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Hard Times Cafe MN: A Vegan-Friendly Hipster Haven in Minneapolis

Hard Times Cafe MN is a beloved gem nestled in Minneapolis, where the spirit of inclusivity and comfort food thrives. This casual café offers an eclectic menu rich in vegan and vegetarian options, from hearty salads to flavorful hummus platters, celebrating diverse culinary influences. With a hipster, grunge ambiance, it's a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or late-night bites. The café prides itself on fast, friendly service and unique offerings, including delicious vegan baked goods. Their commitment to sustainability shines through with compostable containers and reusable tableware, making every visit not just about great food but also about leaving a positive impact.

Hard Times Cafe MN at a glance

  • Address 1821 Riverside Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55454
  • Restaurant type Vegetarian restaurant , Bakery , Breakfast restaurant , Cafe , Coffee shop , Restaurant , Vegan restaurant .
  • Popular for Popular for breakfast , Popular for lunch , Popular for dinner , Good for solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

Hard Times Cafe MN: Reviews & Ratings

randy nelson
5

Reasonable prices, good quantity of food and tasty! Counter service. CASH ONLY! Breakfast items served at any time of day! Interesting atmosphere, eclectic and diverse.

Shree Pandey
5

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!

Angi Stevens
5

Hard Times is one of my favorite places in Minneapolis. Such a wide selection of vegan options in a very punk rock environment.

Caroline
4

Food was pretty good, good pricing too. Atmosphere is cool. Wish they accepted cards or Venmo, cash app, PayPal, ANYTHING. I took a bus for an hour here because this place was recommended to me and I didn’t have cash. I ended up approaching another customer and asking if I could Venmo her for cash. Thankfully she accepted.

Steve's Fish Room
5

Reminds me of the best of 90s era veg restaurants. Great value, quantity and quality. Had the Seiten Philly sub vegan cheese. Fantastic! Write your own order and pay up front then find a seat and enjoy the vibe until your name is called.

Jocelyn
5

Immaculate vibes, love the atmosphere, my favorite place to hang out! The falafel and hummus plates are great, hot chocolate is so so good and the lavender london fog is AMAZING

Anand
5

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.

amy graham (Grahamwich)
5

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.

Location

  • Hard Times Cafe MN
    Hard Times Cafe MN
    1821 Riverside Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55454

Welcome to Hard Times Cafe MN, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of Minneapolis at 1821 Riverside Ave. This cafe is not just any dining establishment; it’s a vibrant hub that resonates with a hip, grunge vibe, inviting guests to indulge in delicious vegan and vegetarian fare. With options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and even late-night cravings, Hard Times caters to a diverse crowd, making it a popular spot for groups and families alike.

Step inside, and you will be welcomed by an ambiance that feels both relaxed and informal, perfect for grabbing a bite with friends or spending some quiet time alone with a book. The decor is intentionally gritty, reminiscent of the 1990s coffee houses that appeal to the creative soul in all of us. The seating arrangements are comfortable, fostering a sense of community, where shared tables and friendly conversations abound.

One standout feature of Hard Times Cafe is their commitment to a plant-based menu. Whether you're craving a hearty Seitan Philly or a refreshing Greek Salad, there's no shortage of flavorful options. Their Hummus Platter and the delightful Falafel Platter present Mediterranean flavors that are both satisfying and wholesome. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss their selection of vegan baked goods — a favorite among patrons that adds a little extra joy to your meal.

  • Vegan Options: The cafe excels in providing a variety of vegan dishes that rival any traditional meal.
  • Speedy Service: Customers rave about the quick turnaround, with the semi-self-serve format allowing for efficiency without sacrificing quality.
  • Gender-Neutral Restrooms: Inclusivity is evident in the cafe’s facilities, along with a welcoming attitude that makes everyone feel at home.
  • Catering and Happy Hour: For gatherings or special events, Hard Times offers catering service and specials that enhance the experience.

As a reviewer, I appreciate Hard Times Cafe not just for its food, but for what it represents: a community-oriented space that encourages a laid-back dining experience. The staff here are not just workers; they are part of a collective that seems genuinely invested in your happiness, often going above and beyond to make your visit memorable.

In a world where dining can sometimes feel rushed, Hard Times Cafe MN invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy good company. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by — just remember, it's cash only!

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Payments
    • Cash only