Northern Minnesota Restaurant Named A Best Hidden Gem In America

When planning a trip, there's nothing wrong with heading to the most popular places. After all, they're popular for a reason, right? A lot of people have already been there and have enjoyed themselves so why risk a bad experience by visiting some unproven place?

That being said, just about every popular destination also has terrific places that are known mostly to locals, and these hidden gems are the places that I like to include in my travels.

Usually, hidden gems aren't too difficult to find because the locals take great pride in them and they're happy to let you know about them if you ask. That's why when I'm out in a new city, I'll ask people where the best hidden gem is.

These can be parks, museums, or places like that, but usually, they're places to eat and have a drink. If you don't feel comfortable asking around, you'll be happy to know that a recent study uncovered where the best hidden gems were in America, and hopefully a remote, historic Minnesota destination won't stay hidden much longer.

The Best Hidden Gem In Minnesota

To locate America's best hidden gems, LoveFood read through a seemingly endless number of genuine user reviews, awards, and accolades, while also incorporating the first-hand experience of its team.

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In Minnesota, the best hidden gem was found to be the Trail Center Lodge, located at 7611 Gunflint Trail in Grand Marais. The Trail Center Lodge has been a landmark on the Gunflint Trail since 1938.

According to its website, it was originally built as a logging camp, but it is now a full-service restaurant, gas station, gift store, grocery shop, information center with cabins, and even a small motel.

The team at LoveFood notes that given the remote location of the Trail Center Lodge, it could easily get away with serving subpar food. However, that is far from what you'll find when you visit them.

You'll find the breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all worth the drive from downtown Grand Marais, with a menu full of familiar American classics and delicious surprises.

The vast menu features Cajun chicken sandwiches, poutine burgers, and barbecue ribs. If you want a hearty burger, try the Loggers Burger, which is covered in homemade chili.

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Of course, it is Minnesota so you also try some great walleye dishes including the Walleye Skillet on the breakfast menu and a Walley Filet Dinner on the dinner menu.

The restaurant is open from 9 am to 8 pm, Thursday through Monday.