good fun place! It has such a unique feel to it -- unlike many other places I've been to. It's quite snug and cozy and you might be touching shoulders with the person next to you, but the experience calls for it and adds to the atmosphere. There isn't much seating, so plan ahead if you plan on going with people. Three is definitely the max I'd suggest bringing if you plan on going with others. Good experience all around!

Barbara Vang

I feel like I entered a TV set. The menu is simple, fresh, affordable, and filling. Plenty of free parking in the back. No high chairs for kids, but my toddler loved sitting on the swiveling barstool. Staff were really sweet to her too.

Jake Oswald

I go nearly every Sunday. Fav spot in the whole metro.

Shawn Augustin

This is my ATF diner for breakfast! Kim the owner is awesome and all of the staff is great. The food is simple, very good, and priced reasonably. They have the best pancakes, crisp around the edges and gooey in the middle. The Friday fish fry is always great as well!

Jim Hofer

This kitschy, fun diner in Northeast stays true to its roots. This throwback from the 1940's keeps it relevant for today with its no-apologies lineup of diner classics. The corned beef hash is great with large chunks of corned beef throughout. Pancakes are especially moist and fluffy with a pronounced sweetness that truly makes syrup optional. Looking for eggs Benedict with lox?...not going to find it here--thankfully as such an item would betray the true nature of this classic diner. It's likely you never knew a chili omelette existed, yet here it is--and it's good too! The counter is worn from decades of faithful patrons having shared the same small intimate space through the span of eight decades. It makes you think back to how folks would've been forty or fifty years ago. The atmosphere is filled with friendly chatter and its small space brings out the best as diners accommodate fellow patrons. Stop by you'll be glad you did.

Rebecca Goldsberry (Becky)

This is a very cute little diner. The food is delicious, the service is friendly and fast. Has a hometown feel to it. Be prepared to get to know your dining neighbors, as you might have to reach across people to get your food. Also, there are no bathrooms here, so you have to go next door to use the facilities.

Travis Anderson

I love the atmosphere, I ordered the steak Breakfast, it came with a Steak, 2 eggs made however you like them, hashbrowns, and toast. I love it so much that I come almost everyday after work. I recommend this diner to anyone 4 Breakfast food!!!!!

vincent grear

Hey Kim don't know if you remember me vincent from bitesquad I set u up. Well I tried your steak and eggs with hash browns and toast.... Amazing wonderful and the best I had in a very long time your now my go to place for breakfast 😁 your food is to die for your cooks and other staff members are amazing always upbeat vibe/ attitude when I seen them you yourself have a wonderful upbeat attitude your diner is always in top order. I'll be back for more food soon my friend God bless you and your staff and business

Arman Shoraka

Fantastic corned beef hash! It’s a shame that the indoors was closed, it seemed like one of those old school diners which I love. Would eat there again, hopefully the inside opens again soon

Don Gronlund

Good old fashioned counter service diner. Food is tasty and served hot. Server and cook were very nice and efficient. Place was clean and taken care of.

Daniel Rice

Remains one of my favorite diners of all time, in all my travels. Space is limited, to put it mildly, but the place is very relaxed and very local, which makes it well worth waiting.. its atmosphere is (very roughly) like a tiny little diner in one of the NY boroughs somewhere. Lots of real butter, lots of real love

Steven Arnold

Great food and great service!

Grant Nelson

Always a fun spot to bring people from out of town. Good solid breakfast food!

Matt Lupkes

Great place for great food. A staple.

reed reimer

This is a great "greasy spoon". Tried it for the first time and was lucky to get a seat (literally, I think they have about 15 seats). All the charm of a throwback belly-to-the-bar diner, with great service. And that cook... Awesome. The guy did not sit still, with multiple orders going at one time on his super tiny grill. Great little place as long as it isn't busy.

David Rutz

It’s definitely an experience worth having, and the pancakes are perfect and fluffy. The other food is fairly mediocre.

Anthony Hauck

What a hidden gem! The Nordeast omelet is one of the best omelets I’ve ever had. Biscuits and gravy so good, it will make you think your momma stole their recipe.

Anita Larson

Best breakfast I've had in a long while.

Marie P

Excellent little diner. My husband had the chicken fried steak (frozen, but very good, with a tasty gravy) and I had french toast with eggs and hash browns. The hash browns were nice and crispy and the french toast was perfectly seasoned. Someone in the diner ordered the Eggs Benedict and that looked very good. This was our first visit and we will definitely go back.

Matt Schneider

The Ideal Diner is the kind of place that you instantly feel comfortable. Seating is tight, but cozy. The food is always consistent and I haven't found an item on the menu that hasn't been great. This spot is definitely a favorite.

David Reyes

Every time I visit, I'm blown away by the decent pricing and how good the food is. It is a very small diner, so the best seats are at the bar. You can sit around the back, but that makes ordering and getting your food a little awkward. When I was visiting Minneapolis, to see if I wanted to move here, Ideal Diner was one of the places that sealed the deal!

