If you’ve lived in the Twin Cities for more than a minute, you know that the corner of Selby and Western in St. Paul is basically hallowed ground for diners. For decades, it was the site of W.A. Frost’s neighbor, the legendary Sweeney’s, or more recently, the gastropub transformation that brought us The Gnome Craft Pub on Selby Avenue in Saint Paul MN. But honestly, it’s not just about the location. It’s about that specific brand of Cathedral Hill energy that you can’t really find anywhere else in the Midwest.
Walk in. You’ll see the wood. Lots of it. It feels like a high-end hunting lodge where nobody is actually going to make you go outside and hunt anything.
What’s the Deal with the 60 Taps?
Most places brag about having a "large selection" of beer. The Gnome actually backs it up with a 60-tap system that can be genuinely overwhelming if you haven't had your coffee yet. It’s a curated list. They aren't just throwing 60 random domestics on the wall to fill space. You're looking at a rotating selection that highlights local heavyweights like Barrel Theory or BlackStack, mixed with hard-to-find Belgian imports.
The draft list changes fast. If you see a specific seasonal sour or a limited-run double IPA, buy it. It probably won't be there next Tuesday. That’s the thing about the craft beer scene in the 2020s—it’s fleeting. The Gnome acts as a sort of gatekeeper for the best of what’s brewing in Minnesota and beyond. It’s a lot to take in.
People often ask if it’s too "beer-snobby." Nah. The staff usually knows their stuff well enough to guide you toward something you’ll actually like, rather than just the most expensive pour on the list. If you want a light lager, they’ll find you a craft version that actually tastes like something. If you want a stout that tastes like a campfire breakfast, they have that too.
The Patio Situation (and why it matters)
Let’s talk about the patio. In Saint Paul, patio season is a competitive sport. The Gnome has what many consider one of the best outdoor spaces in the entire city. It’s multi-leveled. It has a massive stone fireplace. It feels tucked away from the street noise of Selby Avenue, even though you’re right in the thick of it.
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Sitting out there in October with the fire going is basically the peak Minnesota experience. It’s cozy. It’s sort of magical, actually.
The transition from the old "Gnome Away from Home" days to the current iteration under its current ownership (shout out to the Hope Breakfast Bar crew for the revitalized vision) brought a much-needed polish to the space. It’s cleaner. It’s more intentional. The vibe is less "basement bar" and more "neighborhood centerpiece."
Not Just a Burger Joint
You’d expect a pub to have a decent burger, and they do. The "Gnome Burger" is a staple. But the menu goes weirdly deep into things you wouldn’t expect. We're talking about duck fat fries that are addictive enough to be dangerous. We’re talking about bison tartare and massive, shareable "board" meals.
- The Charcuterie: They don't just slap some Oscar Mayer on a plate. It's thoughtful.
- The Pretzels: Giant. Salty. Necessary.
- The Poutine: It’s a heavy lift, but if it’s below 30 degrees outside, it’s mandatory.
The kitchen doesn't seem content with just being "pub food." There's a level of technique there—braised meats, house-made sauces, and a weirdly great brunch—that elevates it. Honestly, the brunch is the sleeper hit. Everyone thinks of this place for a late-night pint, but showing up at 11:00 AM for some savory waffles is a pro move.
Navigating the Selby Avenue Vibe
Parking on Selby is a nightmare. Let’s just be real about that for a second. If you’re heading to The Gnome Craft Pub on Selby Avenue in Saint Paul MN, don't expect to park right in front of the door. You’re going to be circling the side streets near Dale or Maiden Lane. It’s part of the tax you pay for hanging out in one of the most beautiful historic neighborhoods in the country.
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The neighborhood is old-school. You’ve got the University Club nearby, the St. Paul Cathedral looming over the hill, and a bunch of Victorian mansions that make you wonder what you’re doing with your life. The Gnome fits into this by being the "living room" of the area. You’ll see people in suits, people in Vikings jerseys, and people who look like they haven't left the neighborhood since 1994.
It’s a mix. That’s why it works.
Myths and Misconceptions
One thing people get wrong is thinking The Gnome is just a replacement for what was there before. It’s its own beast. While it honors the "Gnome" name that has been associated with this spot for years, the current iteration is much more focused on the culinary side of things.
Another misconception? That it’s only for beer drinkers. Their cocktail program is surprisingly robust. They do the classics—Old Fashioneds, Manhattans—but they also play around with seasonal infusions. If you’re not a "hop head," you won't feel left out. The wine list is small but functional. It covers the bases.
Why It Still Matters in 2026
The restaurant industry is tough. Like, really tough. We've seen so many spots in St. Paul close their doors over the last few years because they couldn't find their footing. The Gnome stays relevant because it understands the balance between "high-end" and "accessible." You can go there for a $100 date night or a $20 burger and a beer.
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It’s consistent. That’s the word. In a world where everything feels like it’s getting more expensive and less reliable, finding a spot that hits the same marks every time is rare.
Making the Most of Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip, here is how you actually do it right. Don't just show up on a Saturday night at 7:00 PM and expect a table for six immediately. This is a popular spot.
- Check the Tap List Online: They usually keep it updated on apps like Untappd. Look before you go so you aren't staring at the wall for ten minutes.
- Target the "In-Between" Hours: 3:00 PM on a weekday is the sweet spot. You get the best service and your pick of the seating.
- The Fireplace is Key: If it's cold, fight for a spot near the outdoor fireplace. It’s the best seat in the house.
- Ask About the Specials: The kitchen likes to experiment. Sometimes the best thing on the menu isn't actually on the menu.
The Gnome Craft Pub on Selby Avenue in Saint Paul MN represents a specific slice of Twin Cities culture. It’s sturdy. It’s refined but not pretentious. It’s exactly what a neighborhood pub should be in 2026.
Whether you're there for the rare Belgian quadrupel or just a plate of fries after a long day, it delivers. It feels like St. Paul. And honestly, that's the best compliment you can give a place on Selby.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're ready to check out The Gnome, start by downloading the Untappd app to see what’s currently on their 60-tap rotation—it changes more often than you’d think. If you’re aiming for a weekend visit, try to arrive before the 6:00 PM rush or consider a weekday "early bird" dinner to snag a prime spot by the outdoor fireplace. Finally, make sure to budget an extra ten minutes for parking; the residential streets around Selby and Western are charming but notoriously tight, so a little patience goes a long way.