20 Unique Restaurants in Minnesota: The Most Outlandish Eateries in the North Star State

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Minnesota isn’t just about lakes and cold winters—it’s got some of the quirkiest, coolest dining spots in the Midwest. From farm-to-table gems to restaurants with over-the-top themes, the North Star State serves up meals that are as memorable as the settings. Whether you’re into hearty hotdishes, wild game burgers, or Instagram-worthy desserts, Minnesota’s food scene is anything but boring.

Picture savoring Swedish meatballs and lingonberry sauce at The Bachelor Farmer in Minneapolis or feasting on smoked ribs and cornbread at Smalley’s Caribbean Barbeque in Stillwater. For something truly unique, visit Mickey’s Diner in St. Paul for classic diner vibes, or try Himalayan momos at Everest on Grand. And don’t skip Betty Danger’s Country Club in Northeast Minneapolis—it’s part restaurant, part Ferris wheel!

This guide explores 12 of the most unique restaurants in Minnesota, where every bite feels like an adventure. Let’s dig in!

👉 Pro Tip: The Hidden Bars Tour in Minneapolis is such a vibe! You’ll hit up secret spots, sip on killer cocktails, and hear the wild stories behind each place. Ask your guide for their go-to drink recs—they know what’s good. Grab some pics of the speakeasy vibes and get ready for a night full of surprises!

Unique Restaurants in Minnesota: 20 Incredible MN Eateries

Minnesota’s unique restaurants offer flavors and stories that are as diverse as the state itself. Let’s take a journey through these extraordinary spots, where each meal turns into an unforgettable adventure.

1. The News Room

• 📍 Location: Minneapolis (Downtown)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Eclectic / New American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Newspaper-themed decor, globally inspired American menu, lively downtown setting.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Groups with mixed tastes, creative American food, and downtown diners.

Extra! Extra! Read all about it at The News Room in downtown Minneapolis! This spot is a full-on homage to the world of journalism, with decor featuring historic newspaper headlines and vintage printing press elements. The menu is globally inspired American fare.

You’ll enjoy checking out their creative appetizers like the Ahi Tuna Wonton Crisps. For entrees, the pan-seared scallops with risotto or the News Room Burger are popular choices. It’s a fun, energetic place for a meal that’s definitely front-page worthy!

• Read Next: 12 Awesome Restaurants in Minneapolis, MN For a Unique Experience

2. Tongue in Cheek

Located in St. Paul, Tongue in Cheek is the place for playfully plated, sustainable New American fare with a sense of humor. The menu boasts ‘Teasers’ – inventive small bites like the vegan “Scallop” made from king oyster mushroom. For mains, try the local walleye over kimchi fried rice or their rich duck breast. The space is bright with exposed brick, farm-chic flags, and splashes of bold color. Come for brunch or grab a seat at the bar for some of the most creative cocktails in town. Swede Hollow Park is a breezy stroll away, making it a perfect Sunday Funday destination. Their miso-caramel ice cream sundae honestly rocked my world.

3. Val’s Rapid Service

• 📍 Location: St. Cloud
• 💲 Price range: $5 – $10 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Drive-In / Burgers
• 🔥 Standout Features: Retro drive-in, simple burgers and fries, cash-only classic since 1959.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Budget eats, nostalgic burger lovers, and quick roadside stops.

Cruise back in time to Val’s Rapid Service, a legendary St. Cloud drive-in that’s been slinging classic burgers and fries since 1959! This cash-only gem is pure Americana, with a wonderfully retro vibe and sometimes even carhop service. The air is thick with the aroma of sizzling beef.

Ordering their classic cheeseburger, simple and perfect, is a must. Also essential are a side of crispy crinkle-cut fries and a thick chocolate milkshake. It’s a delicious and wonderfully nostalgic trip down memory lane that won’t break the bank.

