The Ole Store

This place doesn't honor its reservations; apparently it's too difficult to write in a notebook. Our reservations have been completely messed up three times. Since there are only a few comfortable chairs in the restaurant, if they are taken you'll leave with sciatica. Service is uneven; sometimes we have had a good wait person; other times they act like they could not care less about you. The food is hit or miss too. We've been served burned food and have had to wait quite a long time for the food in the first place. I used to love this place; now I will not go back. more

Located at the base of St. Olaf College on St. Olaf Avenue, the Ole Store is a local institution dating back to 1889. After years of neglect, the new owners have trade kitsch for class in their 2005 renovation. \r \r Now featuring a coffee house, deli and wine bar in addition to the restaurant, the Ole Store is now the perfect place for a business lunch, a beautiful dinner or a special event. With over 40 wines by the bottle and 31 by the glass, the Ole Store focuses on wine that offer exceptional value from around the world. And with half price bottles and 40% of wine by the glass every Monday & Tuesday, it is the perfect place for experienced and novice wine drinkers to come together and try some outstanding wines.\r \r Most importantly, the Ole Store offers exceptional service with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere while providing a menu that echoes the best of the American Bistro Monday through Saturday for Lunch and Dinner with excellent weekend breakfast.\r \r The Coffee House & Deli retains all the original charm of the 116 year old general store - tin ceiling, 117 year-old maple floors while offering house made baked good, fresh fruit, salads, sandwiches, specialty coffee and of course free store wide high speed Internet access.\r \r The Ole Store was not the first wine bar and bistro in the area but it offers the best combination of exceptional food, service and value for local guest, Twin Cities visitors and those looking for special occasion space from 40 - 150 guests. Pros: Beautiful decore, relaxed friendly service, a varied menu with no fried food! Cons: A bit loud on a busy night in room with booths. more