Capital View Cafe & Catering

American restaurant · West Side

Capital View Cafe & Catering

American restaurant · West Side

1

637 Smith Ave N, St Paul, MN 55107

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Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null
Capital View Cafe & Catering by null

Highlights

Diner serving American & Mexican breakfast & lunch favorites  

Featured in Eater
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637 Smith Ave N, St Paul, MN 55107 Get directions

capitalviewcafe.com
@capitalviewcafe

$10–20 · Menu

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637 Smith Ave N, St Paul, MN 55107 Get directions

+1 651 290 0218
capitalviewcafe.com
@capitalviewcafe

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 29, 2025

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Where to Eat in St. Paul’s West Side Neighborhood | Eater Twin Cities

"Since 1993, this West Side family has been perfecting the art of diner food. Stop by for breakfast with one of five takes on a classic eggs Benedict or come in for lunch to chow down on a double fisted Baja burrito, filled with chorizo, cheese and fried potatoes."

https://twincities.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-st-pauls-west-side-neighborhood
View Postcard for Capital View Cafe & Catering

Angela Neik

Google
Best food in a 20 mile radius! The chefs must be from Paris, France, because everything they serve is ''Ooh-la-la'' delicious! Come for breakfast, or dinner to enjoy the best meal of your life, and if you're in a hurry, order a take for for lunch. The food you get, you can eat with your eyes first, because it looks so appealing, and then you taste it, and it's heavenly! If you take your fancy grandma for a coffee and cake (oh, do get the chocolate one!), there's a serious possibility that she will put you back in her Will.

Sarahi Garza

Google
Came here for breakfast early Sunday morning before it gets busy. Cute little place and the food was amazing! We had the classic eggs benedict and steak and eggs, but so many options to choose from! The staff were friendly and attentive. Loved how it was a very family oriented atmosphere

Cheryllyne Vaz

Google
I LOVE THIS DARLING CAFE. My Wednesday coffee group decided to do breakfast. The menu is extensive and breakfast is served all day. I ordered corned beef hash with runny eggs and toasted rye. It was absolutely scrumptious. Huge portions. The owner of the restaurant was so kind and welcoming. I asked for whole milk with my coffee and got it. We all had a blast! Please go and support this charming little restaurant.

Sabrina Klooz

Google
I wish I could give this a higher rating. I have brought my dad and daughter here twice. My dad only goes out once a month for brunch, he loves pancakes. We waited a very long time for our food, first seated, last to get our order. I always get steak and eggs. I ask for medium or medium rare each time and each time it is cooked well down. I don't bother to ask for a refire cause we wait so long for our food and I feel like it wouldn't be fair to the kitchen or my family to wait. I'll just find a different place to take my family for brunch, which is such a bummer because I value small businesses so much.

C G

Google
I really enjoyed my breakfast here. Corned beef hash was on point for my taste, great attentive service, reasonable prices and average coffee. I was here mid week so it was not very crowded.

CK WS

Google
This place is AMAZING. My favorite breakfast spot in town. I love their mixture of classic breakfast dishes and Hispanic dishes. The chipotle red pork is my favorite dish as well as the raspberry fritter French toast..SO GOOD. Not only is the food amazing but the staff is so attentive and kind. This is the kind of local business that really embraces their neighborhood and community. They make you feel so welcome. So blessed to have this spot in our neighborhood🖤

Linda M.