Cindy Sullivan

Great food! Wonderful staff. One of our favorite places to go. We love Kim and crew.

Adrian Lundeen-Hornung

Tasty home-style breakfasts, great service and a fun vibe in such a small space. As mentioned before, be prepared to wait (standing) for a seat if you don't get there early. I love watching the line cook do his thing. As orders continue to come in, he just keeps plowing through them without missing a beat.

David Folsom

I love this place. Every time I visit Minneapolis I make time to go at least once. The pancakes are the best I have ever had. A couple of things to be aware of: there is no bathroom and there are only 14 seats, all at the counter.

Matt Thompson

Took a while as it was lunch rush but worth every second!

Preston Stone

For a place that has such little room and is so popular, they're crazy efficient at getting you served. Super friendly, and great food too. Given the type of restaurant that it is, there's a feeling that you're rushed to leave, as people stand over you while they're waiting to sit. That said... that's part of the charm of the place, and kinda not worth me grading down a star. 4.75 stars.

Bill

Everyone I have seen cookng here operates with an almost robot precision. Multiple orders are cooked at the same time while adding new ones as they come in. Everything I have ever ordered was cooked to perfection and when eating with a friend our meals are served at the same time. Great quality breakfast dinner, with very reasonable prices.

Addie Byrne

I’m a big diner fan, and this place does breakfast just as it should be. Watching the guy cook our breakfast is like watching Bob Ross paint a happy tree. His little kicks create a mesmerizing dance as he cracks eggs on the flat top. Basically breakfast and a show.

Nico Picococo

Ideal is the best. Don't go. You'll take up a spot at the counter where I plan to sit. Really good, simple, affordable (CHEAP!) food. I've only ever gone for breakfast. Some people walk out when they see people standing. They don't know (please dont tell them). And you get to watch Chris work his magic on the griddle! I still don't know how he does it. I can barely fry a single egg.

Marie Smith

There pancakes are deeeelicious. They have a soft buttery flavor with a bit of a crunch to them. I was so in awe of how they tasted I went back the next day. 👍 …

sarah Ann

There is only three people inside the building and they're all wearing their masks properly. Food is amazing comfort food. Never had a bad dish

tim nomeland

Inexpensive and delicious comfort breakfast. Pancakes delicious and only two bucks for a very large one

Spencer Bobo

How a diner should be. Fast, friendly and delicious!

Gary Morgan

Certainly a decent spot. I think you can judge this book by its cover...it looks like a simple diner and it is a simple diner. Unpretentious and that was just fine with me. Feels like you're going into another time. I liked it. Don't expect gourmet and you'll be fine.

Ryan Lueth

Awesome place, 10 outta 10.. A must visit if in the area..

Marc Micatka

This place is named accurately. No nonsense, just delicious food. So far, they make the best pancakes that I've found in the area, thin and crispy around the edges... Love the food and I love the atmosphere. This is what a diner should be.

RICK LEWIS

Very small but a neighborhoodfavorite! The food is all prepared on a grill in front of you and the food is absolutely delicious! If they were closer to my home I'd probably be there every day. They are best known for their breakfast and lunch. They're not open evenings.

Nate Bissell (Bissell Maple Farm)

A really cool experience. Great food. I dock them one start for not having pure maple syrup for legendary pancakes. (I did see guests with their own maple syrup!)

G Eide

This is the real deal. The three people running the Saturday morning breakfast rush handled it as well as I have ever seen. The waitress with pink hair (sorry I never asked your name) was really fantastic. The team worked well under pressure, I cannot recommend this place enough.

Jennifer Karkoc

This place is delicious, has great home cooked food. The breakfast is always good and staff are friendly and service is quick. They have a small counter and you may have to wait a while to sit

Jonathan Scherkenbach

I went in here with a co worker on a break and wasn't very hungry. The smell of the place alone changed my mind.... Along with the food being cooked right in front of you. Very great owners and very great food. Home cooked goodness. The world needs more places like this. Nothing short of 5 stars

Amanda Peters

Amazing food and atmosphere, the only thing is this last time I went there, they were cutting onions and it stung my eyes so bad because of no ventilation or something. Even the waitress's eyes were watering. I'm assuming this doesn't happen often but boy do my eyes hurt.

Becky Bystrom

Ideal diner is a neat little neighborhood diner.

Sarah Blu

Super cute one counter diner. The food is fresh and delicious with a lad back old time atmosphere.

Jesse Brueshaber

No restrooms but otherwise a great place. I recommend the house made hash.

Mark Moret

Didn't know these old school East Coast style diners still existed here. A colleague recommended it and dang was he right. What a throwback. Good service and a fantastic burger made right in front of you. Check this spot out if you are cruising through Nordeast.

Alistair Tang

The only place left to get a proper diner experience in NE. Best prices in town and friendly staff!

Paul Nath

You need to wait your turn but it's worth the wait. Definitely get the Polish sausage.

