I promise, unless something drastically changes again, this will be my last update. The only reason I am even bothering with keeping current on this Cafe is because I really like it! I like the concept of family-owned, working together in the community and all that mushy stuff! Had I updated this a month ago, it would have gone down to a two or one but I waited, gave it one last chance, and so glad I did because I figured it out people!!!!!! Sit to the right!!!! Yes, when you walk in the door, sit to the right for great service and sit to the left if you want to wait on yourself! (Fellow yelpers, I have been there right with you, getting my own coffee, locating missing items in your order, etc.) The times I have had terrible or unusual service ( children or busboys serving) happened to always be on the left side. When we sit to the right, service is spot-on, food is hot and complete with all items, and we are happy happy! I must mention our last dining experience this past week. Our waitress was super! We were waited on immediately, given water and menus, and ordered. She brought us our own water carafe, Yippee!!!! and refilled my DC without my asking and get this---She even noticed I might have wanted more syrup for my french toast (which is delish BTW, nice thick pieces of cinnamon swirl bread)... I felt like I had stepped back into how things used to be at CVC! If you want to like this place as much as I do, then give them another chance or give them a try. P.S. Remember to sit to the right!!!! read more

Perfect place for a casual, family weekend breakfast. The menu has offerings for all palates - spicy Mexican, American with pancakes and waffles, to omelets. This morning hubs had the blueberry pancakes that were the size of the plate and a side of crispy bacon, the teen had the steak and eggs cooked just the way it was order, and I tried new to me Mexican dish with beef, peppers and onions, scrambled eggs, with corn tortillas and a side of salsa. It was fantastic - not necessarily a pretty dish but it was so tasty. Today our server was outstanding and kept our coffee cups and waters filled. We will defiantly continue to include Capital View in our breakfast rotation. read more

My boyfriend just moved to the neighborhood so we decided to check out some local joints. This place looked promising, it advertised breakfast and seems to be packed with people. There were reports that Garrison Keillor is a regular customer here...but frankly...I was disappointed. First of all, the service. I am usually not picky about service, I frequent many Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants where the service is abrupt and don't think twice about it. But the service here was just...awkward to the point where I was starting to think they didn't want us there. We walked in and waited cluelessly for about 2 minutes. Were we supposed to seat ourselves? Was the hostess going to seat us? There were no signs to indicate the protocol. We waited for at least someone to give us directions. The 5 people behind the counter seemed to ignore us. Countless waitresses rushed past us without eye contact. I felt like I had walked into an exclusive club. Finally, we found a 2 seat booth that was vacant and sat down. We saw other people who came in after us seat themselves so we were sure that we had followed the correct protocol. There were no menus on the table, so we thought that someone would bring us a menu. Few minutes pass...still no menus. I go to the front and find some paper menus and bring them back to our table. A few minutes later, a waitress appears and tells us, "You don't have to look at those, I have some actual menus." Well, by golly, we wouldn't have even known. Our waiter finally comes by and gives us waters and awkwardly greets us. We order, the cajun breakfast for me and biscuits and gravy for the boy. Our food arrives. The waiter then clarifies what kind of toast I wanted. I told him wheat and he disappears again. The cajun breakfast was your run of the mill greasy spoon menu item. Tons of stuff, fried in oil piled on top of each other. It was quite tasty, but I really couldn't get over how unbrowned the hashbrowns were....even when I had ordered them well-done. They were not even hash tans...the were still hash-white! The "hashbrowns" were sauteed with a scant amount of greenery and were floating in a pool of grease that would make a Chinese take out joint cry. This combined with the hollandaise sauce all over the top...it was too rich even for me. Boy's breakfast was fine, but he isn't as opinionated. Though he did comment that he had had better elsewhere in the city. Also, didn't the waiter tell me I was getting toast? I guess I will never know. I went up to pay and was ignored for a good 2 minutes once again before someone offered to help me. Not even eye contract from a waitress who was waiting for a pot of coffee to fill up. Usually, if the food is up to par, I would overlook any service hitches, but in this case, no dice. The incredibly awkward atmosphere definitely overtakes the mediocre food by a longshot. So all in all...a 2 star experience. I have never been a place with more awkward exchanges. Maybe I will come back on a less busy day and order something else....but probably not. read more