Google
Breakfast food is one of my favorites, and I was stoked to get to try this place. Its high reviews have been reflected well. The service was tip notch. We were seated quickly and served water and beverages quickly. The cups were refilled very quickly when needed. Our waitress came as soon as the rest of our group arrived. I ordered the breakfast combo #6, which comes with 2 eggs, hashbrowns, a choice of meat, and a pancake. I also ordered a side of Hollandaise. The best part was the pancake, homemade, and cooked to perfection. I've wanted to learn how to make these kinds of pancakes but have yet to learn the secret. The hashbrowns are a great portion and were so golden and crisp. The bacon was a bit overcooked, but I don't mind crunchy bacon. My friend ordered the south of the border omelet and was content. Another friend ordered the traditional eggs Benedict. She was happy except the underside of the English muffins were burnt. My child ordered off the kid's menu. The waffle was a but overcooked and had burnt marks, and the bacon was a bit charred. So she didn't want to eat much of it. The waffle tasted pretty good. One disclaimer is that the small business only takes cash. Credit and debit cards are not accepted due to the rates. There's an ATM on site. It would have been appreciated if this was stated at any point of our outing, whether upon being seated, when ordering, or when the check was delivered. Not once was it stated. I later saw a sign post on the wall stating this information. I wanted to cover the entire bill, but don't carry that much cash or ATM card. That was an inconvenience, but I'm glad I had enough cash to cover my portion. Also, it would be nice if they could offer credit card services for those willing to pay a service fee as I've seen at other businesses. I would return to this fine establishment and great experience overall. Thanks for a delicious breakfast!!

Elizabeth Bromen

Google
Not the best food I have had at a diner. I had a Monte Christo which was served with strawberry sauce not the traditional cranberries. The sandwich was grilled, hard and not dipped in eggs before it was grilled. Just not what I expected.
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Shannon V.

Yelp
The staff were friendly and available. Stopped by our table frequently. Food was prepared quick and tasted great. There is a good amount of space between tables which is a refreshing change compared to many restaurants. Ambience is much like a small town cafe, laid back and quiet.
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Mayra P.

Yelp
Delicious and great service Flavor mixed but really delicious They have a coffee Apple juice and other juices
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Santina U.

Yelp
This place can be hit or miss. I've had amazing breakfasts and not so great (shell in the scrambled eggs). But the service is always great and they will fix whatever is wrong with the meal. It can be really busy on the weekends so the earlier you get there the better. Especially since there is street parking only.
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Fran G.

Yelp
The omelette was right in point the beat omelette I have eaten!!! I go to a lot of cafe to check out the omelettes and this is by far the best!!!!'
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Fat S.

Yelp
I regret not going to this place sooner. I live in the neighborhood and finally made it in and I will now be a regular. The Cajun breakfast is so good. Cleaned the plate. Nice people, friendly service, a good cup of coffee and a menu full of items will try in the future. Hooray!
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Isabel L.

Yelp
My favorite breakfast/bunch spot in Saint Paul!! The spot is quaint with ample seating, and a very chill/relaxed vibe. It is Mexican American owned, and the menu features both Mexican and American dishes. I have been twice for breakfast, and the Cajun Breakfast was a delicious, hearty breakfast and warmed me from the inside out. But my faaaavorite was the chicken and waffles. It was so good. When I first saw the chicken strips, I was skeptical; but then they were crispy with a warm and tender inside. Loved it. The waffle was soft inside with a nice slight crunch to the outside. The service was relaxed and offered good recommendations when asked. Will be back again for some Mexican lunch! And more breakfast!

Marie K.

Yelp
There really isn't anything better than living in a city but feeling like there are places that are so familiar, it may as well be a small community. We love the CVC and try to go at least twice a month. It's walking distance, has amazing diner coffee and unique diner options (including the standard eggs and such), and we love the family that owns it - and everyone that works there. They're kind, motivated, positive, and just awesome.
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Elizabeth M.

Yelp
Very classic breakfast cafe with big portioned breakfasts at a reasonable price. I ordered The Farmer's and it was delicious! I really liked the small town diner feel for a cafe that's in the city. Nice that they had creamers and coffee cups already at the table too. Service was super friendly. Over all a very solid spot!
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Michele H.

