I like food. You like food. I think it is pretty safe to say that everyone in this world likes to eat good food. I am probably biased, but I would say that Duluth Minnesota has some of the best eateries in all of Minnesota. Not only does Duluth house a lot of the greatest chain restaurants, but it boasts a wonderful, diverse, local dining scene that is definitely worth checking out on your next visit up to the “Zenith City.” Here are some of my personal favorites, and my recommendations of the best food at each place.
1. The Duluth Grill
Located in West Duluth, the Duluth Grill is well known for its sustainable, organic foods and its mission to source a lot of their ingredients locally. Duluth Grill also has a wide variety of both vegan and gluten-free options, so almost everyone can find something yummy at this restaurant. I highly recommend their breakfast items, whether that be their Huevos Rancheros Skillet, Caramel Apple French Toast, or one of their Colossal Cinnamon Rolls (come early for the rolls though, as they disappear fast). For dinner, their burgers and mac & cheese always hit the spot. Dessert is also a highlight here, as their pies are legendary. There is no other way to describe them. Come hungry, as you are going to be eating a lot here.
2. 7 West Taphouse
This relatively new eatery in downtown Duluth Minnesota boasts some very creative burgers. I mean, who wouldn’t want to sink their teeth into a Jalapeno Popper Burger, or a Sugar Daddy Burger? 7 West Taphouse also has some really yummy fries and chips that are customizable by adding different seasonings to them. A diner could try anything from salt and vinegar fries to parmesan-seasoned chips. 7 West Taphouse is also a fairly inexpensive place to dine, with most meals ( burger, fries, and a drink) ranging around nine to ten dollars, making it a definite must-do for those looking to a little more thrifty during their visit to Duluth Minnesota.
3. Vitta Pizza
Vitta Pizza is a small pizza joint located in Canal Park that has an array of different Neapolitan- style pizzas. Whether a person goes with a classic Margherita Pizza, or chooses to be adventurous with a Benito Pizza (which features ham, goat cheese, pepperoncini peppers, and arugula), there is something to suit every palate. Vitta Pizza’s location in beautiful Canal Park gives them an advantage, as diners are free to dine outside in the summer months and enjoy the sunshine, or take their pizza to go and take in the beauty of Lake Superior that Canal Park has to offer.
4. Tavern On The Hill
Tavern on the Hill is located in the heart of the Woodland neighborhood of Duluth Minnesota, making it a perfect restaurant for students at colleges in the area. This establishment serves a wide array of dishes, from burgers to tacos and even pizzas. I highly recommend their Crispy, Creamy, Fried Avocado Tacos. They are quite refreshing, and the rice and beans served with them are out of this world. I also suggest trying one of their specialty beverages, such as their Lavender Lemonade. This drink is something I crave during the humid, summer months in Duluth Minnesota because it really hits the spot.
5. Toasty's
Toasty’s isn’t your average grilled cheese shop. This sandwich shop does serves multiple varieties of the classic grilled cheese sandwich, including the “Bruschetta” sandwich that includes the classic Bruschetta ingredients, and the “Arriba Arriba” sandwich that includes pepper jack cheese, avocado, lime zest, fresh cilantro, and organic jalapenos. Their desserts are also a highlight; the Cream Cheese Stuffed Fritters are scrumptious. There is something for everyone at Toasty’s.
6. Mexico Lindo
Mexico Lindo, located in the historic Fitger’s Complex, boasts some of the best Mexican Food in Duluth Minnesota. They have some of the best complimentary chips and salsa; the chips have the right amount of salt and the salsa has the perfect hint of spice. My personal favorite entrée is Burrito California, but I do know that their enchiladas, chicken dishes, and tostadas are not to be missed as well. If you like authentic Mexican food, you will definitely love Mexico Lindo.