Minnesota knows how to snack like no other. From the first bite, you can feel the cold winds of the North and the warmth of home colliding on your tongue. These aren’t just treats—they’re memories you can chew. Every town, every fair, every corner café holds a flavor that feels like a story passed down through generations. Whether it’s squeaky cheese curds, crispy Pronto Pups, or a hearty walleye sandwich, Minnesota’s snacks capture the heart of its people. Bite into one, and suddenly you’re not just tasting food—you’re tasting home.
These seven classics will make your taste buds remember what Minnesota tastes like.
Juicy Lucy
The Juicy Lucy is an iconic Minneapolis creation, where cheese is ingeniously embedded inside the burger patty. This innovation offers a mouthful of molten cheese with each bite, leaving many debating which local bar does it best.
Whether it’s Matt’s Bar spelling it “Jucy Lucy” or another venue, this burger is a must-try for anyone visiting the Twin Cities. Its fame is matched only by its flavor, making it a nostalgic favorite for locals and a delicious discovery for newcomers.
Sweet Martha’s Cookies
Imagine a bucket overflowing with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. That’s the magic of Sweet Martha’s at the Minnesota State Fair. Since 1979, this stand has been a staple, serving cookies so fresh they practically leap out of the pail. The aroma alone is enough to draw crowds from every corner of the fairgrounds.
Locals and visitors alike cherish these sweet treats, turning a simple cookie into a cherished memory that extends beyond fair season.
Pearson’s Salted Nut Roll
Born during the Great Depression, Pearson’s Salted Nut Roll is a candy that combines chewy nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts. This treat has been a constant companion for Minnesotans on road trips or at hockey games. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of salty and sweet.
Produced in St. Paul, this candy bar continues to delight generations, making it a convenient and satisfying snack that evokes nostalgia and local pride.
Pronto Pup
The Pronto Pup is not just a corn dog; it’s a Minnesota State Fair legend. With a batter less sweet than traditional corn dogs, it has been a fairground favorite since the mid-20th century. Fairgoers eagerly await their chance to enjoy this crispy, fried delight each summer.
Walking the fair with a Pronto Pup in hand is a rite of passage, a nostalgic nod to simpler times and shared experiences under the sun.
Mouth Trap Cheese Curds
The Mouth Trap Cheese Curds are the squeaky, satisfying bites Minnesotans can’t resist. Found in the Food Building at the Minnesota State Fair, these curds are fried to perfection right before your eyes.
The unique squeak of the cheese is a testament to its freshness, a sensory delight that pairs perfectly with a cold drink. For many, these cheese curds symbolize the fair experience, encapsulating both taste and tradition.
Wild Rice Soup
Wild rice soup is a comforting embrace on a cold Minnesota day. Originating as a clever use for leftover wild rice, the soup blends creaminess with the nutty texture of this indigenous grain. Often accompanied by chicken, carrots, and herbs, it’s a staple on menus across the state.
This dish embodies Minnesota’s landscape, offering warmth and nourishment that harkens back to cozy family meals and the state’s natural bounty.
Hot Dago / Italiano Sandwich
The Hot Dago Sandwich holds a special place in St. Paul’s heart. A flavorful combination of Italian sausage patties, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, it reflects the city’s rich Italian-American heritage. Often served with a side of history and discussion, this sandwich remains a flavorful tribute to local culture.
Found in various eateries around St. Paul, it serves as a culinary bridge to tradition, evoking memories with every bite.