Celebrate Mother’s Day at Keys Cafe & Bakery

This Mother’s Day, treat your mom to the comfort and joy of Keys Cafe’s home-style offerings. We’re all about making moms feel special on their day with delightful dishes and delightful surprises that will make her heart warm and her taste buds dance. Whether she fancies breakfast in bed or a family-friendly feast, we’ve got you covered!

Every mom deserves to be celebrated, and we’re making it happen! All moms who dine with us this Mother’s Day will receive a special gift as a token of appreciation from the Keys Cafe family. It’s our way of saying thank you to all the wonderful mothers who fill our lives with love and care.

Begin Mother’s Day with the ultimate indulgence – breakfast in bed, courtesy of Keys Cafe & Bakery. With our takeout options, you can easily serve up a scrumptious surprise without messing up the kitchen. Not an early bird? No worries! Our breakfast is served all day long, so you can enjoy our cozy comforts at your convenience.

Raise a toast to the most extraordinary woman in your life with our freshly-stocked mimosas. Whether you join us in the cafe or take them to go, these bubbly beverages are the perfect companion to our delectable dishes and are sure to make this Mother’s Day sparkle.

There’s something about comfort food that just feels like a warm hug, and that’s exactly what we’re serving up at Keys Cafe. From savory favorites to sweet treats, like our irresistible chocolate House Cake, we’re catering to every craving. Make mommy say “YUMMY” when you bring her the flavors she’s been dreaming of.

Whether you’re planning to dine in with us for a festive outing, bring the celebration home with our Take and Bake options, or enjoy our tasteful creations delivered right to your door via DoorDash, we’ve ensured there’s a way to make every mom smile this Mother’s Day weekend.

Whisk mom away to Keys Cafe for a Mother’s Day filled with joy, good eats, and cherished moments. Hint: she’ll love the thoughtfulness—and the food! Your mom’s special day is just around the corner, and Keys Cafe & Bakery can’t wait to help make it unforgettable.

Creating Extended Family Is In Keys Cafe’s DNA

If you are reading this while sitting at a Keys Cafe & Bakery take a moment to look around and notice the staff hard at work keeping your favorite family cafe running.

Also notice that as hectic as the job is, the staff generally is upbeat as they hustle through their shift. Keys is a nice place to work, after all, and many of the staff feel that all the connections they make working at Keys creates an extended family.

Why?

You could say it was baked into the Keys Cafe DNA from the beginning as the business was founded by a working mother 50 years ago. 

Barbara Hunn balanced raising four children and getting a fledgling business off the ground, intermingling the two as her children quickly learned the family business by helping when needed.

This means Barbara understood that the demands of a job versus life can force employees into difficult decisions that may include leaving the job, something Barbara wanted to avoid as she was building her restaurant family starting with employees. 

Her children have carried that same tradition on to the Keys Cafe locations they now own and manage with their own family or their extended restaurant family.

Opening in June in Stillwater, the newest Keys location will continue the tradition with a third-generation of the Hunn Family opening the location.

It may be that what makes Keys Cafes great restaurants for working mothers is understanding.

“We know the stresses that come with working and raising children because we’ve all done it ourselves and are still doing it now,” said Barbara’s daughter Jean, who manages the Roseville Keys Cafe along with her daughter Frankie.

LIke all Keys, Roseville has scores of regulars coming to the restaurant every day being greeted by staff excited to share what’s new in their lives.

There are even more scores of customers coming to a Keys Cafe & Bakery for the first time every day and most will leave thinking about how good the made-to-order meal they just had tasted and how they may try the chocolate cake for dessert when they come back.

At all Keys locations, there are scores of regulars coming to the restaurant every day being greeted by staff excited to share what’s new in their lives. And there are even more customers coming to a Keys Cafe & Bakery for the first time every day and most will leave thinking about how good the made-to-order meal they just had tasted and how they may try the chocolate cake for dessert when they come back.

Vote for Keys Cafe in the StarTribune’s “Best Of” Awards!

Keys Cafe has been nominated in the StarTribune’s renowned “Best Of” Awards for its exceptional services and delectable fare. This is an exciting recognition for a local institution that has long been a community hub, offering homely comfort and a haven for food lovers. With voting now open, it’s time for all of us, from loyal patrons to once-a-year customers, to come together and rally behind Keys Cafe.

