12 Minnesota Spots Where A Reservation Feels Like A Badge Of Honor

In Minnesota’s dining scene, certain spots elevate a meal into an event. These restaurants are where reservations signal something special: crafted menus, distinct flavors, and spaces that blend artistry with hospitality.

From Indigenous chefs reclaiming native ingredients to French-inspired fine dining, these places draw visitors for more than just food.

Many have received national awards, glowing reviews, and loyal followings. Prices often lean upscale. Ambience matters: lighting, tables, plates, presentation all align. The following twelve places are those where securing a table feels like joining something memorable.

1. Spoon And Stable, Minneapolis

Soft lighting, exposed brick, and a restored 1906 stable define Spoon And Stable’s atmosphere. Visitors often notice the airy, open dining room in Minneapolis’s North Loop.

Chef-owner Gavin Kaysen sources seasonally for menus like Pacific Rockfish, Duck Breast, Ocean Trout. Dinner and brunch menus reflect French techniques grounded in Midwest ingredients. Pastries and desserts receive equal attention.

Reservations recommended for dinner. Price point is high: entrees often in the US$30-50 range. The kitchen turns out dishes that prompt visitors to return for both consistency and creativity.

2. Demi, Minneapolis

3. Owamni, Minneapolis

Glass-walled dining room overlooking the Mississippi River sets the stage. Visitors experience a strong sense of place via views and Indigenous design elements.

Opened in 2021 by Sean Sherman and Dana Thompson, Owamni’s menu is Indigenous, excluding ingredients introduced by Europeans. Dishes feature elk, wild rice, squash, game meats, corn, and wild plants. Local sourcing is central.

The restaurant won the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2022. Reservations are hard to come by. Price level reflects its fine dining status. Regulars mention emotion and depth in both food and story.

4. Myriel — St. Paul

Quiet side street setting, classy décor, and an approachable yet upmarket feel. The dining room is polished without stiffness; staff attentive.

Food balances French technique with Minnesota produce: meats, fishes, seasonal vegetables, with thoughtful sauces and plating. Desserts complement with subtle sweetness.

Reservations suggested especially for weekend dinner. Price moderate-high. Visitors cite Myriel as strong when seeking elegance without excessive formality.

5. Young Joni — Minneapolis

Warm wood, soft lighting, open grill and pizza oven combine rustic and modern. The decor mixes fire-elements, tiles, copper, giving a cozy yet vibrant energy.

Menu includes wood-fired pizzas, small plates featuring seasonal vegetables, roasted meats, and creative flavors. Chef Ann Kim emphasizes flavorful combinations; the pizza selection often draws the spotlight.

Reservations help, especially on weekend nights. The food draws both locals and those seeking something beyond standard. Recognition includes selection among New York Times’ best pizzerias.

6. Bar La Grassa, Minneapolis

Bustling energy, loud chatter, display of pasta stations, and approachable Italian-heavy menu dominate this spot. Visitors often find large shared plates.

Menu contains house pastas, signature meatballs, seafood pasta specials, and rich sauces. Portions tend generous. Ingredients are fresh, often accented with herbs and imported items.

Service is lively; reservations recommended especially for prime times. Price per person in mid-dinner-spot range. Regulars often recommend the pasta trio or the house-made ravioli.

7. Khâluna, Minneapolis

Ambient lighting, global-fusion décor, and intimate tables make the vibe refined and worldly. Visitors notice spice blends, artisan touches in plating.

Cuisine draws from Mediterranean, North African, Middle Eastern influences. Expect dishes like tagines, grilled meats, bold sauces, preserved citrus. Focus on fragrance, texture, contrast.

Reservations help. Portion sizes moderate; price reflects imported spices, premium ingredients. Visitors often mention the experience as tasting journey rather than just dinner.

8. Meritage, St. Paul

Classic fine dining traits: linen napkins, elegant glassware, and hushed ambiance. Dining room suggests special occasions.

Menu features contemporary French and American fusion, seafood, steak, composed vegetables. Sauces refined, plating polished. Wine list strong (non-alcohol menu details less public).

Open for dinner; reservations strongly recommended. Prices elevated. Regulars mention anniversaries and celebrations here, often for its consistency and sense of occasion.

9. Restaurant Alma, Minneapolis

Cozy décor, local art, and warmth are immediately felt. Tables spaced for comfort; service collaborates with diners on recommendations.

Menu emphasizes Minnesota ingredients: pasture-raised meats, freshwater fish, farm vegetables. Sauces are thoughtful rather than showy. Desserts balanced.

Reservations helpful for weekends. Price point moderate-high. Visitors say this is where food and hospitality feel like partnership.

10. Travail Kitchen & Amusements — Robbinsdale

Playful, modern design, communal tables, and creative energy dominate. Guests often see open kitchens and innovative service styles.

Menu often includes multi-course meals, tasting formats, creative small plates, rotating chef specials. Technique emphasizes flavor layering, texture, modernist touches.

Advance booking essential. Price reflects gastronomic effort. Regulars mention being surprised by new combinations and enjoying early or off-peak seating for better attention.

11. Mara, Minneapolis

Upscale, Mediterranean-leaning influences with polished interior, subdued lighting, and linen accents. Visitors find refinement.

Menu features Mediterranean regional dishes: grilled meats, seafood, fresh herbs, olive oils, roasted vegetables. Flavor focus on balance of bright and rich.

Reservations advised. Portion sizes carefully calibrated. Price matches premium ingredients. Regulars often cite Mara when seeking elegant night out without formality of ultra-fine dining.

12. Hai Hai, Minneapolis

Colorful décor, lively bar and table seating, strong sense of global street food meets local ingredients. Visitors find vibrancy in both food and ambiance.

Cuisine is Southeast Asian inspired: bao, rice noodle bowls, bahn mi, pork belly, shrimp-based dishes. Flavor bold; textures vary.

Open for dinner and later hours. Prices mid-to-upper range. Reservation for dinner recommended during weekends. Locals often praise Hai Hai for energy and flavor adventure.