Brainerd, Minnesota, offers a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring the city’s dining options is a delightful journey through global flavors and classic American fare.
Passport: A Culinary World Tour
Located at 606 Laurel Street, Passport Restaurant & Catering brings international cuisine to Brainerd. Each month, the restaurant features a menu inspired by a different country, offering dishes crafted from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The historic downtown setting adds to the charm, making it a must-visit for those seeking a global dining experience.
The Classic Grill: Elegance and Local Flavors
Situated within Madden’s on Gull Lake, The Classic Grill provides an intimate dining atmosphere with a menu that highlights locally inspired dishes. Open daily from 11 am to 9 pm, it’s an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and service has earned it high rankings among Minnesota’s dining establishments.
Last Turn Saloon: A Historic Dining Experience
Established in 1894, Last Turn Saloon offers a unique blend of history and cuisine. The interior features woodsy decor with Tiffany lamps and antique furnishings, creating a nostalgic ambiance. The menu includes American classics like the Monte Croissant and Bronco burger, complemented by a selection of local brews on tap.
Irma’s Kitchen: Fresh to Table
Located at Cragun’s Resort, Irma’s Kitchen emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant operates seasonally from May through October, serving lunch and dinner in a rustic yet modern setting. The menu features a variety of dishes, including artisanal cheese and charcuterie, bacon scallops, and grass-fed filet mignon.
Chick N’ Rice: A Fusion of Cultures
Opened in July 2024, Chick N’ Rice introduces a fusion of Southeast Asian and South American cuisines to Brainerd. The restaurant’s signature dish involves marinated chicken served with garlic and ginger-seasoned sticky rice. For those seeking familiar flavors, the menu also includes American classics like quesadillas and cheese fries.
Oak Lawn Tavern: Comfort Food and Community
Oak Lawn Tavern is renowned for its broasted chicken, country-fried steak, and hearty rib dinners. The family-owned establishment offers a warm, quaint atmosphere with friendly service. Unique touches like meat and gun raffles and happy hour specials contribute to its community-driven spirit.
Ruby’s On The Lake: Lakeside Dining
Part of Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort, Ruby’s On The Lake offers dining in a historic lakeside log setting. Built in 1921, the restaurant serves breakfast daily from 7:00 to 10:00 am, providing a classic up-north dining experience with spectacular views of Bay Lake.
Brainerd’s culinary landscape is rich and varied, offering something for every palate. From international flavors to traditional American dishes, the city’s restaurants provide memorable dining experiences that reflect the community’s diverse tastes and commitment to quality.