There are various sections from Bakery to Cupcakes, Breakfast to Catering, and Minnesota-Made Food to Minneapolis or St. Paul Restaurant, there are so many different areas where you can help Keys get recognized! Here are all the categories we are nominated in:

• Bakery
• Breakfast
• Best Cinnamon/Caramel Roll
• Casual Dining
• Cupcakes
• Dessert
• Diner
• Brunch
• Cookies
• Family Friendly Restaurant
• Pancakes
• Best Sandwiches
• Saint Paul Restaurant

We encourage you to show your support by casting your vote for Keys in the “Best Of” Awards at the Vote Minnesota website. Your vote isn’t just a sign of appreciation; it’s also a testament to the unyielding quality and spirit that defines our favorite cafe. If you’ve ever dined with us or are a regular every day, we hope you were able to experience the family and community one finds at Keys Cafe.

Keys Cafe Serves Up a Slice of Pi Day Fun!

Keys Cafe recently marked Pi Day in the only possible way, and that was with a truly remarkable amount of made pies, and in the multitude of flavors that we’re known for. On this special day, dedicated to the mathematical constant we all know as Pi (π), Keys Cafe went above and beyond, creating an astonishing variety of pies to meet the high demand.

The challenge was not just in the baking but also in the storing of the high amount of orders. Given the enormous Pi Day order from one company, Keys rented a cooled trailer, ensuring every single pie was kept in perfect condition until it reached the company’s employees. That’s how you show company appreciation!

From the early hours and days leading up to Pi Day, the cafe was a hive of activity, with the team meticulously preparing, baking, and packaging pies. The commitment to quality and the enthusiasm of our bakers allows Pi Day to be a day for our staff to show their love and quality for their work.

For those who were lucky enough to taste these pies, it was an unforgettable experience. The day not only showcased the cafe’s dedication to their craft but also its ability to rise to the occasion, literally catering to the community’s needs with innovation and efficiency. This Pi Day at Keys Cafe highlighted what the cafe stands for – quality, community, and the customer experience! Look on our Facebook page to check out our posts about the day.

Keys Cafe Named Among Best Locations for Pie in Minnesota by Explore Minnesota

Keys Cafe is thrilled to announce it has been recognized as one of the best places to enjoy pie in Minnesota, according to the latest feature by Explore Minnesota. The esteemed designation highlights Keys Cafe’s commitment to serving up delicious, classic pies that have become a staple for bakery lovers throughout the Twin Cities.

In their feature, Explore Minnesota lauds Keys Cafe for its “classic takes on classic flavors,” emphasizing the affordability of their delicious offerings despite their high quality and popularity. With six convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, Keys Cafe has cemented itself as a go-to destination for those seeking comforting, homemade pies without the need to preheat their oven.

Keys Cafe takes pride in being recognized as one of the cornerstones of the Twin Cities bakery scene. Over the years, the cafe has become known not just for its exceptional pies, but also for its role as a mainstay in the community. The recognition from Explore Minnesota serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Keys Cafe team, who strive to meet the highest standards of quality and taste with each pie they bake.

At Keys Cafe, every pie is made with care, reflecting classic flavors that promise to delight customers through the summer, the holidays, and beyond. Come discover our renowned bakery and pies at any of our locations around the Twin Cities and beyond. All of the desserts you see when you come in are “made with care”  from the hands of one of our bakers. Join the family and stop by today!

Keys Cafe & Bakery Celebrates 50 Years Of Serving The Food You Grew Up With

Serving fresh, made-to-order dishes and made-from-scratch bakery items in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere has been the driving force behind 50 years of service at Keys Cafe.

On Nov. 1, 1973, Founder Barbara Hunn opened the doors to the first Keys Cafe on Raymond Avenue. Barbara, her family, and all of the Keys’ staff have been welcoming in diners as members of the family ever since.

Barbara and her extended family gathered in early October to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barbara opening that first Keys Cafe. Providing the Raymond Avenue community, and every one to come, a family restaurant serving quality made-to-order food, baked-that-day treats, and a familiar feeling of community that the staff provides for every customer that walks in.

Barbara can still be found working shifts several days a week at the Raymond Avenue location where she helps her grandson Grant, who now manages the location. But beyond that, she also keeps a regular schedule at several other locations where she still makes the delicious soup customers order on the regular.

And beyond Raymond, every Keys Cafe you enter is owned and operated by a member of Barbara’s family. So when she walks in to make her special soup or work a shift, she’ll be right alongside one of her children or grandchildren keeping on the family tradition she started.

During the 50th anniversary celebration at the North End Event Center on the State Fairgrounds, all four of Barbara’s children were on stage with her to celebrate with 500 or more members of the extended Keys family the enduring success and legacy of Keys.

