Best Restaurants In Duluth: Dine Like A Local in 2024

Welcome to Duluth! A beautiful city on the shores of Lake Superior in Minnesota. It’s known for its incredible nature and remarkable culture, Duluth is also famous for its culinary scene. 

With so many amazing dining options, it’s challenging to narrow down the best places to eat. 

That’s why we’re here to share an ultimate guide to the most delicious food spots in Duluth. The best part is, a bunch of these restaurants will let you dine while taking in the beauty of Lake Superior.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I’ve got restaurants in Duluth that will satisfy your every craving. So, let’s dive in and explore Duluth’s best restaurants.

What are the Local Favorite Restaurants in Duluth?

When it comes to local favorites in Duluth, there are some restaurants that you don’t want to miss.

Canal Park Brewing Company

Canal Park Brewing Company is one of the most popular locations.  They serve excellent craft beer along with an impressive food menu. Their dishes are crafted from locally sourced ingredients. 

Make sure to try their wood-fired pizzas and mouth-watering poutine. 

The outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy the beautiful lake views. Plus it’s within walking distance of the Duluth Lift Bridge.

Grandma’s Saloon & Grill

Grandma’s Saloon & Grill is another classic spot in Duluth that locals swear by. The menu features classic American foods like a juicy burger, steak, and sandwiche. The Sunday brunch is especially popular among regulars.

It’s located right at the end of Canal Park, by the lift bridge. You can’t miss it. I’m super casual, the perfect stop after a day of shopping! Plus this is a also a great place for families!

Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café

Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café is all about good vibes, great food, and relaxed vibes. When you walk in, friendly staff and cozy decor that’ll make you want to curl up with a hot cup of coffee and stay a while ‘ll greet you.

The menu is a delightful mix of classic dishes and unique creations to satisfy. But if you’re looking for a recommendation, you can’t go wrong with the caper beurre blanc salmon. They also serve up delicious salads, pasta’s a more.

Whether you’re looking for a place to catch up with friends over brunch or have a romantic dinner with your significant other, Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe has got you covered. 

Black Woods Grill & Bar

Black Woods Grill & Bar – where the food is always hot, the drinks are always cold! This is a perfect spot to relax at after a day of work or sightseeing!

They’ve got a cozy, rustic vibe that’ll transport you straight to the heart of the Northwoods. 

But of course, we are here for the food! We’re all about taking classic American dishes and giving them a bit of a gourmet twist. From juicy burgers to fresh salads, we’ve got something for every palate. 

Plus, the Black Woods Walleye is a total game-changer. 

OMC Smokehouse

OMC Smokehouse is the kind of joint that’ll put a smile on your face before you even take your first bite. The rustic decor feels like a cozy cabin in the woods, and the smell of smoking meat hits you in the face the moment you walk in the door (in the best way possible). 

It’s the place you could come in sweatpants or a fancy dress and feel right at home. 

And let’s talk about that food, baby! From the pastrami beef cheeks to the smoked catfish tacos, or Brisket and Cheddar. Every dish is packed with flavor that’ll make your tastebuds sing. 

And don’t even get us started on their selection of craft beers and cocktails – they know how to wet your whistle right. Let OMC Smokehouse treat you to a meal that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

New Scenic Cafe

The New Scenic Cafe is in the heart of town. With its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, you will feel right at home. The decor is rustic and charming, with beautiful wooden accents and stylish lighting fixtures.

But let’s talk about the food, that’s why we are here, right? 

The menu is full of delicious and creative dishes. The cafe offers an array of inventive dishes, such as monsieur brioche, saffron seafood pot, and Swedish meatballs with locally-sourced ingredients. 

Va Bene Caffe

Va Bene Caffe is a delicious Italian experience in Duluth. Just above the Lakewalk, the restaurant has breathtaking view of Lake Superior. 

The restaurant’s creative menu features an array of fresh salads, signature soups, and delectable pasta dishes handcrafted from scratch. 

Guests can also indulge in grilled panini, steak, and seafood entrees accompanied by a variety of beverage options such as Italian coffee, sodas, espresso, wine, beer, and spirits. 

Va Bene is also known for its authentic Italian food. Form homemade soup, sauces, dressings, bread, pasta, and gnocchi, as well as its rotating selection of authentic gelato and sorbetto. 

The environment is casual and friendly, perfect for an enjoyable dining experience.

The Duluth Grill

Have you checked out The Duluth Grill yet? Well, let me tell you, this place is an amazing! It’s got a causal vibe prefect for a quick stop after shopping all day on canal park.

You’ll find everything from classic diner favorites like burgers and fries to more to vegan portabella tacos and the Reuben sandwiches. And don’t get me started on the breakfast menu. They’ve got everything from fluffy pancakes to huevos rancheros.

But the best thing about The Duluth Grill has got to be their commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From the farm-fresh eggs to the grass-fed beef, you can taste the difference in every bite. 

So if you’re looking to satisfy your cravings and support local farmers and businesses, head on over to The Duluth Grill. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

The Boat Club Restaurant

The Boat Club Restaurant is the place to be for a good time and delicious eats! Situated right on the water, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail and take in the stunning views. 

Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming – think nautical decor and comfy booths. 

The menu is a seafood lover’s dream, with everything from fresh crab cakes to a mean shrimp scampi. Don’t worry if seafood’s not your thing though – they’ve got steaks, chicken, salads, and other classics covered too. 

And if you’re feeling really adventurous, try the famous Seafood Trio! Whether you’re coming in for a date night or a group celebration, The Boat Club is the spot to be for fine dining.

Zeitgeist Arts Cafe

Zeitgeist Arts Cafe is the perfect blend of art, live music, and scrumptious food all wrapped up in a cozy, café setting. The energy of the place is electric.

The menu is a food lover’s paradise with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients that are bursting with flavor. They serve up fresh sandwiches, soups, main dishes like pork tenderloins, and braised short ribs. They also have a variety of gluten-free and vegan options too!

Stop in for a drink from their cocktail menu. The staff is friendly and always down for a chat, and the laid back vibe. It’s the ideal spot to fuel up, unwind, and soak up the lively atmosphere!

Northern Waters Smokehaus

Northern Waters Smokehaus is a popular restaurant in Duluth, Minnesota, known for its smoked fish and meats, sandwiches, and unique flavor combinations. The restaurant sources many of its ingredients locally and uses traditional smoking and curing methods to produce high-quality products.

Customers rave about the smoked salmon and trout, as well as the sandwiches, which come on homemade bread and feature ingredients like smoked pork loin and smoked lake trout. The restaurant also offers a variety of cheeses, olives, and other snacks.

Tavern on the Hill

This restaurant is the perfect fusion of sophistication and coziness. Where you can indulge in scrumptious dishes and drinks without breaking the bank.

The menu is utterly drool-worthy, featuring a fantastic selection of classic American pub fare with a twist. From juicy burgers and loaded fries to crispy wings and cheesy nachos – they’ve got you covered! 

Not to mention, the head chef is a mastermind in the kitchen using only the best ingredients. They are always coming out with great things on the menu with a Midwest flair. 

Speaking of drinks, we’ve got a full bar, stocked bar with craft beers, specialty cocktails, and an extensive wine selection.

What I love about Tavern on the Hill the most is it’s location. Far away from Canal Street and Downtown. They have their own parking lot, making it easy access to get to.

Vita Pizza

Vitta Pizza is a casual pizzeria located in Duluth, Minnesota, that offers a variety of classic and specialty pizzas. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with a few tables and booths for dining in, as well as takeout and delivery options.

Customers rave about the quality of the pizza, which is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection in a brick oven.

Some of the most popular pies include the margherita, pepperoni, and Hawaiian, but there are also more unique options like the “Drunken Pig” pizza topped with barbecue sauce, bacon, and onion.

Prices are reasonable, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. Overall, Vitta Pizza is a great choice for a casual, delicious pizza meal in Duluth.

Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery and Grille

Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery and Grille is a local favorite in Duluth, Minnesota, known for its craft beer and delicious food. The brewery uses local ingredients to create unique and flavorful beers, which can be enjoyed in the spacious and fun atmosphere of the restaurant.

The menu at Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery and Grille is diverse, with options ranging from pub favorites like burgers and sandwiches to more upscale entrees like seared scallops and filet mignon. The quality of the food is amazing. Everything is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

In addition to great food and beer, Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery and Grille is a fun place to hang out with friends and family. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and often features live music and other events.

What are the Best Duluth MN Restaurants for Groups?

Dining out with a group can be a fun and memorable experience that brings people closer together. Fortunately, Duluth has a great selection of restaurants that cater to groups of all sizes, ensuring everyone has a great time. 

With a large group, you’ll want a restaurant that can accommodate everyone comfortably.

Duluth offers several dining establishments, including Tavern on the Hill and the Black Woods Grill & Bar. Each has plenty of spacious seating, ideal for groups. It is the perfect place for your to unwind, relax, and have conversations with your group without feeling cramped.

Apart from large seating they have plenty of group-friendly dishes. A crucial element when selecting a restaurant. Duluth restaurants like Zeitgeist Arts Cafe offer an array of options that cater to all tastes, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. 

How to get a Table in Duluth? 

When visiting a new city, it’s daunting to find the best restaurants for your taste and budget. Luckily, our insider tips can help!

Make a reservation: Call or book a table online in advance. Popular restaurants in Duluth may have a long wait time or be fully booked, so planning can save you time and frustration.

Go during off-peak hours: Try to visit the restaurant during less busy hours or days. Many popular restaurants in Duluth are busy during peak hours such as lunch or dinner on the weekends, so consider dining during weekdays or early in the day.

Consider booking during off-peak hours or days of the week for even more savings. 

Consider having your food delivered! If you are staying in a hotel, or even a campsite, have DoorDash worry about the details. Just order online.

What’s not to love about Restaurants in Duluth MN?

Duluth is a city that has a lot to offer, from breathtaking natural beauty to an incredible culinary scene. If you’re looking for good food a short trip from the Twin Cities, Duluth is an excellent place to start.

The restaurants we highlighted in this post are among the best in Duluth, serving up excellent food, great outdoor patios, and creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to add these restaurants to your list of favorite things to do in Duluth.