Some of the best-known restaurants in Minnesota by city, along with a brief description of their menu:
- Spoon and Stable: Chef Gavin Kaysen, a James Beard Award winner, opened Spoon and Stable in 2014. The restaurant is housed in a renovated stable and features a rustic and elegant atmosphere. In addition to the main dining room, Spoon and Stable also have a bar and lounge area for cocktails and small plates.
- Meritage: Chef Russell Klein opened Meritage in 2007, and it has since become a St. Paul institution. The restaurant’s interior is inspired by the classic brasseries of Paris, with a casual yet elegant atmosphere. In addition to the main dining room, Meritage also has a raw bar and a private dining room.
- New Scenic Café: Located just outside of Duluth, the New Scenic Café has been serving farm-to-table cuisine since 1999. The restaurant is housed in a converted 1920s gas station and features an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary decor. In addition to the main dining room, the New Scenic Café also has a patio and a lounge area.
- Chester’s Kitchen and Bar: Chef Jason Welsch opened Chester’s Kitchen and Bar in 2011, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant features an industrial chic atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and high ceilings. In addition to the main dining room, Chester’s also has a patio and a private dining room.
- Anton’s Restaurant: Anton’s has been a family-owned restaurant since 1920, and is known for its classic American dishes and generous portions. The restaurant features a cozy and casual atmosphere, with wood paneling and vintage decor. In addition to the main dining room, Anton’s also has a lounge area and a banquet room.
- Ike’s Food and Cocktails: Ike’s was opened by restaurateur Gene Suh in 2009, and is modeled after classic American diners. The restaurant features a retro atmosphere, with bright colors and vintage signage. In addition to the main dining room, Ike’s also has a bar area with a jukebox and an outdoor patio.
- The Dock Café: The Dock Café has been a Stillwater landmark since 1948, and offers beautiful views of the St. Croix River. The restaurant features a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, with a nautical theme and outdoor seating on the patio. In addition to the main dining room, The Dock Café also has a private dining room.
- Number 4 American Bar and Kitchen: Chef Jim Gilbert opened Number 4 in 2012, with a focus on creating innovative and eclectic dishes. The restaurant features a contemporary atmosphere, with bright colors and modern decor. In addition to the main dining room, Number 4 also has a bar area with a large selection of craft beers and cocktails.
- Red Cow: Red Cow was founded by restaurateur Luke Shimp in 2013, with a focus on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant features a modern and stylish atmosphere, with dark wood paneling and leather booths. In addition to the main dining room, Red Cow also has a patio and a bar area with a large selection of craft beers and wines.
- The Angry Trout Café: The Angry Trout Café has been a Grand Marais favorite since 1989, and is known for its sustainable and locally sourced seafood. The restaurant features a casual and charming atmosphere, with outdoor seating on the deck overlooking the harbor. In addition to the main dining room, The Angry Trout Café also has a bar area and a small gift shop.