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Minneapolis Restaurants You Should Be Dining At This Week

As Minnesota’s most populous city, neighboring west of St. Paul, Minneapolis is one destination you don’t want to miss out on during your trip to the Midwest. In addition, Twin City’s riverfront placement gives it an excellent view of the Mississippi River.

chef prepares beef steak at minneapolis minnesota restaurant

Many people love visiting the city’s best attractions, including the Guthrie Theater, Weisman Museum of Art, and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. It also has a thriving live music scene, particularly rhythm and blues.

Minneapolis is home to several restaurants offering a wide selection of international dining options as far as food goes. So, whether you’re in the mood for Mexican or Southeast Asian fare, there are plenty of places to choose from. However, it might become too time-consuming to tackle every restaurant in the city during your stay.

I compiled this list of the best restaurants in Minneapolis to help you narrow down where to eat if you’re short on time or want to book a reservation after spending a day out at any popular city attraction.


Spoon And Stable

211 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-224-9850
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Next up on the list of the best restaurants in Minneapolis is Spoon And Stable, located on North 1st Street, overlooking the Mississippi River.

This rustic yet chic destination offers cozy digs and enticing French fare with a Midwest twist for anyone who prefers a riverside lunch or dinner. They also have a few private dining rooms for special occasions.

I recommend starting with their Half-Shell Oysters or Bison Tartare and ordering their Grilled Venison, Driftless Trout, Spaghetti Nero, or Dry-Aged Duck Breast. Stop by their bar for a Lion’s Tail or Jungle Bird cocktail. They also offer a brunch menu on Sundays.


Bar La Grassa

800 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-333-3837
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One of the best Italian restaurants in Minneapolis is Bar La Grassa, nestled on North Washington Avenue, a short walk from The Lab Theater and Acme Comedy Company. Its bustling ambiance is ideal for private parties or casual dinners with your friends and family. They also have an extensive wine list to give your night out extra class.

Bar La Grassa’s menu has a wide selection of small plates and pasta to meet your cravings for Italian fare. I like their Crab Ravioli, Ziti with Shrimp & Vin Santo Cream, St. Louis Ribs, and Spaghetti Carbonara with a glass of Chianti Classico.


Chimborazo

2851 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Phone: 612-788-1328
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A short walk from Audubon Park leads you to Chimborazo, an Ecuadorian restaurant nestled on the corner of Central Avenue Northeast and 29th Avenue Northeast. Chef Marcos Pinguil crafts dishes with Andean influence for you to enjoy in a casual, festive setting.

The restaurant also has vibrant Otavaleño textile decorations and traditional Quichua music that enhance its ambiance. They serve the best Chaulafan, Churrasco, Milanesa De Pollo, and Sanduche De Pernil in Minneapolis’ Northeast neighborhood.

Best of all, many of their dishes are suitable for anyone looking for gluten-free options. Keep in mind that some of these dishes are pretty spicy, so be sure to cool them down with some South American beer or wine.


Victor’s 1959 Cafe

3756 Grand Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Phone: 612-827-8948
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Can’t find any restaurants in Minneapolis serving quality Cuban cuisine? If so, Victor’s 1959 Cafe might be your best pick for an authentic dining experience. You can find it on Grand Avenue South. It has a cozy and vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy fresh air and music on their patio early in the day before going to Lyndale Farmstead Dog Park.

They offer several Cuban breakfast and lunch options. I recommend trying their Seafood Paella, Fricassee De Pollo, Sweet Plantain Omelet, or Black Bean Burger. Don’t forget to order a side of sliced mango or avocado to complete your meal.


Hai Hai

2121 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Phone: 612-223-8640
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Don’t know where to go if you’re in the mood for Southeast Asian cuisine? Then, consider going to University Avenue Northeast and booking a seat at Hai Hai. This vibrant and hip establishment has wonderful Vietnamese dining options for anyone looking for something different to indulge in. Chef Christina Nguyen creates each dish with bold flavors.

