The Twin Cities Tour de Bread

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.