"Brunson’s is a stellar neighborhood bar in St. Paul’s Payne-Phalen neighborhood. Named for Benjamin Brunson, a land surveyor who built what’s believed to be the oldest standing brick house in St. Paul near Payne Avenue, the pub is owned Thomas and Molly LaFleche, who met working in the local industry. Chef Torrance Beavers adapts the menus seasonally, but it’s a great stop for quality bar food — think loaded fries, wedge salads, hefty braised beef sandwiches, and burgers. (The No Payne No Gain burger, stacked with pulled bacon, blue cheese, and blackberry Vidalia jam, is a solid bet.) Brunson’s patio is a hidden gem in the warmer months, too." - Justine Jones