After starting with their spring rolls, consider trying their Beef Rendang, Hanoi Sticky Rice, Vietnamese Crepe, or Balinese Chicken Thigh. They also have a wide selection of red, white, rose, and sparkling wines, but I prefer having a Floating Lantern, Sleepless in Siam, or Sundown in Saigon cocktail with my meal.


Boludo

8 W. 38th St. Minneapolis, MN 55409
Phone: 612-353-5574
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If you’re passing by Nicollet Avenue, be sure to stop by Boludo to sample their traditional Argentine fare. This small, casual eatery offers sidewalk seating if you prefer dining in front of a cityscape setting.

Chef Facundo DeFraia gives guests a taste of Buenos Aires in every dish he masterfully crafts. You can also find Boludo in the Downtown district. They serve the best Fugazzeta Empanadas, Sarandara Pizza, Jamón y Queso Empanadas, and Humita Pizza in this side of the neighborhood.

Don’t forget to try their Fernando cocktail or a shot of Fernet Branca. After that, treat yourself to their flan or churro donuts.


Martina

4312 Upton Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410
Phone: 612-922-9913
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You can find Martina on Upton Avenue South, minutes from Trolley Path Garden and Lake Harriet. This chic and modern restaurant is an excellent option for enjoying elevated Argentinian food in a warm, welcoming setting in the Linden Hills neighborhood. Chef Daniel del Prado crafts each dish over a wood-fire grill to ensure authentic flavors.

My favorite dinner options are Celery Root Ravioli, Norwegian Salmon, Pappardelle with Duck Ragu, and Spaghetti Fra Diavolo with Lobster. Don’t miss out on their Casamari, Luna Rosa, or Silver’s Embassy cocktails to enhance each dish’s rich flavors. They also offer zero-proof cocktails and weekend brunch.


Young Joni

165 13th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Phone: 612-345-5719
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First up on my list of the best restaurants in Minneapolis you should consider visiting is Young Joni, located on 13th Avenue Northeast, in the Sheridan neighborhood. It has an old-fashioned hideaway aesthetic, perfect for enjoying craft cocktails and pub fare prepared by Chef Ann Kim.

Although their dining room isn’t currently open, you can still order their dishes for takeout. If you’re in the mood for small specialty pizzas or Korean barbeque, you might enjoy their menu options. I really enjoyed their Chicken Tinga Pizza, Pork Spare Ribs, Thai Sausage, and Amalfi Coast Pizza. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their Cookie & Bar Plate for dessert.

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Bull’s Horn

4563 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Phone: 612-208-1378
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You can find Bull’s Horn on the corner of South 34th Avenue and East 46th Street. After spending a few hours at the scenic Minnehaha Creek Park, I enjoy coming to this restaurant for dinner. It has a vintage and laid-back atmosphere, ideal for ending the day in style.

I recommend starting with their fried cheese curds and ordering their Weather B Burger, Grilled Cheese, Mushroom Melt, or Pizza Burger with a side of baked beans or mac & cheese. Stop by between 4 PM and 6 PM Tuesday through Friday for their happy hour drink and bar bites specials, including a dollar off their tap beer and house wines.


Matt’s Bar and Grill

3500 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Phone: 612-722-7072
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One of the best restaurants in Minneapolis where you can find quality burgers in a cozy and old-fashioned setting is Matt’s Bar and Grill on the corner of Cedar Avenue and East 35th Street. Stop by to enjoy their signature “Jucy Lucy” for a meaty and cheesy sensation that you won’t experience at home.

I enjoyed their Chicken Sandwich, Jucy Lucy, Double Cheeseburger, and Grilled Cheese when I last stopped by. Don’t forget to add a half or full order of fries if you’re extra hungry. Feel free to wash down your burger with a refreshing lemonade or Iron Horse Root Beer.


