Minnesota’s food scene is so much more than just hotdish and walleye—though you’ll find plenty of delicious versions of those, too. From cozy North Shore kitchens to buzzy Minneapolis bistros, this state is packed with places that locals swear by and foodies travel for. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Minnesotan looking for your next go-to spot, these five restaurants are the best of the best in 2025. Each one brings something special to the table—literally. Think creative menus, unforgettable atmospheres, and locally sourced ingredients that highlight the best of what Minnesota farms, lakes, and forests have to offer. Let’s dive into the top five local favorites you need to try this year.
1. Owamni — Minneapolis
Owamni isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a cultural revival. Founded by James Beard Award winner Sean Sherman (aka The Sioux Chef), this modern Indigenous restaurant sits right on the Mississippi River and serves up pre-colonial cuisine using only ingredients native to North America. That means no dairy, no wheat, no cane sugar—and yet every dish bursts with flavor and meaning.
What to order: Try the bison taco on wild rice crust, cedar-braised turkey, or the maple-chili roasted squash.
Good to know: It books up fast, so reservations are a must.
2. The Bachelor Farmer — Minneapolis
After a heartbreaking closure in 2020, The Bachelor Farmer has made a triumphant return in 2025—much to the delight of Twin Cities food lovers. The Scandinavian-inspired spot combines rustic charm with modern technique, using hyper-local ingredients and celebrating Minnesota’s Nordic roots.
What to order: The lefse with house-made gravlax, duck confit with lingonberry glaze, and their rotating seasonal veggie board are top picks.
Atmosphere: Think cozy, timber-accented interiors with a modern Nordic feel. It’s perfect for date night or impressing out-of-town guests.
3. New Scenic Café — Duluth
Nestled on the scenic North Shore drive just outside Duluth, this hidden gem serves artfully crafted dishes with a view of Lake Superior. New Scenic Café has become a pilgrimage spot for both locals and travelers thanks to its creative twists on Midwestern staples and its serene atmosphere.
What to order: The beet and chèvre ravioli is a standout, as is their signature smoked trout sandwich. Save room for the flourless chocolate torte.
Extra tip: Time your visit during sunset for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
4. Pizzeria Lola — Minneapolis
Owned by Korean-American chef Ann Kim, Pizzeria Lola fuses Neapolitan-style pizza with bold, unexpected flavors. This neighborhood pizza joint has received national attention, and for good reason—each pie is wood-fired to perfection and topped with personality.
What to order: The Lady ZaZa (with Korean sausage and kimchi) is a fan favorite, along with the My Sha-Roni! (house-made fennel sausage and pepperoni). Don’t skip the house-made soft serve.
Cool detail: There’s a photobooth in the bathroom—don’t ask, just go.
5. Alma — Minneapolis
Chef Alex Roberts’ Alma is a triple-threat: part restaurant, part café, and part boutique hotel. This James Beard Award-winning spot focuses on seasonal, multi-course tasting menus that evolve with Minnesota’s natural bounty.
What to order: Go for the 3-course prix fixe dinner—it changes often, but recent highlights include wild mushroom toast, duck breast with cherry jus, and sunflower semifreddo.
Why it stands out: Alma feels both elegant and approachable—a rare balance that’s hard to find.
6. Revival — Saint Paul & Minneapolis
Revival is a love letter to Southern comfort food, with a Minnesota twist. Chef Thomas Boemer brings soul and precision to every dish—especially the fried chicken, which is consistently ranked among the best in the country. With locations in both Saint Paul and Minneapolis, it’s a go-to for casual dining that feels like home.
What to order: Get the Tennessee hot fried chicken if you like heat, or the classic Southern-style if you’re a purist. Pair it with mac & cheese, hush puppies, and banana cream pie.
Fun fact: They also serve a killer brunch and have a food truck that roams the Twin Cities.
7. Young Joni — Minneapolis
Another Ann Kim masterpiece, Young Joni is where wood-fired pizza meets global fusion. But it’s more than pizza—this Northeast Minneapolis spot has a speakeasy-style back bar, ultra-cool vibes, and some of the most interesting flavor combos in the city.
What to order: The Korean BBQ pizza and the Laotian sausage are standouts. The wood-roasted cauliflower with salsa macha is surprisingly addictive.
Pro tip: Ask about the back bar if you’re in the mood for a hidden cocktail lounge experience.
8. The Lynhall — Minneapolis & Edina
The Lynhall is where cozy brunch vibes meet artisanal flair. Known for its warm interiors, bakery case, and thoughtful menu, it’s a favorite for locals who want quality without the pretense. Their in-house bakery and commitment to seasonal ingredients make every bite memorable.
What to order: Go for the soft scrambled eggs with crème fraîche, the smoked salmon tartine, or the cardamom latte with a fresh kouign-amann.
Atmosphere: Instagram-worthy but still genuine. Great for a relaxed brunch, casual meetings, or solo journaling with coffee.