Yelp
I've lived in the area for a few years and have always wanted to try Capital View but just never got up early enough on the weekend to go out for breakfast. So, when I saw them on Door Dash, I thought it was the perfect way to give them a try. We got the traditional eggs Benedict and enchilada lunch. The enchiladas were supposed to be plain cheese but they came with ground beef. Was expecting the traditional red sauce but got the verde sauce instead. The meat was flavored ok but the sauce had no flavor. The beans on the side seemed fresh, as did the rice, but again, lacking flavor/salt. The portion was a good size and the price was reasonable. The eggs Benedict were a no. The Hollandaise tasted like the powdered McCormick packet you add water to and the eggs were completely done, like hard boiled done. The hash browns on the side had no seasoning whatsoever, not even salt. Again, decent portion for a good price. I would like to think this place might be better on a weekend morning when you just want a big, cheap plate of traditional breakfast food. As for me, I think this was a one and done experience.
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Alicia R.

Yelp
My husband and I ate a late breakfast here a week or so ago. I almost left before we were were seated because the carpet stuck to my shoes with each step. The waitress asked for our drink order before we were even fully sat down and seemed out when we asked for more time. My husband's entree was ok but non-memorable. My entree had sausage gravy that was pretty much inedible-very thick and gluey, with very little flavor. I would not recommend this place to anyone.

D J.

Yelp
Outstanding neighborhood cafe. We came for breakfast and left full and happy. We were greeted and seated promptly and that level of attention continued throughout our visit. We got a churro waffle for the table and it is NOT to be missed. Other standout items were the huevos rancheros, machaca with hash browns, and the Cajun breakfast.
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Sandina H.

Yelp
I thought this place was GREAT! My friends and I went after church today. The staff were friendly and attentive, despite the fact that they had just gotten a group of 40 people in just before us. I ordered the rojo pork and it was DELICIOUS! Great flavor, slightly spicy, and a generous portion. In fact, I would have liked it just slightly spicier, but I'm from the south. The refried beans were rich and tasty, too. We will definitely be back!

Carolyn M.

Yelp
Food is tasty with good sized portions. Homemade hot sauce very good. Friendly service reasonable prices. Highly recommend. Enchiladas cheesy -- Mexican beans best in town. Friendly ambiance with no rushing -- sit and talk awhile

Rj W.

Yelp
Just went to Capital View to have lunch. The owner asked the waitress to seat us....However when she was away from the owner she proceeded to say, by the way we close in 15 min. We kind of looked at each other like are you saying we should leave? She just sat there looking at us, instead of saying, we can still serve you, so we said we'll then maybe we don't have enough time to eat and she basically shoved us out the door. She couldn't get us out fast enough. Won't be going back if that's the type of people they employ there! Very disappointed. Used to go there a lot. So sad.
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Amy R.

Yelp
Really good place for breakfast and even better that it cost next to nothing. Took advantage of my complimentary groupon deal. Luckily, it was for this place. Have always wanted to try it anyway. The place is much bigger than I thought it would be. Plenty of tables, booths and little booths scattered through out the restaurant. Also a little country store attached quaint and not in an over priced cheesy cracker barrel way. Food was great. Service was great! I ordered the country benedict with sausage patties and gravy. Nutrition wise probably not the best, but whatever. It was very good. The american fries were really cooked to my liking as well. J ordered the cajun burger which they subbed with a turkey burger. They use the good kaiser buns. He said it was a good burger. Very cute place. Remined me of something we would see in Elgin or Streamwood, IL Would defintely go back for breakfast or lunch.

Alyssa E.

Yelp
Great food! I go to a lot of breakfast places and this is one of the best! Service was amazing as well

Alyssa C.

Yelp
amazing experience! churro waffle 100% recommend! GREAT customer service as well. very clean bathroom!
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Wil G.

Yelp
It's been a long time since I've had Eggs Benedict. These were very good. Loved them. I've lived in the neighborhood for 14 years and I've never been in here. I never go out for breakfast or lunch. All my "Old Guy" friends swear by this place. They come here for breakfast on a regular basis and keep asking me if I've been here yet. Now I can say yes. If you get out for breakfast this is a must stop place.
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Jessica C.

