Looking for a culinary journey that’s off the beaten path?
This foodie road trip highlights eight underrated Minnesota restaurants serving up the state’s finest walleye.
1. Pickwick Restaurant & Pub (Duluth)
Nestled in the heart of Duluth, the Pickwick Restaurant & Pub is like stepping into a time machine that’s been programmed for deliciousness.
This historic establishment, with its stone facade and vintage signage, has been serving up scrumptious fare since 1914.
It’s the kind of place where the walls could tell stories, if only they weren’t too busy soaking up the aroma of perfectly prepared walleye.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by an ambiance that’s part old-world charm, part Northwoods coziness.
The warm glow of the lights and the gentle hum of conversation create an atmosphere that’s as inviting as a bear hug from Paul Bunyan himself.
Now, let’s talk walleye.
The Pickwick’s version is so good, it might just make you want to slap your own face in disbelief.
Lightly breaded and cooked to perfection, it’s a testament to the simple fact that sometimes, the best things in life come with a side of tartar sauce.
2. Insula Restaurant (Ely)
Next stop on our walleye wanderings is Insula Restaurant in Ely.
This place is so hip, it makes Brooklyn look like it’s trying too hard.
Housed in a charming brick building on Ely’s main street, Insula is where modern culinary flair meets Northwoods tradition.
The interior is a perfect blend of rustic and contemporary, like if a lumberjack decided to become an interior designer.
But let’s be real, we’re here for the walleye, not the decor (though the decor is pretty darn nice).
Insula’s walleye dish is like the Beyoncé of fish plates – it steals the show every time.
Locally sourced and prepared with a creative twist, it’s the kind of meal that makes you want to stand up and slow clap.
Just resist the urge to lick the plate, okay?
We’re trying to keep it classy here.
3. The Angry Trout Cafe (Grand Marais)
Don’t let the name fool you – there’s nothing angry about the experience you’ll have at The Angry Trout Cafe in Grand Marais.
This lakeside gem is as charming as a puppy in a bow tie, with a commitment to sustainability that would make Mother Nature herself give a standing ovation.
Housed in a rustic wooden building that looks like it was plucked straight out of a storybook, The Angry Trout serves up views of Lake Superior that are almost as delicious as their walleye.
Almost.
Their walleye is so fresh, you’ll wonder if they have a secret underwater tunnel leading straight to the lake.
Prepared simply to let the quality of the fish shine through, it’s a reminder that sometimes, less really is more.
Unless we’re talking about portion sizes, in which case, more is definitely more.
4. Fireside Restaurant (Detroit Lakes)
Tucked away in Detroit Lakes, the Fireside Restaurant is like that quiet kid in high school who turned out to be a secret genius.
From the outside, it might not scream “culinary hotspot,” but don’t let that fool you – this place knows its way around a walleye.
The restaurant’s lakeside location offers views that are almost as tasty as the food.
Almost.
But let’s be honest, we’re here for the walleye, not the scenery (though the scenery is a pretty sweet bonus).
The Fireside’s walleye is like a love letter to Minnesota’s state fish.
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Perfectly seasoned and cooked with the kind of precision that would make a Swiss watchmaker jealous, it’s the stuff of fishy dreams.
And trust me, you want these fishy dreams.
5. Naniboujou Lodge Restaurant (Grand Marais)
If Wes Anderson decided to open a restaurant in Minnesota, it might look something like the Naniboujou Lodge Restaurant.
This place is so uniquely beautiful, it makes other restaurants look like they’re not even trying.
The dining room, with its stunning painted ceiling and massive stone fireplace, is like eating inside a work of art.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to dress up, even if you’re just wearing your fancy sweatpants.
But let’s not forget why we’re here – the walleye.
Naniboujou’s version is like the fish equivalent of a standing ovation.
Prepared with respect for tradition and a dash of culinary creativity, it’s a dish that honors Minnesota’s fishing heritage while still keeping things fresh and exciting.
6. Grandma’s Saloon & Grill (Duluth)
Don’t let the name fool you – Grandma’s Saloon & Grill isn’t actually run by someone’s grandmother (though that would be pretty awesome).
This Duluth institution, sitting pretty under the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, is about as Minnesotan as it gets without actually being a tater tot hotdish.
The restaurant’s exterior, with its bold signage and prime location, is like a beacon calling all hungry travelers.
Inside, it’s a cozy mishmash of memorabilia and maritime charm that feels like a warm hug from the North Shore itself.
Now, let’s talk walleye.
Grandma’s serves up a walleye that would make actual grandmas proud.
It’s the kind of dish that could unite families, end wars, and make you forget all about that time you accidentally called your teacher “Mom” in third grade.
Yeah, it’s that good.
7. The Anchor Fish & Chips (Minneapolis)
Alright, I know what you’re thinking – “Fish and chips in a walleye list? What’s next, deep-fried lutefisk?”
But hear me out.
The Anchor Fish & Chips in Minneapolis might be inspired by the British Isles, but their walleye game is pure Minnesotan magic.
This cozy Northeast Minneapolis spot looks like it was teleported straight from a quaint English village.
But don’t let the Union Jack fool you – when it comes to walleye, they’re as Minnesotan as “you betcha” and passive-aggressive politeness.
Their walleye and chips is like a cultural exchange program for your taste buds.
It’s the perfect marriage of British technique and Minnesotan ingredients, resulting in a dish that’s crispier than a fall leaf and more satisfying than finally getting all the snow off your car in one go.
8. PORTERHOUSE Steak & Seafood Restaurant (Little Canada)
Last but certainly not least, we have the PORTERHOUSE Steak & Seafood Restaurant in Little Canada.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a steakhouse on a walleye tour?
Trust me, this place knows its fish just as well as its beef.
From the outside, PORTERHOUSE looks like the kind of place where important business deals are made over medium-rare sirloins.
But don’t let the upscale vibe intimidate you – they’re just as serious about their walleye as they are about their steaks.
Their walleye dish is the aquatic equivalent of a hole-in-one, a perfect 10 in Olympic diving, or finding a parking spot right in front of the store.
It’s that good.
Prepared with the same attention to detail as their prime cuts, it’s a reminder that in Minnesota, walleye isn’t just a fish – it’s a way of life.
There you have it, folks – eight of Minnesota’s best-kept walleye secrets.
The table is set for adventure!
Let this map guide you to your next incredible dining destination.
So gas up the car, loosen your belt, and get ready for a fin-tastic adventure.
Your taste buds will thank you, even if your waistline might not.