Imagine a place where the walleye is so good, it might just make you consider moving to Minnesota.
Well, pack your bags, because Buster’s on 28th in Minneapolis is about to reel you in.
Buster’s on 28th is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret fishing spot.
Only instead of catching fish, you’re about to devour them in the most delicious way possible.
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“Another restaurant claiming to have the best walleye? That’s about as common in Minnesota as snow in January.”
But hold onto your fishing hats, folks, because Buster’s isn’t just blowing smoke up your ice hole.
This unassuming joint has become a local legend, and for good reason.
As you approach Buster’s, you might wonder if your GPS has led you astray.
The exterior is about as flashy as a pair of sensible shoes, with its brick facade and simple awning.
But don’t let that fool you – sometimes the best catches come from the most unassuming spots.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a cozy, no-frills dining room that feels like your favorite uncle’s man cave – if your uncle had impeccable taste in food and beer, that is.
The warm wood tones and soft lighting create an atmosphere that’s as comforting as a well-worn fishing vest.
You’ll notice the walls adorned with local art and the occasional nod to Minnesota’s rich fishing culture.
It’s like someone took the essence of a North Woods cabin and distilled it into restaurant form.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the walleye.
Buster’s walleye is the stuff of legend, the kind of dish that makes even the most stoic Minnesotans break into spontaneous poetry.
It’s so good, you might find yourself wondering if they’ve got a secret underwater tunnel leading straight to the lake.
The fish is perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, flaky flesh that practically melts in your mouth.
It’s seasoned with a blend of spices that enhances the natural flavor of the walleye without overpowering it.
Each bite is a reminder of why this humble fish is so beloved in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
But here’s the kicker – Buster’s doesn’t just rely on the quality of their fish.
They’ve elevated the humble walleye to an art form, offering it in various preparations that’ll make your taste buds do the Minnesota Polka.
There’s the classic walleye sandwich, served on a soft bun with just the right amount of tartar sauce.
It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with boring old tuna.
For those looking to spice things up, there’s the blackened walleye, which adds a Cajun kick to the mild fish.
It’s like taking a trip down the Mississippi without leaving your seat.
And let’s not forget the walleye tacos – a fusion of Minnesotan and Mexican cuisines that works so well, you’ll wonder why it took so long for someone to come up with it.
But Buster’s isn’t just a one-trick pony – or should I say, one-fish wonder.
Their menu is a testament to the diversity of Midwestern cuisine, with options that’ll satisfy even the most landlocked of taste buds.
The burgers are a carnivore’s dream, piled high with toppings and cooked to juicy perfection.
The Bison Burger, in particular, is a nod to the region’s history, offering a leaner alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
For those looking to branch out from the walleye (though why would you?), the menu offers a range of options that showcase the best of local ingredients.
The cheese curds are a must-try appetizer, offering a crispy, gooey taste of Wisconsin that’ll have you questioning your loyalty to the Gopher State.
The hot dish, a Minnesotan staple, gets a gourmet upgrade at Buster’s, elevating the humble casserole to new heights of comfort food bliss.
It’s like they’ve taken your grandma’s recipe and sent it to culinary school.
The result?
A hot dish that’s both familiar and fancy, comforting and cutting-edge.
We’re talking layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a creamy sauce that’ll make you want to lick the plate clean.
Topped with a golden crust of tater tots that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, it’s a dish that screams “Minnesota” louder than a loon call echoing across a misty lake at dawn.
This isn’t just dinner; it’s edible nostalgia with a gourmet twist.
Now, let’s talk about the unsung hero of any good Minnesota meal – the beer.
Buster’s beer selection is like a liquid love letter to the craft brewing scene of the Upper Midwest.
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With a rotating selection of local and regional brews on tap, you’ll find the perfect pairing for your walleye, whether you prefer a crisp lager or a hoppy IPA.
The staff are like beer sommeliers, ready to guide you through the options with the enthusiasm of a kid on the first day of fishing season.
It’s a hoppy adventure that’ll take your taste buds on a tour from the shores of Lake Superior to the bluffs of the Mississippi.
One sip of their carefully curated selection, and you’ll swear you can hear the distant call of a loon.
The beer menu reads like a who’s who of Midwestern brewing royalty, with names that sound more like old fishing buddies than beverages.
It’s the kind of dilemma that makes you grateful for flight options – because in Minnesota, we believe in catch and release, even when it comes to beer tasting.
Speaking of staff, the folks at Buster’s are the kind of people who make you feel like you’ve been coming here for years, even if it’s your first visit.
They’ve got that perfect blend of Midwestern friendliness and dry humor that makes you want to pull up a chair and stay awhile.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself swapping fishing stories with your server or getting into a friendly debate about the best lakes for walleye fishing.
It’s all part of the Buster’s experience.
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking.
“But what if I don’t like fish?”
First of all, who hurt you?
But more importantly, Buster’s has got you covered.
Their menu is diverse enough to satisfy even the most ichthyophobic diner.
The aforementioned burgers are a solid choice, but don’t overlook the sandwiches and salads.
The Cubano, for instance, is a pork lover’s dream, while the Cobb salad is a fresh and filling option for those looking to keep things light.
And let’s not forget about dessert.
Because what’s a meal without a sweet finish?
Buster’s doesn’t disappoint in this department either.
Their dessert menu changes regularly, but you can always count on something decadent and homemade.
The bread pudding, when available, is a warm hug for your taste buds, while the seasonal fruit crisp is like summer in a bowl.
One of the things that sets Buster’s apart is their commitment to sourcing local ingredients whenever possible.
It’s not just about supporting local farmers and producers – though that’s certainly part of it.
It’s about capturing the essence of Minnesota on a plate.
From the locally caught walleye to the seasonal vegetables, each dish tells a story of the region’s bounty.
It’s like taking a culinary tour of the state without ever leaving your seat.
Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the atmosphere at Buster’s.
It’s the kind of place where you can come as you are, whether you’re fresh off the lake in your fishing gear or dressed up for a night out.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, with a buzz of conversation that makes you feel like you’re part of something special.
On weekends, you might even catch some live music – usually local acts that add to the homegrown feel of the place.
It’s the perfect soundtrack for a meal that celebrates all things Minnesota.
One thing to note – Buster’s can get pretty busy, especially during peak dinner hours and on weekends.
But don’t let that deter you.
The wait is part of the experience, giving you time to peruse the beer list or chat with fellow diners.
And trust me, once you taste that walleye, you’ll understand why people are willing to wait.
As you finish your meal at Buster’s, you might find yourself already planning your next visit.
That’s the magic of this place – it has a way of reeling you in and making you want to come back for more.
Whether you’re a lifelong Minnesotan or just passing through, Buster’s on 28th offers a taste of what makes this state so special.
It’s more than just a meal – it’s an experience, a celebration of local flavors and Midwestern hospitality.
So the next time you’re in Minneapolis and find yourself craving some of the best walleye this side of Lake Superior, you know where to go.
Just follow the smell of perfectly fried fish and the sound of contented diners.
Buster’s on 28th is waiting to welcome you with open arms and full plates.
And who knows?
You might just find yourself becoming a regular, joining the ranks of locals who swear by this hidden gem.
After all, in Minnesota, good food and good company are always in season.
For more information about Buster’s on 28th, including their current menu and hours, be sure to check out their website.
And when you’re ready to navigate your way to this walleye wonderland, use this map to guide you to your next great Minnesota meal.
Where: 4204 S 28th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Remember, at Buster’s, every meal is a chance to create your own Minnesota nice story – one delicious bite at a time.