Seemor
Cardinal Restaurant and BarB+Worth Trying
2920 E 38th St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
· Bar & grill, Bar, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1421 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A friendly neighborhood dive with quick, personable service and satisfying bar classics at wallet-friendly prices, best for casual hangs, bingo, and comfort-food cravings.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Cardinal delivers solid neighborhood bar-and-grill performance anchored by exceptional service attentiveness and strong food quality on core items like burgers and fries. Consistency shows some quality variation during busy periods, and the old-school, worn ambiance limits broader appeal, preventing a higher grade. Genuine regulars culture and reliable value make it a worthwhile neighborhood destination for casual dining.
Restaurant Summary
Cardinal feels like a true neighborhood hang: warm and bustling with friendly servers who remember faces and a menu of craveable bar staples. One diner summed it up as, "food came fast and the fries were better than expected," and regulars mention coming weekly for years. The room skews old-school and a bit worn in, but the vibe stays easygoing and welcoming with games, bingo, and folks who chat across tables. The cooking leans classic and hearty—burgers, wings, onion rings, and big breakfasts—executed with care rather than flash. Think comfort-forward bar food: crispy onion rings, battered fries that win fans, and a breakfast lineup that draws praise for those hash browns. Prices are kind, with popular specials like a budget burger basket, and portions satisfy without pretense. Expect the occasional off night when it is slammed, but most visits deliver exactly what you came for. Families are genuinely welcome here. Multiple parents note staff going out of their way for kids, and the menu offers kid-friendly staples like burgers, chicken strips, pancakes, and tots. While there is no elaborate kids menu listed, the straightforward options and low-key atmosphere make it an easy choice for a casual family meal.
At a Glance
- Friendly, fast service with genuine regulars culture
- Solid burgers, fries, and onion rings; hearty breakfasts
- Good prices and weekday specials; beer and wine only
- Inconsistent experiences during peak rush (order errors, waits)
- Old-school dive ambiance may feel dingy to some
What Sets It Apart
- light_rail_next_door
- longtime_regulars_scene
- bingo_and_trivia_nights
What People Love
- Neighborhood dive charm with regulars
- Crispy onion rings and fries
- Hearty breakfasts and hash browns
- Fast, friendly servers who check in often
Points of Concern
- Service and kitchen strain during peak periods can lead to slow tickets or wrong items
- Old-school, dim interior may not suit diners seeking modern decor
- Beer and wine only; cocktail seekers may be disappointed
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$22-32 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair onion rings ($8.50) with a burger for a crisp-heavy combo
- Value breakfast: Eggs & Toast ($5.25) plus hash browns ($4.00) for a budget plate
- Salad upgrade: Turkey Blue Salad ($12.50) for a lighter option
Perfect For
- Casual burger-and-beer nights
- Pre/post light-rail meetups
- Bingo or trivia with friends
- Low-key family lunches
Location Insights
Area: Transit-accessible neighborhood near 38th Street Station; casual, local crowd with long-time regulars and game nights.
Safety: Generally active with steady foot traffic; a few reviews cite rowdy moments, typical of busy dive bars.
Nearby: Adjacent to light rail and bus lines; near grain elevators and mixed residential/commercial corridors.
LongfellowThe dining scene in Longfellow is characterized by casual, locally owned restaurants and cafes that emphasize comfort and community. The area supports a mix of traditional American fare and diverse ethnic options, catering mostly to neighborhood residents and visitors seeking a relaxed atmosphere. Safety and accessibility are generally good, with a friendly, welcoming vibe.
HiawathaHiawatha is a sub-area within Longfellow near the Hiawatha Avenue corridor, known for its mix of residential and commercial spaces. It offers convenient transit options and a growing number of eateries that serve both quick bites and sit-down meals, appealing to a diverse local crowd.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–01:00
Tuesday09:00–01:00
Wednesday09:00–01:00
Thursday09:00–01:00
Friday09:00–02:00
Saturday08:00–02:00
Sunday10:00–01:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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