• Read Next: 12 Stunning Hidden Gems in the Midwest That Will Leave You Speechless

4. Martina

Martina is a high-end Argentinian-ish restaurant in the Linden Hills neighborhood. Seafood is big here – the grilled octopus is almost too pretty to eat, and the wood-fired steaks are pure magic. The handcrafted cocktails are on another level (get the Fernet fizz for a little drama). Expect dim lighting, sexy Argentine blues, and an understated vibe that’s equal parts cozy and sophisticated. Windows overlook quiet streets, perfect for people-watching. If you’re up for a stroll, Lake Harriet is just two blocks away. This spot is my pick for impressing anyone with good taste.

5. Travail Kitchen and Amusements

• 📍 Location: Robbinsdale
• 💲 Price range: $100 – $200+ per person (Ticketed Tasting Menu/Experience)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Avant-Garde / Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Theatrical tasting menus, avant-garde dishes, interactive dining.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Food adventurers, special occasions, and fine dining with flair.

Prepare for a culinary carnival at Travail Kitchen and Amusements in Robbinsdale! This isn’t just dinner; it’s an interactive, theatrical tasting menu experience by a James Beard-nominated team. Expect the unexpected, with playful presentations and a high-energy vibe.

Each course is a surprise. Recent experiences have featured inventive takes on local pork belly with unexpected textures, a whimsical seafood “hot dish” deconstruction, or a playful foie gras presentation that doubles as art. It’s a highly sought-after, ticketed experience.

6. Young Joni

Young Joni takes pizza to an epic level, with a wood-fired oven churning out crackly, beautifully blistered pies topped with the likes of Korean BBQ beef or prosciutto and figs. Tucked in Northeast Minneapolis, there’s a hidden bar behind the restaurant – perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail. Edison bulbs, exposed timber, and plant-filled corners make for a cozy yet spirited scene. Take the short walk to Dangerous Man Brewing Co. afterward, or stay and share the wood-fired cauliflower. Seriously, I’m still dreaming about those pizzas!

7. Choo Choo Restaurant and Bar

• 📍 Location: Loretto
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Burgers / Kid-Friendly
• 🔥 Standout Features: Model trains deliver food, kid-friendly setting, classic diner menu.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families with kids, train enthusiasts, and casual meals with charm.

All aboard for family fun at Choo Choo Restaurant and Bar in Loretto! This delightful spot is a haven for kids, with model trains chugging around and even delivering food to some tables. The excitement as a burger or chicken tenders arrive by miniature locomotive is priceless.

Other popular kid-friendly choices include their classic grilled cheese sandwich or a simple hot dog. It’s a super fun, playful, and utterly charming spot for a casual family meal where the journey is just as exciting as the destination (your plate!).

8. Petite León

Petite León spins global flavors with bold, inventive small plates in an intimate, dimly lit dining room. The best bite? Their legendary burger, which oozes house-made “fancy” sauce and comes with hand-cut fries, but the masa-battered fried fish is a game-changer too. The bar mixes up playful cocktails that put Minnesota spirits front and center. It feels like dining in your coolest friend’s living room, and the constant playlist of vinyl jazz offsets the city noise outside. Just a block away: Black Forest Inn’s beer garden beckons for post-dinner drinks. Petite León feels like a trend you discovered before it blew up.

9. The Whistling Bird

• 📍 Location: Gilbert
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Caribbean / Jamaican / Island Fusion
• 🔥 Standout Features: Caribbean decor, authentic jerk and curry dishes, island vibe in the Iron Range.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Spicy food lovers, offbeat dining, and a tropical escape in Minnesota.

Get ready to feel the island rhythm at The Whistling Bird in Gilbert! This vibrant gem serves authentic Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine that’s a burst of sunshine and spice. The colorful decor and reggae tunes will transport you, and the air is fragrant with jerk seasoning.

Savoring their incredible jerk chicken, smoky and fiery, is a great idea. Also highly recommended are the rich and savory curry goat, or their tender oxtail stew. Their rum punch is also the perfect accompaniment for a tropical escape.

