This Minnesota Breakfast Spot Is So Popular, Weekends Start With A Line Out The Door
Mornings in Minneapolis, Minnesota, have a gravitational pull, and it starts at Al’s Breakfast in Dinkytown.
The place is barely wider than a hallway, yet the line stretches outside like it is a parade of hungry early birds.
I first squeezed onto a swiveling stool here years ago and learned fast that patience pays in butter, syrup, and crispy edges.
Stick with me, and you will know exactly how to beat the rush, order like a regular, and leave happy without losing your place in line.
The Legendary Counter And Narrow Nook
Step right in and you will understand the hype. The counter is the whole show.
Fourteen stools line a space so snug you can smell the toast before you see it.
I once bumped elbows with a stranger and walked out with a new brunch buddy and solid recommendations.
Look around and it feels like time paused in the best possible way: tile, chrome, and an old school rhythm of sizzle and scrape.
The staff work feet from you, calling orders with surgical precision.
You get front row seats to breakfast choreography without a ticket price.
What To Order First Thing
Start strong and go classic pancakes with a crisp edge, golden hash browns, and a salsa scramble if you like a kick.
Regulars swear by the Jose scramble and the corned beef hash, both hearty without feeling heavy.
I keep it simple and add toast for griddle butter happiness.
Portions lean sensible, not oversized, which keeps the pace quick and the plates hot.
Breakfast runs about 10 to 20 dollars, still fair for the quality.
If indecisive, ask the cook and you will get an honest nudge toward a favorite.
Hours, Lines, And How To Time It
Here is the playbook: weekdays are your friend, weekends mean a sidewalk queue.
Doors open at 6 AM most days except Sunday at 9 AM, and service winds down at 1 PM.
I show up before 7 on weekdays or right after the first wave leaves.
If you see a line, do not bail it moves faster than it looks.
Single diners almost always slip in first as stools free up.
Bring a patient mood and you will be seated before you finish scrolling headlines.
Cash Only And Other Useful Logistics
Heads up, your card will not help here, so bring cash or plan a quick run to the nearby ATM.
The sign at the door says it clearly and the register confirms it.
I learned once the hard way and did the Target jog, losing my place by a few stools.
There are only barstools and no tables, so groups should split up or pick a weekday.
Prices stay reasonable for made-to-order plates.
Keep your order ready and pay promptly to keep the line humming for the next hungry human.
The Vibe And Service Style
Energy here is brisk and friendly, the kind of place where names appear in minutes and refills arrive without a speech.
Staff work inches away and keep the banter light while flipping eggs with calm focus.
I appreciate how they navigate requests clearly and keep the counter moving.
The room gets lively as folks wait behind the stools, which adds to the theater of it all.
It is not designed for long hangs or lingering after the last bite.
Eat, smile, pay, and let someone else slide in for their turn.
Dietary Notes And Communication Tips
Clarity helps here speak up early about allergies or dietary rules so the team can advise.
The griddle is shared for many items, so ask which parts of the setup are separate.
I have seen cooks do their best within the constraints of a tiny line kitchen.
If strict separation matters, consider eggs cooked in a clean pan or a waffle made in the back.
Confirm details before ordering to avoid surprises.
A quick, respectful chat goes a long way in a tight space under a busy morning rush.
What Regulars Rave About
Ask around and you will hear themes: quick service, consistent plates, and an old-school spirit that feels earned.
Reviews call it the best breakfast in Minnesota and praise the hash browns and pancakes.
I have watched folks light up at that first forkful more than once.
Yes, the space is tiny and the line can snake, but most say it is worth the wait.
Friendly staff and honest cooking keep people returning for decades.
You come for breakfast and leave with a story that sticks.
Address, Contact, And Final Nudge
Navigation is easy, punch in 413 14th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 and aim for Dinkytown.
The phone number is +1 612-331-9991 and the website alsbreakfastmpls.com lists current hours.
The map pin sits near the University of Minnesota with street parking in the mix.
Set an early alarm, bring cash, and travel light so you can slide onto a stool fast.
Order what speaks to you and watch the griddle show up close.
Then step back into the chill with a warm belly and a small victory.