Maverick's - Roseville, MN

Posted By Michael Stern on May 7, 2007 7:17 PM

Rick Nelson, food editor of the Star Tribune, knows a thing or two about where and what to eat in the Twin Cities. So when he suggested we have lunch in a storefront restaurant in a nondescript strip mall, we were on our way. What to have? One thing, and one thing only: a roast beef sandwich. Maverick's makes a specialty of them: soft, pink, velvety slices are cut to order and piled into a soft white bun. Rick told us that the restaurant concept was inspired by the proprietor's desire to improve on Arby's. If that was his only goal, he has more than succeeded, for this is a super roast beef sandwich – simple, pure, and satisfying.

It is served cafeteria-style, along with a short menu of other beefy things, including brisket and barbecued beef, plus pulled pork, ham, chicken, and fish filets. When we stopped by, open-face roast beef sandwiches were the day's special: the same good beef piled on a plate with the roll on the side and a couple of mounds of mashed potatoes. While the beef in this one was the same good beef as in the simple sandwich, we much preferred Maverick's crisp French fries to the ersatz mashed potatoes.

Ambience is that of a workman's cafe. Once you get your food, you stop by a condiment bar where the choices range from horseradish and horseradish cream to hot peppers, ketchup, mustard, and pickles. Then you find a place at one of the four-tops along the side of the room or at the long banquet table that runs down the middle. We walked out happy and satisfied, forgetting to try what Rick advised us were excellent Toll House chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Next time!

Overall Rating

Large Roast Beef Sandwich

Large Brisket Sandwich

Open Face Hot Beef

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Posted By Chris Paulsen on October 20, 2011 3:26 PM

One of the greatest roast beef sandwiches I have ever had. I will find a reason to stop by any time I'm in that area on business or pleasure. They will hand out cups of ice cream if there are long lines. Great staff.

Overall Rating

Large Roast Beef Sandwich

Large Brisket Sandwich

Open Face Hot Beef

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Posted By Kenneth Kunkle on December 13, 2007 5:35 PM

Fantastic sandwiches! While they have added several sandwiches to the menu since opening, the basic brisket sandwich can't be beat. The rye buns are a nice touch and complement the flavor of the beef perfectly. The availability of either fresh horseradish or a horseradish sauce allows you to tailor the brisket to your taste. The french fries are average and are definitely not the highlight. That said, Maverick’s goes out of its way to make sure that they are fresh, by putting in each order only after it's been ordered (no too-cold pre-cooked batches).

I was fortunate enough to find Maverick’s right after it opened; been going back ever since. While the interior is lacking, the service is great. You are frequently greeted by the owners who make sure everything is just right for new customers. Maverick's is a local favorite located near Como Park in St. Paul. Take a to-go bag to the park for a nice diversion on a sunny day.

Overall Rating

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