Minneapolis Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Minneapolis. Your complete guide to dining in Minneapolis.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Minneapolis! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Minneapolis has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Minneapolis's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Minneapolis like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Minneapolis offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Minneapolis.
Spoon and Stable
Highly rated American in Minneapolis with 4.7 stars from 2953 reviews.
📍 211 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Martina
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.7 stars from 1976 reviews.
📍 4312 Upton Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Alma
Highly rated American in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 2046 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 528 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Lumi Restaurant
Highly rated Mediterranean in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 863 reviews.
📍 921 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.8 stars from 616 reviews.
📍 428 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Maison Margaux
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.4 stars from 581 reviews.
📍 224 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Butcher & The Boar
Highly rated American in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 2894 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 901 N 3rd St Suite 195, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Bar La Grassa
Highly rated Italian in Minneapolis with 4.7 stars from 2523 reviews.
📍 800 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Owamni by The Sioux Chef
Highly rated American in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 2708 reviews.
📍 420 S 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Smack Shack
Highly rated Seafood in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 4201 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 603 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Waterbury Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.8 stars from 118 reviews.
📍 3012 Excelsior Blvd Suite 101, Minneapolis, MN 55416, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Monte Carlo
Highly rated Steakhouse in Minneapolis with 4.4 stars from 1676 reviews.
📍 219 N 3rd Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Minneapolis.
Midtown Global Market
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 4268 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 920 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Market At Malcolm Yards
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 2338 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 501 30th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Kowalski's Markets
Highly rated Bakery in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 1684 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 2440 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Oxendale's Market Minneapolis
Highly rated International in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 1004 reviews.
📍 5025 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mercado Central
Highly rated Mexican in Minneapolis with 4.3 stars from 2481 reviews.
📍 1515 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mexican cuisine
Minneapolis Farmers Market
Highly rated International in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 1312 reviews.
📍 312 East Lyndale Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55405, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
North Market
Highly rated International in Minneapolis with 4.4 stars from 801 reviews.
📍 4414 N Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55412, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Longfellow Market
Highly rated International in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 578 reviews.
📍 3815 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Minneapolis.
Taste Twin Cities Food Tours
Highly rated International in Minneapolis with 4.8 stars from 115 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Twin Cities Food Tours
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.2 stars from 5 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Minneapolis.
Caffetto Coffee House
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 1032 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 708 W 22nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55405, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Fawkes Alley Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.9 stars from 189 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1621 Harmon Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Briar
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.8 stars from 398 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1231 Washington St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Mojo Coffee Gallery
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.7 stars from 957 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2205 California St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Cafe Astoria
Highly rated Restaurant in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 1852 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 180 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sovereign Grounds
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.7 stars from 812 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 813 E 48th St, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Momo cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.8 stars from 181 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3035 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Walden Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Minneapolis with 4.8 stars from 712 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 520 NE Lowry Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55418, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Minneapolis.
Signature Dish
A must-try Minneapolis specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Minneapolis dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Minneapolis with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Minneapolis specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Minneapolis creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Minneapolis classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Minneapolis specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Minneapolis dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Minneapolis with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Minneapolis specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Minneapolis.
Tom's Watch Bar - Minneapolis
Highly rated American in Minneapolis with 4.9 stars from 9754 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 609 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
The Local - Minneapolis
Highly rated American in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 2525 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 931 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Volstead's Emporium
Highly rated Bar in Minneapolis with 4.6 stars from 1205 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 711 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Brit's Pub
Highly rated Bar in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 5507 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1110 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Upstairs Circus MPLS
Highly rated Bar in Minneapolis with 4.5 stars from 437 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 135 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Spring Street Tavern
Highly rated Bar in Minneapolis with 4.4 stars from 1353 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 355 Monroe St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Minneapolis's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Minneapolis vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Minneapolis is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Minneapolis offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Minneapolis specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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