Nelson Cheese & Deli

This low-key gem on University Ave serves irresistible Vietnamese banh mi and buttery, flaky croissants that keep locals coming back for more.

Posh modern lodging offering a high-end restaurant, a hip bar & a cafe, plus a gym & river views. Overlooking the Mississippi River, this modern luxury hotel is a 9-minute walk from the Science Museum of Minnesota and a mile from the Cathedral of Saint Paul. The chic, contemporary rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and desks, plus minifridges, Keurig coffeemakers and city views. Upgraded rooms add river views and iPod docks. Suites include living areas with pull-out sofas, as well as wet bars or whirlpool tubs. Room service is available. There's an upscale restaurant, a trendy bar and a cafe. Breakfast is offered for a surcharge. Other perks include a gym, a 24-hour business center and meeting space. Parking is available (fee).

Classic Vietnamese soups, sandwiches, platters & bubble tea, dished up in modest digs or to-go.

Discover a charming gourmet grocery on Grand Avenue, brimming with artisan foods, gorgeous truffles, and local treasures that beckon every foodie.

Handmade empanadas & other traditional Mexican bites are prepared at this understated establishment.

This charming counter-serve cafe in St. Paul offers a tempting mix of breakfast and dinner options, with standout pies and flaky biscuits that draw a loyal crowd.

Highland Grill serves up classic comfort food and inventive cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that keeps diners coming back.

Informal Chinese standby serving classic Cantonese dishes plus family dinner specials & a buffet.

Restored towboat on the Mississippi River housing a quirky B&B with cozy suites & free breakfast. Housed in a restored 1946 towboat, this quirky, floating bed-and-breakfast is moored on the Mississippi River, 1.5 miles from downtown St. Paul. The 4 cozy suites are individually decorated with leather armchairs, oriental rugs and nautical antiques. All have private bathrooms, fireplaces and air-conditioning. Amenities include free hot breakfast, a sitting area, and a panoramic rooftop deck.