10. Kramarczuk’s Sausage Co. Inc.

Walking into Kramarczuk’s is like stepping onto Eastern European turf in Northeast Minneapolis. It’s a mashup of old-school deli, bakery, and cafeteria, all dedicated to sausage glory. Order the polish sausage plate with sauerkraut and pierogi – you’ll be set for days. The place buzzes at lunch, with families and old-timers catching up over rye bread and horseradish. There’s a quirky mural of sausage-making lore on the wall, and shelves loaded with candy you’ll only find in Poland. Afterward, stroll to the Stone Arch Bridge for killer river views. I still talk about the garlic sausage here like it changed my life.

11. Space Aliens Grill & Bar

• 📍 Location: Albertville (also Fargo, ND)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / BBQ / Pizza / Themed
• 🔥 Standout Features: Space-themed decor, arcade games, comfort food favorites.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Kids and families, sci-fi fans, and quirky themed dining.

Prepare for an intergalactic dining adventure at Space Aliens Grill & Bar in Albertville! This place is an out-of-this-world experience, housed in a giant domed “spaceship” and decked out with aliens and sci-fi kitsch. Kids will love the arcade and playful atmosphere.

Consider trying their Martian Munchies appetizer platter, a cheesy pepperoni pizza (often called something like “Planet Pepperoni”), or one of their hearty Galaxy Burgers. It’s a fun, unpretentious spot that’s perfect for a family outing where the theme is a big draw.

12. Boludo

Boludo brings big Buenos Aires energy to Minneapolis, serving up hand-folded empanadas and photogenic pizzas that look like edible art. The pear and gorgonzola empanada is a revelation, and the Fugazzeta pizza screams “Instagram me!” Fast-casual but super stylish, it’s all subway-tile walls, globe lights, and a Latin indie playlist. Grab a soda imported from Argentina or an Aperol Spritz, and chill by the window. It’s seconds from Eat Street’s dumpling houses, so you can design your own tasty crawl. Don’t let the short menu fool you – every bite is memorable.

13. Punch Bowl Social Minneapolis

• 📍 Location: Minneapolis (West End, St. Louis Park)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person (Food/Drinks, games separate)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Gastropub / Eclectic / “Eatertainment”
• 🔥 Standout Features: Games and karaoke, creative gastropub menu, buzzing social scene.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Group outings, fun dinners with activities, and high-energy nights out.

Get ready to eat, drink, and play at Punch Bowl Social Minneapolis! This massive “eatertainment” complex in St. Louis Park’s West End is a playground for grown-ups, offering bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and more, alongside a gastropub serving creative American fare.

You can grab delicious shareable plates like their Sriracha Peanut Fries, the Chicken & Waffles (often served as sliders), or gourmet sliders like the Knockoff Burger. It’s the perfect spot for a fun, active night out with friends where the food is part of the entertainment.

14. Owamni by The Sioux Chef

Owamni is a true game-changer. This James Beard Award-winning restaurant sits right on the Mississippi River, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a deck facing the falls. The menu is fully Indigenous – meaning no dairy, no wheat, no processed sugar – and every dish is a masterclass in native flavors. Must-try: the bison tacos on wild rice tortillas and the spiced sunflower hummus. There’s a calm minimalist vibe, with natural stone, wood tables, and quiet conversation, so you can focus on each beautiful plate. Walk the river path to Mill Ruins Park after your meal. I was floored by how deeply Minnesota roots run in this spot’s food.

15. Fhima’s

• 📍 Location: Minneapolis (Downtown, in the historic Minnesota Club building)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $90+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern French / Mediterranean / Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Elegant historic building, modern French-Mediterranean cuisine, upscale ambiance.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Date nights, fine dining, and special celebrations.

Step into a world of Jazz Age glamour at Fhima’s, in the magnificent historic Minnesota Club building in downtown Minneapolis. This restaurant is a showstopper, with an opulent dining room. The cuisine is modern French and Mediterranean, artfully prepared and presented.

