Nestled In The Middle Of The Iron Range, This Tiny Minnesota Cafe Is An Enchanting Day Trip Destination
By Betsy Rathburn|Published June 22, 2022
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Minnesota’s Iron Range is a section of northern Minnesota that is known for its large iron deposits. The area is characterized by many large iron mines, which have historically made up the bulk of its economy. Most towns within the Iron Range are small, with larger communities scattered here and there. As such, notable restaurants are fewer and farther between than they are in other areas of the state. However, that does not mean great eateries don’t exist. Today, we want to take you on a trip to the Iron Range to visit a tiny Minnesota cafe. It’s nestled way up north, but it’s an enchanting day trip destination for anyone who craves a tropical oasis. Read on below to learn more about the Whistling Bird:
The Whistling Bird is a fun restaurant in Gilbert, Minnesota. From the outside, it looks like a typical Iron Range restaurant. It’s nestled along a downtown street of a sleepy town, with only its colorful sign indicating that there might be something more interesting inside.
If you do venture inside, you’ll find a feast for the eyes. The restaurant has an island theme, and it shows in every square inch of this space. A fun bar is decked out in tropical prints, tiki decor, and colorful lights.
This is a great spot to grab a fruity drink. Whistling Bird serves up a large variety of tropical cocktails, frozen drinks, wines, and more. The options are seemingly endless, and the pours are generous!
You can also get your drink - and a great meal - at a table. The dining room has a fun vibe that will take you right to the island. The walls are painted bright colors and decorated with vivid artwork and knick-knacks. Leafy plants add to the tropical feel.
When it comes time to eat, you’ll find a wide variety of food options. The menu has a nice variety of sandwiches, from a classic burger to a walleye po’boy to jerk pulled pork - to name a few.
If you’re not in the mood for a sandwich, there are many other choices. Seafood, such as coconut shrimp, blackened mahi mahi, or seafood linguine, are great choices.
All in all, the Whistling Bird is a colorful restaurant nestled into Minnesota’s Iron Range. With its tropical vibe, great food, and fun drinks, it is an enchanting day trip destination!
