Stillwater, Minnesota, continues to flourish as a culinary destination, offering a blend of new establishments and beloved local favorites. Here’s a look at some noteworthy spots that are shaping the town’s dining landscape.
New Additions to Stillwater’s Dining Scene
E’s Gourmet Sandwiches
At just 20 years old, Ethan Sorensen has brought his passion for quality sandwiches to downtown Stillwater with the opening of E’s Gourmet Sandwiches. Located at 221 E. Myrtle St., the shop offers a variety of options, including hot chicken, burgers, and cold-cut Italian clubs. Sorensen emphasizes creating sandwiches that go beyond the ordinary, aiming to provide a unique experience for patrons.
Río 1854
Breathing new life into the former Dock Cafe space, Río 1854 is a family-run Latin craft kitchen offering all-day service. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurant serves breakfast with sunrise views of the St. Croix River and dinner featuring fusion dishes inspired by Latin American cuisine. Menu highlights include chilaquiles, birria, arepas, fire-grilled filet mignon, Peruvian ceviche, and Mexican aguachile.
Xelas
Chef Cristian de Leon brings Mayan-inspired flavors to Stillwater with Xelas, located at 1180 West Frontage Road. The menu features dishes like salbute—a crispy tortilla topped with duck breast, pickled onions, avocado, and chirmol sauce—and entrees such as cochinita pibil (slow-cooked pork shank) and hilachas (braised short ribs). The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by artwork from Jimmy Longoria and a mural by Pablo Kalaka.
Established Favorites
Feller
Situated within the historic Lora hotel at 402 S Main St., Feller pays homage to hunters and gatherers with a menu that celebrates local ingredients. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant offers a modern dining experience in a setting that reflects Stillwater’s rich history.
LOLITO
Located at 241 Main St. S., LOLITO Cantina specializes in Latin barbecue, offering a menu that includes tacos, margaritas, guacamole, and organic heirloom masa tortillas. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, local, sustainable, and healthy ingredients, providing a vibrant dining experience in downtown Stillwater.
Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits
At 232 Main St N., Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits focuses on locally sourced, farm-to-table meats and fish, prepared on a natural wood-fired grill or smoker. The menu caters to a variety of palates, offering generous, shareable small plates in a warm, rustic dining room.
Papa’s Rooftop
Perched on the 4th floor of the Water Street Inn, Papa’s Rooftop offers panoramic views of the St. Croix River. The menu features craft cocktails, seasonal bites, and weekend brunch, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a scenic dining experience.
Upcoming Ventures
St. Croix Brewing Company
Stillwater’s historic downtown will soon welcome St. Croix Brewing Company, a boutique brewery, beer garden, and public house. While the exact opening date is yet to be announced, the brewery aims to honor its roots dating back to 1858 by offering traditional beer styles like the flagship St. Croix Cream Ale.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, Stillwater’s evolving food scene offers a diverse array of dining options that cater to a variety of tastes. From innovative new eateries to cherished local establishments, there’s always something delicious to discover in this charming river town.