Nestled in the leafy streets of Roseville, Midland Hills lives up to its reputation as one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved enclaves—especially if you’re a food lover. While it may fly under the radar next to its bustling neighbors, Midland Hills’ food scene is quietly vibrant, diverse, and irresistible. Whether you’re craving a cozy bakery breakfast, a memorable dinner out, or a picture-perfect pastry for your Instagram feed, this neighborhood will surprise you at every turn.
The Heart of Midland Hills: Dining Destinations Along Larpenteur Avenue
Midland Hills’ food journey often begins (and sometimes ends) along Larpenteur Avenue—a main artery that slices through the neighborhood, dotted with everything from cafés that hum with local chatter to destination dining rooms perfect for special evenings.
- The Midland Table | Larpenteur Ave & Cleveland Ave
A cornerstone for locals, this contemporary American bistro delivers comfort classics with a chef’s twist. From smoked brisket hash for brunch to grilled salmon with seasonal veggies at dinner, The Midland Table puts ingredient quality first. The airy, rustic setting and mid-range pricing ($12-$25 entrees) make it a great choice for both casual family nights and date nights. Don’t skip their legendary bread pudding!
- Il Girasole Trattoria | Larpenteur Ave near Hibbing Ave
A cozy Italian nook that’s been a family favorite for decades, Il Girasole specializes in house-made pasta and wood-fired pizza. The aroma of bubbling tomato sauce greets you at the door, and every plate is lovingly crafted. The carbonara is a must, and regulars rave about the tiramisu. Prices are moderate, with most pastas under $20.
Hidden Gems and International Eats
One of the undeniable charms of Midland Hills is the cluster of little-known eateries that turn first-time visitors into loyal fans. From global flavors to perfect-on-the-go meals, foodies will appreciate these off-the-beaten-track spots:
- Pho Rosa | Fairview Ave just south of Larpenteur
For those chilly Minnesota nights, nothing beats a steaming bowl of pho. Pho Rosa serves authentic Vietnamese comfort food in a laid-back, family-friendly setting. Their brisket pho is rich and aromatic, and the banh mi sandwiches are loaded with fresh herbs and crunchy pickled veggies. Entrees typically range from $10-$15, making it wallet-friendly.
- Arepa Avenue Food Truck | Regularly parked at Midland Hills Park
This Venezuelan food truck is a local legend. Offering arepas stuffed with a rotating selection of fillings (shredded beef, black beans, plantains, and more), they pull lunchtime crowds from nearby offices and schools. For $8-$12, you get a hearty, hand-held meal packed with flavor. Check their social media for current hours and specials.
- Little Saigon Bakery | Intersection of Larpenteur Ave & Lexington Ave
Tucked away in a modest strip mall, this Vietnamese bakery is a haven for pastry lovers. Don’t let the simple décor fool you—inside are dazzling displays of flaky meat pies, pandan rolls, and sweet mung bean treats. It’s famous for its sticky rice cakes and creamy egg coffee, too. Most bakery items are under $4, making this a perfect hidden gem.
Cozy Cafés and Coffee Shops
Nothing completes Midland Hills’ small-town charm quite like its independent coffee spots—ideal for catching up with friends, getting some work done, or just treating yourself.
- Elmwood Coffeehouse | Cleveland Ave north of Larpenteur
With its bright walls, overflowing bookshelves, and house-roasted beans, Elmwood has become “the third place” for Midland Hills residents. Signature drinks include a cinnamon honey latte and the cardamom cold brew. Add to that a rotating pastry menu—think pistachio muffins or vegan carrot cake—and there’s something for everyone. Coffees range from $3-$6, and tasty toasts make for a perfect light lunch.
- Midland Hills Bakery & Café | Mid-block on Larpenteur Ave
A classic neighborhood bakery where everything is made from scratch daily. Locals line up for morning croissants, but the stars are the caramel rolls and Swedish cardamom buns. There are also hearty soups and simple sandwiches come lunchtime. Prices are affordable, and the staff’s warmth keeps regulars coming back.
A Taste of Tradition: Local Favorites That Stand the Test of Time
Midland Hills also cherishes a handful of longstanding food traditions— spots that have anchored the community’s food scene for generations.
- Josephine’s Dairy Freeze | On Fairview Ave, near the Midland Hills Golf Course
Open seasonally, Josephine’s has been delighting kids and adults with soft serve and footlong hot dogs for over 40 years. The prices ($3-$7) and retro walk-up window make it a charming throwback to simpler times. The butterscotch-dipped cone is a local must-have.
- Midland Hills Farmers Market | Saturdays at Holy Cross Lutheran Parking Lot
While technically a pop-up, this market is a Saturday morning staple for Midland Hills foodies. Local farms and bakers offer fresh produce, breads, pies, and honey—embedding the farm-to-table spirit in neighborhood kitchens.
Clusters and Can’t-Miss Streets
When planning your food crawl, focus on these local “food zones”:
- Larpenteur Avenue Corridor: Runs west to east, home to many sit-down spots and bakeries. Walkable, safe, and full of diverse options.
- Cleveland Avenue North of Larpenteur: Where indie cafés cluster, close to the residential heart of Midland Hills.
- Fairview Ave Near the Golf Course: A quieter stretch, home to vintage eats and food trucks on park days.
Why Midland Hills Stands Out
What makes Midland Hills special isn’t just the food—it’s the spirit of the community. Here, neighborhood restaurants are often family-run, with recipes and stories passed down over generations. There’s space for newcomers—whether that’s a vegan pop-up or a specialty food truck—and a reverence for the classics, from cardamom buns to wood-fired pizza.
Whether you’re in the mood for a charming breakfast, crave global comfort food, or want to indulge in a beloved dessert, Midland Hills is a delicious neighborhood to explore—one bite at a time.