Going out to grab lunch can be a hassle, and not to mention it can also be expensive to do that. If you are looking to change up your lunch routine here in Central Minnesota, I've got 5 places that you might want to try, and each place offers up some real value in terms of portions, price, or simply the product offered. Here are 5 "affordable" places to grab lunch in the St. Cloud area.

More Than Just A Fish Sandwich For Lunch

When I was putting this list together, I used Yelp as well as some places I've been to that weren't too steep in price, or I felt that I got good 'value'. The value might have been a certain item at a great price, or the taste was great for what the price was that I paid. Also, note that I put affordable in quotes above, that was done on purpose, as everyone has an opinion on what is "affordable".

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Val's Rapid Service - St. Cloud

Image Credit: Google Maps
Image Credit: Google Maps
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If you are looking for incredible value and volume, look no further than the institution known as Val's Rapid Service in St. Cloud. Not only can you get some burgers and a BAG of fries for a great price, you can also wash it down with a great shake. If you are looking for a place to grab a burger and fries and then be on with your day, this is your stop.

Rebecca's Cafe - Becker

Image Credit: Rebeccas Cafe Becker Google Maps
Image Credit: Rebeccas Cafe Becker Google Maps
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If you are more of a late breakfast/brunch type person, the skillets at Rebecca's are great. This is your typical cafe, serving up dishes that remind you of home, and won't take a loan to pay for. Every time I've stopped in, I've had excellent service, and they always have a tempting dessert. You can check out the latest menu for Rebecca's online here. 

Bo Diddley's Deli - St. Cloud or St. Joseph

Image Credit: Google Maps
Image Credit: Google Maps
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If you are looking for a sandwich that doubles as a MEAL, this is your stop. Every time I go into Bo Diddley's, I have to remind myself that half a sandwich is MORE than enough, but foolishly, I order a whole sandwich and end up with enough leftovers to keep me full for another day or two. The price is amazing too, especially for the amount of fillings you get in your sandwich. (pro-tip: the Gyro is amazing)

Manea's Meats - Pio's Sangwich Shop - Sauk Rapids

Image Credit: Google Maps
Image Credit: Google Maps
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This is one of those hidden 'gems' we talk about in Central Minnesota. You almost wouldn't expect to see this type of shop inside a meat 'market', but now that you know, you might just be questioning why every meat market doesn't do something similar. The monthly special sandwiches get changed up so there is always something different to try.

Jules' Bistro - St. Cloud

Image Credit: Google Maps
Image Credit: Google Maps
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Casually sophisticated, that is how the menu at Jules' Bistro is described, and I think that fits it to a 't'. Grab a panini or bowl for lunch, and you won't be starving before dinner time. Jules' is located at the edge of downtown St. Cloud right by the Paramount so for those who work downtown, it's easy, just walk in and enjoy.

Hope this helps you the next time you are looking to switch up your lunch routine!

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