Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Minnesota (Currently Open)
If you’re planning a food-centric trip across Minnesota, you’re in for a treat. From Minneapolis to Duluth, there’s a rich tapestry of flavor, heritage, and local spirit waiting to be explored. These aren’t just any restaurants — they’re legendary spots locals talk about and visitors make pilgrimages to. Here’s the low-down on the top ten most famous restaurants in Minnesota that are currently open and worth the visit.
1. “Home of the Jucy Lucy” at Matt’s Bar – Minneapolis
Let’s kick things off with a Minnesota icon: Matt’s Bar in Minneapolis. It’s where the famous Jucy Lucy (that gooey-cheese-inside-a-burger wonder) was invented. Wikipedia+1
This tiny venue has been serving burgers since 1954. One bite of that molten-cheese stuffed burger and you’ll understand why it’s an institution. The atmosphere is no-frills, dive-bar meets burger shrine, and that’s part of the charm.
What to expect:
The original Jucy Lucy – cheese sealed in the middle of the patty. Wikipedia+1
A fun local slogan: “Home of the Original ‘Jucy Lucy’”. mattsbar.com
Serious burger credentials with a legacy of media mentions and burger fandom.
If you’re in the Twin Cities and want one of Minnesota’s signature dining experiences, Matt’s Bar is a must-stop.
2. Tiny but Famous: Al’s Breakfast – Minneapolis
From burgers to breakfast legends, Al’s Breakfast in the Dinkytown neighborhood of Minneapolis is pure classic. The entire restaurant is only about 10 feet wide and is known for its authentic, no-pretension breakfast fare. The Takeout+1
Its history: opened in 1950 (though its roots go earlier), and since then has become a beloved local institution. Wikipedia
What makes it stand out:
A counter-only setup with about fourteen stools – think locals, students, and early mornings. alsbreakfastmpls.com
Classic breakfast menu: pancakes, waffles, hash-browns, and more.
A legacy feel: the way it’s kept its vibe makes you feel like you’re stepping into a living piece of Minneapolis food history.
For a memorable morning meal in Minnesota, Al’s Breakfast delivers the vibe and the food.
3. Rustic Comfort at Duluth Grill – Duluth
Heading north to Lake Superior, Duluth Grill in Duluth blends comfort food with eco-conscious, locally sourced ingredients. While not as historic as some of the dive classics, it has become one of Minnesota’s most beloved modern restaurants. duluthgrill.com+1
Background: Originally opened as “Highway Host” in 1971, re-branded as Duluth Grill later on, and since then it has built a reputation for hearty, thoughtful food. Destination Duluth
Highlights:
Signature dishes that celebrate the region: wild-rice burgers, local produce, comfort staples.
A more upscale yet relaxed feel: perfect for a day-trip dinner off the beaten path.
Location in the scenic Duluth area adds to the overall experience of eating there.
If you’re exploring Minnesota beyond the Twin Cities and want something memorable, the Duluth Grill checks plenty of boxes.
4. Historic Dining at The Hubbell House – Mantorville
For a deep dive into Minnesota dining history, look no further than The Hubbell House in Mantorville. This restaurant has roots going back to 1854 — making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the state. Wikipedia+1
What you’ll find:
A beautifully preserved setting, with limestone architecture and a genuine sense of place.
A menu that offers both classic steakhouse fare and situations for family gatherings or special occasions. The Hubbell House
Located just outside the Twin Cities metropolitan hustle, so it makes for a charming detour.
Visiting Hughes House (Hubbell House) means dining in a piece of Minnesota’s food-culture timeline.
5. Sea Salt Eatery – Minneapolis (Minnehaha Park)
Nestled in a scenic spot by the water, Sea Salt Eatery has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering laid-back yet high-quality seafood in an outdoor-rustic setting. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
Why it’s notable:
Seasonal vibes: the restaurant opens for part of the year, which adds to its allure. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
The setting by Minnehaha Park makes it more than just a meal — it’s part of an outing.
People come for dishes like clam fries, mahi tacos, and seafood plates far beyond what you might expect in Minnesota.
If you want a standout experience with scenery and flavor, Sea Salt Eatery combines both.
6. Billy Sushi – Minneapolis (North Loop)
In the heart of the city’s trendier dining districts, Billy Sushi stands out. Located in the North Loop neighborhood of Minneapolis, it’s become known for fresh fish, a sleek environment, and getting the celebrity-witness seal of approval. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
What to look for:
A refined sushi/seafood counter experience rather than dive-bar vibes.
A place where business folks, sushi lovers, date nights come together.
An example of Minnesota’s culinary sophistication beyond the comfort food classics.
If you’re in the Twin Cities and want a signature upscale dinner, Billy Sushi fits the bill.
7. Mickey’s Diner – Saint Paul
An all-time classic, Mickey’s Diner in downtown Saint Paul is not just a place to eat — it’s a landmark. Housed in a 1939 train-car-style diner, it remained open 24 hours for decades. Wikipedia
What makes it special:
The exterior and interior are vintage Americana, making the dining experience unique beyond the food.
Famous guests, appearances in movies, travel shows — the kind of place that belongs on a local bucket list. Wikipedia
For casual eats with serious heritage, Mickey’s Diner delivers nostalgia and comfort.
Whether you’re grabbing breakfast at midnight or early morning after a show, this diner is part of Minnesota’s gastronomic story.
8. Alma – Minneapolis
Every great list needs a fine dining entry, and Alma in Minneapolis fits the bill for those wanting upscale, modern, and thoughtful. It’s carved its place among the Twin Cities top restaurants. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
Why Alma is on the radar:
Elegant ambience paired with creative, seasonal menus.
Ideal for visitors looking to treat themselves or mark a special occasion.
Adds diversity to your culinary tour – not just burgers or breakfast diners, but refined cuisine.
If you want to elevate your Minnesota food experience, Alma brings sophistication to the table.
9. El Burrito Mercado – St. Paul
Shifting gears into bold flavour territory, El Burrito Mercado on the West Side of St. Paul offers strong Mexican-American eats and is beloved in the local community for its depth of flavor and cultural resonance. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
Key features:
Rich, authentic Mexican-style dishes in a setting that feels grounded in neighborhood culture.
A place where flavour, authenticity and local history converge.
Great for groups, families, or anyone looking beyond the usual fine dining path.
When exploring Minnesota’s food scene, it’s good to mix in places like El Burrito Mercado to get the full range of what the region offers.
10. Yum! Kitchen & Bakery – Various Locations
For something a little different (and highly accessible), Yum! Kitchen & Bakery (with several locations around the metro area) is a long-standing spot that has defined the fast-casual, high-quality local scene in Minnesota. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
Why it earns a place:
Well-loved among locals for everyday meals, brunches, and comfort-inspired menus.
It’s recognizable, widespread, and still holds strong in its category.
If you’re in Minnesota and want somewhere reliable, friendly, and locally rooted without being ultra-luxury—Yum! Kitchen & Bakery fits.
Including this kind of entry rounds out your list with something more casual yet iconic.
Final Thoughts
Each of the ten restaurants above offers more than just a meal—they give you a taste of Minnesota’s culinary identity, from quirky historic diners to burger legends and modern fine dining. Whether you’re a local exploring inward or a visitor planning your food itinerary, this list helps you hit the big names that have stood the test of time and changed the game.