Minneapolis

Food & Drink

The Minneapolis Culinary Scene

What sets Minneapolis apart from other culinary destinations is its deep-rooted connection to its cultural heritage and its embrace of contemporary culinary trends. The city’s food scene is defined by a blend of traditional Midwest comfort food, Scandinavian influences, and global flavors brought by immigrant communities. Minneapolis chefs are known for their innovative approaches, often using locally sourced ingredients and indigenous flavors to create dishes that are both familiar and fresh. This fusion of old and new, local and global, gives the Minneapolis culinary scene its distinct identity.

Historical and Cultural Influences

The culinary scene in Minneapolis has been shaped by the city’s history of migration and settlement. Early Scandinavian settlers brought with them a love for pickled herring, meatballs, and lefse—a soft flatbread made from potatoes. Over time, waves of immigrants from Italy, Mexico, Somalia, and Vietnam introduced new spices, cooking techniques, and flavors to the city. Indigenous ingredients like wild rice, bison, and berries have also played a significant role in the evolution of Minneapolis cuisine, often featured in dishes that celebrate the region’s natural bounty. The result is a food culture that is both deeply rooted in tradition and constantly evolving.

Local Delicacies

Juicy Lucy:
No discussion of Minneapolis cuisine is complete without mentioning the Juicy Lucy, a burger with cheese stuffed inside the patty. This local delicacy is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. The molten cheese center is a delightful surprise, and each restaurant in the city has its own take on this classic.

Hotdish:
A quintessential Midwestern comfort food, hotdish is a type of casserole that typically includes meat, vegetables, and a starch, all baked together in a creamy sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food, often served at community gatherings and family dinners.

Wild Rice Soup:
A dish that highlights the region’s indigenous ingredients, wild rice soup is hearty and flavorful, often made with mushrooms, chicken, and a rich broth. It’s a perfect dish to warm up with on a cold Minnesota day.

Lefse:
This traditional Norwegian flatbread is a staple in many Minneapolis households, especially during the holiday season. Made from potatoes and served with butter, sugar, or cinnamon, lefse is a simple yet delicious treat.

Top Dining Destinations in Phoenix

Spoon and Stable

  • Address: 211 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Specialty: Duck a l’Orange, Roasted Chicken.
  • Directions: A short 5-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis.
  • Description: A modern American restaurant with French influences, Spoon and Stable is helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Gavin Kaysen. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is evident in every dish.

The Bachelor Farmer

  • Address: 50 N 2nd Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Specialty: Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), Seasonal Nordic cuisine.
  • Directions: Located in the North Loop, about a 10-minute walk from the city center.
  • Description: Celebrating the city’s Scandinavian heritage, The Bachelor Farmer offers a modern take on traditional Nordic dishes. The restaurant is known for its commitment to sustainability and its use of fresh, local ingredients.

Manny’s Steakhouse

  • Address: 825 Marquette Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402
  • Specialty: Dry-aged steaks, Lobster.
  • Directions: Situated in the Foshay Tower, right in the heart of downtown Minneapolis.
  • Description: An iconic Minneapolis institution, Manny’s is the place to go for a classic steakhouse experience. The portions are generous, and the service is impeccable, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Pizzeria Lola

  • Address: 5557 Xerxes Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410
  • Specialty: Korean BBQ Pizza, My Sha-Roni Pizza.
  • Directions: About a 15-minute drive southwest of downtown Minneapolis.
  • Description: A cozy neighborhood pizzeria with a twist, Pizzeria Lola offers wood-fired pizzas with unique toppings. The Korean BBQ pizza, inspired by the owner’s heritage, is a standout.

Brasa Premium Rotisserie

  • Address: 600 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55414
  • Specialty: Slow-roasted pork, Collard Greens.
  • Directions: A 10-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis.
  • Description: Brasa offers comfort food with a Caribbean and Southern twist, focusing on rotisserie meats and sides made from scratch. The flavors are bold, and the atmosphere is casual and inviting.

112 Eatery

  • Address: 112 N 3rd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Specialty: Foie Gras Meatballs, 112 Cheeseburger.
  • Directions: Located in the Warehouse District, about a 7-minute walk from the city center.
  • Description: A beloved late-night spot, 112 Eatery is known for its inventive dishes and intimate atmosphere. The menu is eclectic, with influences from around the world.

