Keys Cafe and Bakery White Bear Lake

It all began on one fateful Saturday morning in September. My friend and I were heading to Pine Tree Apple Orchard and were on the hunt for a great place to stop for breakfast along the way. We’ve both always loved breakfast, but rarely went out to restaurants for it. Honestly, we didn’t have any idea that this would be the beginning of a (glorious) weekly tradition.

Located just ten minutes from my Shoreview apartment, Keys Cafe is in the quaint downtown area of White Bear Lake. The lil lampposts, boutiques, and precious street signs were, well, precious. When we walked into the cafe, we immediately realized that we were complete outsiders. The entry was rather packed, and all of the occupants seemed to be in on the secret to getting a table. A pleasant stranger recognized our confusion and kindly instructed us to handwrite our names on a small scrap of paper in order to get on the waiting list. Thank you, beaming Roseanne lookalike.

After about a 15 minute wait, we were escorted to a small table along a wall filled with unique, for-sale art. Our coffee came promptly, and I of course then promptly drank a whole cup as I perused the menu, which was packed with incredible options from classic breakfasts, unique pancakes, an endless list of omelets, and even more. As the crazy health nut (and egg and breakfast meat hater) that I am, I almost always opt for the oatmeal or yogurt/granola option.

On this morning, I chose the oatmeal and my meal partner selected chicken fried steak. Both of our meals were delicious! I may have been overwhelmed by the fact that I haven’t had oatmeal at a restaurant in a really long time, but my brown sugared, walnuted oatmeal was steamy, creamy, and delectable.

Our whole experience at Keys was a great one. Though the coffee could have been better and the wait time may have been shorter, we enjoyed the small town feel, incredible menu selection, and smiley service. This morning was just the beginning – a first great breakfast unleashed months of fantastic weekends of lovely, delicious experiences.

The Ratings: 
Coffee Quality: 6
Food Quality: 8
Quality of Service: 7
Cost: 8
Menu Variety: 7
Overall Satisfaction: 9
Parking: Street and lots available
Average Score: 7.5

Have you been to Keys Cafe White Bear Lake? Share your experience with me below!
OR…want to experience Keys Cafe White Bear Lake for yourself?
Check out their website or pop their address into your smartphone:
Keys Cafe White Bear Lake
2208 4th Street
White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Keys Photo Credit