As the coronavirus pandemic continues to have a profound impact across the country, states everywhere are experiencing the effect of increasingly strict regulations imposed on the restaurant industry. Minnesota, along with a handful of other states, has made the call to suspend in-person dining options at all restaurants.
While dining out may no longer be an option, delivery and takeout options still exist and can be a safer alternative!
Utilizing student recommendations, I've come up with a list of 25 different restaurants offering takeout options on or near the University of Minnesota campus.
Local businesses need community support more than ever, so check out one of these recommendations the next time the thought of cooking seems too daunting!
1. Afro Deli
This fast-casual joint, located in Stadium Village, specializes in a fusion of African, Mediterranean, and American themed dishes.
Try: Falafel Sandwich, Veggie Sambusa
2. Al's Breakfast
A longtime Dinkytown staple, Al's is known for having "The Best Breakfast in Minneapolis." While hours are limited, it's worth rising early to grab breakfast here. In addition to a variety of classic breakfast options, Al's offers pancake batter, bacon, and other stand alone sides by the pound if you'd like to cook breakfast in your own kitchen. Al's also offers a Staff Meal special each week, which is an assortment of dishes prepared and ready to go for two for $50.
Try: Blackberry Pancakes, The Leonard
3. Avocadish
New to Dinkytown this year, Avocadish offers an assortment of customizable dishes that each feature avocado as the star of the dish.
Try: Sweet N' Spicy Bowl
4. Banh Appetit
Banh Appetit specializes in Vietnamese street food.
Try: Banh Mi, French Fries
5. Bona Vietnamese
Bona Vietnamese serves a wide variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes. Order a big bowl of pho for an affordable, filling meal.
Try: Pho Tam, Eggrolls
6. Camdi
Camdi specializes in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. They have a ton of excellent vegan and vegetarian options - with an entire separate menu for vegans.
Try: Vegan Chow Fun, Steamed Dumplings
7. Centro at Popol Vuh
Centro boasts a menu filled with unique selections, including cured cactus tacos and peanut sesame salsa. The restaurant also offers a variety of takeout options such as family meal packs and cocktail kits.
Try: Nopales Tacos
8. Chin Dian Kitchen
Chin Dian is a family owned business that relies on a blend of their own culture and a variety of Western influences to create delicious Asian cuisine.
Try: Vietnamese Noodle Soup, Nina's Ginger Tea
9. Frank From Philly & Andrea Pizza
Open late at night, this joint offers giant slices for cheap prices. Aside from pizza, their philly cheesesteaks are also delicious.
Try: Mamma Gambino's Pizza
10. Flamin Thai Cuisine
Boasting cuisine inspired by Thai/Laos traditions, Flamin Thai's menu offers a variety of different options.
Try: Crispy Rice Balls (Nam Khao), Green Curry11. Holy Land Deli
Holy Land offers an authentic taste of Mediterranean / Middle Eastern food. There are two locations of the deli; one on Central Ave. and the other at the Midtown Global Market.
Try: Stuffed Grape Leaves, Kufta Kebob
12. India Kitchen
Located in Dinkytown, India Kitchen is a great spot with a variety of delicious takeout options.
Try: Vegetable Samosas, Palak Paneer
13. JJ's Poke
JJ's Poke offers fresh poke bowls, burritos, and ramen. Ordering a bowl to-go is as simple as customizing it to your exact preference and then popping in to grab your order.
Try: Rainbow Bowl, Takoyaki
14. Loring Bar & Restaurant
If you're looking for a fancier dinner option, takeout at the Loring is the way to go. Located in the heart of Dinkytown, there's even a student discount available if you show your student ID.
Try: Artichoke Dip, Penne Carbonara
15. Mesa Pizza
If you're looking to try something new, Mesa is the place for you. Slices are large and cheap, plus they are open late.
Try: Southern Gentleman Pizza, Mac & Cheese Pizza
16. MOMO Sushi
MOMO offers authentic Japanese and Tibetan cuisine at affordable prices. Known for their authentic Tibetan dumplings, momo, and fresh sushi, MOMO also boasts excellent lunch specials.
Try: Tibetan Momo, Naruto Roll
17. Pizza Luce
While Pizza Luce is a bit pricier than shops offering 'za by the slice, the unique menu options are worth a try. Offering multiple locations and a variety of vegan and gluten free options, you're bound to find something up your alley.
Try: Ruby Rae, The Rustler
18. Pho Mai
Pho Mai is a new addition to the Dinkytown restaurant scene, offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine in large portions at affordable prices.
Try: Pho Tai, Eggrolls
19. Shuang Cheng
Shuang Cheng has been a Dinkytown staple for thirty years, serving up delicious Cantonese dishes and receiving numerous accolades along the way. Portions are huge and priced accordingly. Their lunch specials are the way to go on weekdays!
Try: Baked Spicy Crab, Fried Wontons, Salt & Pepper Chicken Wings
20. Sidewalk Kitchen
Located on Washington Ave., Sidewalk Kitchen offers a wide array of fresh Cantonese cuisine. They offer both affordable lunch and dinner specials.
Try: Wonton Noodle Soup, Congee
21. Taqueria y birrieria las cuatro milpas
Although they've been around a bit, this place has gained traction more recently due to the sudden rise of birria tacos on social media. If you haven't tried the tacos, accompanied by a flavorful consommé, this is the best place in town to check them out. The rest of the menu features authentic cuisine at very affordable prices.
Try: Birria Tacos, Ceviche, Horchata
22. The Cove - Poke Bowls & Street Food
The Cove specializes in fresh poke bowls and sushirritos - think one giant, customizable sushi roll. The restaurant also offers an assortment of Banh Mi sandwiches and steam buns.
Try: Sushirrito
23. Uncle Franky's
An old-school, no-fuss joint located in Northeast Minneapolis, Uncle Franky's is known for its assortment of specialty hot dogs, philly cheesesteaks, greasy burgers, and sandwiches.
Try: The Nordeaster - A Hometown Favorite
24. Wally's Falafel and Hummus
Wally's is a Dinkytown staple serving up classic Middle Eastern bites. Portions are huge and prices are reasonable.
Try: Lala Plate, Hummus
25. Zakia Deli
Zakia Deli is a family owned and operated deli specializing in authentic Lebanese cuisine. Portions are on the larger side. Check out their takeout menu for a glance at the weekly rotation of specials!
Try: #7 Falafel Pita, Turmeric Cake.