Cedar-Riverside

Hard Times Cafe is a collectively-owned vegetarian cafe and punk institution on Riverside Avenue in Cedar-Riverside, open daily from 8am to midnight since 1992. The bright green hand-painted facade is unmistakable. The menu is fully vegetarian with extensive vegan options: the Helter Skelter (hash browns and tofu), vegan biscuits with mushroom gravy, a big fat pancake served all day, seitan Philly for lunch, and Korean BBQ tofu bun. Prices are among the lowest in Minneapolis. Cash only with an ATM on-site. Regulars range from University of Minnesota students to long-haul neighborhood residents.

Afro Deli and Coffee is a vegan-friendly African and Mediterranean fusion restaurant at 1810 Riverside Ave in Minneapolis's Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, with multiple metro locations, priced at $. The vegan falafel wrap is exceptional -- crispy chickpea fritters with tahini, fresh vegetables, and house-made hot sauce. Try the vegetable sambusa (savory pastries) or the hearty lentil soup. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, reflecting the diverse neighborhood. Ethiopian coffee ceremony available on request for a special experience.