Ann Roubik

Great food, great prices. This is not a place you go to if you are on a schedule, or if you don't have the time to have your food made to order and then to sit and eat it. It is small, so plan on waiting if need be. They have specials every day oh, and on Fridays they stay open later and have a fish fry.

Beth Barnes

I came here completely on a whim. I was fully intending to walk another two blocks further to a coffee shop, after I dropped off my vehicle at Mr. Tire just down the street. The diner was small and crowded, but the crowd was totally mellow and seemed quite content to wait for the two busy body's I saw behind the counter. Chris, the cook, had a huge grill covered with hash browns, eggs, pancakes, biscuits and bacon...it was clear this guy knew what he was doing! Confident nothing would be overcooked and keeping up with a hungry but patient crowd. It was Saturday morning, and I just walked into IDEAL'S rush hours. Kim, the waitress behind the bar (owner) took my order, and I hung out on a bar stool basking in the warm sun at a table along the storefront window. As soon as a spot at the bar opened up- Kim beckoned me over. Soon, my food was ready. Coffee- totally reasonable, unremarkable, but not lacking either. It was perfect. Biscuits & Gravy is my go-to food for trying out a new breakfast place. Decent creamy sausage flavor, and biscuits were toasted and suprisingly light. However because its a ritual for me...I asked for tobasco. Could only finish 1/2 of it, got my bill. Dishwasher came out and started to clean up and restock various things. Her name was Marie. She very kindly got me a to go box. All this time I sat by a guy who is in this diner at least 3x a week. He knew everyone's names. He loves this place. I hope I catch up with him in this place again. Can't wait to bring my kids here and try their pancakes....when they are a little less busy maybe.

Maria Heshmat G

Just went for the first time and got the pancakes. Wow. They are cheap, and they taste so good. They’re not fluffy, but I don’t like fluffy pancakes. The flavor is outstanding!

caitlin blanton

So so so good. Worth the wait! Tiny diner with only 14 seats at the counter and NO bathroom, but the food is delicious. They have their own way of seating people and remembering who came in when. Love this place!

Anders Hopkins

No bologna. You get copius amounts of coffee while you wait for your spot at the bar, and you will be waiting. It's worth it. Everyone gets their food literally right from the grill, it's fresh and cooked to breakfast perfection. It's name is true. It is, in every respect, an ideal diner. Stop reading and get to Ideal and order breakfast.

Kathy Maxwell

It is only a few stops at a bar so don't be rude and bring your entourage. I had the biscuits and gravy and it was a plate full of delicious. Will definitely go back.

Nycole Jackson

Great breakfast really awesome staff the server was awesome at her job frfr best breakfast I've had in a long time!!

Carrie Biniek

This very tiny diner is adorable. Its decorated very nostalgically. It was clean. When we got there early afternoon the counter was full but we sat on stools by the window. The waitress took our order. She looked notably miserable and never once smiled the entire visit. We ordered corned beef hash as that's what they're apparently known for. When someone at the counter left, the waitress told us to come to the counter and she gave us water. The couple next to us received their food. The gentleman let her know his fish was still raw. She took the plate and set it back by the cook and he proceeded to yell at her "what am I supposed to do with this" as though it were her fault. Then he put the fish on a different plate and put it in an oven and then threw the rest of the stuff into a trash or something but very aggressively. It was noted that though the place was full, most people weren't talking. It was still quiet in there. When our food was ready, the waitress was helping someone at the other end of the counter. The cook brought our food over and barked "Sunny" and before we could even answer he barked "i dont have destinations!" I pointed at my partner who had ordered the sunny side up eggs. I had ordered my eggs over medium. My eggs were barely cooked. I figured if I said something he would just yell at me again so I just didnt eat them. After watching him blow up at the waitress about nothing at least 2 more times, it was easy to see why she didnt smile. I have no clue if these 2 are employees or owners or what, but for the sheer experience of his attitude, we wont be going back. The hash was alright.... I hope she gets some sunshine in her life because I'm sure she is a nice lady when she is not dealing with the verbal abuse of this man.

Sequana Cigolo

Best breakfast in Minneapolis but use the bathroom before you come because there isn't one. Down south feel with great tasting food like your grandma would cook from scratch.

Jaime Coelho

The cutest little place in Northeast Minneapolis. The food is so tasty and you see it being cooked right in front of you. The price is fair and the owner is just the nicest lady. She says the place is running since 1949 and she is the 4th owner since (she started running it in tge 80's). It hit the spot for me. A must go for visitor (as I was) and for locals :D

Tyrus Jerve

Amazing food for a great price! Owners and workers and super nice. Highly recommend!

shay Mariess 22

Delicious home cooked, food loved it.

Brent Thorstenson

Great food, large portions and all dishes under 10bux, sum way under! A menu that will please whatever your appetite is..It is so enjoyable watching my meal being prepared right before my eyes..Friendly, attentive service...a relaxing atmosphere, you can visit with others, or simply sip your drink, and wait on your home style cooked feast..im a regular here for a reason! Lived in the city for 10years, have tried many places....this is my spot! Try it, you will go back.

Willie B.

