Probably one of the best things to happen to Saint Paul's dining scene in recent history, Saint Dinette continues to delight. Chef Adam Eaton showcases an ever-changing seasonally focused menu along side the decadent, much lauded cheeseburger and fried bologna sandwich. Overall, brunch slays, cocktails impress, and service is stellar.

Meritage rhymes with heritage and has become part of Saint Paul's since opening ten years ago. The chef-driven, award-winning French Brasserie from Russel Klein is where you're going to want to go to for oysters, wine, cocktails, brunch, moules frites, dessert, tartare, seafood...basically all the greatest things in life. Don't miss out on Meritage's annual Oysterfest because it is one of the best events in town.

With Dark Horse's 40 lines of some of the most well thought out tap beer offerings in town, the bar and eatery from the folks behind Muddy Waters is one of the coolest spots in the cities. The food menu features global offerings including favorites like the cubano sandwich, coconut lime rice bowl, and any of their thin crust pizzas. Check out the patio during warmer months and an innovative cocktail list.

A relative new-comer, Handsome Hog is downtown Saint Paul's spot for southern comforts. It's a classy space but doesn't take itself too seriously. Start out with a julip or bourbon slushie at the bar while you watch legs of prosciutto shaved and plated. Then move on to the chicken and waffles, poutine with smokey gravy, or the mac and cheese with flamin' hot cheetoes to fill your belly.

Herbie's is the probably the classiest hockey-themed bar and restaurant in the entire state of hockey and most likely in the whole country. Named for hockey player, coach, and legend Herb Brooks, the gorgeous spot features upscale tavern fare, handcrafted classic cocktails, and special pre-event game day and theatre menus plus weekend brunch.

Don't forget about M Street Cafe located downstairs in the beautiful Saint Paul Hotel. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch and is the perfect spot to bring a bigger group, your picky relatives, or have a power lunch.

Whether or not this is one of the best places to eat in downtown, there's no debate that is the most iconic. The classic diner has been in continuous operation at the same location since 1939 and a place to get diner fare 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Securing it's icon status, it boasts appearances in all three Mighty Ducks movies.