In Minnesota, old-school eateries are increasingly scarce, often supplanted by franchises and chains – but there’s one classic deli in St. Paul that’s been going strong since 1946. At Cecil’s Deli and Bakery, you can still pop in for one of the best sandwiches you’ll find in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, then take a pound of pastrami and some potato salad home with you.

Cecil’s Deli and Bakery has been a stalwart of St. Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood for more than 75 years.
Tim Dennis/Google
In addition to its deli and bakery counters, it also has a restaurant area where you can sample its mouthwatering wares before you take some home with you.
Vitali L/Google
It’s one of the few places in St. Paul where you can still find deli classics like matzoh ball soup.
Nicholas Popehn/Google
Although the deli serves up burgers and chicken sandwiches, as well as snappy hot dogs, it’s really the deli sandwiches (and sides!) that are the stars of the show at Cecil’s.
Eric Keeley/Google
We would argue that Cecil’s serves the best Reuben sandwiches in the state.
itchesbtrippin/Google

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Wash down your meal with one of the massive milkshakes - they even come with the can, just like the old days.
Alisa Berndt/Google
Once you’ve eaten, take some to explore the deli and market.
McCallion Stark/Google
Do it after, because it’s never wise to shop on an empty stomach.
Cecil’s has a tremendous selection of deli meats that the friendly counter staff will slice to order.
McCallion Stark/Google
Check the sign to see what else is available in the deli while you’re there.
Vitali L/Google
After you’ve perused the shelves and browsed the coolers, making sure you have everything you want, head to the bakery case.
BAYOWORLD/Google
Grab some fresh-baked bread, or choose something from the desserts and pastries - in case you need to satisfy a sweet tooth after you get home.

Visit Cecil’s website to take a look at the menu, see its hours, or to order takeout. After your visit to Cecil’s, stretch your legs at nearby Crosby Farm Regional Park, where you can walk the trails along the Mississippi River.

Have you visited Cecil’s Deli and Bakery? What are some other old-school eateries in Minnesota that still do things the same way after years – or decades – in business?

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Cecil's, 651 Cleveland Ave S, St Paul, MN 55116, USA