Great food! Great service! Best pancakes in Minneapolis that I found so far.

Dominic Postiglione

I'll admit it....I'm addicted to the Cheeseburger and fries at the Ideal Diner! Kevin and crew do a great job serving up good, old-fashioned vittles! The environment is small, inviting and generally encourages nice conversation with other patrons or the staff. I also like the Ideal (get it?) of supporting a local, family owned jointin the neighborhood.

Joshlyn Olsen

Best breakfast sandwich of my life. I didn’t even like breakfast sandwiches before Ideal. They converted me. Gotta keep supporting these guys so we can hang out at the counters together again some day : )

Jared trimbo

If you're into diner food, this little place is great. Currently outside eating only, orders taken at the window

A Mazur

Consistently good breakfast food at a reasonable price, but not particularly comfortable due to its size, especially when people come in groups. The lack of a bathroom can also be problematic. If you can get here when it's not busy, it's worth the trip.

Emily R

LOVE IT. Friendly staff, great prices and great nostalgia make for an excellent time!

Tony Verga

This is my favorite spot in the Twin Cities, their breakfast is unmatched. My quest for the perfect pancake ended at Ideal Diner, and the rest of their menu is nothing short of fantastic. 10/10, will visit forever.

Amanda Prestrud

My boyfriend and I were out for breakfast, and this place was well worth it. Cute little place, we friends staff who like to joke around. The good was amazing and priced really well. We will definitely be going back.

Stephanie Lysette

Great things come in small packages. Food was delicious, but the counter fills quickly. Friendly staff. No bathroom.. Good place to try alone, with a friend, or carry out. Not so much if you're looking to sit with family.

Katie Cote

Truly ideal! Cool folks, efficient and seriously delicious food. A favorite spot for life. If you haven't experienced Ideal Diner yet, make it a priority. You'll be glad ya did.

Dennis Williams

My favorite place to go when I'm in the cities. Best home-cooked breakfast when I was living in the cities! Great atmosphere love the diner feel. And the people were always just great!

da man

If you don't get your breakfast here... You're missing out on the Nordeast experience. This is what N.E. Mpls is all about. Good people, good working man food. Neighbors getting together.

Matt Jordahl

This place is old school and I love it. They serve hearty portions of breakfast foods in a small diner setting. The diner feels super local and the staff is always friendly with the customers.

Debbie Glovatsky (aka GLOGIRLY)

Best pancakes EVER! Love their breakfast ...and their burgers too! Super friendly service and VERY reasonable prices. We're so lucky to have this great place in our neighborhood.

Ronnie QT

Really is a place "where regular people feel special and special people feel regular". Don't expect special treatment, expect fairness, and great food. Always quality. Don't come here if you're high maintenance. They won't cater to your entitlement. Go find someone else to abuse.

Nick Baker

The food is top notch. Tge atmosphere is nostalgic perfection. From the maestro manning the cooktop, to the friendly focused hostess behind the counter.....all tied together by the melodic backdrop of 80s music!!!! A+++++

Cantemaza Ironheart

The brisket hash is the best hash I've ever had! I might say the same for the biscuits and gravy. Classic breakfast that never gets old!

Steven Darnell

Very good breakfast. Served with lots of good conversation with the owner. Highly recommended. Be aware that you may have a bit of a wait when they're busy.

Lawrence Russ

Classic diner with classic quality food.

kevin greve

Very friendly and personable service with home style cooking. Breakfast sandwich was just great and served quickly to accommodate busy morning schedules!

AllSports Rockwall

Easily the best pancakes I have ever eaten! Reasonable prices and even though the place is small, the keep people moving through quickly. Worth the time and money for sure!

Ihunktowan Spierre

Omgashhhhh a taste from heavens breakfast table..awesome menus at a awesome price...small dinner but fast n friendly...hassle free...great service...highly recommended when your in nordeast minneapolis....

Pat Addy

Came to sample the Pork Tenderloin. It was unfortunately unavailable. I really wanted to try it! I enjoyed a hamburger and bacon instead. Small place. Good taste. Pepsi Products.

Emiel Gregor

Great diner food! Old school diner in the heart of NE. Friendly staff every time I go there! Classic.

Min Soo Song

Loved it! Great food, great vibes and definitely a "hole in the wall". One meal was able to fill me up, which is very hard to do for breakfast!

Linds Brunton

Absolutely love this place. The food the staff everything is beyond Ideal. Truly appreciate fantastic establishments like this. Thank you Lindsay

Jason Stephens

Great place! Awesome food! Definitely going back!

Matthew D'Olimpio

This place is like a little paradise in town. Amazing food and service! This is where you want to eat breakfast!

Terry “Qualitea” Dunbar

The hours open are my only issue… not enough 😂😂😂 …

Chris Harrington

Cheap. Basic. Friendly. The place is so small that you could call it claustrophobic, but it works. Cheap! Fed two people lunch plus to slices of pie for $18. Free street and lot parking. I'll be going back!

Sean

One of my favorite breakfast places! Great old fashion diner experience, they have the best pancakes!

