Bloomington, Minnesota, is home to a handful of standout local eateries that define its dining scene, from a lakeside brewhouse to a modern table inside Mall of America. The top local spots in Bloomington are Birch's on the Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub, Hazelwood Food and Drink, and Cedar + Stone, Urban Table, each offering a distinct take on Midwest and global flavors.
These three establishments represent the core of what makes dining in Bloomington worth your time: fresh, locally sourced ingredients, welcoming atmospheres, and dishes that range from handcrafted beers with lake views to contemporary plates celebrating Minnesota's land and waters. Below, we break down what each one offers, along with practical details to help you plan your visit.
Birch's on the Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub
Birch's on the Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub blends craft brews, cuisine, and lake views. It serves handcrafted beers alongside a menu that features steaks and fresh seafood. The lakeside setting makes Birch's on the Lake a standout choice in Bloomington, Minnesota.
The supperclub menu leans into classic Midwest comfort, with options like beer-battered walleye, a hearty prime rib, and a rotating selection of house-brewed ales and lagers. The lakefront patio is the main draw during warmer months, offering direct views of the water that pair well with a flight of their seasonal brews. Inside, the dark wood and nautical accents keep the vibe relaxed yet polished, suitable for both casual lunches and celebratory dinners.
Hazelwood Food and Drink
Hazelwood Food and Drink captures modern American dining with a touch of Midwest charm. Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, it offers a menu of dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. From hearty burgers to fresh salads, Hazelwood Food and Drink's menu ensures that every guest finds a dish to their palate. The restaurant's atmosphere and commitment to culinary excellence make it a standout choice in Bloomington, Minnesota.
The menu changes seasonally, but regular standouts include the bison burger topped with cheddar and caramelized onions, a roasted beet salad with goat cheese and candied pecans, and a daily fish special that highlights whatever is freshest from regional waters. The bar program focuses on craft cocktails using Minnesota spirits, and the weekend brunch draws a loyal local crowd for its house-made biscuits and gravy. Hazelwood's location near several hotels also makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the city.
Cedar + Stone, Urban Table
Cedar + Stone, Urban Table, located in Mall of America, offers a contemporary dining experience that celebrates the bounty of Minnesota's land and waters. The menu showcases a fusion of global flavors and locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Whether indulging in a steak or savoring a fresh seafood creation, guests at Cedar + Stone, Urban Table are treated to a culinary journey that highlights the culinary landscape of Bloomington, Minnesota.
This is the only one of the three eateries inside the mall, making it a practical choice for shoppers and convention-goers. The wood-fired oven turns out blistered flatbreads and roasted vegetables, while the entree list includes a cedar-plank salmon, a dry-aged ribeye, and a vegetarian grain bowl that changes with the seasons. The open kitchen and exposed beams give the space a rustic-modern feel, and the bar offers a solid selection of Minnesota craft beers and wines from the region. Because it sits within Mall of America, expect a lively buzz, especially on weekends.
What About the Other Spots on the List?
The original list that circulates online includes several names that are not in Bloomington at all. For example, The Copper Cow is a bistro that offers a fusion of American and global flavors, but it sits in Minneapolis's Uptown neighborhood, not Bloomington. Similarly, Revival, a Southern-inspired eatery, has made a name for itself as a destination for soulful comfort food, but it operates in Minneapolis, as does The Lynhall, a space where guests can savor an array of dishes. Pizzeria Lola has carved out a place in the hearts of locals and visitors with its artisanal pizzas and ambiance, but it belongs to Minneapolis's Lyn-Lake neighborhood, and Young Joni has garnered acclaim for its offerings from its Minneapolis location.
Other names on those older lists, like J.D. Hoyt's and Manny's Steakhouse, are also Minneapolis restaurants, not Bloomington ones. If you are specifically looking for a meal within Bloomington city limits, your reliable choices are the three detailed above. For a broader Twin Cities food crawl, you might consider crossing into Minneapolis, but that is a different guide entirely.
Practical Tips for Dining in Bloomington
When planning your meal, keep these details in mind:
- Birch's on the Lake is located on the shores of Birch Lake, and the patio is first-come, first-served during peak hours. Call ahead for a reservation if you want a table by the windows in winter.
- Hazelwood Food and Drink offers a separate gluten-free menu upon request, and the kitchen is diligent about cross-contamination, making it a safe bet for celiac diners.
- Cedar + Stone, Urban Table is on the third floor of Mall of America near the north entrance. It takes walk-ins, but weekend evenings can see a 20- to 30-minute wait, so consider making a reservation through the mall's website.
All three restaurants are family-friendly, with kids' menus available at Hazelwood and Cedar + Stone, and high chairs readily at Birch's. If you have dietary restrictions, Hazelwood and Cedar + Stone both offer vegetarian and vegan mains, while Birch's can accommodate gluten-free requests on its steaks and seafood dishes.
FAQs
Q: Are these eateries suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, many of the featured eateries in Bloomington, Minnesota, are family-friendly, offering kids' menus and a welcoming atmosphere for families to enjoy a meal together.
Q: Do these eateries accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegan options?
A: Absolutely! Several of the recommended eateries in Bloomington cater to various dietary preferences, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, ensuring that all guests can indulge in meals tailored to their needs.
For those interested in exploring more of what the region offers, nearby Edina has a growing coffee shop scene worth a detour, and the lakes and rivers in Minnesota provide plenty of scenic backdrops for a post-meal walk. If you are staying in Bloomington for a longer trip, consider checking out the secrets hidden in Minnesota's state parks or the towns and souvenirs in Minnesota's river valleys for a full day trip itinerary.
In short, stick to Birch's on the Lake, Hazelwood Food and Drink, and Cedar + Stone, Urban Table for a genuine Bloomington meal. Skip the Minneapolis names that have been incorrectly tacked onto the list, and you will not be disappointed by the flavors this city actually serves.
