There are tons of hidden gems all over North Dakota, in the bigger cities and the smallest of towns, and even if they may look like your average mom-and-pop chop-shop from the outside, you'd be surprised what delicious surprises are just waiting for you to try them inside. Try something different and discover our picks for the seven best-hidden gem restaurants in North Dakota:
1. The Red Pepper - Grand Forks
The Red Pepper is a place with a great story, and has been family-owned and operated for decades. It's well known for its "Grinder" sandwiches, shown here, as well as its mouthwatering tacos. This is one of North Dakota's best hidden gems, and it's definitely worth checking out.
The original Red Pepper is located at 1011 University Ave. in Grand Forks; there is a second Grand Forks location at 415 N. 42nd Street, and an even-newer Fargo location at 1105 19th Avenue North, North Dakota.
2. The White Maid - Napoleon
This is one of the cutest diners in the state! It's definitely worth a visit. It sits right by the train tracks in Napoleon and has some of THE best food ever, from tasty burgers to North Dakotan favorites like knoefla soup. Their dessert treats are to die for, too. If you're in the area, this place is a must-try.
The White Maid can be found at 301 Main Avenue, in Napoleon.
3. Passage to India - Fargo
If you're looking for truly authentic Indian food in Fargo, then Passage to India is the place to go. Their buffet is full of amazing options and not one of them will disappoint. It is true to its name - it's a passage into real Indian cuisine you'll love.
Passage to India is located at 855 45th Street South, in Fargo.
4. Souris River Brewing - Minot
The hand-crafted beer is tough to beat, but the food is just as amazing. Souris River Brewing strives to use locally-grown ingredients, and the quality shows. Yum! You can enjoy local musicians and bands play at SRB and get a true taste of Minot. This is a place you should not pass up in the Magic City.
Check out Souris River Brewing at 32 3rd Street NE in Minot.
5. Vinyl Taco - Fargo
The name might leave you scratching your head in wonder, but this hole-in-the-wall type place needs to be on your restaurant bucket list. We promise you they aren't playing tacos on their turntables, but they do play some great music on actual vinyl while you enjoy their great authentic Mexican street food! Their menu is full of options from, of course, the tacos, to enchiladas, chimichangas, and more. Enjoy some sweet tunes and tasty meals right in downtown. There is no other place like it.
You can find Vinyl Taco at 520 1st Avenue North, in Fargo.
6. North 40 - Rolla
While this place may just look like your average sit-down diner, don't be fooled - their food is way above the rest. Whether you stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you will have plenty of options to enjoy, and all of them are wonderful.
Stop at North 40 today at 207 Main Avenue East, in Rolla.
7. Frieds Family Restaurant - Mandan
Homestyle cooking that can't be beat: that's what you can find at Frieds Family Restaurant. They serve all the classics everyone enjoys, as well as authentic North Dakotan favorites. We highly recommend some of their homemade pies, too. Their menu is loaded with tons of amazing options, so you can't go wrong with this place.
Try them out at 1010 Boundary Street Northwest in Mandan.
Are you hungry yet? Which of your picks for the best hidden gem restaurants in North Dakota made the list? Which favorites of yours did we leave out? Tell us everything in the comments!
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