• Scone turkey pot pie $8
• Flourless Chocolate Torte $4

We had actually planned on going to the Blue Door Pub this Saturday, but we failed to remember that it was basketball tournament time, so they were packed to the gills. Which is good for them, bad for us. Luckily I remembered that Cheeky Monkey was open, so we went there, not really that close, but both in St. Paul.

The space reminded me a lot of Wilde Roast in NE, which was good, that is one of the great spaces in the city. And actually the food reminded me a bit of it as well all done well, but not anything that will make you absolutely crave it. I had the pot pie, which was perfect for the day. I was tasty and well apportioned. The chocolate torte was very good as well, did not knock my socks off. They did have a kids menu which was nice, our son enjoyed his grilled cheese, but not nearly as much as he enjoyed the accompanying brownie.

If I lived in the area, I would more than likely occasionally stop in, but since I live much more near to Wilde Roast that is where I would go, or if I did want to blown away, I would go over to Bewiched.

• Meatloaf, cheddar, bacon, spicy mustard, pickled chilis on toast $6
• Blondie (brownie) $2

I liked Cheeky Monkey Deli for lots of reasons. Nice ambiance, decent food, good service, and one of the best blondies I can remember. The meatloaf sandwich was alright. I don’t really need bacon in a meatloaf sandwich, but it’s different and adds something. It is just the sandwich, no sides, which is disappointing. It’s not as good as Be ‘wiched on any level, but what is? It’s close to Wilde Roast, but Wilde Roast has a wider hot food selection and a better gay scene. Street parking in the area is a challenge. As the deli name implies, it’s counter service, and they bring food to your table; you have to bus your own dishes.

So, what’s so great about Cheeky Monkey? It’s good food at a great price in a great space. I’d say it’s a very good lunch spot and a good second date choice.