Minnesota has a vibrant food scene with a wide range of styles, flavors, and unique fusions that only the state’s diverse population could create. From traditional comfort food to modern fine dining, Minnesota has become a destination for people who love to explore what’s on the plate.

Minnesota’s Culinary Scene Gets National Recognition

The New York Times just released its annual list of the 50 best restaurants in America. This isn’t a casual list thrown together by editors browsing Yelp reviews. According to the Times, a team of 14 staff members traveled extensively, taking “76 flights to eat more than 200 meals in 33 states.” Every meal was paid for, with no freebies accepted, ensuring the process was unbiased and based solely on the food and the experience.

READ MORE: USA Today Puts Spotlight On Minnesota’s Airport Food

Two Minnesota Restaurants Make the List

After narrowing their choices to 50, two very different restaurants from Minnesota landed on the prestigious list.

KOLM - 1520 The Ticket logo
Get our free mobile app

The first is Bûcheron, described by the Times as a “French bistro to count lumberjacks as a source of inspiration.” Located near Lake Harriet in Minneapolis, the restaurant offers what it calls “French-American cuisine.” From fresh oysters to venison, the menu includes a seasonal selection of dishes that the Times highlights as particularly enjoyable during the fall.

The second Minnesota entry is Diane’s Place, also in Minneapolis. This Hmong-American restaurant is led by chef Diane Moua, who began her career as a pastry chef. She brings her Hmong heritage and culinary training together to create what the Times calls a “warm, elegant neighborhood restaurant.” Offering both brunch and dinner, the restaurant delivers a one-of-a-kind menu filled with heart and heritage.

A National Spotlight For Minnesota's Food Scene

Minnesota food lovers can be proud to see their state recognized in such a competitive national spotlight. You can read the full New York Times list of the 50 best restaurants and see not only what the team had to say about Minnesota’s picks, but also which other restaurants across America made the cut.

Minnesota's Best Restaurants You Can Boat Up To

Minnesota, as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, has a lot of great restaurants and bars right on the water. While there are many with beautiful lakeside views, not everyone has the option to boat up to enjoy some time at the establishment.

While this is by no means a complete list of every bar and restaurant you can boat up to in Minnesota, these are the top-rated ones according to online reviews.

NOTE: These are in no particular order.

Gallery Credit: Nick Cooper - TSM Duluth

Places In Minnesota Where You Can Still See A Movie At A Drive-In Theater

Options for places to see a movie at a drive-in theater have dwindled down significantly over the years, but there are thankfully still some options around Minnesota to choose from! If you're looking to see a movie at a drive-in theater, these are the options still available in Minnesota.

Gallery Credit: Nick Cooper - TSM Duluth