Dining in Stillwater

Restaurant recommendations from MnMo food critics Jason DeRusha and Joy Summers.


Jason’s Picks

As the flowers start to bloom, so do the crowds in one of our state’s loveliest river towns. The shops may be full of antiques, but the food scene here is far from musty.

LoLo American Kitchen: The new kid on the Main Street block, LoLo brings cheffy tacos and burgers with creative small plates. Friendly bar and great cocktails too!

Nelson’s Ice Cream: Up the hill from the main drag, Nelson’s has operated off-and-on since 1923. ENORMOUS scoops of ice cream; the five-scoop Lumberjack sundae is legendary.


Photo Courtesy of Discover Stillwater

Joy’s Picks

It’s one of the most charming towns in Minnesota. I love an afternoon ambling down the street, poking in all the shops for new/old treasures, and grabbing a bite to eat.

Smalley’s Barbeque: Smalley’s has the single best jerk chicken wings ever created, outstanding mac and cheese (bacon-topped, of course) and a divine amount of rum. Makes me want to be a pirate.

Chilkoot Cafe and Cyclery: A stop for cyclists and food fans alike. Head in early for breakfast like the outstanding vegetarian hash with wild rice and grab a killer cup of coffee to fuel your day or your shopping.