People talk
Our Guestbook
“ This place is great! Cheap food and drinks, excellent latte, good punk rock atmosphere, and Anna at the counter was WONDERFUL. These five stars are mostly for her. ”
“ What a great place…. It’s grimy and beautiful at the same time. Haven’t been here in 15 years and the memories it brought back are wonderful. Still serving up great food and amazing coffee. A true testament to ”don’t judge a book by its cover”. ”
“ Cash only. The food is delicious and the staff are very nice too. For 20 you can get a generous portion of vegan hot food, a drink and a dessert. ”
“ Simply a delicious lunch. Also the staff was great. The presentation on the front of the building needs some help so don’t judge book by its cover. But a very pleasant experience. ”
“ Classic diner food and vibes but vegetarian and vegan-ified. Got the vegan helter skelter with rye toast and tried the biscuits and gravy. I am obsessed with the gravy on the biscuits! Helter skelter was simple but had fresh veggies. Recently had an amazing chai cupcake there! This place is cash only so make sure you bring cash. You write your order on a slip and hand it to them to pay. ”
Menu
Helter Skelter
$13.50TLT
$11.00Garden Salad
$9.50Side Salad
$5.00Seitan Philly
$11.50
About
Hard Times Cafe
Welcome to Hard Times Cafe, a beloved dining gem tucked away at 1821 Riverside Ave in Minneapolis, MN. This distinctive eatery has built a reputation for serving up hearty, satisfying meals at wonderfully affordable prices, all wrapped in a punk rock ambiance that draws in locals and visitors alike.
At Hard Times Cafe, patrons are greeted with a welcoming atmosphere that feels both laid-back and invigorating. The cafe embraces a cash-only policy, adding to its charming, no-frills vibe. Guests place their orders on slips of paper, creating an experience that’s both interactive and old-school. The kitchen churns out delicious vegetarian and vegan options that cater to diverse dietary preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone.
- Delicious Dishes: Many have raved about the vegan helter skelter, a simple but vibrant meal featuring fresh veggies and delectable sides like the mouthwatering biscuits and gravy—a standout that keeps patrons coming back for more.
- Impressive Beverages: Besides food, Hard Times is acclaimed for its rich coffee offerings, with flavors ranging from honey to cinnamon, delivering the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
- Affordability: There's extraordinary value in the meals served here. For around $20, you can savor a generous portion of hot vegan food, a refreshing drink, and a dessert, making it a wallet-friendly choice.
- Community Vibes: The unique atmosphere invites a diverse crowd, from college students to artists, offering a sense of belonging that turns first-time visitors into regulars. The staff, highlighted by shout-outs like Anna who brightens the counter service, adds warmth to the experience.
Hard Times Cafe stands as a testament to the notion that true quality transcends appearances. As much as it may appear grungy on the outside, the culinary experience inside is a celebration of hearty, wholesome food and community spirit. The sincere reviews echo a shared sentiment: do not judge a book by its cover. So, if you're looking for a place to relish delicious vegan dishes, amazing coffee, and a welcoming punk rock atmosphere, Hard Times Cafe should be your next stop!
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