Michael Perez

Small benchtop diner, maybe 14 seats total. Hands down best flapjacks I've ever had in my life. Hearty, down home food at a price everybody can afford.

Jered Wilson

This tiny cafe is the definition of "greasy spoon" I have been there a dozen times and always order the breakfast an have never been disappointed. They only have seating for about 10 people so either get there early or expect to wait for a seat!

Donald Lokken (Don)

I love the building. A beautiful indoors deco. I had a Denver omlet and it was delicious!!!

Ecaterina McCollam

"where everyone special feels regular and every regular feels special" - their slogan describes it all. Their breakfast is traditional and very soulful. Seating is a little tight but that is part of the magic!

Ashley Morey

Small little place. But the food was amazing. Staff were super friendly. Kids loved the pancakes. We all had breakfast!

Mike Boe

Great little classic diner. No bathrooms and only counter seating. My timing wasnt lucky so I ended up crowded in the back waiting for a spot to open up. The coffee was weak but the food was spectacular!

Steven Porter

Favorite pancakes in town! All items are homemade and delicious! Give them your business! Open everyday 6-4!

Jonathan Griesy

A great greasy spoon that's been serving the NE area since 1949! The reason is great food and cheap prices. Glad I finally stopped in for a meal. I'll be going back whenever in the area and hungry!

Jim Hauenstein

Wonderful diner with good food and atmosphere.

Diane Afrooz

I have been a fan since 2000. The food is always good, best pancakes, I love the staff, it's the perfect diner. Love you guys!!

Isaac Sanborn

Love this place. Great food, always busy, lots of good people. This is my first pick for breakfast in the cities.

Madison Williams

The food was delicious and it was a really cool experience! I loved sitting up on the stools at the counter, the place just had a comfy feel when you're there!

Kristin Duell

Everything was perfect! They really have a system in place for seating and feeding customers. It's a very small diner but they do big business!!!! Definitely will be returning.

Lars Stenberg

Old school breakfast diner, slightly larger than Al's without the historical artifacts. Perhaps the cleanest of local old school diner's. Not accessible for people in wheelchairs, like all the old diner's.

darcy pocta

The best little diner ever, cheap price for great home cooked food. The staff and owner are amazing. Always feel welcome here

jeff caldwell

I remember when this place wasn't cool. How times change. Same diner food as has been for many years. Never let's me down. I love this place, and staff is always great.

Melissa R

Just stopped in to get a late breakfast before going to the airport to head home. Seemed popular with the locals. Very, very small but the food was pretty good and there was a lot.

Pamela Sullivan

Kim and her staff are exactly what you want to see when you walk in the door! Awesome food with large servings and warm friendly service. Try the "Working Man". You'll be full all day!

Melonni Storm

The best pancakes ever, and great burgers! The staff and the owner Kim are very friendly and fun to talk to.

Jennifer Sutton

Hearty breakfast for a great price! Their pancakes are fantastic.

Savannah Carlson

Awesome spot for a diner style breakfast with counter seating. Cornbeef hash is delicous and DO NOT miss out on the pancakes! Some of the best in mpls.

Greg Doornink

Classic. Classic Diner joint with the homey food you need. You dining by yourself? Perfect. More than 2 people? Eh. Get ready to wait. 14 belly up bar seats only.

Mary Secor

Lovely breakfast. Great coffee. Really friendly local place. All is right with the world when you sit on the bar stools.

Joseph Niewendorp

Exactly what one would expect from a hole in the wall diner. Great American food and service. It's great that it is open again. A few things are the same along with some updates. I will enjoy going here. Hours are 6am - 4pm Saturday thru Thursday. Friday 6am to 8pm.

Sam Stewart

The place has tasty food for a low price. Especially the pancakes! Those are amazing!

Antoine Bryant

I love the little cozy setting and the food was great can't wait to come back again.

The1Transporter / Anthony R.Messerschmidt

This place should be nominated for a Landmark Nordeast location. Still exactly the same as has been since opened. A Nordeast Tradition!

Jason F.

This is a great breakfast location. The food and service is wonderful. I ordered the Ideal omelet, it keeps me coming back.

Alan Armstrong

Best. Pancakes. Ever. Great place for one or two people to go. All seating is at the counter, so do not show up with a group of 6.

frank golebiowski

It was our first visit to Ideal Diner and it wont be are last the nordeast omlet was fabulous the wait was sort the Dinner very clean the waitress was friendly and on the of things the cook was the best to watch your food being cooked in front of you was awesome the cook never missed a beat he was excellent. Thank you

Ashe Peterson

Exceptional 12 seat diner. Even with the limited seating, less than half an hour of wait for Sunday brunch. Great quality food and perfectly poached eggs.

Chris Sangren

the food was great the lady gave us a free meal cuz we brought her new born baby in so sweet the corned beef hash was great one of the better breakfast steak I've had in Minneapolis

Kevin Rinas

Cozy little place with limited seating. Terrific food that was quick and the service is friendly. Burger and fries were great.