Yelp
I love this place. Even during a limited capacity in a pandemic, they always got me in quick. The decor is charming and I love the Tex mex breakfast thingy.
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Tony W.

Yelp
Went in on Saturday at 10:30am and got seated right away! People were in and out all morning with a good flow! I had a great tasting french toast and hash browns! The environment is very home like and was normal for a corner shop local breakfast place. I will 100% be going back!
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Sue M.

Yelp
Huge ham steak! Enough for 4 people. Delicious food , warm friendly people. Great breakfast spot. Lots of tables in 4 separate rooms so it is cozy and quiet.
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Annie D.

Yelp
Everything on the breakfast menu is big enough to share. With, like, three other people. One of my friends lives in West St. Paul and a group of us ended up here a few weeks ago after a sleepover at her place (following a wonderful night of West Side adventures). She smartly brought us here for breakfast. I had the Cajun breakfast, which was totally unnecessary health-wise, but was good idea according to my hangover. It comes with hashbrowns (which I wanted to be crispier), fried onions, green peppers, mushrooms and over easy eggs with hollandaise. I added chorizo instead of andouille sausage because I like it a bit better. Much like chilaquiles, this is one of the more serious hangover helpers... a pile of food that should probably ONLY be eaten during hangovers. Capital View's version wasn't mind-blowing (I like The Uptowner's better), but it was solid. They also have a full lunch menu and Mexican options too. The staff was so nice there and the coffee flowed freely. It's just a warm, neighborhood place. So even though the food isn't going to win any awards, I just plain liked this cafe a lot.
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Samuel W.

Yelp
Just an initial word of caution; DO NOT sit on the left side of the restaurant in their larger dining area. It's like the Hunger Games over there except everyone looks hungrier. How far left is too left, you ask? If you see a sign that says, "Where is your God now?" and you hear the distinct weeping that comes with someone making the decision to barter their firstborn child for toast crumb remnants, you've gone too far. That being said... I've been here several times now and I've noticed that, above all, this place's biggest downfall is their lack of consistency. You never quite know if you're going to be treated like a paying customer or a temporary annoyance by the staff. I've walked in and waited twenty minutes for someone to half-ass acknowledge me and take my drink order before. The food, too, alternates between delicious and meh (but it would be good to note that I've never eaten anything markedly disgusting here). Their Mexican offerings are pretty solid and good to start out with if you've never been here. The red pork lunch (or anything with red pork) is nicely flavored and tender. My girlfriend really likes their reubens and tuna melts as far as more traditional fare goes. The Cajun Breakfast is nice (get it with chorizo) and the Dublin Benedict isn't too shabby, either. The steak and eggs breakfast? Meh. The cut of steak is the typical cheap, sinewy variety and the price is higher than the quality. I wouldn't recommend coming here if you're in a rush because of the speed inconsistencies but it's an acceptable place to grab breakfast and lunch every now and again.
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Mahva J.

Yelp
This used to be one our regular places for weekend breakfast. We also used to go because of Restaurant.com certificates. They no longer take these, and their food quality has gone wayyyyyyyyyy down. To me, I'd rather get something from a fast food place if this were my only other alternative. In addition to the lacking food quality, the wait staff is highly inconsistent. Once, we were completely ignored after being seated, so we left after 20 minutes. The last two times we went, we had to keep asking for the same things, including portions of our meal, repeatedly. From now on, I'll pass.
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Dave T.

Yelp
It may not look like much from the outside, but this place was busy despite the nearby construction. If you are looking for a place to get a good breakfast and don't mind a place that looks a little worn then I'd recommend stopping in. With the many options of meat and etc you can tailor your meal to your desires. I ordered the 3 dish combo lunch with a beef hard shell taco which was very good and the salsa was thick and tasty! Also ordered the tostada with chicken. I thought the shredded chicken was dry and lacked a flavor, but it was still okay overall. The third item was a red meat enchilada that was good, but not great. The star of the show was the Cajun breakfast my wife ordered. Very tasty with a tad of heat and a lot of hollandaise sauce. I'm glad she shared with me! The portions were large and we brought a good portion home with us. As others have said the staff is friendly and helped describe and recommend foods. I had to chuckle a bit when I ordered a Pepsi with a slice of lemon and it came in a can with a Coca-Cola glass to pour it in. They do offer up to 2 refills (cans) if needed.
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Daniel J.

