Seemor
Zamboni’s on 7th Restaurant and BarB+Worth Trying
174 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
· Sports bar, American restaurant, Pizza restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (634 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively pre- and post-game spot steps from Xcel with thin-crust pizzas, bar staples, and quick service when it counts; quality is generally good but can be inconsistent and prices feel high on event days.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Zamboni's on 7th delivers solid neighborhood sports bar performance with strong food quality in thin-crust pizzas and hearty apps, plus attentive, fast service that shines on game nights. The prime location across from Xcel and lively pre-game atmosphere make it a natural choice for arena-goers, but inconsistent execution on certain dishes and occasional food safety outliers prevent it from reaching higher ground. Best suited for groups seeking reliable crowd-pleasers rather than culinary distinction.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from the arena, this spot leans into lively pre-game energy with quick bartenders and a menu of thin-crust pies and hearty bar bites. One diner summed it up: drinks came fast even when packed, and the pizza crust delivered. The room can skew narrow and busy, but that is part of the game-night buzz. Cooking favors classic comforts over fireworks: crisp pizzas, big nachos, meatballs, gyros, and walleye fingers. Fans rave about the crisp crust and generous portions, though a few plates land bland or overcooked on hectic nights. It suits groups heading to Xcel who want reliable crowd-pleasers more than culinary experiments. Families do well here thanks to kid-approved staples like cheese or pepperoni slices ($4.50-5.50), chicken tenders, burgers, and simple salads. If you have picky eaters, stick to plain pizzas and fries; adventurous specials like Thai chicken pizza can be a harder sell for some kids.
At a Glance
- Prime location across from Xcel for pre/post-event meals
- Thin-crust pizzas and large-share apps hit the spot
- Prices feel high on event days and drink menus may lack prices
- Inconsistent execution on a few items (overcooked fish, bland pie)
- Fast, friendly bar team keeps crowds moving
What Sets It Apart
- arena_side_location
- thin_crust_slice_service
- downstairs_event_space
What People Love
- That crisp thin-crust pizza after a short wait
- Quick, friendly bar service during rush
- Shareable starters that feed a crowd
- Arena-side convenience that makes timing easy
Points of Concern
- Event-day pricing and limited sizes for pizzas reported by some guests
- A few service lapses when seated downstairs or during shifts
- Mixed quality on specific dishes (walleye fingers, Margherita, tomato soup)
- Billing/charge confusion and a reported 3% fee even when paying cash (isolated but notable)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$32-45 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For kids, choose cheese or pepperoni slices ($4.50-5.50) with fries
- Sharing apps like nachos ($13.95) control cost for groups
- Gyros ($15-18) offer a non-pizza main; choose chicken for milder flavor
Perfect For
- Pre-game meetups before hockey or concerts
- Casual group dinners with shareables
- Families who want easy, familiar food
- Solo slice-and-a-drink at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Arena-adjacent West 7th strip catering to pre/post-event crowds, casual and sports-focused.
Safety: Busy event nights with steady foot traffic; typical downtown safety profile, well-lit near venues.
Nearby: Directly by Xcel Energy Center; bars, casual eateries, hotels, and event venues nearby.
LowertownLowertown is known for its historic warehouse buildings converted into lofts, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. The dining scene is eclectic, featuring upscale eateries, casual bistros, and craft breweries, attracting a crowd interested in creative cuisine and a lively social atmosphere. The area is walkable, safe, and popular for both locals and tourists.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–00:00
Wednesday11:00–00:00
Thursday11:00–02:00
Friday11:00–02:00
Saturday12:00–02:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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