Cory Gloe

This place is awesome. Quintessential old school diner with one long counter to sit at. Prices are good and the breakfast is incredible. So yummy.

Javier Barberena

This a hole in the wall breakfast restaurant. The food is good, but be prepare to wait a bit for place to open. You can order your entry before a place open, and don't forget to try the pancakes.

Kyle Wardin

Love this place, I travel from Edina to eat here. It is hard to explain why I love coming here and drinking coffee and having a good breakfast. great place to have a coffee and read the paper.

Eric Korte

Great greasy spoon. Get the breakfast sandwich "breakfast buddy".

lostro one

ITS one of the best breakfast places around .. sadly chirus is messing things up. I hope they survive. I'm across town otherwise I'd be there eating.

Declan Gallen

Its a great little neighborhood spot. Friendly staff with all the usual offerings. You never see the bottom of your coffee mug. Get in early and avoid the rush on weekends.

Kyle Tannehill

Great food, just be prepared to wait about an hour for you food.

Carson A

Fantastic food, friendly staff, good prices, definitely worth a visit.

Justin Boeser

Such yummy food! Perfect for breakfast. Outdoor seating provides opportunities for social distance as well.

Jeff L

The BEST place in town for breakfast. Love this place. Food is awesome and affordable. Staff is great too.

Wazaap Zakkech

When people say it's bigger on the inside than it is on the outside, that is not true for this place, but the cooking makes up for it. There was nothing to make up for to begin with, maybe the waiting time to get a seat inside.

VALERIE HANNAH

I love this diner. It is tiny and has great breakfast and lunch food. Also it is fun to watch the cook handle all the orders.

Bob Zangla-Morris

Cute little diner reminiscent of Mickey's but much cleaner. The Nordeast omelet was fantastic! Very reasonably priced.

Michael Bishop

Great food at an amazing price. Staff is friendly. Sometimes, you can even get a seat in the center where the action is visible on the grill.

Dylan Heise

Cozy little spot with just a bar and stool seating but still very comfy. Great traditional American diner with classic options and amazing service.

Michael Boucher

Can be busy but it's worth the wait. Friendly staff and pretty quick considering the volume of food they put out on an hourly basis. You can't go wrong with anything from Ideal.

Sourabh Pandey

This place is great. Awesome food but best part is the blue collar attitude. Come in, order, pay, and leave! Definitely recommend the pancakes

Lucas Schmidt

I ate here today, it was good. I had the au jus and it was reasonable enough at $6.75 and came with fries. The people were nice and the waitress was smoking hot.

Marie Kuranishi

Some of the best breakfast food I've had in a long time. Tiny, but cute place, friendly service.

dani b

Tiny place so you may have to wait for a seat! Breakfast is delicious and made right in front of you. Very nice staff.

Melanie Blazar

Very small diner. Classic American food. There are only about 10 seats at the counter, but really great food and warm, friendly staff.

Tom Flannigan

Amazing food for reasonable prices. Nice staff and a staple of NE mpls. You haven't been to an ideal diner until you try the ideal diner.

Yolanda Roth

So friendly! Great food at great prices!

Jessica Boettcher

Soooo good. The food was delicious. Friendly service. Cozy, diner atmosphere. The cook is pretty much a magician.

Burke

We love Ideal. Great breakfast/brunch and affordable too! The pancakes are the best.

Brad

Wonderful service and delicious food. The staff was great. A perfect by-gone era venue with amazing comfort food.

Marlon Day

This is a great place for breakfast and other menu items,its small,but well worth the wait,the food is excellent!

Mark Tokheim

Fun sit at counter diner. Everything I have had to eat was great. My favorite is the Northeast omlet. Quick service and good food.

James Shaw

Been to a lot of dinners over the years and there are very few left. The food was perfect as well the Service. There's a reason the are still in business.

Casey Summers

Ideal Diner has great, affordable diner food. If that is what you're looking for and you're OK with close quarters, sitting on a stool at a bar and no bathroom, it is well worth a visit.

Alton Gerold

There will likely always be a wait as this is a legitimate 1 counter, 1 chef establishment, but the prices are right and the food is cooked from scratch right in front of you. Great hole in the wall with a long history!

Lila Diver

Very classic feel. The cooks are wonderful. The food never disappoints. Good old fashioned breakfast !

Joe Dean

This place you will never want to eat at Perkins or hamburgers or a Denny's again food cooked in front of you fantastic staff prices are good and once again the food great phenomenal I'll bring my kids here wife for a date or just Sunday brunch

Garrett Sawyer

Chicken fried steak was one of the best I've ever had. Incredible gravy, I only wish there was more of it.

Gabrielle LaPlante

absolute favorite diner breakfast in the Twin Cities

Rachel Pieske

The atmosphere is great. You can see your food sizzling away as you wait! The biscuits and gravy are delicious.

Neal Lewandowski

Fabulous food. Plan on wait times unless you get lucky. Hashbrown perfection, eggs eggs-actly right. Pancake is flipping yummy. Go get some.