Yelp
We have been to this place 4 times already. 2 times, our server was MaryBeth and she was absolutely phenomenal. My family loves her. She is kind, attentive, and doesn't forget anything in regards to your order. However, we are giving it 3 stars. Here is the good and the bad. Pros: The food is great. It's always hot and always fresh. I have never had a bad tasting meal here. The food normally comes out very quickly after ordering, especially on e busy days, ie Saturday and Sunday. Cons: There is no consistency in regards to the food. I ordered an omelette 4 times and each time I got a different portion and kind of potato although I ordered the same American fries. One day the omelet is cheesy, the next day it's not. One day I get 4 pieces of toast with my breakfast, the next day I get 1. Still tastes great, but it sucks not knowing how much food I'm going to get. This right here is the biggest drawback. I hate inconsistency. The left half of the restaurant is very noisy. We are forced to raise our voice when putting in our order. Not cool. All the negatives aside, this place does have good food. Just don't expect to get it the same way each time you order it. Check out Groupon before you go because they always have a 10 for 20 going on. If you can, ask for MaryBeth. She rocks.

Sharon B.

Yelp
Service was great. I was not impressed with the food! Eggs looked like plastic and tasteless, potatoes were soaked in rancid grease and the muffin how can you ruin an English muffin ! I couldn't even get through half of my meal. Five hours later still cannot get the nasty taste out of my mouth! Seriously disappointed
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Troy J.

Yelp
You won't find friendlier service. If you're looking for a hearty American-style breakfast with a Mexican flair, Capital View is an excellent destination. They offer an excellent all-day breakfast menu, so I haven't tried anything else. Great eggs and great takes on eggs benedict. I'm generally a fan of biscuits and gravy -- but the ones offered here were a disappointment. The biscuits were small and pasty. The gravy was uncharacteristically bland. Thankfully, there are many other, better breakfast options.
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Josh K.

Yelp
St.Paul Classic not uncommon to see local politicians eating breakfast and rubbing elbows here. Great breakfast and Mexican food so get both, pocket French toast is pretty epic too.
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Scott K.

Yelp
This used to be one of my favorite places for breakfast. Today's experience changed that and I won't be back. Food was greasy, undercooked, missing multiple ingredients, and service was slow.
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Pam P.

Yelp
Good flavor to food but was not impressed with their take on Mexican huevos rancheros it was Minnesota style. The salsa verde on the burrito was like vinegar and the waitress was so indifferent. I own a restaurant and try not to be too picky with local places but was not impressed!
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Tari B.

Yelp
I really enjoy coming to Capital View especially for breakfast. They have large filling portions & the waitresses are always wonderful. I feel at home dining here. Typically I order the everything omelette (minus the ham), hash browns & rye toast. Delicious every single time. Its served super fresh & hot. They bring out one slice of toast & inform me if I want more let them know. I love that idea because I won't waste the bread & more ordered would be nice & freshly toasted. The price is right at this place. The taste is perfect. Today I came later in the day. (They close at 2pm) so I ordered a grilled turkey, bacon & swiss sandwich with homemade potato soup. Excellent choice! I live nearby I should come here more often! I'm actually craving an omelette right about now!
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Steve S.

Yelp
I cannot recommend. terrible service. Mediocre expensive food, don't pay with a credit card or you will be charged extra. I was told by the cashier I should bring cash with me.
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Kayla W.

