Andrew Lipinsky

WHERE’S WILLY? Mickey’s Diner by Willy, the sister to the well-known downtown St. Paul location, is conveniently situated a mere 6-minute drive from school and right across from Crosby Farm Regional Park.

Looking for a taste of nostalgia and a warm meal served with St. Paul charm? Mickey’s Diner by Willy checks off those boxes. Located at 1950 7th Street W, this local gem dates back to 1939 but just recently reopened its doors again. The diner has been serving great comfort food for decades now and has become a must for St. Paul locals. Walking into Mickey’s Diner by Willy feels like traveling back in time. The diner is designed to look like a railroad cart from the 1930s. Checkered floors give the space a vintage vibe, and the smells of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee invite you to stay a long while. Part of the diner’s charm is its simplicity. There’s no fancy decor, just a clean, friendly atmosphere that creates a warm and welcoming vibe.

Mickey’s Diner truly shines in its service. The waitstaff is friendly, attentive and caring about your experience. Whether a regular or a first-time visitor, customers are treated with the same level of warmth and hospitality.
The menu covers all the classic diner staples, and Mickey’s does them all exceptionally. For breakfast, they offer delicious pancakes and waffles, with amazing maple syrup and lots of butter. The bacon is delectable, the eggs are cooked to perfection, and the hash browns are super crispy and tasty.

For lunch or dinner, the burger is the best. It’s simple but done well: a juicy patty, fresh lettuce, tomato and cheese, all inside of a soft bun. The fries are also amazing, and the milkshakes are sweet and filling, with a variety of flavors to choose from.

For the top-tier food and large portion sizes, the prices are reasonable. Most meals fall within the $10-$20 range, while drinks are typically around $3-$5 dollars as well.

Mickey’s Diner is the kind of place that always delivers delicious meals, great service and a comforting atmosphere. Whether stopping in for a quick breakfast or a late lunch, customers will walk out with a big smile and a happy tummy.