The Most Iconic Foods and Drinks That Originated in Minnesota
In the heart of Minneapolis, just a few blocks from the Mississippi River, the Midtown Global Market is a vibrant hub where you can taste Minnesota’s culinary diversity and its unique contributions to American food culture. This bustling indoor market draws vendors from around the world, but it’s also a great place to try Juicy Lucy burgers. The Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger that oozes molten cheese when bitten, was born right here in the Twin Cities. Two local bars—Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club—have long debated which invented it first, but visiting either spot in Minneapolis offers a raw, authentic taste of this iconic creation. The market’s lively atmosphere and the nearby Midtown Greenway bike trail make for a perfect day exploring both food and outdoor culture, especially during the warmer months when local produce is in full swing.
A bit farther north in Duluth, about 150 miles northeast of Minneapolis along the shores of Lake Superior, is the Duluth Pack store and museum, where the legacy of Minnesota’s outdoors lifestyle meets local culinary tradition. Duluth’s proximity to the lake has fostered a strong fishing culture, and nowhere is that more evident than at the Duluth Fish Market on the waterfront. This place champions fresh, locally caught fish like walleye and lake trout, prepared in classic Minnesotan styles that highlight the natural flavors of the Northwoods. In fall, when the air is crisp and the leaves turn fiery red, enjoying fresh fish near the harbor’s docks feels like a true taste of the region’s heritage, set against panoramic views of the lake.
In the small town of Red Wing, about an hour southeast of the Twin Cities along the Mississippi River, the historic St. James Hotel has become a regional icon for its famous “hot dish.” This quintessential Midwestern casserole includes ground meat, cream soups, and tater tots baked to golden perfection. It’s comfort food with a Minnesota twist, served in a grand hotel dining room that has welcomed travelers since 1875. The charm of the hotel’s historic architecture and river views adds to the meal’s appeal, especially during the harsh winters when a hearty hot dish feels like warming up by a fireside in the heart of the Mississippi River Valley.
Venture to the shores of Lake Minnetonka, about 25 miles west of Minneapolis, and you’ll find the historic Excelsior Brewing Company in the quaint town of Excelsior. This brewery is credited with helping revive interest in locally brewed craft beer that draws on Scandinavian and German brewing traditions brought to Minnesota by early settlers. Sampling a cold lager here while sitting on the deck overlooking the lake is pure Minnesota summer, making the most of long daylight hours and gentle lake breezes. The brewery often pairs its beers with local cheeses and wild rice dishes, blending native ingredients with European techniques—a nod to Minnesota’s immigrant roots.
In the Iron Range region near Hibbing, about 120 miles north of Minneapolis, the Hardy’s Bakery stands as a beloved staple for the state’s unique take on doughnuts. Here, the famous “Scandinavian doughnut” or “kringla” is a must-try. This twisted, subtly sweet pastry reflects the Norwegian and Swedish heritage that shaped the area’s culture. Hardy’s, nestled in the historic downtown district, offers a cozy setting to try these treats alongside strong coffee. Visiting in winter, when the snow blankets the town and the bakery’s warmth offers refuge, makes for a quintessential northern Minnesota experience.
About 90 minutes north of Duluth, in the town of Two Harbors on the shores of Lake Superior, you can visit the Lake Superior Brewing Company. This brewery highlights the connection between Minnesota’s natural resources and its craft beer scene. Their signature “North Shore Pale Ale” incorporates local flavors and celebrates the rugged beauty of the region. Nearby, the Gitchi-Gami State Trail offers visitors a scenic bike or hike along Lake Superior’s shoreline, where the fresh air and stunning vistas enhance the taste of any locally brewed beer. Summer and early fall are perfect times to enjoy this combination, as the trail blooms with wildflowers and the lake sparkles under clear skies.
Finally, venture to the historic Mill City Museum in downtown Minneapolis, built into the ruins of the Washburn “A” Mill on the Mississippi River. Here, you can learn about Minnesota’s critical role in grain milling—the state once known as the “Flour Milling Capital of the World.” The museum’s exhibits showcase how Minnesota wheat became the foundation for iconic American baked goods, including the hearty rye breads and wild rice breads popular in the region. Nearby bakeries, inspired by this heritage, offer fresh rye loaves that carry the mill’s history in every bite. The museum is particularly lively in late spring and summer when outdoor tours and riverfront views complement the immersive history of Minnesota’s flour industry.
Each of these places offers a genuine glimpse into Minnesota’s food and drink heritage, from city markets to lakeside breweries, historic hotels, and rural bakeries. Together, they paint a flavorful picture of a state where immigrant traditions, natural bounty, and inventive spirit combine to create some of the most beloved dishes and drinks in the Midwest. Whether you’re savoring a molten cheese burger in Minneapolis or fresh-caught fish on Lake Superior’s shore, these experiences invite you deeply into the tastes that define Minnesota.