Nestled on the ground floor of the Laurel Apartment building in St. Paul sits the quaint, English-pub-like restaurant, Gus Gus. When you walk into the restaurant, you’ll notice the beautiful wood bar, dark blue walls, and the yummy aromas of Kevin Manley’s creative dishes.
Whether you’re looking for small plates, a filling entrée, or some delicious drinks, you’ll notice a mix of standard American dishes and creative bistro flair. I came with my friend, but as we looked around, we noticed groups of friends, family gatherings, and residents enjoying their company and their meal.
My Restaurant Review at Gus Gus
We were immediately welcomed by friendly staff, greeted with hellos from the locals, and seated at a table in the center of the restaurant’s front dining area. We immediately ordered some signature cocktails – an Old-Fashioned and a Spritz Salato, a combination of fino sherry, amaro Montenegro, lemon, and club soda. Then we had homemade Jell-O shots, because why not?! They were yummy!
Gus Gus Appetizers
With great conversation, loads of laughter, and a great atmosphere, we ordered some scrumptious appetizers. I had the chips with speck, crème fraiche and smoked salt. I added the caviar because it sounded delish, and it was! The mixture of salt, crunch, and the sweetness of the crème fraiche was perfect!
Gus Gus Entrees
We stuffed our faces, a pub Cheeseburger for my friend, accompanied by yummy fries and mustard aioli. I had the scallops with lemon risotto and fennel salad. Now I love lemon, and this was lemony enough for me to feel satisfied, but I can see where some people might find it too much. At every last morsel of our meal, I can honestly say this was some of the best food I have had this year.
Dessert at Gus Gus
I was too full to enjoy dessert, but the next time I go, I have to try the bruleéd buttermilk pie, which looked delectable and I saw other patrons enjoying.
What to know before visiting the Gus Gus Restaurant
How is the parking?
Parking is limited because it’s across the street from St. Thomas’s north St. Paul campus. There are local parking garages and six designated parking spots in the restaurant’s parking lot, but given the area, parking can be tight.
Should you make a reservation?
My friend and I went on a Tuesday night, and it was packed, so I would recommend making a reservation, as space within the restaurant and parking are limited.
I’m a picky eater, could I find something at Gus Gus?
Yes, you can find something to eat at Gus Gus, but don’t forget to try something new! There are the standard Cheeseburgers, and then there are some standard appetizers you can enjoy. The staff is extremely welcoming, and if you have any food allergies or concerns about certain ingredients, they are great at finding solutions to ensure you can enjoy your experience.
Would you go to Gus Gus again?
I would go to Gus Gus again! I’d order all new things because the menu is filled with dishes I’d love to try.
What other Minnesota restaurants do you recommend trying?
If you think Gus Gus looks like a restaurant you’d love to try, I’d recommend others like Owamni by the Sioux Chef, Dexter’s, or Diane’s Place – all are delicious, offer unique cuisines, and have options for everyone to enjoy!
Let me know what you think of Gus Gus and what other restaurants you recommend I try. I always love trying new places and look forward to discovering some new restaurants in the coming months. Thank you for reading!