Cute, quaint little cafe that I'd happily return to. Tasty, filling comfort food and cheap prices. Not sure what else you could ask for. The menu is big but not too much - they keep it simple sweetie, with classic diner breakfast and lunch with a mexican flair. Lots of reviews had nitpicky complaints, but my experience was spot on. The service was attentive but not aggressive. My water and coffee stayed full. I was in town covering hockey, a friend drove down from St. Cloud and we sat for an hour on a Sunday morning chatting and catching up. We walked in and waited just a minute for a table to be cleared. We each had a benedict and one of my eggs was a little overcooked, but other than that, the food was perfect. read more

What? View? Where? Stand out in the middle of the street, look south, and you can see the Capitol. What? Service? Where? The waitress takes forever to even get us a menu. Guess how long it took to get water and coffee....and then our order placed....and then to actually receive our food...and then the items that she forgot.... Why is everything SO hot and SO flavorless? No view, no service, no taste, no thank you. Oh - and why do they have deodorant in the women's bathroom for public use? One stick. For anyone. Gross!!! read more

I cannot recommend. terrible service. Mediocre expensive food, don't pay with a credit card or you will be charged extra. I was told by the cashier I should bring cash with me. read more

Nice neighborhood cafe. Contradicting other recent reviews, our service was top notch! We arrived on a rainy Saturday late in the morning. We were promptly seated, with menus, offered coffee, and were then left to read the menu. Within a couple minutes the waitress was back to take our order and within 10 minutes, breakfast was served. Portions are generous. I had the South of the Border omelet with chorizo. Excellent!!! Chorizo flavorful, perfectly melted cheese, nice spicy salsa with creamy sour cream on top. The accompanying hash browns were crispy outside with creamy potato goodness inside. More than I could finish so brought it home for a light dinner. Nice local neighborhood gem! read more

Very good food, very nice staff! Although it was difficult getting servers attention. read more

Capital View Cafe - American Near Me - Saint Paul, Minnesota

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I know there are some here who like corporate chain restaurants where there is total consistency of food and decor. If you're one of those people, you probably won't like the Capital View Cafe. That's okay. They seem to be doing quite well without you, and I'm so glad. I love this place. I can only think of two other places in St. Paul that hold a candle to the Capital View. I'm giving it 5 stars. It's not perfect, but it's way above average. I'd describe the Capital View as "funky" in the best possible sense of the word. It's unique; a one-off casual restaurant that lets its history and personality hang out. The layout is awkward, the chairs don't all match, and the service can be slow at times, though always friendly. It's reasonably priced, comfortable and I've never had service that was actually bad. Most importantly, the food I've had there has always been very good. And I'm perfectly happy with allowing a chef some room to move. Extreme consistency is extremely boring. This isn't fine dining and doesn't pretend to be. It's simply great, honest everyday fare at good prices. A few cautions are in order. Street parking only, though there's usually plenty of it. Avoid parking on the opposite side of Smith Avenue if you can. It's a very busy street. And be warned--they close for the day at 2 pm. I wish I could order smaller portions at reduced prices. Most of the time I have to leave food on the table or carry it home, and I'd rather just pay a little less for a smaller portion. But that's probably my senior citizen status showing. I don't eat much Mexican food, so I haven't explored that side of the menu. But the traditional American offerings I've had have always been well-prepared and excellent. The french fries are frozen, so I usually go with the hash browns, but both are very good. And they have some great "early bird specials" daily from 7-9 am. Big thumbs-up! read more

