Nestled on MN-61 in Grand Marais, South of the Border Cafe embodies the charm of a small-town diner with an inviting, homey atmosphere. Diners consistently rave about the warm service and generous portions, making this a beloved spot for residents and visitors alike. The menu presents classic American fare, from satisfying burgers and club sandwiches to hearty omelettes and creamy soups. Recent reviews highlight the extensive breakfast offerings, particularly the omelettes paired with crispy hash browns, where patrons like BW and Elizabeth praised their comfort and flavor. Diners appreciate the genuine hospitality, with many noting the attentive staff, such as Lauren and Aspen, who enhance the overall experience with their smiles and friendliness. Gwen Miller Chapman’s experience with the herring fish standout speaks volumes; it’s a testament to the cafe’s dedication to quality, even for those coming from culinary hotspots like Louisiana. Despite its humble cash-only policy, the cafe’s charm and delicious dishes make it a must-visit. Whether you're seeking a nostalgic breakfast or simply a taste of community spirit, South of the Border Cafe invites you to relish every bite while basking in the warmth of small-town hospitality.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Cash only
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For South of the Border Cafe
BW
Jun 1,2025
Great little small-town diner! We've been to Grand Marais many times and never even knew this place was here, but we'll add it to our "must-stop" list for future visits. We had breakfast omelettes with hash browns...delicious. Ample portions. Our server was Aspen and she was great.
Gwen Miller Chapman
May 9,2025
Great diner. Extremely friend staff with warm kind service. Food was absolutely incredible. I had the fish (Herring) , eggs, fried potatoes, and toast (pancake). Some of the best fried fish I've ever had and I've had a lot being from Louisiana. First place I visited after we moved were and I can say, we definitely felt welcome. For sure a must if you're looking for peak diner food with one of a kind small town hospitality.
Elizabeth
Mar 30,2025
A small, homey-feeling cafe with great food! It was quiet on a weekday morning & the staff greeted me as soon as I entered the establishment. Gives off the feel of eating breakfast at home on a Saturday morning. The potatoes with cheese & onions were 10/10. Cash or check only, so make sure you have either on hand (otherwise the Holiday Station directly across the street has an ATM). Highly recommend this charming little cafe!
Michelle
Mar 14,2025
The best part of this experience was our waitress Lauren. She was all smiles and attentive. Thank you for making our first experience stellar!
Dj Antonacci
Mar 11,2025
I ordered food here on a Sunday at about 0645 on Fathers Day 6/18/23. I ordered the meat omelette with fried potatoes, onion, and cheese, with an order of bacon and sausage. The food is a little pricey for what I’m used to, but it was delicious. I would eat here again if I was in the area.
Missy Gaul
Feb 26,2025
Great breakfast! I had breakfast at this cozy cafe before taking off on a hiking trip. Service was great, food was great. Bacon was perfectly crispy. Cash only.
Kayla Brantner
Feb 17,2025
Delicious food and welcoming atmosphere! Waitress was so kind and offered excellent service! Prices were cheap, but food did not disappoint!! Definitely will be back :)
Audrey Lord
Feb 5,2025
We shared an omlette with pancake and the grilled ham and cheese sandwich with fries. All was very good! Disappointed within the 35 min wait to get seated at 10am but it's the fault of an overreaching bureaucracy forcing them to close most of the inside seating.
Reviews For South of the Border Cafe