Al’s defines hole in the wall. I passed this establishment numerous times before visiting, not even knowing it was there. The restaurant sits about 13 people total at a bar, with barely enough walking room behind you to hang your coat. The wait staff is quick and smart-mouthed. A bottomless cup of coffee is a must as they are only open for breakfast, starting bright and early. The lines go out the door as patrons are willing to brave the cold for a buckwheat pancake, seasonal omelette, or perfectly crispy hash browns.

Prices are low, and the down-to-home ambiance cannot be beat. The place can get a little loud, but you cant help cracking a smile as your order of a blueberry pancake and a sunny-side-up egg is translated into diner-speak as the chefs, whose stove top defines multitasking, replies confirmation of your order in equally cryptic diner jargon. A Minneapolis exclusive not to be missed.

Al’s is awesome, hands down. When I was an undergrad four of my friends and I would go there at 6 a.m. because that was the only time there would be enough seats for all of us. Hmm, those days might be gone, but the blueberry pancakes are still delicious. Every once in a while I try something different, and that something is usually a seasonal omelette. The ambiance can’t be beat!

Even though I currently reside in Santa Monica, I still crave Al’s Breakfast. Nothing here comes close. The crispy hashbrowns, the fresh basil and feta omelet, the buckwheat blueberry pancakes, and best of all, the personality at the counter. Yes, it is tiny, crowded, and often noisy, but it is lively, homey, and worth the wait. Nothing beats a crossword and a cup of coffee at Al’s.