The 10 Best Restaurants in Minneapolis
By Grace Armstrong | Updated 3 Days Ago
Minneapolis may be known for its chilly weather, but its dining scene is warm and inviting. The city blends rich cultural culinary traditions with innovative new American cuisine, offering something delicious for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American dishes or exotic international flavors, Minneapolis’s restaurants serve up fantastic meals that promise memorable dining experiences.
Here are ten standout spots that are essential visits for both locals and tourists, showcasing the very best of the city’s vibrant food landscape.
Spoon and Stable
Spoon and Stable stands out as a gem in the heart of Minneapolis, combining upscale elegance with Midwestern warmth. This restaurant, led by Chef Gavin Kaysen, is set in a beautifully converted stable, offering a sophisticated yet cozy dining atmosphere. The menu highlights local ingredients transformed into exquisite dishes, with favorites like heritage grain pasta and sumptuous house-made desserts.
The setting at Spoon and Stable blends old-world charm with modern elegance, creating the perfect atmosphere for both romantic dinners and memorable family gatherings. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the inviting ambiance and excellent service are sure to provide an unparalleled dining experience, setting a high bar for fine dining in the city.
Demi
Demi, nestled in the lively North Loop neighborhood, reflects Chef Gavin Kaysen’s flair for innovation in its intimate setting. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with carefully crafted tasting menus that highlight the season’s best offerings. The dramatic, cozy ambiance turns each meal into a private show, with every dish serving as a main event.
The menu features sophisticated dishes like foie gras and rabbit meatballs, each artfully presented and bursting with flavor. Perfect for culinary aficionados, Demi promises an experimental and luxurious dining experience, turning each visit into a memorable journey through taste and creativity.
Young Joni
Young Joni is transforming the pizza scene in Minneapolis with its creative approach, blending classic techniques with bold new flavors. Led by Chef Ann Kim, the restaurant features standout dishes like the Perfect Pickle Pie, which daringly mixes pickles and ranch dressing atop a crispy crust. The interior, a cozy blend of rustic and modern design, perfectly reflects the innovative spirit of the menu.
Beyond pizza, Young Joni delights with a variety of wood-fired dishes and a commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The lively and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect gathering spot, where the vibrant energy complements the culinary experience. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Young Joni offers a memorable dining adventure for all.
Gluek’s
Step into Gluek’s and you’ll be swept into the warm, rustic charm of a traditional European tavern. This beloved Minneapolis spot combines the city’s architectural beauty with the lively spirit of a German pub. Known for live music and a hearty menu, Gluek’s is a key player in the local dining scene. Guests are treated to authentic German dishes, each bringing a touch of Old World festivity.
As you enjoy a cold brew, live music fills the air, adding to the pub’s dynamic vibe. Gluek’s melds old-world charm with modern vibrancy, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Minneapolis’s rich dining history. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, an evening at Gluek’s offers more than just a meal—it’s a memorable trip through time, where traditional flavors and contemporary energy meet.
Lotus Restaurant
Lotus Restaurant is a beloved spot in Minneapolis for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for those looking to enjoy genuine flavors in a cozy setting. Known for skillfully blending traditional recipes with modern touches, the menu features standout dishes like kung pao chicken and uniquely seasoned potatoes with oyster sauce. The intimate atmosphere of the restaurant makes it an excellent choice for a peaceful dinner or a meaningful gathering with friends.
Visiting Lotus is like being welcomed into a family, with each dish served with a warm side of hospitality that makes you feel right at home. It’s more than just dining; it’s a dive into Vietnamese culture, offered in a simple yet charming space. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Vietnamese food or eager to try something new, Lotus provides a memorable culinary journey filled with rich flavors.
Pimento
Step into Pimento for a vibrant taste of Jamaica in the heart of Minneapolis. Known for its bold Caribbean flavors, this award-winning restaurant delights with dishes like slow-cooked jerk pork and coconut-infused rice and beans. Each meal is a journey to Jamaica, enhanced by the restaurant’s lively beachside decor that captures the spirit of a joyful, casual dining experience right on the sunny shores.
The atmosphere at Pimento is as lively and inviting as its food. With reggae music setting the tone, the restaurant transforms into a vibrant celebration of Jamaican culture. It’s the perfect escape for anyone looking to break from the mundane and dive into an exciting, flavorful feast. Here, every visit is about more than just eating—it’s an experience that captivates all the senses.
The Local
The Local stands out as a classic Irish pub right in Minneapolis, known for its wide beer selection and authentic English pub food. Favorites here include the crispy fish and chips and the creative Buffalo chicken flatbread, blending traditional British flavors with a modern twist. The pub’s atmosphere is a lively mix of quiet corners for personal chats and lively areas that come alive during football games.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or want to dive into the energetic vibe of a game night, The Local welcomes you with open arms. It’s a community hub where everyone can enjoy a slice of European pub culture wrapped in true Minnesotan hospitality. This blend of friendly atmosphere and community spirit makes The Local a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
Chimborazo
Chimborazo brings the vibrant flavors of Ecuador straight to Minneapolis, offering a variety of simple yet rich dishes. The restaurant feels like a hidden gem, with standout items like the hearty vegetarian sandwich that satisfies both its taste and nutritious ingredients. The setting adds to the dining experience, with bright walls and cozy seating that make every meal feel special and personalized.
Eating at Chimborazo is like being invited into a welcoming home in the Andes. Each dish is made with great care and served with warmth, creating an intimate dining experience. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a journey to South America without needing a passport, where every bite is full of tradition and love.
Pizza Lucé
Pizza Lucé elevates the traditional pizza experience with its inventive toppings and unique pies. This vibrant, family-friendly restaurant is famous for its creative offerings like the Baked Potato Pizza and the Mexican-style Elote Pizza. The lively atmosphere at Pizza Lucé makes it an ideal place for both family meals and group gatherings, where the innovative food inspires great conversations.
At Pizza Lucé, pizza is a culinary adventure. Here, classic ingredients are transformed with bold, unexpected twists, creating dishes that both surprise and delight. This commitment to culinary creativity has made Pizza Lucé a must-visit spot in Minneapolis for those who appreciate a fresh take on traditional dishes. Whether you’re a local food lover or a visiting food enthusiast, Pizza Lucé offers a distinctive dining experience.
Bar La Grassa
Bar La Grassa is a standout destination for Italian cuisine in Minneapolis, offering a luxurious dining experience that dives deep into the rich flavors of Italy. From the indulgent red wine spaghetti to the delicate pappardelle with veal ragù, each dish is carefully crafted to showcase traditional Italian cooking with a modern twist. The restaurant’s atmosphere combines elegance and comfort, making it a warm, welcoming place.
Whether you’re looking for a spot for date night or a place to gather with family, Bar La Grassa promises an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on its commitment to quality and detail, ensuring each visit is filled with delicious dishes and excellent service. Here, a meal becomes a memorable journey through the best of Italian cuisine, set in a setting that’s as charming as it is inviting.
Minneapolis is famous for its cold winters, but its dining scene is just as notable for its warmth and variety. This city offers a world of flavors, each restaurant adding its touch to the local food scene. These top ten restaurants are perfect examples, inviting both visitors and residents to explore and enjoy the diverse culinary delights that make Minneapolis a must-visit for food lovers.