All the tables were dirty so we had to sit right next to the A/C which was very uncomfortable. I ordered the Fajitas which came with no plates and one napkin. The steak was cutc into chunks so i had to cut it myself with a butter knife because they don't give you a steak knife. Everything was good except the rice, tasted old? Also forget trying to get the waitress to help you ever the bus boy checked on us instead and I wish he could get the entire tip because he deserved it. I'll never be back, that's for sure. read more

I totally dig the vibe here. I love the old lino floor tiles and the tchotchkes dangling from the ceiling and lining the window sills. The sun streams in and the effect is really cheery. The food is pretty good, too, at least for breakfast. Portions are more than decent. I like the huevos Rancheros. The Cajun breakfast is a heart attack on a platter but oh-so-tasty. Our service has always come with a smile; sure, it has a tendency to be a little slow, but our waitress works the whole room and freaking relax a bit for once, mkay? I'll have to remember to try their Mexican lunch items sometime. Duly noted: bring cash. Not really a big deal at all, because it's not La Belle Vie prices. read more

Best breakfast around. A greasy-spoon (in a good way: a few with some traditional griddle items on the menu), with a creative & South/Central American twist. The breakfast quesadilla is a lot of food, which is great if I'm really hungry or want half of it later as leftovers. read more

Visited two times. First time, mediocre-to-bad sandwich. Second time, sat waiting for service for so long I finally got up and left. read more

Fantastic service, friendly people, excellent food and an exceptional value and generous portions. I'm a regular and an early bird.. The coffee is usually waiting on my table before I sit down. I have brought many people here and they all say they will be back. it is my favorite restaurant. It can get busy on the weekends. Most places are. During the week is the best time to go if you don't like crowds or do t want to wait. Take advantage of the early bird specials from 7 to 9 mon -friday. You are never rushed, the environment is nice and the Internet is good. I highly recommend it. Give it a try. read more

The service was slow. This was our first time going to the capital grill. We sat down and it took us like 15 min before we even got a menu. We went to the grill on the 4th for breakfast. The food was ok i lacked flavor and well i do not think i will return to this location. The people working were kinda snobby. With service like this they will never attract new clients. The old people that are regulars will die eventually then the place will be out of business. I gave it 2 stars only because i like to support local businesses. I tried to have a better experience but it just did not happen .. read more

My first worry was about the no Credit Cards under $25.00 (we were told but there was a sign that said $50.) I just had a feeling when we walked up to the cafe that they did not take Credit Cards. There is an ATM to the left of the front door and it's a minimal charge of $1.95 to take out some $$ - if your bank does not charge and your desperate - it's not a huge hit to the piggy bank. This place looks like it should be on Diners, Drive in and Dives. We stopped before going to the Science Museum hoping that the meals would cover us until dinner. The portions were HUGE, I only ate half of my tex-mex and saved the rest for dinner. It was a great meld of eggs, potatoes, sausage & texas sauce. Matt had a build your own omelette with toast & potato. We sat in the back corner in a cute little booth for 2,nice and cozy &slightly romantic for a diner at 9 am. It is a nice hidden gem in St. Paul. read more

Luke warm corned beef hash straight out the can. No thanks.

We have given this place many more chances since my last review and have definitely had better experiences. It is great, cozy, neighborhood cafe with good breakfast and large portion sizes. The service isn't anything amazing, but definitely sufficient. This is our go to breakfast place when friends/family are in town or when we just want to walk to breakfast on the weekend. Definitely recommended! read more

One of my favorite cafes. Huge portions and yummy comfort food. I LOVE the Cajun Breakfast! Their catering is fantastic. I used them for my store opening and Glen, one of the owners, was very accommodating and open to my suggestions. I had prime rib, cut for little sandwiches and a beautiful cheese and fruit tray. Just lovely. Most of the time customer service is great. Sometimes a little sketchy. read more

Interesting place with a good menu to select from, but it lacks in execution. In my party, one diner get their food very late and potatoes burnt to boot. Another diner did not get the meat we thought was ordered. Once the food is on the table, adios to the server, so make sure you ask for everything when they ask, even the bill. With so many more choices in St. Paul, we don't need to return. read more

