Minnesota is full of renowned restaurants that have gotten lots of local and national press. These spots tend to fill up quickly, with hungry diners hoping to get in on the latest and greatest that Minnesota chefs have to offer. That's always fun, but there's something to be said for the more low-key spots in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. These 11 mouthwatering restaurants may not be world-renowned, but you can go there knowing that you never need a reservation. Take a look:
Located in downtown Fergus Falls, this historic restaurant has been family-owned for nearly 50 years. The cozy, welcoming interior will make you feel right at home, and the food is simply delicious. Locals and out-of-towners flock to this eatery for great breakfast options and tasty lunch items. For example, you can’t go wrong with the Fancy Nancy: homemade hash browns smothered in mushrooms, green peppers, onions, tomatoes, and cheese. It’s a great way to start your day. Address: 203 West Lincoln Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN.
If you’re looking for a great burger in Rochester, Newt’s is the place to go. Newt’s may not look like much on the outside, but the friendly staff and fair prices keep bringing people back. The Marvin Burger is a standout menu item created by and named after a cook. Your taste buds will be more than satisfied by the secret blend of seasonings with cheddar cheese, hardwood smoked hickory bacon, and tangy chipotle mayo. Yum! Address: 5231 East Frontage Road Highway 52, Rochester, MN.
The small town of Lake City, located on the banks of the Mississippi River, is the perfect little place to go when you want to get away for awhile. For lunch, check out the cute yellow house called Chickadee Cottage Cafe. This beautiful cafe, with its pretty front flower garden, serves the tastiest breakfast you’ll find in the area. The smell of homemade breads and desserts will draw you in, and the amazing staff and delicious food will bring you back again and again. Address:317 North Lakeshore Drive, Lake City, MN.
If you only make one stop on your trip up to the North Shore, make sure its to Rustic Inn. Large portions and great prices have been the name of the game at this restaurant since it opened in 1986. Today, many visitors have made this charming eatery their favorite place to stop for a fantastic bite to eat. Service is always quick, but you won’t want to leave! Top off your meal with a slice of homemade pie. Address: 2773 MN 61, Two Harbors, MN.
Babani’s Kurdish Restaurant, located in St Paul, was the first Kurdish restaurant to open in the United States! Offering dishes that cater to both herbivores and carnivores, the traditional spices used in Kurdish cooking bring unique flavor to every menu item. The Kubey Sawar - crushed wheat made into a dough and filled with lean ground beef, spices, and onion then sauteed in olive oil - is a standout palate pleaser. Address: 32 Fillmore Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN.
It’s hard to find a great sub shop that isn’t a major chain, but we’re here to tell you about what may be the best sub shop in the state. Stewie’s Subs serves up classic favorites such as the Italian and the Philly, with some local favorites thrown in there as well. The Mio Dio, consisting of turkey, pepperoni, salami, onion, green pepper, tomato, cheese, lettuce, and Italian mayo, is a guilty pleasure for many. You’ll never need a reservation at this shop, but you should get there early for lunch. This little restaurant fills up fast! Address: 804 Lake Street South, Forest Lake, MN.
Breakfast is the favorite meal of the day at Merlin’s Family Restaurant. Many tout the eggs benedict as the best they’ve ever tasted. Not only is the food delicious, but the portions are so large that you could split an entree and still be stuffed. With daily breakfast specials, there is something for every diner in your group at Merlin’s. And excellent news for breakfast lovers: Merlin’s will prepare your breakfast dream dish all day long! Address: 504 19th Avenue North, Princeton, MN.
We’ve all heard of Minnesota Nice, but now you can eat it, too. The Minnesota Nice cafe is a charming spot in Bemidji that features fast, friendly service and great food. The house-made biscuits, served with a heaping of sausage gravy, is an absolute must-try. Next time you’re in Bemidji, be sure to overlook this friendly family eatery. Address: 315 Irvine Avenue Northwest, Bemidji, MN.