Alma

528 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: 612-379-4909
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Nestled on the corner of University Avenue Southeast and 6th Avenue Southeast, Alma is your top dining option for a New American Prix-Fixe dining experience. Its modern ambiance is a perfect setting for anyone stopping by for a bite to eat or staying at the Alma Hotel. Alma

Alma is broken into Cafe Alma, open 8-5 and offering more casual service, and Restaurant Alma, which is open for dinner only and features a seasonally rotating prix fixe menu and wine pairings. They also offer a vegetarian Prix-Fixe menu, so don’t miss out on their Crispy Saffron Rice.


Holy Land Bakery, Grocery and Deli

2513 NE Central Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Phone: 612-781-2627
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One of the best restaurants Minneapolis offers guests craving authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine is Holy Land Bakery, Grocery and Deli, located in the heart of Northeast Minneapolis, east of the Arts District. It has a relaxed and casual atmosphere ideal for dining at any time of the day. 

They prepare their dishes on wood-fire grills and Tandoor clay ovens to ensure quality flavor. Their dishes are GMO-free and made with sustainable ingredients. I recommend ordering their Arabic Shawirma, Spinach Pie, or Sauteed Vegetables. If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, order their Chocolate Baklava or Honey Cakes for dessert.


Zen Box Izakaya

602 S Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Phone: 612-332-3936
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Located on South Washington Avenue, near Mill City Museum, Zen Box Izakaya is my top pick for anyone seeking quality Japanese comfort food in the Mill District. Their sleek, industrial setup gives it a stylish flair if you prefer more unique dining settings. Executive Chef John Ng uses the freshest local ingredients to create bold, new takes on ramen.

Try their takoyaki or seaweed salad if you want to start with something light. Then, consider ordering a Katsu Sando, Tori Tantanmen, Chicken Karaage Curry, or Salmon Teriyaki Bento with a side of kimchi or brown rice, and their Kiku Masamune Sake or Lychee Soda.


Pimento Jamaican Kitchen & Rum Bar

2524 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Phone: 612-345-5637
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After spending a day at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the best restaurant I recommend you visit is Pimento Jamaican Kitchen & Rum Bar, located on Nicollet Avenue. This casual and colorful restaurant serves tasty traditional Jamaican dishes that add a dash of excitement to any locals or tourists’ taste buds.

Their best dishes are Braised Oxtail, Slow-Roasted Jerk Pork, Kingston Style Jerk Chicken, and Coco Bread Sandwich. Be sure to order a side of Wicked Wings, Sweet Fried Plantains, or Jamaican Slaw to give your meal an extra flavor kick. If you’re still hungry after, treat yourself to their Southern Style Peach Cobbler.


Soul Bowl

520 N 4th St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-567-7044
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Don’t know where to find soul food in Minneapolis’ North Loop area? Luckily, you can find the best option at Soul Bowl on North 4th Street, in the Graze Provisions and Libations Food Hall, minutes from the Hewing Hotel.

This casual restaurant is the perfect place for anyone who loves customizing a soul bowl to their liking. During my last visit to Soul Bowl, I had a bowl with Drizzy Cornbread Dressing, D’Angelo Candied Yams, Fantasia Fried Chicken, and Spicy Ranch Sauce.

However, I recommend trying their signature Summer Bowl, Brittney BLT Salad, A.A. Sandwich, or Caribe Bowl if you don’t know what to add to your bowl.


Nixta Tortilleria & Mexican Takeout

1222 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55413
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The next restaurant I recommend for dining in or takeout is Nixta Tortilleria & Mexican Takeout, nestled on Northeast 2nd Street. This laid-back and casual restaurant serves the best tortilla dishes made with traditional preparation methods. They also offer catering if your party needs a customizable taco bar.

Nixta offers rotating weekly menu options and add-ons if you’re interested in taking home their food at the end of the week. In my opinion, they serve the best Pollo en Mole Grande near the Sheridan neighborhood. You can add their empanadas or chips with salsa for extra if you crave more. Just heat it, and you’re ready to go.