Michael Burke

This is exactly the kind of local place that needs support in these times. Great breakfast, great staff. Get here early!

Eric Severson

I thought everything about this place was great. I could have gotten in Doc Brown's Delorian and gone back 50 years, and I bet I wouldnt be able to tell the difference.This kind of place is what's missing in most areas of the country now days.

J. Alex Armbrust

It was tasty, like a waffle House without waffles

Melissa Riley

Food was so perfect, great atmosphere, and wonderful staff!

Kelvin Phoenix

I love this small flash back restaurant. Not a lot of room but good food and good service. Nice prices. You'll love it.

Adam Conrad

The people here are the best. Northeasters for life. You can't beat Kim's pancakes and don't even bother asking for the recipe.

C. Hartwick

Love this place! While there isn't a lot of seating the food is worth it! The service is fast as well!

Theresa Aagesen

Best omlettes around!!!

Michael Johnson

I really like the ol' 50's vibe it gives, in plus the prices and the quality are great. I recommend anyone to this place for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner!

Tom Smertneck

Chris is an artist painting on plates with his special interpretations of traditional breakfast entrees. Try his Cornedbeef hash, pancakes or and any of the Tex-Mex flair, ala Chorizo.

Mitch Seiffert

Great staff, great breakfast and good prices. Definitely try the pancakes!! I’ll be back...for more pancakes!!

Jamie Wanhala

Long time favorite got the best deal on country fried steak and staff is always friendly with proper mask protocol

Melanie Holmes

Definitely a “hidden gem”. Love the California burger and root beer floats! I will keep coming back to try more!

LinSue Lee

Took breakfast omelet to go. It was perfect, very nice young lady helped me. I will eat here again.

Cyndi Lunning

14 stools, no bathroom, excellent food, fabulous service! I will recommend it time and time again... many others know this little hole-in-the-wall secret cuz it is always busy

Barry Allison

Killer homemade corned beef hash. The guy on the grill was a magician.

Tammy Mann

A special little place with really tasty pancakes!

Daniel Doriott

As a pancake connoisseur I can honestly say these are the best pancakes in town and the best prices. If u like breakfast u missing out on the best if u havent been here!

Willito Gonzales

Love it.

Stephanie Herrmann

In and out in 40 minutes flat. Delicious food at an unbeatable price! Seriously impressed for just a little place.

Mark Kraus

The wait was quick and the food was excellent! Our new go-to for good diner breakfast food.

Abigail Lageson

Wonderful staff, great music, and the food was phenomenal 🔥 …

Jacqueline Fairbanks

Cozy atmosphere, yummy food, quick service, fair prices. Too bad they're only open until 4 pm.

Vincent Coborn

The nicest people behind the counter serving up food the way your parents or grandparents would make it. Prices are great and everything is tasty.

Greg Boeser

Great chorizo benny!!

treet reads

Deee-licious! Everything was made to perfection. This was my first time after hearing so much about the great food at Ideal Diner.

Timothy Chase

Great food, hard working cook and waitress. It took a while as they were waiting for seats to open up.

Daniel Howell

Good food, good prices.

Richard Rauch

Great atmosphere, great food, and an awesome staff. If you drive by this place you are definitely messing up!

Kenneth Bressler

Everything about this place is exactly what one wants a diner to be: cheap, comforting, friendly, and delicious. No complaints here, just satisfaction.

Alf Bartone

Food was delicious My coffee was never empty. Fantastic friendly service. I love this place!

Dawn Hatlen

Food is always great. Servers work their booties off. Only wish they had a bathroom.

Knorr

Adorable, tight space. Authentic diner.

Mariah Jackowell

My family wanted to start trying a different breakfast place every Sunday but we keep ending up at ideal diner because it's simply the best place around.

Eric Kotval

Corn beef hash and French toast are amazing! Great spot for a quick bite to eat.

William Jeno

Love this place. Great food! Seating is very limited, do not go with a large group.

Jaryl Creager

Inexpensive. Good, basic food at counter service. Amazingly friendly staff. Recommended. Will go there again.

Mariaunna Green

The food was really good but one of the employees was listening in on a conversation my mom and I were having and he decided to add his 2 cents

Brant Beck

Delicious food, very welcoming atmosphere. Will definitely be eating here again

Renell Etheridge

First time there. Food was great! Will definitely be back!

Jessica Anderson

So good and very affordable. Little convenient place to get lunch during the day!

Rubie Manly

Courteous,friendly,satisfying in every way....great food FAMILY Orientated!....just A WONDERFUL ATMOSPHERE!!!.....VERY PLEASANT!!!....ONCE AGAIN"GREAT FOOD....

Jason Littlefield

Unbelievable as always. The prices and food are out of this world. Wish I could eat here every day!

Briant Kemp

No place like this one unfortunately. Wouldn’t be a good week if I didn’t stop by!! Great environment and better food.

Sharon V Washington

There food is amazing, hot, delicious they never disappoint!

