Hard Times Cafe

We just moved to Minneapolis, and excitedly checked out our neighborhood coffee shop! I love the concept of vegan/veg cuisine, & what I most love about veg restaurants (event thought I’m not vegetarian) is the use of color and amazing ingredients. Sadly only 1 of the three plates we ordered were colorfully appetizing (the falafel bowl). The lentil soup was delicious, but looked muted and brown like the “chicken and waffles” which visually did not live up to the pretty good flavor. Unfortunately, the service was also quite slow, despite the restaurant not being that busy midday on a random weekday— and the ordering system was confusing. Plus, the cash only policy, put a strict budget on our visit since neither of us regularly carry cash. That said, we loved the outdoor seating space was wonderful, and the portions were very reasonable (large for the price— good value)! We’ve been back for coffee & love the unpretentious vibes.

It’s been surprisingly hard for me to find good vegan food in Minneapolis, but Hard Times is a gem. The vegan options are incredible, with tons of variety, all at prices that feel almost unreal by today’s standards, so I don’t mind it being cash only (there’s an ATM available if you need). We visit Minneapolis every year and this is a must-stop every single time. The vegan biscuits and gravy are my favorite, and all the baked goods I’ve had have been outstanding. Beyond the food, it’s very clear that the staff and restaurant are committed to creating a safe, welcoming space rooted in love and inclusion—while making it equally clear that hate (ICE) and harmful ideologies are absolutely not welcome. I love spending my money at a place that aligns so strongly with my values :) Can’t recommend it enough.

Great tasting, quality and ethically sourced vegetarian and vegan fare, run by a collective worker owned crew since 1992. Great place to meet with friends or meet new ones. Diverse atmosphere. Punks, Africans, students, professors, old timers, straight up characters. The West Bank, Cedar Riverside is a storied, historic neighborhood run by local businesses, activists, and immigrants.

Great vegetarian & vegan food and tea/coffee drinks. Wide options, delicious desserts. Service is prompt and friendly but not always with a smile...I appreciate the authenticity as opposed to the fake sugar sweet customer service so popular almost everywhere else. Usually pretty quiet so grab a book or your journal and enjoy the comfy couches and armchairs or the soft-seated booths.

Cash only. Delicious vegetarian food for incredibly affordable prices. Hard Times Cafe is not just a great restaurant, but also plays a critical role in the local community, providing creative, nutritious food at a price point accessible to everyone. Went I went, I saw everyone from college students, to well off folks to folks just getting by all within the same dining area. For a self serve restaurant, all the tables were incredibly clean. Staff is super friendly and its just a really accepting and accomodating environment. Great location as well. I don't have enough praise for this business.

I didn't really have any expectations walking in, it was open late and had vegetarian options. That being said, we were thuroughly blown away. the atmosphere brought me back to playing American Wasteland, the staff was phenomenal, and the food was even better. I will deffinitely be back again to test out the breakfast menu!

Very tired Very, Very hungry Drove 20 minutes based on higher rating Food delicious Service peaceful Very Kind helpful staff A blessed delicious meal! The Miel w/ honey is an other worldy espresso coffee w/ whipped cream & honey...I tried to lick every remnant of honey from the glass...My meal was so satisfying...every bite was hot and well seasoned...I am now feeling ready to face tomorrow..cause I was treated so well, the food was so good, and the staff are truly very kind...Cash ONLY establishment w/ ATM on site~ Well worth the trip!! Delightful experience!!

Amazing restaurant that was tasty with a huge vegan selection. I had the best vegan biscuits and gravy I’ve ever had in my entire life. The pancakes were delicious and the coffee lovely. I will definitely come back and would encourage anyone else to give them a try!

Both Vegan Helter Skelter and Vegan Rueben we yried were great. Pancakes could use a bit fluffier though. Loved the atmosphere. It carries the Minneapolis spirit very well!

Moved in next door fall of ‘25. Needed super healthy boost and found it here! I love the menu and I’m not even a vegetarian. Everyone working does a fantastic job to be chill create amazing drinks, meals and snacks. This is a place I went to back in the early 90’s. So glad it survived to today. Well worth a visit.