Barbara spoke to the crowd saying, “I am so blessed and it is all because of all of you,” she said sweeping her hand across the event center. “I could not have done it alone, thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”

Customers, employees of the present and past, as well as vendors, friends, and family members not working directly in the family business, filled up the hall. While enjoying the buffet, the famous Keys Cafe Chocolate Cake, and catching up with people they may see every day or haven’t seen in years, everyone was able to celebrate what Keys has meant to them and their communities.

It was a Keys Family Reunion.

50 years in, the Hunn family isn’t slowing down, having announced earlier this month that Keys Cafe will open another Keys location in Stillwater in early 2024. Bringing the number of restaurants owned-and-operated by the Hunn family up to nine(!) across the east metro area.

Barbara’s son Roy and his wife Amy will own the new Stillwater location, and of course, one of their daughters will manage it. She learned the family business working with her parents at the Hudson Keys Cafe. Showing once again that Keys is truly a family tradition that will keep living on.

The new Stillwater Keys plans to provide a warm, comfortable and relaxed environment. Where staff and customers share moments building friendships around ‘The Food You Grew Up With.’ But if you’ve been to any of its eight predecessors, you wouldn’t have had any reason to expect otherwise.

Hudson Star Observer Shines a Light on Beloved Hudson Keys Cafe

One of the keys to the cafe’s success is its loyal customer base. Like the Star Observer writes, Keys Cafe attracts a multitude of regulars who are drawn by the excellent food, cozy ambiance, and friendly service. The restaurant’s ability to foster such a devoted clientele speaks volumes about its role as a local hub.

Moreover, Keys Cafe extends its impact beyond just serving delicious meals. The article underscores Keys’ notable charitable efforts. The annual golf tournament is one such anticipated event, raising funds for the community. This year, the funds will be provided to a nominated individual, who you can look to nominate HERE.

You can read the full article here to discover the spirit and hospitality that makes Keys Cafe a distinct and cherished fixture in the places they call home.

Keys Cafe Unlocks its Doors on DriveTime with DeRusha

Dive into the heart of Keys Cafe on the latest episode of Drive Time with Derusha! The Hunn family throws open their doors, inviting listeners to experience their journey from humble beginnings to beloved community hub.

Host Jason DeRusha pulls up a chair and gets cozy with Barbara Hunn, the matriarch of Keys Cafe, and her family. They share candid stories about the joys and challenges of working together, the secret sauce behind their multi-location success, and the sweet evolution of their renowned bakery and on-the-go options.

Laughter and warmth fill the air as the Hunns weave their tales, capturing the essence of a Keys Cafe experience. Just like their signature pies, their charm spills over onto the podcast, leaving listeners feeling as welcome as regulars. And true to their generous spirit, they even brought in a feast to share with the entire crew!

Tune in for a heartwarming journey through the Hunns’ story, filled with lessons on family, community, and the power of a good cup of coffee. You’ll hear their passion for serving their customers and becoming woven into the fabric of their lives. And don’t miss Barbara’s poignant answer to Jason’s question, “What are you most proud of?” Prepare to be touched by her response, a testament to the heart and soul that makes Keys Cafe more than just a restaurant.

Keys Cafe’s Hot Turkey Sandwich Featured in MSPmag.com

St. Louis Park, MN – November 21, 2023 – Keys Cafe is proud to announce that its iconic Hot Turkey Sandwich has been featured in a recent article on MSPmag.com, a leading Twin Cities lifestyle and entertainment website.

The article, titled “Deconstructed: Keys Cafe Hot Turkey Sandwich,” delves into the history and culinary details of this beloved dish, which has been a staple on Keys Cafe’s menu for over 50 years.

The article highlights the sandwich’s slow-roasted turkey, whose drippings are purposefully caught to make the gravy, served on a toasted bun. It also mentions Keys Cafe’s Thanksgiving To Go service, which offers full Thanksgiving meals for six for $159.

Dara Moskowitz Grumdahl, the author of the article, has won 5 James Beard awards. She points out that Keys cafe has “built a half-century of success,” and that its hot turkey sandwich is a staple of that success.

To read the full article on MSPmag.com, please visit: https://mspmag.com/eat-and-drink/deconstructed-keys-cafe-hot-turkey-sandwich/

Travel Website Endorses Keys Cafe’s Home-Cooked Meals

OnlyInYourState has recognized Keys Cafe & Bakery as the place to go when you’re craving a tasty, home-cooked meal.

No matter the location, the domestic travel website says “You’ll always find your breakfast favorites” that so many people swear by “for its hearty and delicious breakfasts.”

Beyond just breakfast, however, “Keys also serves up some great lunch and dinner options,” and not stopping there, “make sure you grab some dessert!”

