The picturesque town of Stillwater, Minnesota, has evolved into a culinary destination that rivals much larger cities, boasting an impressive array of dining options that cater to every palate and occasion. Whether you are seeking intimate fine dining to celebrate a special occasion, authentic Italian food to satiate a craving, or simply wondering where to eat in Stillwater, MN during your visit to our beloved Aurora Staples Inn, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate Stillwater’s most exceptional restaurants. Stillwater’s dining scene reflects the town’s unique character, a perfect blend of Minnesota hospitality and sophisticated culinary artistry. Let’s embark on a delicious journey through the best restaurants in the area, exploring the diverse flavors and experiences that make dining here a truly memorable Stillwater activity.
Raise Your Glass: Great Wine and Cocktail Lists
When the evening calls for expertly crafted beverages paired with exceptional cuisine, several restaurants in Stillwater rise to the occasion with impressive wine selections and innovative cocktail programs.
Domacin stands as a testament to Stillwater’s growing reputation as a serious dining destination. This sophisticated establishment has garnered attention for its carefully curated wine list featuring both international selections and domestic favorites. Do not be intimidated by the length of the wine list (25 pages), the knowledgeable staff can guide diners through perfect pairings that complement their seasonal menu, making every meal a memorable experience.
Brick & Bourbon has a one of kind craft cocktail bar and was voted the best patio in Stillwater. Their cocktail menu celebrates classic cocktails and newly imagined concoctions. The accompanying menu features entrees created with fresh ingredients and delivered with “impeccable standards.”
For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere without compromising on quality, Phil’s Tara Hideaway provides the perfect balance. This establishment has built a loyal following since opening in 1997. The log cabin building was constructed in 1929 and is recognized as a historic landmark. The menu is responsibly sourced and Mediterranean inspired.
Follow the rabbit to the Velveteen Speakeasy located below street level from the lobby of the JX Event Center. The cocktail menu boasts 1920s classics alongside modern libations. You will also find a wine menu, whiskey flight option, and creative mocktails. Go with a friend and share items from the tapas and flatbreads menu.
Fine Dining Excellence
When special occasions demand the very best, Stillwater delivers with fine dining establishments that showcase culinary artistry at its finest.
The Lowell Inn represents the pinnacle of fine dining in Stillwater, combining elegant ambiance with exceptional cuisine that has made it a landmark destination for decades. This historic establishment offers multiple dining rooms, each with its own distinct character, from the intimate Matterhorn Room with its Swiss-inspired décor to the more formal George Washington Room. The Lowell Inn is open for breakfast (guests of the Aurora Staples Inn receive a voucher for breakfast for two), lunch/brunch, afternoon tea, and weekend fondue dinner. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Just outside of Stillwater, the Lake Elmo Inn brings fine dining to Lake Elmo, MN. For more than four decades, they have been serving entrees that highlight the natural flavors of fresh food. Chef and owner John Schlitz started at the restaurant as a dishwasher (the inn was under a different name at the time). Years later the establishment was listed for sale and John returned to create the special occasion destination that it is today. Reservations are recommended for lunch, dinner, Saturday breakfast, or Sunday brunch. Check their events and specials page for cocktail classes and evening dining specials.
Authentic Italian Flavors
For those craving authentic Italian food in Stillwater, the town offers genuine flavors that transport diners straight to the heart of Italy.
Gio’s has established itself as the go-to destination for traditional Italian cuisine, serving dishes that honor time-tested recipes while incorporating fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. From perfectly prepared pasta dishes (gluten-free noodles available upon request), to sandwiches, to pizza, the menu showcases the rich flavors of the Mediterranean.
Pizza Perfection: Did Somebody Say Pizza?
No discussion of the best restaurants in Stillwater, MN would be complete without highlighting the town’s exceptional pizza offerings. Whether you are craving traditional styles or innovative creations, these pizzerias deliver the best pizza in Stillwater.
Grand Pizza has earned its reputation through consistent quality and fresh ingredients that satisfy even the most discerning pizza lovers. Some of their unique pizzas include the Lumberjack, Chicken Alfredo, and Tropical. Grand Pizza also features pasta and sandwiches on their menu.
QuickFire Pizza brings speed without sacrificing quality, perfect for those times when you need delicious pizza fast. QuickFire has a secluded patio for dining on those gorgeous days. Try their Tree Hugger, Thai Chicken, Prosciutto Arugula, or classic Cheese pizza.
Victoriano’s Pizza rounds out the pizza scene with hand-tossed pies made from homemade dough. They considered themselves to be the best New York pie shop in Minnesota. Victoriano’s offers cauliflower crust pizzas on their menu.
