Being Minnesota's state fish, it's no wonder that the walleye is the star of many of the state's best sandwiches. Reeling in and frying up a fresh walleye is a favorite pastime of many Minnesotans. But if you don't have the time or patience to go hunting for a prize walleye, there are still plenty of places in Minnesota to order a walleye meal. In fact, Minnesota is home to the best walleye sandwiches anywhere. Whether you prefer your walleye sandwich grilled or deep fried, these 8 restaurants are the best places to find one.
1. Boathouse Brewpub
This northern Minnesota restaurant is full of charm. The cozy dining area sets the perfect mood for biting into one of the best walleye sandwiches in the entire state. Served on Cuban bread with garlic mayo, tomato, onion, and lettuce, you will remember this sandwich for a long time to come. Address: 47 East Sheridan St., Ely, MN 55731.
2. Tavern on Grand - St. Paul
Tavern on Grand has long been known as the very best place to get a walleye sandwich in Minnesota. Whether you order this sandwich grilled, blackened, or deep-fried, you're in for a treat. It's served on fresh ciabatta bread with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of tartar, jalapeño tartar, and béarnaise. Yum! Address: 656 Grand Ave., St Paul, MN 55105
3. Gluek's Restaurant & Bar - Minneapolis
As the oldest restaurant in downtown Minneapolis - and one of the oldest in the entire state - Gluek's has had plenty of time to perfect many of its menu items. You really can't go wrong with anything you order, whether it's beef stroganoff or a classic burger. But the walleye sandwich is not to be missed. It's served grilled or battered in Gluek's pilsner and topped with dill caper tartar sauce. Address: 16 North 6th St., Minneapolis, MN 55403.
4. Black Woods Grill & Bar - Duluth
This beautiful restaurant has three North Shore locations: one in Duluth, one in Proctor, and one in Two Harbors. No matter which you go to, you're guaranteed to have a lovely - and delicious - dining experience. The walleye sandwich is especially good, with its crisp and light batter topped with fresh tomato and lettuce. Address: 2525 London Rd., Duluth, MN 55812.
5. Grandma's Saloon & Grill - Duluth
This iconic Duluth restaurant is well worth visiting even if you're not a fan of fish, if only just to say you've been there. But for most, the appeal goes well beyond the restaurant's fame. From burgers to pasta, anything you get is bound to be good. But take our word for it and try a walleye sandwich. Beer-battered and deep-fried, this sandwich is topped with tomato, lettuce, and house-made tartar sauce. There are three Grandma's locations, but try it at the Canal Park restaurant for the most authentic Duluth experience. Address: 522 South Lake Ave., Duluth, MN 55802.
6. Pescara - Rochester
It should come as no surprise that this upscale seafood restaurant has great fish. Their menu is full of inventive flavors, but if you're looking for something a bit more familiar, try the walleye sandwich. Stop in for lunch to try this great sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato, caper, and tartar sauce. Address: 150 South Broadway, Rochester, MN 55904.
7. Hell's Kitchen - Minneapolis
Anyone who has been to Hell's Kitchen already knows that they have great food. It goes without saying that you're going to have a good experience there no matter what you get. But if you want to try a classic Minnesota dish, you might as well try it in a great restaurant. Hell's Kitchen's parmesan-crusted walleye sandwich is served with house-made tartar sauce, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. Address: 80 South 9th St., Minneapolis, MN 55402.
8. Dolsie's Lunch Box Grille - St. Cloud
Dolsie's Lunch Box Grille may look humble on the outside, but don't let that fool you. Inside, they are cranking out some of the best food in the St. Cloud area. This little lunchtime spot has fantastic beer-mattered walleye sandwiches. Order one with fries or a cup of soup, and it'll be the best lunch you have all week. Address: 810 West St. Germain St., St. Cloud, MN 56301.
9. Port 104 - Lake City
By all accounts, the walleye sandwich at Port 104 is something to write home about. This house specialty is a wild-caught walleye, hand-battered, deep fried, and topped with tomato, lettuce, and tartar. It's a classic sandwich best enjoyed with a tall drink. You're going to love it. Address: 104 North Washington St.,
Lake City, MN 55041.
Have you ever been to any of these spots? Where is your favorite walleye sandwich served? Let us know in the comments below!
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