In the northern reaches of Minnesota lies the tiny town of Orr. There may not be a lot of people here, but there is a fantastic restaurant that serves great food to people from miles around. The homemade soups are a fan favorite, especially the chicken noodle! Weather too warm for soup? You can’t go wrong with any of the sandwiches on the menu - but good luck picking one out of the many delicious options. The menu at The Dam is quite extensive, so come hungry! Address: 4247 Highway 53, Orr, MN.
Next time you’re craving Mexican food, El Agave might be exactly what you need. The colorful decor inside will have you feeling like you’re at a fiesta, and the large portions of great dishes will leave you stuffed. If you’re overwhelmed by the many excellent menu options, try the Burritos Deluxe. It’s two burritos - one chicken, one beef - topped with lettuce, pico de gallo, and sour cream. You’ll absolutely love it. Address: 814 N Minnesota Avenue, St. Peter, MN.
This Italian eatery is a gem in the town of Marshall. Bello Cucina has become a staple for many who crave hand-tossed pizzas. But this restaurant delivers more than great pizza. Any of the pasta dishes is a delight, but the Boom Boom Pow is a knockout. It consists of spicy smoked bacon, asparagus, and garlic over linguine. Yum! But if that won’t do it, there are plenty of other great options. Your meal at Bello Cucina will have you planning your return trip before you even leave. Address: 100 W College Drive, Marshall, MN.
Ever been to any of these mouthwatering restaurants? Got any others to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
After driving for more than an hour through Minnesota's Superior National Forest at night, from the North Shore toward the Iron Range - and without passing a single business - I was hungry and thirsty and wondering where the heck I was. (Did I mention that I had little to no cell service for most of the drive?)
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So you can very well imagine my delight when I rounded a curve, broke through the treeline, and came upon a bright, friendly sign reading, "Timber's Edge Bar and Grill." I don't think I squealed my tires when I braked and turned into this off-the-beaten path restaurant in Minnesota - but I may have. A little.
I'm not sure what I was expecting when I pulled up to the log-and-plank sided building at the intersection of Wilson Road and U.S. Route 53, a few miles south of Eveleth, but what I found was a pleasant surprise.
The dining room was a neat, friendly, and well-lighted space. A hand-written sign on the wall admonished that "mine boots" weren't allowed in the room - a reminder that I'd made it to the Iron Range.
The bar was equally clean and friendly, and given my arrival a few minutes before the kitchen closed, neither the dining room nor the bar were at all crowded.
I found a perch at a hightop; the bartender, who was doubling as a server at the time, brought me an extremely well-priced drink and a menu with many more offerings than I expected or had even hoped for.
I ended up ordering the steak dinner (the kind wasn't specified, but if I had to guess, I'd say sirloin) which came with a side salad, a breadstick, and a choice of potato - all for less than $20. I sprung for the sautéed mushrooms and onions for another couple bucks, and I was very pleased with everything. I saw a couple sandwiches and burgers come out while I was there, and they looked great, too!
For folks who live on the Arrowhead, Timbers Edge is definitely worth making the trip. And visitors from elsewhere should certainly pin it on their maps.
Next time you're heading to the Iron Range or visiting Sax-Zim Bog in Minnesota, be sure to make the trip over to Timbers Edge Bar and Grill - you'll be glad that you did. The restaurant doesn't maintain much of a web presence, but updates and specials are posted pretty regularly on the Timbers Edge Facebook page. Have you visited this off-the-beaten path restaurant in Minnesota? Let us know!
You won't find much in the way of accommodations close to Timbers Edge. Your best bet is probably Virginia, about 20 minutes north of the eatery on U.S. Route 53. The downtown Quality Inn and Suites is located in what used to be the Coates Hotel and retains much of its predecessor's historic charm. It's my go-to hostelry when I'm in the area. I think you'll like it, too.
What are some other hidden gem eateries in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Tell us about your favorites in the comments.
