The Bottom Line
- Lots of room, perfect for friends to gather
- Food is excellent and good value
- The only parking is on meters outside
Description
- 1301 SE University Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55414 - Telephone 612-252-0217
- Parking can be awkward, the only convenient option is metered parking outside.
Guide Review - The Purple Onion Cafe and Coffee Shop
The Purple Onion started out as a coffee shop, and was originally located a couple of blocks away. In 2006, in part due to disputes with the landlords, the Purple Onion moved into a new space on University Avenue, grew in size, overhauled their look, and started serving food. The change seems to have done them good.
The coffee is fine, the food is fine. The fare is good-sized portions of soups, salads and sandwiches at a student-budget-friendly price. The Veggie Ciabatta is full of garlicky, marinated vegetables, and if you ask for something to be left out of your sandwich, you get more of the other things, instead of a smaller sandwich, like some other places give you. There are plenty of options for vegetarians and lots of specialty coffees and teas.
It's a convenient place to grab a bite to eat if you are visiting the Bell Museum of Natural History, only a short walk away on University Avenue.
It's a large, noisy space, they have free wi-fi but you probably won't get much work done. Chairs and couches are arranged to encourage gathering, chatting and conferences. There's a patio outside, but don't come for the location, it's right on truck-filled University Avenue. It's still a great place to come and enjoy the company of your friends.
