Restaurant recommendations from MnMo food critics Jason DeRusha and Joy Summers.
Joy’s Picks
Summer doesn’t really start for me until we’ve hit the open road. Whether going to the cabin or just taking a day trip through the state, I love discovering the delicious foods en route.
The Monarch Public House: A drive around Lake Pepin is a gorgeous day trip from the Twin Cities. This pub is just off the highway and has some killer hamburgers and a deck that overlooks the quaint city and lake. (Fountain City, WI)
The Sawmill Inn: No kidding, the best prime rib in the state is served inside this motel beside Hwy. 169. From the polished log interior with the centerpiece fire pit to the perfectly prepared walleye, this is northwoods dining at its finest. (Grand Rapids, MN)
Lake Pepin. Photo by Todd Buchanan.
Jason’s Picks
Despite my impending mid-life crisis, my wife isn’t quite ready to let me pull the trigger on a silly convertible. Too bad: The open roof is the only thing missing on a great summer road trip.
King’s Bar & Grill: There are almost as many burgers (60-plus!) on the menu at King’s as there are people who live in Miesville. Drive to this tiny town just south of Hastings to watch the Miesville Mudhens play town ball in an honest to goodness Field of Dreams. (Miesville, MN)
Table 65: Just down the road from the awesome Star Prairie Trout Farm, where you and your kids can drop a line and catch a rainbow trout, is this cute restaurant. They’ll cook up your catch, or try their pasta or curry. (New Richmond, WI)
