Located in the heart of Dinkytown, Al's is more than just a college dive. It is a staple in the breakfast scene and a right of passage for Minnesotans to dine at.
Yes, there are many restaurants in The Twin Cities that you can enjoy a breakfast. Most have their favorites regardless you need to check out Al’s breakfast in the well know area of Dinkytown, near the University of Minnesota. Al’s is a true “hole in the wall” that serves a wide variety of breakfast dishes that are made in view of your seating. The place is only as wide as a train car (approximately 10 feet). Al’s has been around since 1950 opened by Al Bergstrom. Unfortunately, Al passed away in 2003 at the age of 97. What he created is a unique restaurant that is only open from 6:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. In 2016 it was sold to employee, Alison Kirwan, “Queen of the Weekend”. Also due to popular demand it is now open on weekend nights from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. mostly, but not exclusively for the college crowd.
Al’s is the old-fashioned diner where you sit at the counter. However, be prepared to wait in line, most of the time outside. Although this is one of the draws that makes the experience fun. Also, once you get in, you wait behind everyone that is eating. This may seem unusual but it adds to the experience. Once a seat opens up you are directed to sit at the counter.
Al’s allows you to prepay for future meals. The accounts are paper slips plastered to the wall. This dates back to when Al would allow railroad workers to pay at the end of the month.
When you order from the wait staff they shout out your order for the fry cook with every detail and sometimes for multiple patrons. When you look at the decor you wonder how is passes the city inspection, but again no worries since it does. It reminds me of a time that is frozen in the 50’s and 60’s when the likes of Bob Dylan dined at Al’s.
Now for the food. I would rate this as the best breakfast experience in the Twin Cities, which includes the food. Surprisingly Al’s boasts a very large menu. (Be prepared to be handed a grease stained menu.) As far as breakfast goes, you name it, they have it. Start with the freshly ground bottomless cup of coffee served in an old-fashioned porcelain cup with a handle. They offer specials, a Spring Special, a Summer Special and Winter Special. All three are served year-round. If you don’t see a menu item that is a combination, you can always order al a carte and create your own combination. Something else you find here is the addition of salami that can be added, if you like, which is not commonly found at most breakfast joints. The “Flap Jacks” are large and delicious so unless you order these as your main entree, I would suggest splitting one. If you like bacon, try the bacon waffles. On weekend evenings they serve the Al-urrito and it is an egg-based breakfast that you simultaneously & walk and eat. Most meals are under $10.00.
So overall, if you want the best breakfast in town, along with a great old-fashioned experience, Al’s can’t be beat. So, head over to Dinkytown, be prepared to wait in line, hover over others eating and enjoy the great food. That is what draws so many people to Al’s.
Al’s hours are 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every day and 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekends
Al’s is located at 413 14th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 in Dinkytown at the University of Minnesota.
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