It is either the unassuming location or the long lines that I always hear of but I am not sure why I haven’t been to Birchwood Cafe till now. I finally made it to Birchwood cafe and I can confirm both the rumors about the unassuming location and long lines are true. Birchwood cafe is located in a quaint street of buzzing south Minneapolis and the lines do extend past the sidewalk even after 1:00 pm in the afternoon.
The history of Birchwood cafe dates back to 1940 when it was a dairy/grocery store and simply an essential part of the neighborhood. Finally in 1995, this store was rebuilt as a cafe which is what we know it as now. The speciality of Birchwood is all the ingredients are locally sourced either from farmers and growers from Minnesota or Wisconsin. Of course everything is organic!
There were so many things I wanted to order from the menu but I went for Rice and Beans which came with eggs, brussels sprouts, maple squash puree and a slice of flour tortilla. This is something I would eat when I am really hungry. It was pretty filling and if you prefer savory dishes, this would be the one to go. I especially liked the squash puree and eggs combination. I did add some Peri Peri sauce on the side which elevated the taste even more. I have to mention this but the Peri Peri sauce from this place is just amazing! I ended up buying one to take home.
My friend on the other hand got a good old classic Birchwood Burger which was composed of birdseed bun and choice of either grass-fed beef patty, turkey or black bean quinoa. It also came with a side of blue corn chips and house made salsa for dipping.
Since there were many things I wanted to order from menu, I definitely see myself coming here again. I like how casual it is and the food itself was really good. It almost feels like you are doing good to your body even when you are eating a burger. They also have a small bakery section on the side which looked equally good. Those would be in my order in my next visit!
Have you been to Birchwood Cafe? What are your favorites?
