Hi-Lo and the New Generation of Diners

Moveable Feast: MnMo editor Rachel Hutton and MPR Classical’s John Birge contemplate the new age of Minneapolis diners


Left: The Notorious P.I.G., MADE WITH CUBAN PULLED PORK WITH A CITRUS GLAZE, ONE SUNNY SIDE UP EGG, BLACK BEAN AND SWEET CORN SALSA, SEASONED SOUR CREAM, AND MICRO CILANTRO. RIGHT: THE VENUS PIE TRAP, FILLED WITH VANILLA BEAN CUSTARD AND TOPPED WITH A SIMPLE GLAZE, CHOCOLATE SAUCE, WHIPPED CREAM, ALMONDS, AND A CHERRY. PHOTO BY TJ TURNER. 

The evolution of the diner scene in Minneapolis has cycled through classic (Mickey’s Diner) to chef-centric (think Nighthawks) to creative yet comfy. Hi-Lo Diner has taken Twin Cities eaters by the hearts with its classic diner feel combined with an inventive menu. The space is a chrome-lined diner car, brought to its Lake Street home from Pennsylvania. The menu is thoughtfully outrageous, filled with signature dishes such as the “Hi-Top”—a donut-like dough patty topped with anything from fried chicken to caramel apples. And all day long, starting at 8 a.m., you can order ice cream cocktails and booze-filled milkshakes. Good to know you won’t have to wait until happy hour.

Listen to the full segment on Classical MPR