Blondie's Cafe

Blondies Café is the restaurant version of a chick flick. When I visited, the estrogen buzz was palpable (Men, take note: It shouldn’t stop you from making a visit). Mothers and daughters pored over wedding planners. Girlfriends and coworkers noshed and gabbed. Since the place was hopping, dessert seemed ideal while we waited for lunch. Despite dithering over a three-inch-thick slice of carrot cake or a lemon bar, I couldn’t pass up the ubiquitous blondie ($1.75), oozing with butterscotch and crammed with chunks of chocolate. (Suffice it to say, this is a good place to eat dessert first, last, or anytime.)

A turkey sandwich with bacon and avocado ($6.50) and slathered with mayo hit every spot while a salad tossed with apples, goat cheese, and walnuts provided the proper blend of sin and mixed greens. My only regret was missing out on the grilled cheese sandwich with caramelized apples that the woman at the table next to me oohed and aahed her way through. I’ll go back for it. In fact, I’ll bring my mom when she’s in town. 

454 Snelling Ave. S., St. Paul, 651-204-0152, blondiescafe.com