Few meals capture the heart of the Midwest quite like a hot dish. It’s the kind of comfort food that instantly makes you feel at home—warm, filling, and always made with love. In Minnesota, hot dish isn’t just dinner; it’s tradition passed down through generations.
So if you’re craving a true taste of Midwestern comfort, here are 6 Minnesota hot dish spots where the tradition is still alive and well.
The Buttered Tin (St. Paul)
Nestled in the heart of St. Paul, The Buttered Tin is known for turning ordinary ingredients into comfort food masterpieces. Imagine savory meats and fresh vegetables enveloped in a creamy sauce, topped with a golden, crispy layer. Each bite evokes memories of family gatherings and warm kitchen aromas. Perfect for those seeking nostalgia with a modern twist. Did you know? The Buttered Tin’s hot dishes are inspired by classic family recipes, adding a pinch of history to every serving.
Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar (Eagan)
In Eagan, Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar brings a down-to-earth flair to the traditional hot dish. Here, the emphasis is on locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness in every bite. The dish often features tender meats and seasonal veggies, binding it all together with rich flavors. This spot is perfect for those who appreciate a farm-to-table experience. A fun fact: Their signature hot dish changes with the seasons, reflecting Minnesota’s vibrant agricultural calendar.
Keys Café & Bakery (multiple locations)
Keys Café & Bakery, with locations across Minnesota, delivers a hot dish that feels like a warm hug. Known for hearty servings, the dish is packed with generous portions of meat and a rich, velvety sauce. It’s a favorite among locals looking for that familiar taste of home. The café’s bustling atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a beloved spot for families and friends. Interesting tidbit: Keys Café uses locally baked bread crumbs for that extra crunch on top.
The News Room (Minneapolis)
The News Room captures attention not just with its decor but with its delectable hot dish offerings. Here, the dish is celebrated as both a comforting meal and a conversation starter. Crafted with attention to detail, every component of the dish is thoughtfully selected for the ultimate taste experience. It’s a gathering place where stories are shared over great food. Fun tidbit: The News Room’s hot dishes often feature locally brewed beer in their recipes.
Hell’s Kitchen (Minneapolis)
Hell’s Kitchen offers a hot dish experience that is as bold as its name. Known for its daring menu, this restaurant adds unique twists to traditional recipes. The hot dish here is served in a sizzling skillet, packing a punch with its intense flavors and spices. It’s the go-to place for those seeking something out of the ordinary in a familiar dish. Interesting note: Hell’s Kitchen often incorporates exotic spices to give their hot dishes an unexpected kick.
Our Kitchen (Minneapolis)
Our Kitchen in Minneapolis brings simplicity and heart to the table with its hot dish offerings. Known for its no-frills approach, the dish here is all about comfort and familiarity, much like a home-cooked meal. It’s a spot cherished by locals who crave that straightforward, savory satisfaction. Fun fact: Our Kitchen is a family-run establishment, and many of their recipes have been passed down through generations.