The Headwaters Cafe in Saint Paul RiverCentre seems to be a well kept secret from out-of-town visitors. It’s located on the lobby level tucked down a side hallway as you walk the skywalk/tunnel system that connects the St. Paul Hotel, the Intercontinental, the Xcel Energy Center and the RiverCentre or you can enter from W Kellogg Blvd.  When you find it, you’ll be glad you did. No hot dogs or popcorn here. The food offerings are totally amazing because they are not your average arena/convention center food. Talking real food – fresh made soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, entrees and good coffees. It can be very busy at lunch hour, popular with the locals, but it is efficiently run. You order at the counter and when your food is ready, they call your number and you come pick it up. Prices are good value.

Their tomato basil soup is one of the best versions ever. Pair the soup with their Signature Rosemary Chicken Salad on a whole wheat wrap (or the croissant is usually comes on). The pecans, dried cranberry, apple, shallots and a light touch of rosemary blended in provided nice texture. The modern decor of polished wood, stainless and black trim give the dining area an industrial feel that is spacious and filled with light from the large floor to ceiling windows. They also serve breakfast and for evening events there is a bar serving beer, wine, cocktails and tasty appetizers. Hours vary based on events going on in the complex, so check their web site. If you are attending an event at the Xcel Energy Center, eat here before entering the arena.