We've gone back a few times, and haven't been overly impressed. The atmosphere is always very friendly, and you can tell they know a lot of their 'regulars'. But they are slow with coffee refills (and forgetful of beverage orders in general), and just can't seem to cook their breakfast orders right all on the same visit. Either the hash browns are soggy or burnt, or is THOSE are right and the eggs are overcooked. I really want to like this place, but just haven't had a visit where I was completely satisfied with both the meal and the service. It's a great neighborhood spot, but there are definitely opportunities for improvement. read more

Really good food. Spicy eggs Benedict is delicious. Staff is always nice. Plenty of seating, parking is tricky at times.

I have to say, I've been here 4 times and 2 out of the 4 were great, and the other 2 were pretty bad. I would suggest something without hollandaise (it's weak and watery) but their hash browns are fantastic! Overall, I really like this little place, and it is definitely worth a try. Also, their baked goods are great. Their caramel pecan roll is my favorite! read more

Somewhat disorganized. There were four small families standing in line when we arrived. Two families left because of the long wait. When we were finally seated, we noticed at least ten empty tables. I don't understand why they make people stand in line when they have so many open seats. The food was good. I ordered the beef enchiladas and will happily order them again. The other people with me enjoyed their food too. We will go again but hope they can get organized with the seating and tables. read more

We are regulars at this restaurant. Our favorite is the Cajun breakfast. My boyfriend has never had anything other for 15 years! I recently branched out and tried a few other things...all GREAT! In response to the person upset about the credit card minimum...I work for a small business and are aware of the fee structure of credit card fees. Every card is charged a different percentage and the total package is structured based usually on a 3 month evaluation of the individual cards used during that period which of course varies. Business owners take a hit on pricing depending on which card is used and how often. While I am just a customer, I woul have to assume this policy is in place to keep the overall pricing down. I hope that you continue to honor this small private business as they offer great food, prices and service. read more

We waited for 1 1/2 hours to get our breakfast. My hashbrowns were not edible since one side was burned black and the inside was not cooked. Gave us $2 off, wow, thanks. read more

Have been here several times as I live in the neighboring suburb but today was a paramount failure. Once we seated ourselves it took our waitress 20 minuets to take our drink orders and then another 20 to receive them and we were never ever given water. We then proceeded to wait ONE HOUR for our food, and it's not as if our orders were complicated or large, we ordered two Belgian waffles. The waitstaff was clearly lacking, my brother and I even witnessed a disabled man walk across the restaurant to get a menu for himself because he has been waiting for at least 15 minutes without being acknowledged. My "fresh fruit cup" was sour and $4. Not worth it. read more

Good flavor to food but was not impressed with their take on Mexican huevos rancheros it was Minnesota style. The salsa verde on the burrito was like vinegar and the waitress was so indifferent. I own a restaurant and try not to be too picky with local places but was not impressed! read more

Cute atmosphere and neighborhood vibe. Wait staff was prompt and friendly. Had egg sandwich and hash browns. Food was great! Highly recommend and have been here many times. Try the "little guy" places! read more

In for a late breakfast on a Friday morning. We sat on the right hand side of the room. Lots of windows facing Smith Ave. allow plenty of morning light in. Our server was cheerful and pleasant. Coffee was average. We ordered our meals and we requested that our orange juices be brought with our meals. A while later, we received our meals and no juice. We were unable to get our server's attention as she speedily flitted around the place. Eventually, we got another server's attention and she brought us our juices. I don't get why when a server asks whether you'd like your juice "now" or "with your meal", and your answer is "with my meal", that it is always forgotten. It has to be re-requested. When, oh when, will I learn this? I had the Cajun with hollandaise on the side. It was good, nothing special. If I come here again, I might consider ordering some of their pancakes or Mexican food items. read more

