Seemor
Maria's CafeB+Worth Trying
1113 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
· Colombian restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Cafe
· 4.4/5 Google (1479 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Homey Colombian-leaning breakfast and brunch spot famous for corn pancakes and hearty bowls; good value for generous plates, but expect occasional slow service at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Maria's Cafe delivers solid neighborhood brunch appeal through strong food quality anchored by beloved corn pancakes and generous Colombian platters, plus excellent value for portions. However, quality variation and notable peak-time delays prevent a higher grade—the warm, homey setting and loyal following make it worth visiting for weekend brunch, but expect occasional waits and mixed execution on non-signature items.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and welcoming, with sunlit walls and cheerful chairs, the kind of brunch spot where neighbors linger over coffee while a guitarist strums on Sundays. A diner summed it up: "Hearty plates that taste homemade and make you slow down." It is a relaxed, casual café vibe, though when brunch rush hits, patience is required. Cooking leans classic and comforting with a Colombian angle rather than flash—think corn pancakes with cotija, bandeja-style bowls piled with rice and beans, and fresh arepas. The specialties shine most; pancakes, calentao, and the Paisa bowl often earn raves, while a few standard breakfasts read more ordinary. If you want unfussy food with Latin soul, this is a feel-good choice. Families do well here: pancakes, eggs, burgers, and fries are easy wins, and staff can sub veggie sausage when needed. There is no formal kids menu, but the options are naturally kid-friendly, with prices that stay reasonable for a full family brunch.
At a Glance
- Signature corn/cachapa pancakes with cotija are widely loved
- Hearty Colombian platters offer generous, satisfying portions
- Peak-time service can be slow with long ticket times
- A few items (like huevos pericos) receive mixed feedback
- Warm, homey setting with occasional live music
What Sets It Apart
- signature_corn_pancakes
- colombian_breakfast_all_day
- sunday_live_music
What People Love
- Corn pancakes with salty-sweet contrast
- Filling bandeja-style bowls
- Friendly staff and welcoming vibe
- Rich Colombian hot chocolate
Points of Concern
- Service delays during busy brunch windows; several reports of 30–80 minute waits
- Inconsistent execution on certain breakfast dishes compared to Colombian specialties
- Parking reduced by nearby construction; rely on street parking
- Isolated safety/cleanliness complaints and one claimed illness among many clean visits
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$22-34 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair a single cachapa pancake with cotija as a starter before your main.
- If you want lighter, choose Vegetarian Sandwiches ($14.99) and add the Soup of the Day.
- For a classic sampler, split the Paisa Bowl ($20.95) and add an arepa side.
Perfect For
- Weekend brunch with friends
- Casual family breakfast
- Trying approachable Colombian staples
- A comforting solo morning meal
Location Insights
Area: Mixed urban corridor with community services, indie eateries, and ongoing development; casual, daytime-heavy traffic.
Safety: Generally active and passable by day; some reviews note discomfort and construction nearby.
Nearby: Near apartments, clinics, and small shops; construction has affected former parking area.
Prospect ParkProspect Park offers a diverse dining scene with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, casual eateries, and trendy cafes. The neighborhood has a laid-back, eclectic vibe with a strong sense of community and accessibility to parks and the University of Minnesota.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–15:00
Tuesday08:00–15:00
Wednesday08:00–15:00
Thursday08:00–15:00
Friday08:00–15:00
Saturday08:00–15:00
Sunday08:00–15:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →