tastes like memories
In the heart of Saint Paul, at the corner of Fifth and St. Peter streets, a building has witnessed the evolution of the Twin Cities for more than a century. This historic corner has been home to the St. Paul Hotel since 1910, and its dining room continues to be a beacon of elegance downtown.
The Nankin Cafe was a downtown Minneapolis landmark for over 80 years. Founder Walter James opened the Chinese restaurant at 14 South Seventh Street in 1919. Several downtown diners wondered if Minneapolis could support two Chinese restaurants. John’s Place was the first, opening in 1903, but the Nankin offered new dishes and a different atmosphere. As it turned out, the city supported both eateries for over 50 years.