Minnesota is home to a remarkable culinary scene, with many restaurants paying homage to historic recipes that celebrate the state’s cultural heritage. From Scandinavian-inspired meals to Native American dishes, many restaurants across Minnesota honor these traditional recipes with time-tested techniques and flavors. Here’s a guide to some of the most unique historical dishes you can try, offering a taste of the past and a look into the cultural tapestry of the state. And if you’re seeking something more contemporary, don’t miss out on the best sushi Minneapolis has to offer for an eclectic twist in your culinary exploration!
1. Swedish Meatballs at FIKA (Minneapolis)
Located at the American Swedish Institute, FIKA serves Swedish meatballs that draw on recipes dating back centuries, using traditional ingredients such as ground beef, pork, onions, and allspice. This iconic dish, often served with lingonberry jam and creamy mashed potatoes, highlights Minnesota’s strong Scandinavian heritage and is a must-try for anyone wanting a taste of Swedish comfort food.
Did you know? Swedish meatballs were likely brought to America by Swedish immigrants who settled in Minnesota in the 19th century. They adapted the recipe over time, which is why you may notice subtle variations across restaurants.
2. Walleye Fish Fry at Tavern on Grand (St. Paul)
Walleye is more than a dish in Minnesota; it’s a cultural staple, revered by locals and visitors alike. Tavern on Grand in St. Paul is famous for its walleye, prepared with a classic Minnesota twist. This traditional fish fry recipe includes lightly breading the walleye and serving it with coleslaw, fries, and tartar sauce.
History behind the dish: Walleye has long been a staple for Minnesota’s Indigenous communities, who fished the state’s lakes for centuries. Today, it’s celebrated as the official state fish and is served in various forms across Minnesota’s restaurants.
3. Lefse at Uffda Shop (Blue Earth)
Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, is cherished by many Minnesotans, especially those with Norwegian ancestry. At the Uffda Shop in Blue Earth, you’ll find fresh, handmade lefse that follows an age-old recipe of potatoes, flour, and butter. This delicate flatbread is typically enjoyed with butter and sugar, and it pairs well with savory dishes like fish or sausages.
Cultural significance: Norwegian settlers in Minnesota brought lefse with them in the 19th century, and it has become a festive food that’s especially popular around the holidays.
4. Wild Rice Soup at Birchwood Cafe (Minneapolis)
Wild rice, a native grain of the Great Lakes region, has been a staple food for Minnesota’s Native American tribes for centuries. Birchwood Cafe in Minneapolis offers a creamy wild rice soup that reflects traditional Native American cooking methods. This comforting soup often features wild rice, mushrooms, and vegetables, giving diners a taste of Indigenous Minnesota cuisine.
History in a bowl: Wild rice, known as “manoomin” to the Ojibwe people, is harvested by hand in northern Minnesota lakes. It holds both nutritional and spiritual significance in Ojibwe culture and remains a popular dish across the state.
5. Cornish Pasty at Red Wing Brewery (Red Wing)
The Cornish pasty, a hand pie filled with beef, potatoes, and vegetables, is a dish with roots in English mining communities. Red Wing Brewery serves a version inspired by these historical recipes, paying homage to the Cornish immigrants who came to Minnesota to work in the mines. The pasty is a comforting, hearty meal that reflects the tastes and practical needs of miners in the late 1800s.
Fun fact: Cornish miners brought their pasties with them to eat during their shifts, and they would often carry the pasty in their pockets, keeping it warm until lunchtime.
6. Bison Burgers at The Sioux Chef (Minneapolis)
Founded by Indigenous chef Sean Sherman, The Sioux Chef in Minneapolis showcases Native American cuisine with ingredients indigenous to North America. Bison, one of the key ingredients, is a native animal with rich cultural and historical ties to many Native American tribes. The bison burger at The Sioux Chef is lean, flavorful, and typically served with seasonal, foraged ingredients like juniper berries and wild greens, offering a connection to Minnesota’s past.
Why bison? Bison was a central food source for many Plains tribes, providing not only sustenance but also materials for clothing, shelter, and tools. Today, it’s celebrated for its flavor and nutritional value.
7. German Sausages at Black Forest Inn (Minneapolis)
Minnesota’s German heritage is alive and well at Black Forest Inn, which serves traditional German sausages made from recipes passed down through generations. Known for dishes like bratwurst and knackwurst, the restaurant’s hearty sausage platters offer an authentic taste of German comfort food, often paired with sauerkraut and mustard.
Historical touch: German immigrants were among the earliest European settlers in Minnesota. They brought with them recipes for sausages, breads, and other hearty foods that have since become Minnesota classics.
8. Finnish Pulla Bread at Finlandia Cafe (Finland, MN)
Finnish pulla is a sweet, cardamom-scented bread that’s deeply rooted in Finnish tradition. At Finlandia Cafe in the aptly named town of Finland, Minnesota, you’ll find pulla baked fresh and served with a warm cup of coffee. This fragrant bread has a soft, fluffy texture and a slight sweetness, making it an ideal breakfast or snack.
A slice of history: Finnish immigrants brought pulla to Minnesota, where it became a staple in Finnish-American households. Today, it’s celebrated as a traditional Finnish delicacy.
These historical dishes offer a delicious way to explore Minnesota’s diverse cultural influences. From Scandinavian and German fare to Indigenous and Finnish-inspired recipes, Minnesota’s restaurant scene pays homage to the state’s heritage through food. And while you’re tasting the past, don’t forget to enjoy the flavors of the present—try out the best sushi Minneapolis has to offer for a different yet equally memorable dining experience!
Exploring Minnesota’s culinary heritage provides a unique and meaningful way to connect with the state’s history, and the rich variety of recipes ensures there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re a history buff or simply a food lover, Minnesota’s restaurants have plenty of stories—and flavors—to share.
