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7 James Beard Restaurants to Try in Minneapolis

Published: June 20, 2024 by Sarah Nance | Leave a comment

We’ve all been there: You and your spouse waste hours trying to decide what restaurant you want to eat at tonight. Whether you’re not in the mood for a specific cuisine or you’re simply not sure what you’re craving, it’s a weeknight battle we’re all too familiar with. So, when you find a good restaurant that is not only top-rated but is also worth the hype, it’s a great feeling.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 7 James Beard Award-winning restaurants that you can add to your list of weeknight dinners or just a date night. Next time you can’t figure out what restaurant to dine at, open this list. You won’t be disappointed!

Owamni

If you’ve never tried a restaurant with true Native American cuisine, you are missing out. This restaurant offers diners a full experience with “adventurous” flavors (think: popcorn crickets or elk tacos). However, if that’s too bold for your tastes, Owamni also offers tasty dishes such as braised duck and sweet potato mash.

Young Joni

Housed in a cool speakeasy-like setting, Young Joni is a vibe all its own. Dine on familiar dishes like margherita pizza or creamy burrata. Or even branch out to some of their specialties including lamb meatballs or chili glazed prawns. Enjoy that with a craft cocktail, and you have the perfect meal.

Spoon and Stable

Housed in an early-1900s horse stable, Spoon and Stable serves French-inspired dishes as well as other local and Midwest roots. The food is refined yet still unpretentious and approachable. Expect to dine on dishes like Genovese Duck Ragu and Bison Tartare.

Kramarczuk’s

Since the 1940s, the Kramarczuks have been creating quality food that locals have frequented for years. This popular eatery, which is both a bakery and a European restaurant, offers traditional Ukrainian dishes such as pierogies, cabbage rolls, and Borshch.

112 Eatery

If you’re looking for an eclectic and comforting menu of New American food in Minneapolis, look no further than 112 Eatery. Residents and visitors alike keep coming back to this restaurant for its Gnocchi with Lobster and Arrabbiata Sauce and Tagliatelle with foie gras meatballs.

Alma

Alma is known for its casual, laid-back vibe, delicious food, and craft cocktails. While the tasting menu changes seasonally, the commitment to quality ingredients remains unchanged. If you’re ever in the Minneapolis area, dine at this restaurant. Be sure to make a reservation!

Al’s Breakfast

Who doesn’t love an excellent diner-style breakfast at an award-winning restaurant? Al’s Breakfast has made a name for itself with dishes like its special scrambles and variety of omelets.