Indulging in their exquisite dishes is a good plan. Consider the pan-seared scallops with seasonal accompaniments, the perfectly cooked duck confit with cherry reduction, or their rich bouillabaisse. The attentive service makes for an unforgettable fine dining experience.

16. Zen Box Izakaya

Zen Box is a ramen haven and izakaya party in the Mill District, mixing Japanese comfort food with Minneapolis flair. Their tonkotsu ramen bowl is legendary, rich and unctuous, topped with melt-in-your-mouth pork. The karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is outrageously crispy and addictive. The room pops with hovering paper lanterns, anime murals, and sake bottles lining the walls. Big groups pile into booths, while the bar is perfect for solo slurping. You can walk to Guthrie Theater for a show or catch a jazz set at the nearby Dakota. Every visit feels like a Tokyo alleyway night.

17. Hell’s Kitchen

• 📍 Location: Downtown Minneapolis (Below ground level)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Comfort Food / Brunch / Southern Influences
• 🔥 Standout Features: Underground “devilishly good” themed restaurant, weekend brunch with massive Bloody Mary/Mimosa bar, live music, quirky decor.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Brunch fanatics, live music lovers, hearty comfort food seekers, and enjoying a massive Bloody Mary bar.

Descend into a “devilishly good” dining experience at Hell’s Kitchen in downtown Minneapolis. This underground restaurant and bar is famous for its quirky, slightly irreverent decor, lively atmosphere, and especially its legendary weekend brunch, featuring one of the most epic build-your-own Bloody Mary and Mimosa bars you’ll ever see.

Beyond the brunch spectacle, they serve up hearty American comfort food with some Southern flair. Their lemon ricotta hotcakes are a breakfast favorite. For lunch or dinner, try the Juicy Lucy (a cheese-stuffed burger, a Minnesota classic) or their popular walleye sandwich. Live music adds to the fiery fun.

18. The Melting Pot

• 📍 Location: Minneapolis (Uptown) & St. Paul
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $70+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Fondue / Interactive Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Interactive fondue dining, private booths, multi-course meals.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dinners, group celebrations, and leisurely meals.

Get ready to dip and swirl at The Melting Pot! With locations in Minneapolis and St. Paul, this restaurant offers a fun, interactive fondue experience where you become the chef. Settle into a private, cozy booth and prepare for a multi-course adventure.

Starting with a bubbling pot of Wisconsin cheddar cheese fondue is popular. Then, cook filet mignon, teriyaki sirloin, or shrimp in flavorful broth, and finally, share a luscious chocolate fondue, perhaps the Original Chocolate Fondue with pure milk chocolate.

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19. Rathskeller Cafe

• 📍 Location: Duluth (In the historic Old City Hall building)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: German / European / American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic cellar setting, authentic German dishes, cozy ambiance.
• 🎯 Perfect For: German food lovers, beer fans, and atmospheric meals in Duluth.

Descend into a cozy, old-world haven at Rathskeller Cafe in Duluth, in the subterranean cellar of the historic Old City Hall. This charming spot exudes authentic German “rathskeller” vibes, with stone walls and the comforting aroma of hearty European cooking.

You’ll be pleased with their classic Wiener schnitzel, savory bratwurst with sauerkraut and German potato salad, or a comforting bowl of rich goulash. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric and satisfying place to enjoy some traditional German fare and a good pint.

20. Big Fish Supper Club

• 📍 Location: Bena (Lake Winnibigoshish)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Supper Club / Steak & Seafood
• 🔥 Standout Features: Classic supper club feel, lake views, prime rib and walleye.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Minnesota tradition seekers, lakeside dining, and hearty comfort food fans.

Step back in time at Big Fish Supper Club on Lake Winnibigoshish. This place is a quintessential lakeside supper club, offering stunning views, a warm “Up North” atmosphere, and hearty, classic American fare. The aroma of grilling steaks fills the rustic dining room.

