This Restaurant In Ely Might Be The Best-Kept Secret In Minnesota

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, when folks think of Ely, images of canoeing, dog sledding, and the pristine North Woods setting of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness come to our minds. Folks in the know, however, also see dancing images of delicious slabs of beef from Ely Steak House. This hidden gem restaurant in Minnesota is local institution that, for some, is a destination unto itself.

The small town of Ely, in far northern Minnesota, near the Canadian border, is best known as a jumping off point for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

You’ll find outfitters, realtors, coffee shops, bars, bakeries, and Steiger Mukluks in the town.

It’s also home to one of my favorite hidden gem restaurants in Minnesota, Ely Steak House.

A local favorite for more than a quarter century, the cozy restaurant and bar sports a classic lodge ambiance adorned with Up North decor.

You’ll find a good selection of wine and beer, including plenty of local options, as well as classic and craft cocktails, from the bar.

Entrees are served with soup or salad, as well as a choice of potato.

I always get the au gratins, myself, and when I visit with a friend, I try and talk them into splitting the Delmonico for two with me.

And ALWAYS get the steak mushrooms!

It’s not all steak, though - you’ll find plenty of other options on the menu, like fish and seafood.

Ely Steak House even makes a darn tasty (and quite large) burger.

We promise - you will not be disappointed with your meal at Ely Steak House. One word of warning, though: The steakhouse does get busy around the dinner hour on summer weekends - and the restaurant doesn’t accept reservations - so you may want to adjust your meal time to a little earlier or later, or on a weeknight. If you don’t live in the area, Ely is a wonderful road trip destination, where you’ll find plenty to do any time of year.

Have you had a chance to try Ely Steak House? Tell us about your experience and let us know about your favorite hidden gem restaurants.