Top 6 Dining Stops for Your Central Minnesota Road Trip
Central Minnesota brims with activity year-round, from fishing and biking in the spring and summer, to harvest festivals and pumpkin patches in the fall, and skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. If you’re planning a drive to get in on the action, whet your appetite at these favorite local eateries, which run the gamut from fine dining to casual burger joints.
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A.T. The Black and White
A.T. The Black and White
Just 5 minutes from Charles A. Lindbergh State Park on the Mississippi River, A.T. The Black and White is tucked into downtown Little Falls and makes a perfect stop for a decadent dinner. For an appetizer, the duck wontons are a smash, filled with duck confit, hot pepper bacon jam, corn and cream cheese, and served with a side of sweet chili sauce. Round out the meal with a warm oatmeal milk stout brownie topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, candied pecans and whipped cream.
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Jordie's Trailside Cafe
Jordie's Trailside Cafe
It’s like your grandma’s house, your favorite day-date destination and the best place to refuel after a day of biking all in one. Located just off the Soo Line Trail, Jordie’s specializes in homey classics like the Bowlus broasted chicken and hot beef, best when chased with a slice of homemade pie. After a day of biking the Soo Line, Jordie’s is a definite must-stop.
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Norway Ridge Supper Club
Norway Ridge Supper Club
Overlooking Kimble Lake in Pequot Lakes is one of the finest supper clubs in northern Minnesota. Serving up 70 years of family tradition, Norway Ridge is known for its barbeque ribs and steaks. They make almost everything in-house and sell pints of their barbeque sauce, parmesan cheese sauce, blue cheese, buttermilk sour cream, balsamic Italian, French and raspberry vinaigrette dressings and wild rice soup.
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Wahoo Valley Bar & Grill
Wahoo Valley Bar & Grill
Wahoo Valley is nestled along the Crow Wing River among the tall trees due north of Staples. Kayak, canoe or drive on in for lunch or dinner. Marvel at nature’s beauty while satisfying your tastebuds. Wahoo Valley is a year-round favorite for those craving a juicy, made-by-hand burger or a homemade cup of soup.
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Billy's Corner Bar & Grill
Billy's Corner Bar & Grill
If you're into burgers, Billy's Corner Bar & Grill in Vergas is a must-stop. Their half-pound patties of Ketter's 100% fresh lean beef are cooked to perfection. Vergas is nestled among the rolling hills and lakes of northwest Otter Tail County, so getting there is half the fun. Plus, it's close to Maplewood State Park, so you can burn off the calories on a hike while taking in the fall colors.
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Lake Cafe
Lake Cafe
If you’re looking for amazing lakeside views and fall colors, just look out the window from Lake Cafe at Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria. What’s good here? You really can't go wrong, but be sure to try the walleye cakes; they're chef-made patties served with creole remoulade.
