Tucked into the heart of Uptown Minneapolis, this beloved breakfast destination has been serving up more than just morning meals for decades.
What began as a revolutionary organic bakery has blossomed into a community gathering place where locals return again and again.
From sunrise coffee runs to leisurely weekend brunches, French Meadow has mastered the art of comfort food with conscience.
Every plate tells a story of sustainability, while every bite delivers unforgettable flavor that keeps crowds coming back.
How they won local’s hearts
French Meadow Cafe & Bluestem Bar didn’t just arrive on the Minneapolis breakfast scene—it grew from the ground up, rooted in a mission that resonated deeply with locals.
What started as the nation’s first certified organic bakery in 1985 quickly became a community cornerstone when the Uptown Minneapolis cafe opened in the early 1990s, driven by customer demand for fresh, sustainable, and inclusive dining options.
This pioneer in farm-to-table cuisine long before it was trendy built loyalty by staying true to organic standards, sourcing locally, and offering something for everyone—vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and traditional eaters alike.
The 2013 expansion to include Bluestem Bar elevated the experience with full table service, sustainable wines, and local taps, cementing its place as a beloved gathering spot.
Word-of-mouth buzz spread like wildfire as diners discovered that healthy eating could taste indulgent, creating a devoted following that transcended dietary preferences.
Regulars began treating the space as their second home, where staff remembered names and orders before they were even spoken.
The cafe’s commitment to transparency in sourcing and preparation built trust with conscious consumers who valued knowing exactly what went into their meals.
Seasonal menu rotations kept things exciting while core favorites remained constants, giving customers both novelty and nostalgia with every visit.
Community events and partnerships with local farms strengthened ties to the neighborhood ecosystem, making French Meadow feel like an extension of home.
Even as the Twin Cities dining scene exploded with new concepts, this humble spot held its ground by staying authentic to its founding values.
The combination of mission-driven food and genuine hospitality created a loyal fanbase that no marketing campaign could ever replicate.
Today, French Meadow remains a testament to how staying true to your roots can win hearts one plate at a time.
Food Highlights
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Baked Cinnamon French Toast: A customer favorite featuring house-made organic bread soaked in cinnamon-spiced batter, topped with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. 🍞
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French Meadow Cobb: A hearty salad loaded with organic greens, nitrate-free bacon, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and house-made dressing. 🥗
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Organic Healing Plate: Marinated grilled tempeh served over organic brown rice with coconut red beans, sautéed greens, firecracker slaw, and sweet potato. 🌿
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Wild Acres Turkey Burger: Shaved smoked turkey with nitrate-free bacon, Gruyere, roasted tomatoes, spinach, and garlic-chive aioli on a croissant or house-made seeded bun. 🍔
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Green Coconut Curry: A fragrant, vegan, and gluten-free curry with a vegetable mélange served over organic brown rice. 🍛
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Signature Mac & Cheese GF: Organic gluten-free penne in a creamy mornay sauce, served with organic spring greens and white balsamic vinaigrette. 🧀
Atmosphere
Warm, creative, and welcoming describes the vibe at French Meadow Cafe & Bluestem Bar. 🏡 It’s the kind of place where regulars greet staff by name, and newcomers quickly feel like part of the family.
Bottom Line
Pioneer in organic, farm-to-table dining since 1985 with an inclusive menu for every dietary need.
Community-driven growth from bakery to beloved cafe and bar creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for any meal.
Address: 2610 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55408
📞 (612) 870-7855
🕔 Mon-Wed: 7:30 AM–3:00 PM | Thu: 7:30 AM–8:00 PM | Fri-Sat: 7:30 AM–9:00 PM | Sun: 7:30 AM–8:00 PM