Trying their famous prime rib, perfectly cooked walleye (often pan-fried or broiled), or a classic relish tray to start is part of the experience. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy the lake views, and savor good old-fashioned comfort food.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Minnesota

In the FAQ section of our MN restaurant guide, we answer all your burning questions about where to find the best eats across the state.

What food is unique to Minnesota?

Minnesota is known for its unique dishes that you can’t find just anywhere. One standout is the Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger that’s a must-try for meat lovers. Another local favorite is wild rice soup, which showcases Minnesota’s official state grain. Don’t forget about the tater tot hotdish, a comforting casserole that’s a staple in many Minnesota homes.

What is the number one food in Minnesota?

The Juicy Lucy burger holds the crown as the number one food in Minnesota. This delicious twist on the classic American burger, with cheese melted inside the patty, has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Originating in Minneapolis, it’s a food battle between two local bars, each claiming to be the inventor. No trip to Minnesota is complete without deciding for yourself which version you prefer.

What is the state drink of Minnesota?

Milk is the official state drink of Minnesota, celebrating the state’s rich dairy farming tradition and contributing to Minnesota’s quality of life. The city’s farms produce millions of gallons of milk each year, supporting a vibrant dairy industry. From creamy milkshakes to artisanal cheeses, dairy products play a significant role in Minnesota’s food scene. Enjoying a cold glass of milk or a dairy-based treat is a nod to the state’s agricultural heritage.

Where can I find Minnesota’s best restaurants?

Minnesota’s best restaurants can be found across the state, from bustling city centers to quiet lakeside towns. The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, are great places to find amazing food. They have everything from cool farm-to-table spots to food from around the world. If you want to eat like you’re really in Minnesota, try places that use local stuff like wild rice, fish from our lakes, and veggies grown nearby.

What are some scenic places in Minnesota to eat?

For dining with a view, there are many scenic places in Minnesota to eat. Enjoy a meal overlooking the majestic Mississippi River, or dine by the serene shores of Lake Superior. The North Shore offers breathtaking views and delicious seafood, while the rolling hills of the Driftless Area provide a picturesque backdrop for a country brunch. Whether it’s a riverside patio or a lakeside lodge, Minnesota’s natural beauty enhances any meal.

Where can I find the best restaurants in Minnesota?

The best restaurants in Minnesota offer a mix of flavors and experiences, each with a touch of Midwest charm. The Twin Cities boast a vibrant food scene with award-winning chefs and diverse cuisines. For a taste of local culture, explore eateries in Duluth, Rochester, and Mankato, where farm-to-table dining is often in the spotlight. Don’t overlook the small towns, where hidden gems serve up hearty Midwestern fare with a side of hospitality.

Where can I find cheap eats in Minnesota?

Cheap eats in Minnesota are easy to find and can be just as delicious as pricier options. Look for food trucks in Minneapolis and St. Paul serving everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese. Local diners and cafes throughout the state offer filling breakfasts and lunches at wallet-friendly prices. For a unique experience, visit a town’s local bakery for freshly made pastries and sandwiches.

What options are there for fine dining in Minnesota?

Fine dining in Minnesota is diverse, with options ranging from contemporary American cuisine to international gourmet experiences. The Twin Cities are home to several upscale restaurants where chefs use local, seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes. For special occasions, consider dining at one of the state’s historic inns or resorts, where the elegant settings match the exquisite menus.

Final Thoughts On Unique Minnesota Restaurants

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the flavors and sights of the North Star State with our Minnesota restaurant guide. From unique eateries tucked away in scenic spots to bustling city restaurants offering the best of local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Minnesota.

Whether you’re craving a Juicy Lucy, looking for a scenic place to dine, or planning a night of fine dining, our guide aims to help you make the most of Minnesota’s rich culinary landscape, ensuring a memorable stay in Minnesota.