Kramarczuk’s

215 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: 612-379-3018
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Kramarczuk’s is a vintage Polish and Eastern European restaurant found on East Hennepin Avenue, minutes from Nicollet Island. From its baked goods to its sausages, there’s plenty to try at their deli if you decide on staying for dinner or taking it to-go.

In my opinion, their best dishes are Polish Kielbasa, Pastrami Brisket, Pulled Pork Sandwich, and Vegetarian Cabbage Roll. I like ordering a side of mashed potatoes or red cabbage to give my meal more substance. If you prefer something lighter, try their soup or stew. Treat yourself to a Walnut Torte or Cream Puff if you have room for dessert.


REVERIE CAFE & BAR

1517 E 35th St, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Phone: 612-987-7080
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You can find REVERIE CAFE & BAR about a minute east of Powderhorn Park in the Downtown area. This casual vegan restaurant has a vibrant and lively atmosphere for enjoying plant-based dishes in their indoor dining space or outdoor patio when the weather’s warm and sunny.

Many patrons love sampling their coffee, wine, and tap selections at their full coffee bar. Consider stopping by for their weekday happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM for $2 discounts off any rotating taps. Their Cauliflower Tacos were crispy and zesty.

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They’re great with a refreshing kombucha. Other popular menu items include their Nachos Supreme and Rev Burger.


Murray’s

26 South 6th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-339-0909
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Another upscale Minneapolis restaurant that I recommend if you’re interested in prime cut steaks and other steakhouse favorites is Murray’s, located on South 6th Street, in the heart of the Downtown district.

Its refined and stylish ambiance makes it a perfect place for intimate dinner dates or private parties. Order Murray’s signature Silver Butter Knife Steak for Two if you’re planning a date night.

However, if you’re going alone or with friends, try their Peppercorn Strip Steak, Red Lake Walleye, Tournedos Oscar, or Australian Lobster Tail, topped with Aged Steak Butter. Be sure to add a side of fries or loaded hash browns.


Owamni by The Sioux Chef

420 1st St S, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-444-1846
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Overlooking the Mississippi River is Owamni by The Sioux Chef, one of the city’s most popular restaurants serving Indigenous cuisine. It’s near Mill Ruins Park. Chef Sean Sherman and his culinary team serve flavorful dishes with carefully sourced ingredients for an authentic dining experience in a laid-back, cozy setting.

If you’re dining with friends, consider starting with their Elk Short Ribs or Stuffed Poblano. Their dinner menu offers a wide selection of game and plant-based dishes. My favorite dinner option is their Corn Tacos. Don’t forget to browse their drink menu for Indigenous teas, hot tea lattes, and seasonal zero-proof cocktails to enhance your dining experience.


Petite León

3800 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Phone: 612-208-1247
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Petite León is one of the best restaurants Minneapolis offers visitors interested in a relaxed fine dining experience during their stay in the city. You can find it in the King Field neighborhood. Executive Chef Jorge Guzmán and his team prepare quality Yucatán dishes for anyone interested in trying food with a flavorful kick.

During my last visit, I ordered their Pollo al Carbon. This dish had an excellent blend of tanginess and spiciness that can make anyone’s taste buds sizzle. Their menu has a wide selection of wine, beer, agave, and cocktails to wash down their spiciest dishes, like their Banana Hammock or Pisco Inferno.


Pizzeria Lola

5557 Xerxes Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410
Phone: 612-424-8338
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After spending your day at York Park and getting a lovely view of Minnehaha Creek, consider your next dinner at Pizzeria Lola on Xerxes Avenue South. This casual, modern restaurant serves quality wood-fired pizzas with a Korean touch. They also have an outdoor patio space for anyone who prefers open-air dining.

