Brunson's Pub
Gastropub · Payne-Phalen
956 Payne Ave, St Paul, MN 55130
Highlights
Creative gastropub fare, full bar, happy hours & patio seating
Creative gastropub fare, full bar, happy hours & patio seating
"Brunson’s is a stellar neighborhood bar in St. Paul’s Payne-Phalen neighborhood. Named for Benjamin Brunson, a land surveyor who built what’s believed to be the oldest standing brick house in St. Paul near Payne Avenue, the pub is owned by Thomas and Molly LaFleche, who met working in the local industry. Chef Torrance Beavers adapts the menus seasonally, but it’s a great stop for quality bar food — think chicken wings, wedge salads, hefty braised beef sandwiches, and burgers (The No Payne No Gain burger, stacked with pulled bacon, blue cheese, and blackberry Vidalia jam, is a solid bet). Brunson’s patio is a hidden gem in the warmer months, too. Online ordering is available." - Justine Jones
"This Payne Avenue favorite has fish and chips on its menu year-round. You’ll get Summit beer-battered fried cod served with lemon and tartar sauce and a side of fries or coleslaw. Order online for takeout, which is offered in compostable packaging." - Cinnamon Janzer
"Brunson’s keeps it casual with a brunch menu of brioche French toast, pulled bacon Benedicts on toasted English muffins (or make it veggie), and smoked ham breakfast sandwiches smeared with strawberry preserve aioli, plus Bloodys and mimosas. This St. Paul spot is especially kid-friendly, offering kids’ plates for half the price of full entrees — in the summer, the leafy patio is lovely for catching the morning breeze." - Justine Jones
"This quintessential neighborhood pub serves made-from-scratch bar food done right. The happy hour menu is extensive, with a cheeseburger and chips clocking in at $9 — which, of course, pair well with a $3 Hamm’s. Wednesdays are peak sipping for wine and whiskey lovers: House wines and pours of Jim Beam are just $5." - Alex Lodner
"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