Jason Bleeker

We go there everytime we're in Minneapolis and never disappointed. My favorite to eat breakfast!!

Doug Hernandez

A short order breakfast bar with a complete lack of flair and limited seating. The food is delicious and I love it.

Thomas Ernste

Great food, nice outdoor eating set-up for pandemic dining. :)

Jackie Becker

Best pancakes in town. That griddle has been seasoned to perfection over the last several decades.

Tabitha Thompson

Cute little diner. They get you in and out. Eggs, sausage and hash browns were descent.

Mike Winchell

Literally the best breakfast place I've been to in Minnesota. It's small and there might be a wait, but totally worth it.

Tyler Smith

Such a classical diner experience. Reminds me a lot of Hoagies in Hopkins. I will return for sure. Thanks!

Bigd.4572 Oak

Country small town, friendly...I miss hometown bemidji..delicious🤟 fine medium rare steak instead higher prices steakhouse city! 😋 …

Benjamin Tucci

I love this simple, American diner. It offers the customer a unique experience and a real throwback to diners I remember growing up.

Deija M

Quick and easy take-outs for me, friendly and very efficient staff. The folks dining in are always very kind as well!

Scott Dentz

Very small hole in the greasy spoon restaurant but the food is the best. Not much for seating so to go is a great idea.

Sam Silverman

1940s feel, small, tasty, and affordable! Love third pancakes and chicken fried steak

Bernard Palomera (Design or Death)

Great food, good prices, although I noticed they are raising the prices. Reminds me of Houston food.

Judy Wing

As advertised. Good breakfast. Counter service only. Place was full while I was there. Quick turnaround.

Aaron Summers

really good food cozy place to sit and relax small but worth it ill be coming back soon for brunch again thanks guys

Rebecca Brown

Great home cooking!! Always packed though, gotta get in when you can

StaceeJean

Just like mom used to make!!! Will be back again and will let Canadians know this is a great place for breakfast.

Edgar Alfonzo

Delicious Pancake and Sausages!!

Cora Noah

Always served with a smile and quickly as they can. So yummy. Every time.

Heather Heh

Low priced good food. The space gets tight and stuffy after a while, as do most diners.

Cory Grinstead

Great food at a great price. Best pancakes of anywhere I have been

Jesus Balderrama

Great food, food took 40min. Pancakes are amazing. Would go back just for the pancakes.

Josh Sayotovich

Perfect little greasy spoon diner. All of the charm of sitting at the grill at Mickey's, but right here in Minneapolis.

John Tourville

Very limited seating, but worth the wait. Food and service was excellent. Pricing was very reasonable.

chad e brasel

The most wonderful pancakes ever wish I could come close to making these at home and always friendly service

Michael Scholl

Love this place. After a night of designated driving, can't go wrong.

WESS ED

Steak and eggs were good good food good price you have to like sit next to somebody that you don't know but I guess that's how we learned to get along

Pacc Mane

My favorite breakfast and lunch spot in the twin city's 🔥🔥 …

W372 PHMP04

This is my place for Sunday breakfast. They are open early, the staff is great and the food is wonderful.

Thomas G

A North East favorite, try their Working Man special. Seating is limited but you will definitely feel welcome while you wait.

Patrick Plank

Good dive food with wonderful staff. Love the warm family feel as soon as you enter

Jeff Uhlarik

Old school Minneapolis diner. Stools at a counter. Prepare for a wait at peak times. Fish sandwich is something to write home about.

Evan

Hard working staff, food was ready fast, cheap, good, breakfast.

Jim Steffel

Fabulous throwback diner. Great corned beef hash. Very limited seating. No bathroom.

Richard Jarvis

Haven't eaten there yet but I plan on it

Nancy Cerkvenik

Great tiny diner, friendly staff. The Indeed root beer is pretty great, too!

Sol Olson

Simple and delicious breakfast. Good service.

Jeremy A

Was a pleasant experience all around. great breakfast food

Kelley Francis

A wee diner with quick, yummy breakfasts and lunch. Efficient waitstaff and you can watch your meal being made.

Danny Ziegler

My competitors and friends. Kim does an amazing job. Love this place

Mikey Krook

Great food, great atmosphere. Even if ya gotta wait it's worth it

Charles Barker

Great breakfast dive. It's a classic you have to hit up sometime.

Hugo Te.

Come for the experience. No elbow room but the food is clean and tasty. Great people too.

Niles King

Delicious food, boxcar style dining and fun to watch them cook right in front of you

Martin Beedle

Absolutley the best breakfast place! Always show up early!!

Alexander Risse

Good diner food, and fast service. Seating is limited, so can be difficult for large groups.

Neal Tovsen

Classic tiny diner. Always clean and friendly. Great breakfast.

Robert Gerhart

Watching the cook work that little grill is like watching a dancer at work. Every move is timed to perfection. It's a thing of art.

James Ecoff

No words could explain. hard working everyday people who understand people anyone says anything different needs their head examined

Chris Steck

Food is cooked fresh to order and cooked perfectly every time best place to get breakfast in mpls

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