Revival

  • Address: 4257 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55409
  • Specialty: Fried Chicken, Southern-style sides.
  • Directions: Approximately a 10-minute drive south of downtown Minneapolis.
  • Description: Revival brings Southern comfort food to Minneapolis, with a focus on fried chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The sides, like mac and cheese and collard greens, are equally delicious.

Hai Hai

  • Address: 2121 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
  • Specialty: Vietnamese Street Food, Pho, Banh Xeo.
  • Directions: About a 12-minute drive northeast of downtown Minneapolis.
  • Description: Hai Hai offers vibrant Vietnamese street food in a colorful, lively setting. The dishes are packed with flavor, and the cocktails are as creative as the food.

Alma

  • Address: 528 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
  • Specialty: Chef’s Tasting Menu, Organic and local ingredients.
  • Directions: A 10-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis, near the University of Minnesota.
  • Description: Alma offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The tasting menu is a journey through flavors and textures, beautifully presented.

Immersive Culinary Experiences

Cooking Classes at Cooks of Crocus Hill

  • Location: 208 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Experience: Join a hands-on cooking class where you can learn to prepare local dishes using seasonal ingredients. It’s a great way to bring a taste of Minneapolis back home with you.

Minneapolis Farmers Market Tours

  • Location: 312 East Lyndale Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55405
  • Experience: Explore the city’s oldest and largest farmers market with a guided tour. Meet local farmers, sample fresh produce, and learn about the farm-to-table movement in Minneapolis.

Brewery Tours at Surly Brewing Co.

  • Location: 520 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
  • Experience: Take a behind-the-scenes tour of one of Minneapolis’ most popular breweries. Learn about the brewing process, sample a variety of beers, and enjoy a meal in the beer hall.

Practical Information

  • Best Times to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying Minneapolis’ outdoor dining options and culinary events. Fall offers harvest festivals and farmers markets, while winter is perfect for cozying up in a warm restaurant with comfort food.
  • Typical Price Ranges: Casual dining: $10-$25 per person; Upscale dining: $30-$75 per person.
  • Dress Codes: Most restaurants in Minneapolis are casual or business casual. Upscale restaurants may require more formal attire, so it’s best to check in advance.
  • Reservations: It’s recommended to make reservations, especially for popular dining spots and during weekends. OpenTable and Resy are widely used platforms for booking.
  • Dietary Preferences: Minneapolis is known for being accommodating to dietary restrictions, with many restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Sustainable Dining

Tullibee at Hewing Hotel

  • Location: 300 Washington Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Sustainability: Tullibee is committed to sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers, with a focus on sustainability and seasonality. The menu highlights the best of the region’s bounty, from foraged mushrooms to wild game.

The Bachelor Farmer

  • Location: 50 N 2nd Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Sustainability: This restaurant is a leader in the farm-to-table movement, with a menu that changes daily based on what’s fresh and in season. They even have a rooftop garden where they grow herbs and vegetables used in their dishes.

Birchwood Café

  • Location: 3311 E 25th St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
  • Sustainability: Birchwood Café is a pioneer in sustainable dining, offering dishes made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. They are also committed to reducing waste and supporting local farmers.

Recap and Encouragement

Minneapolis offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, where tradition meets innovation, and local ingredients are celebrated in every dish. From iconic local specialties like the Juicy Lucy to modern farm-to-table cuisine, the city’s dining scene has something to offer every palate. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal at a neighborhood café or indulging in a tasting menu at an upscale restaurant, Minneapolis invites you to explore its culinary delights. So come hungry, and let the flavors of Minneapolis guide you on an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Minneapolis

From the breathtaking shores of the Chain of Lakes to the dynamic downtown skyline, Minneapolis invites you to immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of culture, art, and entertainment. Wander through the renowned Minneapolis Institute of Art, or catch a world-class performance at the Guthrie Theater. As the sun sets, dive into the city’s thriving culinary scene, featuring farm-to-table restaurants and cozy brewpubs that reflect the diverse flavors of the Midwest. In Minneapolis, every moment is an opportunity for a new adventure.

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