Yelp
All the tables were dirty so we had to sit right next to the A/C which was very uncomfortable. I ordered the Fajitas which came with no plates and one napkin. The steak was cutc into chunks so i had to cut it myself with a butter knife because they don't give you a steak knife. Everything was good except the rice, tasted old? Also forget trying to get the waitress to help you ever the bus boy checked on us instead and I wish he could get the entire tip because he deserved it. I'll never be back, that's for sure.
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Hannah H.

Yelp
Very good food, very nice staff! Although it was difficult getting servers attention.
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Arah B.

Yelp
Best breakfast around. A greasy-spoon (in a good way: a few with some traditional griddle items on the menu), with a creative & South/Central American twist. The breakfast quesadilla is a lot of food, which is great if I'm really hungry or want half of it later as leftovers.
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Nate S.

Yelp
Visited two times. First time, mediocre-to-bad sandwich. Second time, sat waiting for service for so long I finally got up and left.
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Lisa E.

Yelp
Luke warm corned beef hash straight out the can. No thanks.
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Crystal S.

Yelp
We have given this place many more chances since my last review and have definitely had better experiences. It is great, cozy, neighborhood cafe with good breakfast and large portion sizes. The service isn't anything amazing, but definitely sufficient. This is our go to breakfast place when friends/family are in town or when we just want to walk to breakfast on the weekend. Definitely recommended!
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Brian R.

Yelp
Alyssa R took off of work on Friday, which made this Lunch All-You-Can-Eat Friday Fish Fry possible for us. We packed up Pheona & made our way to the Capital View Cafe. I called ahead, asking what time it is served until and was told 2 PM. We pulled up around 1 and found ample street parking available. They don't have a parking lot. The entrance is in the middle of the place with seating on your left and right. We saw a sign that said to seat yourself, so we choose a booth just to the left of the entrance. Our server came very quickly dropping off menus and welcoming us to the restaurant. I had been here once before, while this was Alyssa's first time here. She dove into the menu narrowing down what she wanted to eat. She was torn between the Cajun Breakfast and the AYCE Fish Fry. When our server came back so we could place our order, Alyssa let her know she was thinking about those two. The server gave a great description of the Fish Fry that influenced Alyssa to go that route. Alyssa also went with a coffee. I did a lemonade. The Fish Fry comes standard with Hand Breaded Haddock, French Fries, and Coleslaw. We took in the place while we waited for our order. It's full of knick knacks on shelves and pictures on the walls. Lots of plants, too. There is plenty of natural light that comes through the windows. They have framed newspaper articles and local folklore highlighted throughout. They had music playing which was mostly classic rock. The place was quite busy. Over half of the tables were filled. Being right by the entrance, I saw a steady stream of people walk in. Some were known by first name. This place is popular. Our wait was just over 10 minutes. My first impression was, "Golly! This plate of food sure looks swell!" Coleslaw was colorful and creamy. Purples and Oranges mixed in. The two pieces of Fish had dill flecks in the breading. Truly looked amazing. A perfect wedge of lemon was included on the plate. The fries were your standard O'rida crinkle cut kind. They house make the tartar sauce, and they give you a huge ramekin of it. We got our fries salted and peppered & our Fish lemoned, and dug in! Great Haddock is cooked here. They hand bread it in a flour mixture with Dill flecks. It fries up perfectly golden tan. Fantastic crust surrounding those full flaky fillets. The Fries were alright. About as good as O'rida Crinkle Cut French Fries can get. It was cute watching Pheona eat 'em. The Coleslaw was a little different. It was highlighted with Green Pepper, but not overwhelming it. It got better with each bite. The house-made Tartar sauce was great. Not too tangy. More of a lemon flavor. Nice and chunky with pickles in it. Our server came back at the perfect time to ask about a reorder. I asked for two, while Alyssa asked for just one. When that arrived, within 5 minutes or so, we got more like 5 pieces. I also asked if everything was AYCE or just the Fish. The server told me that just the Fish is, but if I wanted more Fries or Coleslaw to just ask her and she'd get it. I had to ask for extra tartar, as for that didn't come with the reorder. Lemon did, though. Same great Fish for our reorder. Lots of eye appeal with those flecks of Dill. Steamy, white, flaky Haddock exposes itself when you cut in with your fork. Really great Fish. Our bill came to a total of 24 bucks and change after tax. We paid with our debit card with no issues. The All-You-Can-Eat Friday Lunch Fish Fry costs $9.25. That is an awesome price point. This is a great Fish Fry. If you have off on a Friday afternoon, we think this is a perfect spot to grab some lunch or a late breakfast.
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Griggs N.

