The Best Traditional native dishes in Minnesota

DelSur Empanadas in Minnetonka is a unique Argentinian empanada restaurant, offering a taste of Argentina right in the heart of Minnesota. Owned and operated by Argentine natives Diego Montero and Nicolas Nikolov, who have a passion for their culture and cuisine. With a background in traditional family-owned restaurants and formal culinary training, Diego and Nico bring a perfect blend of experience and education to their restaurant. Their empanadas are made completely from scratch, with fresh dough made daily and handcrafted individually before being freshly baked. The menu includes a variety of empanadas, including gluten-free and vegan options, as well as traditional Argentine sandwiches like the Filet Mignon "Lomito" and chorizo "Choripan". Salads, desserts, beer, and wine are also available to complete your meal.

The Indigenous Food Lab is a unique culinary institution located at 920 East Lake Street in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This innovative restaurant is dedicated to celebrating and preserving indigenous food traditions through delicious and culturally-inspired dishes. The menu features a diverse selection of dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, with a focus on traditional cooking techniques and flavors. Guests can experience a taste of indigenous cuisine while supporting the local community and learning about the rich culinary heritage of Native American cultures. Visit the Indigenous Food Lab for a one-of-a-kind dining experience that honors the past while looking towards a sustainable and delicious future.

Porzana is an Argentinian steakhouse located in the vibrant North Loop neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Chef Daniel del Prado, a Buenos Aires native with a background in Spanish and southern Italian cuisine, brings his passion for food and flavors to this unique restaurant. After honing his skills in top kitchens in the Twin Cities and beyond, del Prado opened Porzana to showcase his love for Argentinian cuisine. The menu features a variety of delicious steak options, cooked to perfection and served with traditional sides and sauces.

Owamni by The Sioux Chef is a unique dining experience located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. This institution offers a decolonized dining experience, focusing on the true flavors of North America and featuring foods of Mni Sota Makoce, Land Where the Waters Reflect the Clouds. They prioritize purchasing from Indigenous food producers locally and nationally, and have removed colonial ingredients such as wheat flour, cane sugar, and dairy. At Owamni, you can enjoy a primarily Indigenous-produced wine list and support BIPOC and women producers for alcoholic beverage selections. The restaurant aims to showcase modern Indigenous foods and highlight the true agricultural products of North America. The menu reflects the work of their non-profit organization, North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NATIFS).

Vietnam House Restaurant is a cozy eatery located at 7962 Brooklyn Boulevard in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Specializing in authentic Vietnamese cuisine, this restaurant offers the best pho in town. Guests can choose to dine in and enjoy the cozy atmosphere or opt for takeout by calling (763) 425-9991. The menu features a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including the traditional pho soup made with flavorful broth, bánh phở rice noodles, herbs, and meat. Additionally, guests can savor the delicious sandwich fusion of meats and vegetables from native Vietnamese cuisine. With a wide array of authentic Vietnamese items to choose from, Vietnam House Restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts in Minnesota.

Forager Brewery and Cafe is a unique institution located at 1005 6th Street Northwest in Rochester, Minnesota. It is a bar, cafe, food, restaurant, and store all rolled into one. Our casual dining approach welcomes you to a relaxed, family-friendly restaurant experience in Rochester. Our menu features vibrant dishes made from the freshest, seasonally available ingredients inspired by our bountiful region. At Forager Brewery and Cafe, we brew our own beers on-site using locally foraged ingredients, native grains, and wild hop varieties. Our beers pair perfectly with our rustic-style dishes. Breakfast is served in our Cafe from 8am-11am, while lunch, dinner, and everything in between is available from 11am-10pm in the Taproom.

Sawatdee Bloomington is a renowned Thai restaurant located at 8501 Lyndale Avenue South in Bloomington, Minnesota. As part of the Sawatdee chain with locations in Minneapolis, Maple Grove, and St. Paul, Sawatdee Bloomington offers authentic and delicious Thai cuisine to its guests. The restaurant also operates a food truck that travels to various locations throughout the Twin Cities, bringing their renowned dishes to different communities. Whether you are looking to host a private event or simply enjoy a meal at the restaurant, Sawatdee Bloomington offers a range of catering options, including simple drop-off catering, full-service catering, and private party rooms. Their catering menus and planner can help you plan the perfect event with their native Thai specialties.

Mino Wiisini Cafe is a cozy and welcoming restaurant located at 777 South Casino Road in Mahnomen, Minnesota. Our cafe offers a diverse menu of delicious food options, including traditional Native American cuisine and classic American dishes. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a tasty dinner, Mino Wiisini Cafe has something for everyone. Our friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere make it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends. Come visit us and experience the warm hospitality and mouthwatering flavors of Mino Wiisini Cafe.