Notes:

XQJ7+CP Minneapolis, Minnesota

This small 14-seat (smallest in the city, reportedly, at only 3 m wide) Dinkytown eatery is a local institution. Originally a sheet metal and plumbing storage shed for an adjacent hardware store, it was then rented out to various tenants. It was a Hunky Dory hamburger stand when it was taken over by Al Bergstrom in 1950, who had previous worked the Minnesota State Fair cafeteria. Al passed it to his nephew Phil in 1973-74, who sold it to Doug Grina and Jim Brandes c. 1980. Brandes sold his stake in 2016 to Alison Kirwin.

First-come, first-serve, no credit cards. Patrons will often have to stand in line against the back wall while waiting for a stool to open up, and those seated may be asked to move down to make more room for arriving patrons. However, the diner can also be booked for private parties.

Links:

• Al's Breakfast (Facebook)
• Al's Breakfast (Wikipedia)