International Flavors and Unique Cuisines
Stillwater’s dining diversity extends far beyond traditional American fare, offering authentic international cuisines that add global flair to the local food scene.
Lolito Cantina brings vibrant Southern Mexican and Latin American flavors to Stillwater. To create their perfectly seasoned tacos and innovative burrito and rice bowls, Lolito Cantina partners with C&S Gardens, Rising Sun Farm, Pleasant Valley, Axdahls, Tiny Smith, and Grass Run Farms.
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter provides an authentic German dining experience that is both hearty and memorable. This unique establishment serves traditional German cuisine in an atmosphere that transports diners to a cozy Bavarian restaurant, complete with genuine German hospitality and time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations. The Gasthaus is accessible to those traveling along the Browns Creek Trail.
Nacho Mama’s brings new and modern Mexican dishes with a Caribbean twist. The location on a small side street adds to the ambiance of entering another part of the world. The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy chips and salsa and a margarita on a sunny day.
Creative and Eclectic Options
For diners seeking innovative cuisine that pushes culinary boundaries, Stillwater offers restaurants that specialize in creative fusion and eclectic menus.
The Wild Hare lives up to its name with a menu that is anything but ordinary, featuring creative dishes that blend different culinary traditions in unexpected and delightful ways. This establishment has gained a following among adventurous diners who appreciate a 90’s music vibe.
Lolo American Kitchen celebrates American cuisine with a focus on street foods, offering dishes that showcase local ingredients prepared with modern techniques. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that repeat visitors always discover something new and exciting.
Perfect Lunch Destinations
When you need a midday meal that is both satisfying and memorable, Stillwater offers excellent lunch options that cater to various preferences and schedules.
Mon Petit Cheri is a bakery serving hearty salads and sandwiches. The owner started selling at the Minneapolis Farmer’s Market and grew into a brick and mortar spot in 2015. Mon Petit Cheri is one of three locations where guests of the Aurora Staples Inn can enjoy breakfast; on Monday and Tuesday mornings, a gift card is provided so that guests can choose their perfect start for the day.
Classic American Diner Spirit
Sometimes the best meals come from establishments that have perfected the art of American comfort food, and Stillwater’s classic diners deliver exactly that experience.
Leo’s represents the quintessential American diner experience, serving generous portions of familiar favorites prepared with care and consistency. This establishment has become a local institution with a Main Street dining room, year-round ice cream window, outdoor patio, and rooftop dining. Be sure to stop in for one of their delicious old-fashioned malt-shakes available in several flavors.
The Oasis Cafe continues this tradition with their own take on classic American fare, offering comfort food that satisfies both the appetite and the soul. These establishments prove that sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most rewarding. The Oasis Café also rounds out the Aurora Staples Inn guest breakfast options with everything from omelets to eggs benedict to banana bread French toast; guests are provided with a gift card on Monday and Tuesday mornings to enjoy the Oasis Café breakfast menu.
Unique Atmosphere and Entertainment
Stillwater’s dining scene includes establishments that offer more than just great food, providing unique atmospheres and entertainment that create complete experiences.
The Tilted Tiki brings tropical vibes to Minnesota with its tiki bar atmosphere and exotic cocktails that transport guests to a Pacific island paradise. They host weekly live music on both the indoor and outdoor stages. This unique establishment proves that great dining experiences can be as much about atmosphere as they are about food.
Ziggy’s On Main combines excellent food with live music, creating an energetic environment where diners can enjoy great meals while experiencing local and touring musical acts. The menu is heavy on chicken options but you will also find burgers, chili, and grilled cheese sandwiches. This combination of quality dining and entertainment makes it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a complete night out.
Your Stillwater Dining Adventure Awaits
The restaurants in Stillwater offer something special for every dining occasion, from intimate romantic dinners to casual family meals and everything in between. This charming river town has cultivated a dining scene that reflects both its historic character and its forward-thinking culinary vision.
When you stay with us at the Aurora Staples Inn, you’re perfectly positioned to explore all that Stillwater’s dining scene has to offer. Each restaurant mentioned in this guide represents a unique facet of what makes dining in Stillwater such a rewarding experience. Whether you’re seeking the best pizza in Stillwater, authentic Italian food in Stillwater, or fine dining that rivals any major city, you’ll find exceptional options just steps away from our inn.
We encourage our guests to venture out and discover their own favorites among these remarkable establishments. Each meal becomes part of your Stillwater story, adding delicious memories to your visit to this enchanting river town.