I read quite a few reviews of this place about their breakfasts. So many in fact, I had to try it out for myself. I walked in and was greeted quickly with a "good morning, sir". I found a small table and sat down. Promptly asked if I wanted coffee. Sure. Was quickly poured. Server forgot the water. Maybe it is not standard to give water. I thought it was. I was given a menu to look over and decided quickly I wanted eggs, toast, chorizo and hash browns. Waitress came by to take my order. Food was prepared quickly and served. I have not ordered chorizo before, so I was a little surprised that it was served in a Ramkin size bowl. Not a big deal. Quite a few reviews mentioned the portions being so large, you get enough to share if 2 people are light eaters. Looking at my plate, I wonder how that could be. I did not think it was a large portion. Not small either. Normal is what I would say. I am not good at looking at eggs and determining what size eggs they use. Certainly not Jumbo though. Large at best. Maybe even Medium. Eggs were cooked correctly, hash browns were nice and crispy. Toast, hard to screw up toast. Though some like it a bit darker. I do not, so it was toasted properly for me. The food was very good. Chorizo was spiced perfectly for my taste buds. After I finished my food, my issues with this place started. I got the check. $11.23. Huh? I got what is a #5 on their Early Bird Special menu. It was supposed to be $6.99 plus tax. Beverage is included on the Early Bird Specials. Maybe I was supposed to say I wanted the special. But I should not have to. I was pointing at the menu they gave me when I placed my order. So they hooked me into another $3.75. I contemplated mentioning I thought it should be $6.99 plus tax and pointing to the little menu at the table. I decided not to. I am not going to teach people how to treat customers. BTDT. It does not work. Sure, they will apologize and in this case, make the correction to my bill. But they will not do what is necessary to take corrective action to make sure it does not happen again. I paid, left a tip and left. I do not know if I will be back. I liked the place, the food and the service. But I do not like being charged more than I am supposed to. I guess I need to be in business to understand why a place will not take Debit or CC for purchases. I read that they do not unless the order is over $50.00. I have read a street vendor can take Debit or CC, using a small device on a smart phone, I-Pad or I-Pod for just 2.7 percent. No set up charges, no transaction charge other then the 2.7 percent. Why oh why, would a business not be willing to give up 27 cents to get $10.00 from a customer. It is not a deal breaker, since I do not like charging each and every expense I have. I prefer to pay cash mostly. It is just mind boggling to me that a business does not accept cards.. read more

Great neighborhood gem to grab breakfast or lunch. We went for breakfast. Both kids cleaned their plates. Service was great! Our coffee cups were full and hot. read more

Very good breakfast. Service was excellent. Had huevos rancheros and it was delicious. Will definitely be coming back. Price is reasonable also. Recommend !! read more

The bathrooms are the best in the cities. Banana Chocolate chip pancakes were so good. Great service!

The food was excellent. It was a nice spot and the wait staff was friendly. Very good place for breakfast.

Luv the food..churros waffle...chorizo...Chimacca I think that's what it's called..delicious service was slow but food was right on...left stuffed with a smile..good day read more

I had the chili red pork... on top of 2 eggs, beans and corn tortillas. Yum!! Fun and local flavor make this a great choice any day of the week. read more

I love this place the staff is wonderful not perfect. The food is great, the prices are lower then the dish's here. I would probably crawl to this place for the great food and very healthy serving's. read more

The food is pretty good but is often covered in oil and the hash browns are always undercooked. The place is always packed on the weekends, so be prepared to wait. I have never had bad service and the staff is pretty friendly. read more

Really good fish fry. Pollock. Crispy and light batter. Highly recommend the Friday fish fry. We also had the ribs. That was good but I've had way better ribs. I guess it's not really a rib joint so that's understandable. Ok but I wouldn't order them again. French fries were disappointing. Some were thin and nummy; some were thick and mushy. We saw a lot of people with other dishes that looked really good. Total bill for a huge fish fry a gigantic plate of ribs: $20. Really not too bad. We will definitely be back for more. read more