9. Bar La Grassa — Minneapolis (North Loop)
Ask a Twin Cities local for their favorite Italian restaurant, and chances are they’ll say Bar La Grassa. Known for house-made pastas and moody ambiance, this North Loop gem offers big-city sophistication with Minnesota hospitality.
What to order: The soft eggs and lobster bruschetta is legendary. Pasta standouts include the gnocchi with cauliflower and orange and the red wine spaghetti with pine nuts.
When to go: It’s a date-night staple, so book in advance if you’re going on weekends.
10. Lake Avenue Restaurant & Bar — Duluth
Located in Duluth’s Canal Park, Lake Avenue is a hidden culinary powerhouse. This unassuming eatery surprises first-timers with its chef-driven menu and locally sourced ingredients from Northern Minnesota. It’s classy but laid-back, making it ideal for both locals and travelers.
What to order: Try the bison burger, smoked lake trout salad, or house-made pasta. Their cocktail program is also top-tier.
Bonus: Great views of the lakefront and easy access to Duluth’s boardwalk.
11. Hai Hai — Minneapolis
Hai Hai is a vibrant Southeast Asian street food-inspired restaurant located in Northeast Minneapolis. Owned by celebrated chef Christina Nguyen, the restaurant is colorful, fun, and absolutely packed with flavor. Locals flock here for its lively ambiance and unique dishes that transport you straight to Vietnam, Thailand, and beyond.
What to order: Try the turmeric & dill fish, crispy rice salad, and the banana blossom salad. The cocktails are creative, tropical, and just as buzzworthy.
Why it works: It’s a go-to for date nights, group dinners, or just when you want something out of the ordinary.
12. The Kenwood — Minneapolis
Tucked into one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, The Kenwood is a cozy, refined restaurant known for its neighborhood charm and elevated comfort food. It feels like dining in someone’s beautiful home—but with a top-tier chef in the kitchen.
What to order: Locals recommend the Kenwood burger, steak tartare, and their weekend brunch French toast.
Atmosphere: Intimate, warm, and full of character. Great for Sunday brunch or quiet dinner dates.
13. Terza Ristorante — Rochester
Terza is a top-tier Italian restaurant located just a few blocks from the Mayo Clinic. It’s classy without being stuffy and features a seasonally driven menu with an emphasis on house-made pasta and expertly sourced wines.
What to order: The truffle mushroom risotto, house-made gnocchi, and pistachio-crusted salmon are consistently praised. Their rooftop dining area is also a major draw in the warmer months.
Perfect for: Romantic evenings, business dinners, or special occasions in Rochester.
14. The Pickwick Restaurant & Pub — Duluth
Established in 1914, The Pickwick is a beloved Duluth institution that’s rich in both history and hearty comfort food. It’s the kind of place where generations of families have celebrated milestones—and the food has stood the test of time.
What to order: Go for the creamy wild rice soup, smoked pork chop, or their famous chargrilled steaks. The wood-paneled interior and roaring fireplace add to the timeless vibe.
Why it stands out: It’s one of the most iconic historic restaurants in Minnesota, offering a taste of the past in every dish.
15. Broders’ Pasta Bar — Minneapolis
Family-owned and operated since 1982, Broders’ Pasta Bar is a Minneapolis institution for authentic Italian fare. It’s known for its handmade pastas, charming sidewalk seating, and no-reservations policy that means there’s always a wait—but always worth it.
What to order: The tagliatelle with lamb sugo, bucatini all’Amatriciana, and their daily risottos are standouts. Don’t miss the gelato afterward.
Insider tip: Go early or be prepared for a short wait—it’s popular for a reason.
Final Word: 15 Must-Try Minnesota Restaurants (2025 Edition)
From Indigenous cuisine and wood-fired pizzas to North Shore icons and timeless Italian comfort, these 15 restaurants represent the true flavor of Minnesota. Whether you’re exploring Minneapolis, Duluth, or beyond, each spot offers more than a meal—it offers a memory.
FAQs – Best Restaurants in Minnesota (2025)
Q: What is the most popular restaurant in Minnesota right now?
A: Owamni in Minneapolis is currently one of the most acclaimed, offering Indigenous cuisine with a modern twist.
Q: Where do locals eat in Minneapolis?
A: Locals love spots like Revival, Young Joni, The Kenwood, and Broders’ Pasta Bar for quality food and authentic Twin Cities vibes.
Q: Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Minnesota?
A: Minnesota doesn’t currently have Michelin-starred restaurants, but several—like Demi and Owamni—are considered Michelin-quality by critics.
Q: What’s the best restaurant in Duluth, MN?
A: Lake Avenue Restaurant & Bar and The Pickwick are top local favorites in Duluth for seasonal dishes and historic ambiance.
Q: What type of food is Minnesota known for?
A: Minnesota is known for comfort foods like wild rice soup, walleye, hotdishes, and Scandinavian-inspired fare—but its food scene is now highly diverse.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
