Let’s be honest: Dining out has gotten… spicy. And not always in a good way. But there’s still magic to be found on a menu—whether you’re planning a dreamy date night, grabbing a cheap weekday lunch, or feeding a table full of hungry humans. From $8 iconic burgers and pasta-for-two specials to family platters that actually feed four (and then some), these Twin Cities spots deliver big flavor without the big bill. Because good food should taste good and feel like a win.
This list is just a taste of the Twin Cities’ best dining deals—far from exhaustive! If you have a go-to spot that deserves a shoutout, we’d love to hear from you. Send your favorites to Editor-in-Chief Alesha Taylor at ataylor@greenspring.com for a chance to be featured in future issues.
Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
Date-Night Deals
Aster Cafe
Tucked along a storybook stretch of cobblestone in Minneapolis, Aster Cafe is equal parts romance and river views. With a dreamy patio, cozy candlelit dining room, and live music many nights, it’s the perfect setting for a date—and most mains start at under $20.
Broders’ Pasta Bar
For a cozy, carb-filled date night in southwest Minneapolis, Broders’ Pasta Bar offers a can’t-miss “After 8” special. From Sunday to Thursday between 8-9 p.m., couples can enjoy cicchetti, two salads, two classic pastas, and a carafe of wine—all for $62.
Bryant Lake Bowl
Bryant Lake Bowl’s beloved Monday night special delivers big romance on a small budget—$38 gets you two entrees, drinks (beer or a bottle of wine), and a round of bowling on vintage lanes. Retro charm, great food, and fun vibes make this one of the best date-night deals in town.
Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge
Lord Fletcher’s on Lake Minnetonka serves up cozy vibes and serious value with a three-course dinner for two (think lobster tail, walleye, and decadent desserts) every Monday for $69.95. Since 1968, this lakeside favorite has been a go-to for great food, lake views, and relaxed neighborhood charm.
Courtesy of Dino's Gyros
Lunch Under $15
5-8 Club
What started as a 1928 speakeasy is now a Minnesota burger legend, serving up molten cheese–stuffed patties on fresh bakery buns. On Mondays, score its classic American Cheese Juicy Lucy for just $8—a cheesy steal. Locations in Champlin, Maplewood, Minneapolis, and West St. Paul.
Bánh Appetit
This Dinkytown gem serves up a massive bánh mì combo—sandwich, crispy fries, and a drink—for just $10.49 plus tax. With bold Southeast Asian flavors, vegetarian options, and speedy service, it’s a lunch deal worth braving the parking for.
Cedar Inn Bar & Grill
A low-key neighborhood favorite in Minneapolis, Cedar Inn is all about big flavor and small prices. From Sunday to Thursday, you’ll find daily comfort food deals—all under $15—including wings, a prime rib sandwich with fries and au jus, homemade meatloaf, spaghetti, and classic hot beef commercials. Beer specials rotate daily, too.
Lions Tap
A no-frills Eden Prairie staple, Lions Tap is all about the burger—fresh, juicy, and made daily with its signature seasoning. Served on disposable dishware with a side of nostalgia, the cheeseburgers ($6.35 for a single) here are simple and satisfying, with plenty of napkins to catch the drip. Pair one with a pile of fries ($3.15) and a tap-poured 1919 Root Beer ($3) for the full experience.
Courtesy of Lions Tap
More Bang for Your Buck
1881 Eating House
At St. Paul’s 1881 Eating House inside Union Depot, you can feed a crowd with the towering weekend-only Glizzy Tower—eight hot dogs, a heap of fries, and a full lineup of signature sauces for just $55. It’s a flavorful, shareable steal that turns pre-gaming into a full-on feast.
Dino’s Gyros
Dino’s makes it easy to feed the whole crew with its family-size Feed 4 Special: a pound of protein, four flatbreads, fresh veggies, cucumber sauce, and four small salads—all for $49.99. A tasty, budget-friendly way to bring the Mediterranean to your table. Locations in Coon Rapids, Edina, Falcon Heights, and Woodbury.
Wally’s Famous Roast Beef
This Bloomington favorite serves slow-roasted USDA Choice beef on a toasted Kaiser bun. Grab roast beef by the pound ($12.95), turkey or ham ($10.99), and classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or beans ($7.50/lb).
Photo by Ethan Sorenson