Pizzeria Lola’s pizzas are available with regular and gluten-free crusts. My favorites are their Lady Zaza, Korean BBQ, Sunnyside, and Xerxes pies. If you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail, try their Paloma, Negroni, or Lolita. I also recommend trying their Chocolate Budino or House-Made Soft Serve Ice Cream for dessert.


Sammy’s Avenue Eatery

1101 W Broadway Ave #1, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Phone: 612-767-6278
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Sammy’s Avenue Eatery is one of the best restaurants Minneapolis residents can count on for quality sandwiches if they’re interested in a grab-and-go breakfast or lunch. It’s located half a mile east of North Commons Park, in the Near North neighborhood. Guests can enjoy Sammy McDowell’s best sandwiches in a casual, laid-back setting after a day of sightseeing.

I usually order a Turkey Club or Roast Chicken Melt with a slice of Texas Toast or half a salad on the side. They offer six-inch sandwiches with soup and other sides if you prefer something lighter. Treat yourself to their cake or pie if you want dessert.


The Capital Grille

801 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-692-9000
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Are you interested in the best fine dining experience the city offers? The Capital Grille on Hennepin Avenue, within the heart of the Theatre District, is a great place to enjoy the best steak before catching a performance. Their upscale and clubby atmosphere radiates a sophisticated type of energy, so be sure to dress in your most formal attire.

After browsing and ordering from their extensive wine list, consider trying their Filet Mignon, Sushi-Grade Seared Sesame Tuna, Roasted Chicken Breast, or Seared Tenderloin with Butter-Poached Lobster Tails. Don’t miss out on their Black Tie Margarita or Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar cocktail.


Broders’ Pasta Bar

5000 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Phone: 612-925-9202
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You can find Broders’ Pasta Bar between the Fulton and Lynnhurst neighborhoods. Since 1994, this cozy, upscale Italian eatery has served housemade pasta and risotto with the finest local and seasonal ingredients. Their pasta dishes have a firm texture and a balanced sauce blend that enhances their flavors. 

They have a rotating pasta menu that changes every week. I enjoyed their Pappardelle Con Agnello and Penne Puttanesca, each infused with fresh vegetables. They taste great with any wines from their extensive drink menu. Consider booking a reservation Sunday through Friday after 8 PM for their fixed-price date night dinner special.


Hola Arepa

3501 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: 612-345-5583
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If you find yourself exploring South Minneapolis, you should consider stopping by for Latin American food at Hola Arepa on Nicollet Avenue. This casual and lively restaurant has an outdoor patio space for enjoying scratch-made dishes and fresh arepas every day. I think it’s a great change of pace as far as dinner goes.

Many of their menu options are gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly. I recommend trying their Black Bean & Sweet Potato, Slow-Roasted Pork, Fried Chicken, or Chorizo Sausage Arepas. They taste great when paired with a Mancora, Palmera, or Aviador cocktail. Hola Arepa also offers brunch every Saturday and Sunday.


Lu’s Sandwiches

2624 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: 612-587-2694
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Lu’s Sandwiches is among the best places to enjoy quality Vietnamese dishes near Eat Street, south of the Downtown area. Its casual atmosphere makes it the perfect setting to take your family for a relaxing bite after a long day. Their service is fast and efficient if you prefer ordering your food to go or don’t have time to stay.

This eatery’s menu offers a wide selection of banh mi sandwiches and salad bowls to satisfy any cravings. I recommend their Vietnamese-style BBQ Grilled Pork Banh Mi. It has a spicy flavor enhanced with green onions. This dish tastes great with a side of veggie or pork spring rolls.


Manny’s Steakhouse

825 S Marquette Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-339-9900
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Nestled inside the West Minneapolis – The Foshay Hotel, overlooking South Marquette Avenue, Manny’s Steakhouse is your top option for a refined dining experience. Their Heritage Black Angus Beef steaks are tender and flavorful, making them some of the best in the city. This upscale Minneapolis eatery also serves mouth-watering seafood.