Our made-from-scratch bakery at every location has something fresh for you waiting every day. And no matter the location, our welcoming staff is eager to give you a great meal.

OnlyInYourState is a team of travel writers who strive to help their readers discover the best things to do, both popular and undiscovered, in each of the 50 states.

Keys Cafe Continues Offering Pre-Cooked Family Style Thanksgiving Dinner For Six

Keys Cafe locations will again offer pre-made Family Style Thanksgiving Turkey Dinners for pickup on Thanksgiving Day.

A limited number of these family-style dinners are available so call ahead to your favored Keys location as these dinners have historically been reserved quickly.

The Family-Style Thanksgiving turkey dinner for six includes: Roasted Turkey, Mashed potatoes, Bread Dressing, Corn, Sweet Potatoes, Cranberries, Bread and Butter, and Pumpkin Pie.

Extra side orders are available at an added cost.

Contacting your location is the first step to reserving your dinner and scheduling a pickup time.

You can find contact info for all of our locations at keyscafe.com:

— Roseville

— Woodbury

— Robert Street

— St Paul Raymond

— Hudson

— Foshay

— Whitebear

— Forest Lake

Keys Cafe Continues Tradition Of Adding Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner To Its Menu

Thanksgiving is coming, and if you want Keys Cafe to be a part of it, we’d love to be able to serve you.

Keys Cafe always serves a famous Turkey Dinner on its menu but again this year select locations will add a Special Thanksgiving turkey dinner to the menu on Thanksgiving Day.

The single Thanksgiving turkey dinner for six is available at select Keys for $26.99 and includes: Roasted Turkey, Mashed potatoes, Bread Dressing, Corn, Sweet Potatoes, Cranberries, Bread and Butter, and Pumpkin Pie.

The dinner is available for sit-down service or for take home at Keys locations open that day.

No pre-orders for single dinners or reservations are accepted on Thanksgiving Day.

These locations are open Thanksgiving Day:

— Roseville 7:30-2

— Woodbury 8-2

— Robert Street 8-1:30

— St Paul Raymond 8-2

— Hudson 8-2

These locations are closed Thanksgiving:

— Foshay

— White Bear Lake

— Forest Lake

We look forward to seeing you on Thanksgiving!

It’s a Record!

Keys Cafe’s Charity Fund Golf Classic broke their own record and raised $72,412.23 for Christopher to receive life-changing support.

Jean Hunn, event coordinator,  said she wanted to “express our gratitude to everyone who came together on June 12th” in support of 9-year-old Christopher.

Melissa Schlemmer, Christopher’s mom, said “Our family can’t thank everyone enough” for helping Christopher. The family will now have the ability to help him so much more. “We are beyond thankful for everyone involved in making the event a success,” she said.

Next year will mark the event’s 20th anniversary and Hunn said “we are looking to make it the most exciting yet!”

Next year’s Charity Golf Tournament will be June 10, 2024 at Southview Country Club.

Keys Cafe & Bakery was founded by Minnesota Restaurant Hall of Fame Inductee Barbara Hunn in the early 1970s and operates family restaurants in eight Twin Cities communities still serving her original recipes:

• Keys Forest Lake
• Keys Minneapolis
• Keys Roseville
• Keys St. Paul, Raymond Street
• Keys St. Paul, Robert Street
• Keys White Bear Lake
• Keys Woodbury
• Keys Hudson, WI

Army Vet, Foodie highlights Keys Restaurant on Kare 11

Kreskin Torres is an Army Veteran, rideshare driver, and a notable “foodie” who travels across the country looking for ways to meet interesting people and try wonderful food and share his stories on Instagram.

Torres told Kare 11 that during his travels across the country as a rideshare driver he was looking for ways to connect with people from “all walks of life.” Torres said a good way to interact and learn about them is to talk about food and restaurants. “Strangers I don’t even know (say) ‘you need a place to stay? Come on over for a barbecue.’” Torres told Kare.

Recently he traveled to Minnesota looking for chili and cinnamon rolls. This led him to Keys Cafe in Roseville. He told Kare 11 “it’s all about showcasing every state’s hidden gems – and people – right in their own backyards.”

Read the story on Kare 11

Keys Cafe & Bakery was founded by Minnesota Restaurant Hall of Fame Inductee Barbara Hunn in the early 1970s and operates family restaurants in eight Twin Cities communities still serving her original recipes:

• Keys Forest Lake
• Keys Minneapolis
• Keys Roseville
• Keys St. Paul, Raymond Street
• Keys St. Paul, Robert Street
• Keys White Bear Lake
• Keys Woodbury
• Keys Hudson, WI