Minnesota is home to tons of unique restaurants, some with rooftop dining, some that serve only beer and bratwurst, and even some that you can only get to by boat! We love quirky restaurants and trying new things and we know you do, too. So we've compiled a list of the coolest, most unusual restaurants in Minnesota. Next time you are looking for a unique dining experience, head to one of these 11 places and get your grub on while experiencing what makes it so special!
1. Betty Danger's Country Club - Minneapolis
Don't let the name dissuade you from checking out this eatery. Betty Danger's is definitely not your typical country club! From the Ferris Wheel to the mini golf course, this restaurant is anything but ordinary. You can have your meal served in the dining room or on the patio, weather permitting, but if you are feeling brave, why not eat on the Danger! Enjoy your meal and a beautiful view of downtown Minneapolis. When you’re done, make sure you try out the 8.5 hole mini-golf course. With holes named "Show Me the Money, Mother," and "Free Bear Hugs Ahead," you’ll definitely have a memorable experience at Betty Danger’s Country Club! Address: 2501 Marshall Street Northeast, Minneapolis.
2. Old Barn Resort - Preston
In 1882, the owner of the farm that once stood here built a 50-by-100-foot barn, four stories high, with room for 75 cattle. Over the years, the farm changed hands a few times, and in 1988, just before the opening of the Root River State Trail, the owner desired to turn it into a campground. Today, you can dine in the 130-year-old barn and enjoy most of the original artistry! The delicious food will make you feel right at home. Address: 24461 Heron Road, Preston.
3. BANK - Minneapolis
Like you might guess from the name, this unique restaurant was previously a bank! BANK retains the existing millwork and character of the 1940s Farmers & Mechanics Bank building. The former bank lobby is large and impressive, ideal for both formal and casual dining experiences. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, BANK offers a wide variety of unique menu items that will leave your taste buds craving more! Address: 88 South 6th Street, Minneapolis.
4. Choo Choo Restaurant & Bar - Loretto
This 100-year-old building has been a bar for nearly its entire history, since 1915! What makes this restaurant unusual is the train theme that is carried throughout the entire building. The exterior resembles an old train station, complete with railroad crossing signs. And the train theme carries to the inside with the old-time signs that might have been found in train stations 100 years ago. But what sets the Choo Choo Restaurant & Bar over the top is the caboose!
Lucky guests have the chance to sit in it,
but no matter where you sit, one thing is for certain:
you're sure to have delicious food in this charming restaurant.
Address: 160 Railway Street West, Loretto.
5. Al's Breakfast - Minneapolis
The narrowest restaurant in Minneapolis, Al’s Breakfast is only 10 feet wide! This unique restaurant can only accommodate 14 guests at a time, so there is often a line out the door. As guests are done eating, other patrons are asked to move down to accommodate new diners. If you don’t mind a sometimes long wait, its worth checking out this little breakfast joint for their amazing pancakes and omelets! Address: 413 14th Avenue Southeast, Minneapolis.
6. Moto-i - Minneapolis
It’s not the location or any crazy decor that makes Moto-i such a unique place; it’s the menu items! The food is as unique as it is delicious, with a wide range of culinary influences. Make sure you stop in when the weather is nice for sake on the rooftop before grabbing a table and a nice plate of ramen. Address: 2940 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis.
7. Galactic Pizza - Minneapolis
You can spot this brightly colored building from a mile away. And the bright colors do not stop at the door. Once you enter, you will be greeted by funky patterns and more vivid hues. What makes Galactic Pizza so amazing is the incredible food made with fresh, sustainable ingredients. If you can’t stop in to eat, but live within the delivery area, Galactic Pizza will send a pizza-delivery person to your doorstep with your order while wearing a superhero costume!Address: 2917 Lyndale Aveune South, Minneapolis.
8. The Bad Waitress - Minneapolis
Known for their very poor service, the Bad Waitress is a unique, must-try restaurant experience! Upon entering, you find your seat and write your order on a meal slip. One person from your group takes all the slips to the cash register to order and pay. Once your food is ready, a server delivers it to your table. If you have a great sense of humor and an appetite for all things delicious, you must try this Minneapolis restaurant. Address: 2 East 26th Street, Minneapolis.
9. JJ Astor - Duluth
Located on the 16th floor of the Radisson Hotel Duluth, this restaurant has a spectacular view! Guests enjoy welcoming service, inspired decor, signature courses and unparalleled views. Enjoy their delicious menu while you take in the 360-degree views of Lake Superior and Duluth. This restaurant might just be the most unique on the North Shore! Address: 505 West Superior Street, Duluth.
10. Tilt Pinball Bar - Minneapolis
This vibrant hangout offers a menu of creative hotdogs, craft beer, and cocktails along with more than 20 pinball machines! Grab your friends and head to Tilt on the last Sunday of every month of the monthly tournament and beer specials. With pinball games from over the decades, and a wide variety of unusual hot dog options, you’ll feel like a kid again at Tilt Pinball Bar! Address: 113 East 26th Street Suite 110, Minneapolis.
11. Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge - Minneapolis
Located in Northeast Minneapolis, this unique restaurant will have you feeling tropical no matter the season. Tiki torches adorn the patio space, making you feel as if you’re on a Polynesian island, and with drinks called Leilani’s Fire Bowl, you can picture yourself there, too. Psycho Suzi’s serves a wide array of menu items with a tiki vibe. From pizza to pasta, burgers to deserts, you're sure to find something here to suit your taste buds. Address: 1900 Marshall Street Northeast, Minneapolis.
Do you know of any other unusual places to eat in Minnesota? Share 'em in the comments below!
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