"The hours slip away with ease inside Brunson’s, a comfy gastropub on the East Side of St. Paul. Located in the former Schwietz’s Saloon space, Brunson’s honors St. Paul history with its name — Benjamin Brunson assisted in surveying the first plat map of the city — and framed historic photos of the neighborhood. The menu offers trustworthy takes on typical bar food such as wings, burgers, and cheese curds. Plus, longtime head chef Torrance Beavers showcases his Mississippi roots with the Hoppin’ John salad — a jumble of black-eyed peas, collard greens, rice, fresh tomatoes, and other veggies, served warm." - Cecilia Johnson