During my last few visits to Manny’s, I started with their Scallops Benedict and Maine Lobster Cakes. Then, I ordered their Lemon Mustard Chicken, Baseball Steak, King Crab Legs, and Nova Scotia Lobster Tail with a side of loaded mashed potatoes. I recommend not missing out on their Blueberry Cucumber Mule or Nordic Smash cocktails.


Sooki & Mimi

1432 W 31st St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: 612-540-2554
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Nestled within Uptown Minneapolis, Sooki & Mimi is your best dining option for quality Mexican and Korean specialty and shareable dishes in a cozy setting. Their outdoor seating offers an excellent view of the busy streets, while their basement bar offers creative cocktails and bar bites perfect for ending your week in style.

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Their Tacos Dorados are packed with hearty chorizo, cheddar cheese, pico verde, lettuce, and crema, giving the dish a flavorful and crunchy taste with every bite. Stop by their basement bar Thursday through Saturday between 4 PM and 11 PM for sour and savory cocktails with bar bites.


WENDY’S HOUSE OF SOUL

4414 N Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55412
Phone: 612-800-4535
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One of the best restaurants Minneapolis visitors and residents love visiting for a quick bite is WENDY’S HOUSE OF SOUL. It’s a short walk from Webber Park, near the Webber-Camden neighborhood. Its casual atmosphere is ideal for dining with your family.

Their signature Soul Rolls are made with a gluten-free egg roll wrap filled with several fresh ingredients, including their special sauce. My favorite option is their Taco Soul Roll, stuffed with nacho chips, creamy cheese sauce, and seasoned ground beef.

You can also create a Soul Roll with a special sauce or cheese base and the meat and fillings of your liking.


Billy Sushi ビリー寿司

116 N 1st Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-886-1783
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Are you in the mood for authentic sushi in Minneapolis? If so, consider booking your next dinner reservation at Billy Sushi ビリー寿司, located on North 1st Avenue. This stylish and contemporary restaurant offers dine-in and takeout options if you’re craving quality Japanese cuisine and sushi.

Try their Flounder, Salmon, or Snow Crab nigiri if you’re in the mood for sushi. However, their Chicken Tempura, Beef Udon, Teriyaki Salmon, or Chicken Yaki Soba make excellent alternatives if you’re craving more. Be sure to browse through their list of sake, whisky, and cocktails to find something refreshing and flavorful to pair with your dishes.


Ramen Kazama

3400 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: 612-353-6160
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If you’re craving quality Japanese ramen near the South Uptown neighborhood, consider stopping by for dinner at Ramen Kazama. This casual ramen stop has a hip ambiance and fast service that anyone can enjoy. Start your night off with their Karaage before ordering their Kara Miso Ramen. This dish is spicy yet filling with pork and green onions as its core ingredients.

I like ordering this dish with dried seaweed or fried tofu on the side. Their menu offers a great selection of teas and other drinks to pair with your meal, like wasabi ginger ale to golden oolong tea.


Revival MPLS

4257 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Phone: 612-345-4516
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Not sure where to find Southern comfort food in the King Field neighborhood? Then, consider heading to Nicollet Avenue and trying Revival MPLS’ delicious menu. I recommend stopping here for dinner because of its laid-back atmosphere. They also offer catering and private dining services for any occasion.

If you don’t know what to order on your first visit, start with their Dry-Rubbed Wings or Beer-Battered Cheese Curds. After that, consider ordering their Southern Fried Chicken, Revival Burger, Chicken & Waffles, or Shrimp & Grits.

I like adding a side of glazed carrots or hushpuppies to balance out my dish’s flavors. Don’t forget to browse their wine list.


Quang Restaurant

2719 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: 612-870-4739
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Another one of the best restaurants Minneapolis visitors and residents can visit for tasty Vietnamese food is Quang Restaurant, located minutes from the Minneapolis Institute of Art. It has a casual ambiance with atmospheric decor, from hanging lanterns to a Golden Buddha statue greeting guests at the entrance.