Yelp
Read this complete review, I am recommending this establishment with severe reservations. We ate at Capital View again today. First, the food here is typically very good, and the portions on the large side. We actually like going there. The service is friendly, we like the place. REALLY. HOWEVER... The reason I'm writing today and rating only two stars (I almost went to one star, and I'd really like to give it a four) is that they've recently instituted a cash only policy for food bills less than $50. They will accept a credit card if your food bill is over $50. They've also added an ATM, "for your convenience." Someone who I believe is the owner, saw us hesitate in the doorway as we read the notice. Since he recognized us as repeat customers he called out, "We're just trying to minimize the fees we pay. You can still pay by credit card." The poorly worded and spelled sign in the door, the new policy and how the owner handled it with us really worked its way under my skin while we were there. 1) Why would *any* business (in this economy especially) make it more diificult for a customer to do business with them? One of the goals as a busines is to make it easy for customers to give you their money, isn't it? 2) Merchant rules for both VISA & Mastercard state that no merchant accepting VISA (or Mastercard), whether a mom-and-pop store or a government body like a university, may establish any minimum purchase, maximum purchase, or surcharge for any VISA (or Mastercard) transaction. 3) The ATM on site is not free. It is a fee imposing ATM, from which, I'm sure, the business owner collects a commission or receives a portion of the fees collected. This all adds up to skanky business practicies, is disrespectful of their customers, and just plain wrong. Dear Mr. Restaurant Owner: If you are looking for ways to make more money or cut costs, 1) Watch your waste, 2) Control your portions (I had what looked like 4 scrambled eggs on my plate when 2 would have been more than sufficient), 3) Invite repeat visits, 4) Don't piss off the customer - we have a lot of options out there. I will modify or update this review as things change at Capital View.
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Dan B.

Yelp
I love breakfast. There is nothing I dislike when it comes to the breakfast menu, though I will admit that I prefer egg dishes to pancakes. One of my favorite spots to in Saint Paul to grab breakfast is Capital View Cafe. Capital View Cafe is located on Smith Street at the high end of the bridge, and when you arrive it's easy to tell why they call it Capital View Cafe. Right outside its front door is a great view of our state's Capital, and if you walk a block north you have a great view of all of downtown. Now a great view may nourish the soul but it will not fill the belly, so let's talk about the food. Capital View Cafe has all the traditional offerings that any self respecting breakfast joint should have: a solid eggs benedict, great waffles, hearty biscuits and gravy, and big ol' omelets. It also has a couple of tasty variations on the classics, like my favorite- the Dublin Benedict. In this version of eggs benedict, they sub in corned beef hash for the canadian bacon. Wicked yummy. Now you might be saying to yourself, "Sold. This place sounds great, I'm going to try it this weekend." (Which you should) But Capital View Cafe is just getting started. Everything I have mentioned is great, but I really go there for the Mexican breakfast selections. This is not the New Louisiana Cafe (one of the most overrated breakfast spots in Saint Paul) where they top eggs and cheese with salsa and call it Tex Mex. We are talking about authentic Mexican selections like chipotle red pork chili, huevos con chorizo, and machaca (seasoned shredded beef, onions and peppers scrambled with eggs). All of which are served with refried beans, fresh corn or wheat tortillas, and your choice of homeade salsa (I like to mix the hot and mild). They also serve the best Tex Mex burrito I have found in Saint Paul, as well as classic mexican dishes like huevos rancheros. Every time we go to Capital View Cafe, I have a devil of a time deciding on what to order. Occasionally one of the more traditional american dishes will sneak in, though those days are few and far between. I seriously go there for the Mexican options. My only complaint is that the staff at Capital View Cafe may be too friendly. The clientele is largely regulars, and my wife and I have had slow service on a few occasions when the staff is chatting with the regulars. This is a small complaint, and I hate to point it out because I love the food so much. However, if I don't tell you the truth then my opinion won't mean squat. Capital View Cafe is also open for lunch and has free wifi. I can't say that I have made it in for lunch, but if the authentic mexican lunch options are as good as the breakfast options are, then I am depriving myself of a tasty, tasty midday meal. Give Capital View Cafe a shot dear readers, and I promise you will find the food to be exceptional!
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L R.

