Cafe 99, tucked away at 1552 Como Ave in St. Paul, offers a refreshing escape from the typical Americanized Chinese dining experience. Patrons rave about its authentic flavors and commitment to quality ingredients. John David Crouch praises it as "the best Chinese food in MSP and MN," noting the freshness and cleanliness that shine through in every bite.
Rachael Witt highlights its unique offerings, such as bubble tea and special appetizers like pork and lamb pies, all set in a tranquil atmosphere perfect for conversations. The friendly staff continues to enhance the experience, making guests feel welcome and at home.
Lauren Alvarez emphasizes the softer tofu and adaptable spice levels in dishes, while Andrea Schneider appreciates the generous, family-style portions that ensure an enjoyable meal for groups. Gail Rousseau adds that the visually appealing, freshly prepared dishes promise delightful surprises, supported by attentive service in a tastefully furnished space.
With reasonable pricing for exceptional quality, Cafe 99 emerges as a must-visit destination for those seeking true Chinese cuisine in St. Paul. Every review reflects a heartfelt enthusiasm for this hidden gem, making it clear that a visit will delight your taste buds.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Offerings
Serves comfort food
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves dessert
Children
Good for kids
Photos
Reviews For Cafe 99
John David Crouch
Jun 10,2025
By far the best Chinese food in the MSP as well as MN. The food is fresh and you can tell that the cooking methods are clean and use the best ingredients (i.e. not cheap cooking oil). More to the point my wife and I took another couple there for dinner. This couple, though American, lived in China for a couple of decades....they too agreed that it's by far the best Chinese food in the Cities. Also...the staff is very friendly and nice.
Rachael Witt
Jun 9,2025
A hidden gem! This small Chinese restaurant is hard to see from the main road, but totally worth looking for! They have BUBBLE TEA and some very unique special appetizers that are delicious, like pork pie, lamb pie and a variety of dumplings! It has a wonderful quiet atmosphere, ideal for having conversations or meetings. It seemed very AUTHENTIC, healthy, and fresh.
Lauren Alvarez
May 17,2025
My go-to when we have people over from out of town. Everyone here is really friendly, and we've always liked that they use the softer, smoother, tofu for their dishes. Ask them specifically about spice levels of dishes, but I've yet to have one that was too spicy to eat, in a good way.
Andrea Schneider
Apr 30,2025
Definitely not the usual, totally Americanized dishes. Portions were large, served family style. I wish they had bowls of rice rather than the flat plates, but maybe I only had to ask. Will definitely do that next time, because we will be back to try more things. Service was fast and friendly.
Gail Rousseau
Apr 25,2025
The food was not only delicious but visually beautiful. Food was freshly prepared and delivered directly when done to the table. Servings were more than generous with some to take home. Staff was welcoming and attentive to patrons needs. The dining area is not loud even with most tables full for the evening. Furnishings were very tasteful. Pricing was reasonable for the quality of the meals. A recommended must.
Eric Powell
Apr 21,2025
I like the location, perfectly placed within walking distance from Hamline,University and not far from Alianz Field for United Games, food is reasonably priced,and quality was excellent, I had the Pad Thai and my friend had the Drunken Noodles and we shared egg rolls. Friendly staff was ready and eager to serve us quickly and our glasses were always filled with water promptly. Cleanliness was also excellent. I will definitely be frequenting this establishment. Eric P from Saint Paul
Paul McLagan
Mar 28,2025
Great authentic northern Chinese food. This place is one of the few places that will make authentic Chinese food. They had some jiaozi (dumplings) over Chinese New Year and they were the best I have had in a long time. The atmosphere is also very nice and there is a parking lot that seems to always seems to have room for all patrons that come here.
Nuoshi Yang
Mar 21,2025
The best Chinese restaurant in town! Cozy decoration inside and family serving style. Lots of authentic Chinese dishes you might never heard before. Have to try: Szechuan double cooked pork ( if you like spicy food), Eggplant home style, Chicken with cilantro and Mandarin beef with garlic. We shared these four dishes and everbody loved them! Definitely going back there to try more!
Reviews For Cafe 99