Quang Restaurant’s menu has several gluten free and vegetarian entrees. After starting with their Hoanh Thanh Chien, succulent wontons stuffed with cream cheese, indulge in their Lemongrass Chicken with Caramelized Onions or Shrimp and Pork Rice Noodle Soup.

I prefer pairing these dishes with hot jasmine tea, raspberry iced tea, or French-pressed iced coffee. 


Taqueria y Birrieria Las Cuatro Milpas

1526 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Phone: 612-834-8814
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One of the busiest restaurants near the Phillips neighborhood is Taqueria y Birrieria Las Cuatro Milpas. You can’t miss this casual, family-friendly Mexican restaurant’s vibrant exterior mural while passing through the neighborhood.

It’s a great place to enjoy authentic Mexican fare with your family or sample late-night drinks at the bar after a long day. Consider ordering their Quesadilla de Pollo, Taco Dorado de Birria, or Carne Asada with a side of guacamole with chips, deep-fried tostadas, or beans and rice.

Pair your meal with a refreshing pineapple or watermelon Agua Fresca to wash down the spicier dishes. 


Union Hmong Kitchen

520 N 4th St Ste 4, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-431-5285
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You can find Union Hmong Kitchen nestled within the Warehouse District. Chef Yia Vang‘s Hmong dishes have bold flavors enhanced by quality spices and herbs. Their rooftop patio has a lovely view of the city’s skyline and the Mississippi for anyone who prefers an open-air dining experience. 

Their menu features dishes that are vegan-friendly and gluten-free. I ordered their Hmong Sausage entree with lemongrass scallion sauce, a side of purple sticky rice, and a housemade coconut lychee colada.

It had a crispy and firm texture and hints of tanginess and spiciness. Another side dish I recommend is their herb-packed Khao Sen Rice Noodles.


Demi

212 N 2nd St Suite 100, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-404-1123
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Do you prefer eating in a more sophisticated setting? If so, come to Demi on North 2nd Street for a creative tasting experience. Although small in size, its contemporary and classic aesthetic make it pop out. Feel free to look at the artwork decorating the restaurant’s walls as you eat.

Demi offers several multi-course fixed-price tasting menus for you to try during your night out with friends. Although these specials are pricier than the other restaurants on this list, I think it’s a great change of pace for anyone interested in trying top-quality food.

For example, you can pair their Maine Scallop and Seared Foie Gras with any of their seasonal, rotating wines.


Travail Kitchen & Amusements

4134 Hubbard Ave N, Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Phone: 763-535-1131
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Are you looking for a restaurant serving quality food with an industrial-chic aesthetic? If so, look no further than Travail Kitchen & Amusement, nestled on Hubbard Avenue North in Robbinsdale. Relax in their upper-level Sky Lounge while enjoying their tasting menu as you get a nice view of Crystal Lake.

Travail Kitchen & Amusements offers several six and 8-course fixed-price meal options for locals and tourists to enjoy. In my opinion, you should try their Risotto Farro Verde, Branzino, Striploin, or Osso Buco. Their menu also accommodates most dietary restrictions and has a selection of wine and spirit-free pairings to help you enhance your meal’s flavors.


ViV!R

1414 Quincy St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Phone: 612-345-5527
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Last but not least on this rundown of the top restaurants in Minneapolis is ViV!R, found on Quincy Street Northeast. This casual Mexican restaurant offers a wide selection of small plates anyone exploring the city’s northeast side can enjoy. Their Escondido spirits lounge is also a great place to unwind after a long week.

During my last visit to the city, I tried their Octopus Tacos, Carnitas Torta, Veggie Empanadas, and Cemita Sandwich. I also recommend pairing these zesty dishes with a Coconut Margarita, Rose Sangria, or A Sicilian in Jalisco cocktail. If you crave something sweet afterward, try their Concha or Polvorones.


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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Quora, Google Guide and Facebook.