10 Best Restaurants in Grand Marais, MN in 2024

Welcome to our ultimate guide to the best restaurants in Grand Marais, MN! Whether you’ve been to Grand Marais a million times or a newcomer to the area, you’re in for a real treat. We are breaking down the most delectable local food favorites, and insider tips for fueling up your adventures. 

Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior in Minnesota’s, Grand Marais is a small town with a bunch of great restaurants. From small cafes to upscale bistros and everything in between. Discover the hidden gems that make this town a food lover’s paradise.

Why Dine in Grand Marais?

Grand Marais, MN, is a charming coastal town on the shores of Lake Superior. With a distinct personality and a stunning natural setting, Grand Marais is a popular tourist destination. 

With Grand Marias being the turnoff to Gunflint Trail and all things Boundary Waters. It’s also a port for trips to Isle Royale National Park. 

What also makes it a great stop, is that it’s one of the last places to get a bite to eat if you are headed up to Grand Portage State Park

One of the highlights of any trip to Grand Marais is the unique culinary scene. From traditional Midwest comfort food to creative fine dining, 

Grand Marais is also known for its farm-to-table ethos, with many restaurants prioritizing local and seasonal ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at Grand Marais best restaurants and local food favorites in town.

What are the Best Restaurants in Grand Marais MN

Located near the Canada border, Grand Marais, MN boasts of several restaurants with diverse culinary offerings, from traditional Northwoods dishes to inventive farm-to-table creations. 

Angry Trout Cafe 

This restaurant is located right on the shore of Lake Superior. It provides stunning views of the lake, all the while enjoying a meal. The restaurant is known for serving fresh, local seafood, often caught by the restaurant’s own fishing boat. 

Some of the most popular dishes at Angry Troute Cafe include the pan-seared lake trout and the smoked whitefish cakes. 

In addition to their indoor seating, they have a large outdoor patio that overlooks the lake, perfect for a summer evening. They are also dog-friendly and provide water bowls for furry friends.

Sven & Ole’s

A classic spot for pizza and burgers with a fun and quirky atmosphere. This family-owned restaurant has been a Grand Marais staple since 1980. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with quirky decor and friendly staff. 

When it comes to Sven & Ole’s you need to get the pizza. It’s an old favorite for a reason in downtown Grand Marais!

Eat inside, or take it to go and enjoy it lakeside!

World’s Best Donuts 

This small bakery is a must-visit spot for donut lovers. They make their donuts fresh every day, and there’s often a line out the door. 

Some popular flavors include the maple glazed and the chocolate frosted with sprinkles. I am a personal fan of their cinnamon sugar cake donuts. Trust me when I say you gotta try them!

They have two place to order, one inside and one outside. It’s prefect if you have pets!

They have a few outdoor tables for customers to enjoy their donuts, and they welcome dogs to join their owners at the outdoor tables.

Blue Water Cafe 

Blue Water Cafe is a casual spot has a diverse menu that includes American and international dishes. They are known for their great breakfast, but there are plenty of great sandwiches and dinner specials too!

The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with a fireplace and a small bar. They are located right next to the waterfront.

If you have a four legged companion, order today and eat across the street at the park.

My Sister’s Place 

This family-owned cafe serves up delicious comfort food, but is known mostly for their Burgers. They have over 20 different hand crafted burgers, homemade pizza and sandwiches to choose from. 

The atmosphere is cozy and intimate at My Sister’s Place, with a small dining area and friendly staff. All of the food is served with fresh ingredients. 

They have a small outdoor seating area that’s perfect for a summer day, and they welcome dogs to join their owners at the outdoor tables.

Java Moose 

This popular small coffee shop offers hot and cold drinks, including espresso drinks, smoothies, and frappes. 

Java Moose also has a small selection of baked goods and light bites.

There are two locations, one traditional joint along highway 61, and a seasonal walk up right on the shores. Their pickup window is right on the beach!  

This is my personal favorite place to get coffee on Minnesota’s north shore.

Voyageur Brewing Company

This brewery and taproom offers everything, from IPAs to stouts, along with pub-style food such as burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with live music and friendly staff. 

They have a large outdoor seating area with picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for a summer evening. 

They are one of the best restaurants in Grand Marais do to it’s exceptional patio. They welcome dogs to join their owners at the outdoor tables, and even have water bowls available for furry friends.

Gun Flint Tavern 

This classic Northwoods pub has been a Grand Marais institution for over 20 years. The menu features pub-style dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips, along with a range of beers and cocktails. 

The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with live music and a fireplace. It’s one of the many family friendly restaurants in Grand Marais.

They have a large outdoor rooftop seating area that’s perfect for a summer day. It’s the perfect place for views of the harbor. They welcome dogs to join their owners at the outdoor tables, and even have a special dog menu available.

The Fisherman’s Daughter

The Fisherman’s Daughter, also known as Dockside Fish Market is the best place to get the fresh fish straight to the table. 

They aren’t just a fish market, they also serve up Fish & Chips, fresh soups, deli and coffee and deserts. 

You can also take home fresh and smoked wild caught Lake Superior fish by the pound.

Sydney’s Frozen Custard & Wood-Fired Pizza

Sydney’s Frozen Custard is known for its delicious custard treats and wood-fired pizza. Both made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. 

They are the perfect place to stop on a hot summer day in Grand Marais.

The frozen custard is a specialty dessert that is made fresh daily. THey make the classic vanilla bean and Dutch Chocolate. And you can top it with 15 different combinations, or make it into a float, sunday or shake! 

The wood-fired pizza is also a crowd-pleaser, with options ranging from classic margherita to more creative combinations like Kilauea and the Spanakopita. Don’t worry, you can build your own too.

They have indoor seating as well as a covered outdoor patio area with picnic tables and umbrellas.

What are the Local Favorites in Grand Marais?

When it comes to local favorites in Grand Marais, MN, there are a few popular dishes that you just can’t miss out on. 

One of the must-try dishes in the area is the fresh and flavorful Lake Superior trout. This dish can be found at many of the top restaurants around Grand Marais and is often served with wild rice and vegetables for a complete meal. 

Another popular dish that visitors and locals alike rave about is the walleye. Whether it’s grilled, pan-fried, or baked, the walleye in Grand Marais is always fresh and delicious.

If you’re looking to try something a little different, be sure to order the pasties. These hand-held meat pies are a local favorite and are often filled with beef, vegetables, and spices. 

They’re perfect for a quick lunch or snack and can be found at many of the local bakeries and cafes. 

Finally, don’t forget to try the wild berry pie for dessert. Made with fresh-picked berries from the local forests, this pie is the perfect end to any meal and is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and delighted with the local cuisine.

Where will you eat first?

Grand Marais offers a range of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for traditional American dishes or fresh seafood, this charming town has something for everyone.

Don’t worry, if you are in a hurry you can stop into the local Grand Marais Subway too. While it may not make the list of the best restaurants in Grand Marais, if you have a picky eater in the group, it might be just what they are looking for.

The best part about the food is enjoying the breathtaking views of Lake Superior while indulging in their favorite meals, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.