Ethan H.
Yelp
This was a rough experience. One of the few true 24 hour establishments in the Twin Cities--and a reimagining of the iconic street car diner in downtown Saint Paul--I was looking forward to coming here.
Taking advantage of its 24 hour nature, I went around 11:30 PM. It's not clear when you enter, but you're meant to seat yourself. The space itself consists of a bar overlooking the flattop and four booths. It's harshly lit and smells of cooking smoke. The only empty table was dirty from its last patron, which we cleaned up ourselves before sitting. No big deal itself, but the service was similarly off with a curt server who we never saw again after ordering. They were also out of many items, including ice cream for milkshakes and chili. Understandable for most establishments at this time of night, but as a place billing itself as 24 hours was a little disappointing.
All this could've been excused as part of the experience by some deliciously greasy classic diner fare. However, this place is an insult to classic greasy spoons it resembles-- we received the least edible food I've been served in a restaurant. The grilled cheese special was straightforward and fine-- barring the cold soggy fries that accompanied it. The bacon omelette, on the other hand, was scorched. Suddenly, that cooking smoke started to make sense. Blackened on the grilled side, I opened the omelette to salvage what I could, only to find the cheese unmelted. How's that possible? How does someone burn an egg--an impressive feat on its own--while managing to avoid melting the cheese?
All said and done, next time I want a ashen omelette I'll know where to go. It seems like others have had better experiences, so perhaps this was an off night. If you find yourself here, I certainly hope that's the case.