Putting this together is on my 2026 list of to-dos, so just a heads up: this is still very much a work in progress!

Bread stops for St. Paul (so far) are bulleted below. I've been to a few - others have been on a mental list to try for a while and will be new to me.

I tried to create a full loop that includes quite a bit of the city, but realized after I looked at the route on a map that there isn't any east side representation at all. Maybe you have suggestions...? I know there must be some delectable hidden gems I'm missing!

My personal game plan is to ask which bread these places recommend FIRST - if not (or if you have specific types you prefer), I'm going to default to the most-mentioned bread in reviews (or my own top choice).

• Don Panchos Bakery- Had I NOT limited this tour to bread, I'd probably get one of everything. Since I am trying to focus on bread, will probably sample some bolillos unless they suggest another option.

• Brake Bread - This is a bread BUS which is wonderful and mind-blowing in all the right ways. I'll be getting whatever is on their menu that day.

• Cecil’s Bakery - All about that marble rye.

• Finnish Bistro - If you know it, clap it out with me... swe-dish lim-pa 👏-👏-👏👏👏

• Razava Bread Co. - Just put it ALL in my bread bag.

• Trung Nam French Bakery - Come for the bahn mi, stay for the croissants.

• ZAO Bakery and Cafe - I haven't been here before and I'm very excited to try it ALL, but the breads (like the mung bean sesame ball) are going to be my singular focus this trip.

• Last stop takes us back to Cesar Chavez St. for a meal at El Burrito Mercado.

I'm even LESS familiar with Minneapolis' bread scene so, again, I'd love suggestions for this. Drop 'em in the comments if you got 'em.