Yelp
It was charming at first, but there were too many little annoyances and one big one. The blueberries on my oatmeal were clearly from a can (or maybe thawed frozen berries), the menu promised whipped cream but there was none, I had to ask again for the side of scrambled eggs I'd ordered, and the food took a long time to come out. Then to lower the experience from mediocre to "I won't be back," I took out a gift certificate I'd bought a few months back, and even though it explicitly said it had no expiration date, they declined to honor it. With only the explanation that they'd decided to stop accepting them. Not cool. Not going there again.
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Crysta M.

Yelp
It's your basic diner, but a little nicer. Place is bigger, food is nicer, and prices are higher (still very reasonable), than your average diner, but despite all that it still feels like a small town diner. I've only ever been here for breakfast, even though they do serve lunch and dinner items. Their french toast and their pancakes are delicious, and as others have said, their coffee is also tasty. The service has always been friendly and prompt when I go. And I'm fairly certain they think the world will end if your coffee cup gets below 50%
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Emily V.

Yelp
We've gone back a few times, and haven't been overly impressed. The atmosphere is always very friendly, and you can tell they know a lot of their 'regulars'. But they are slow with coffee refills (and forgetful of beverage orders in general), and just can't seem to cook their breakfast orders right all on the same visit. Either the hash browns are soggy or burnt, or is THOSE are right and the eggs are overcooked. I really want to like this place, but just haven't had a visit where I was completely satisfied with both the meal and the service. It's a great neighborhood spot, but there are definitely opportunities for improvement.
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Rhonda G.

Yelp
I don't know how I missed this place, but I rode by and noticed signs offering Mexican food. There's lots of room inside. There were a few specials but the enchiladas with onions caught my eye. They load them with onions. I got a cup of the chili, and even though there were lots of beans in them, they were chili beans, and it was really good on this cold, gray day. A diverse menu for whatever you're in the mood for. They close at 2 every day. I had good service too.
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F J.

Yelp
Interesting place with a good menu to select from, but it lacks in execution. In my party, one diner get their food very late and potatoes burnt to boot. Another diner did not get the meat we thought was ordered. Once the food is on the table, adios to the server, so make sure you ask for everything when they ask, even the bill. With so many more choices in St. Paul, we don't need to return.
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Thaddeus S.

Yelp
This is a great local restaurant in WSP. I have only been here for breakfast, but I have to rate this place as one of my favorites. As Dan S has said, the Cajun Eggs Benedict is fantastic. Probably the best hollandaise sauce I've had in the TC area so far. The menu has a Spanish flair to it, but also has all the normal American favorites. Being that I like this place so much, I keep expecting to have to wait for a table when I get there, but due to its descent size I've always gotten a table right off the bat. I'll add updates to this review if I can ever get myself to order something other than the C.E.B. This is defiantly a must try if you are in the area. And yes they have a view of the capital if you stand in the middle of the street. Just don't' get hit by a car. Unless you like that sort of thing...
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Rachell S.

Yelp
Really good food. Spicy eggs Benedict is delicious. Staff is always nice. Plenty of seating, parking is tricky at times.