Never judge a book by its cover, and never judge a restaurant by its facade. This is something Minnesotans are especially good at. We can usually see through humble and antique exteriors, and in the case of these restaurants, it’s lucky we do! Some of the best restaurants in Minnesota are hole-in-the-wall, or plain establishments that turn out surprising and phenomenal food. These nine are definitely much better than they look on the outside: check out our list of hidden restaurants in Minnesota.

1. Val's Hamburgers (St. Cloud)
Google Maps
This "Rapid-Service" establishment has been serving up the best burgers and fries in town since 1959. At under 500 square feet, it's tiny, but delicious! You can find out more about their history on their website.
2. Duluth Grill (Duluth)
Google Maps
While its plain exterior combined with the motel sign might inspire visions of typical chain restaurants, the Duluth Grill is anything but average. It serves up the freshest local foods in a cozy atmosphere. They've been open for 30 years and you can read more about them on their website.
3. Lily’s Wings, Burgers & Things (St. Cloud)
Google Maps
All right, so maybe it's not glamorous on the outside, but the food is phenomenal. They have some of the top wings in the state. You can find their menu on their website.
4. The Barn (Brainerd)
Facebook/The Barn
It might just seem like any other stop along the road, but this place is beloved by many for the delicious food and cozy atmosphere. The burgers are particularly fantastic! Hours and specials are listed on their Facebook.

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5. Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge (Minneapolis)
Google Maps
This awesome restaurant has plenty of character and is always the life of the party, but you might not be able to tell when you drive by for the first time. Don't let the plain facade fool you, it's a tropical paradise in the back. It's a Polynesian-themed bar with tiki decor that is certainly unique. They've got a great patio if you are into outdoor dining! Find out more information on their website.
6. The Nook (St. Paul)
Facebook/Casper’s and Runyon’s Nook
This place is not only one of the top-rated restaurants in the state, but it has a bowling alley. Good food and good fun always outweigh a plain exterior. Does life get much better? Visit their website for a menu and more information.
7. Al's Breakfast (Minneapolis)
Yelp/ Richard T.
Minnesotans agree that this small spot serves up some of the best breakfasts in the city. The old school vibe makes you feel like you stepped back in time! You can view a menu on their website.
8. Rapidan Dam Cafe (Mankato)
Facebook/Rapidan Dam Store
A fisherman's best friend, this place has amazing food and wonderful pie. They're open seasonally and carry live bait and tackle as well delicious food! Their daily pies are listed on Facebook.
9. Ngon Vietnamese Bistro (Saint Paul)
Google Maps
This one doesn't need a makeover as desperately as the others, but the inside definitely outshines the exterior. This place is surprisingly upscale, and they have wonderful food and great Pho. They have more information and a menu on their website.

What other hidden restaurants in Minnesota do you know of that are closeted behind a plain exterior? Tell us your favorites in the comments!

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Best Restaurants In Minnesota

Lisa Sammons | May 13, 2021

What are some of the best buffets in Minnesota?

We've got so many awesome buffet restaurants here! Minneapolis's Maya Cuisine & Buffet is a charmingly decorated Mexican buffet that is certain to fill you up. We've also got the delicious Dixie's On Grand in St. Paul. They have delicious all-you-can-eat southern food and often feature live jazz musicians. You don't want to miss their fried chicken!

What are some traditional foods in Minnesota?

We've got lots of classic Minnesota dishes here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. We might be biased, but we don't think anything tops tater tot hotdish. And of course, we're known for the Juicy Lucy, an amazing cheese-filled hamburger that everyone misses when they leave Minnesota.

What are some popular hamburgers in Minnesota?

Hamburgers in Minnesota can't be discussed without mentioning Meister's Bar and Grill. They have an amazing 2-pound burger! If you manage to finish it in under thirty minutes, you'll get a free t-shirt (and maybe slightly-clogged arteries).

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Featured Addresses
Val's Hamburgers, 628 E St Germain St, St Cloud, MN 56304, USA
Duluth Grill, 118 S 27th Ave W, Duluth, MN 55806, USA
129 7th Ave S, St Cloud, MN 56301, USA
711 Washington St, Brainerd, MN 56401, USA
Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge, 1900 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418, USA
The Nook, 492 Hamline Ave S, St Paul, MN 55116, USA
Al's Breakfast, 413 14th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
Rapidan Dam, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
799 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104, USA