Stillwater, Minnesota, continues to flourish as a culinary destination, offering a blend of new establishments and enduring favorites that cater to diverse palates. Here’s a look at some notable spots that contribute to the town’s rich food scene.
New Additions to Stillwater’s Dining Landscape
E’s Gourmet Sandwiches
At just 20 years old, Ethan Sorensen has brought his vision to life with the opening of E’s Gourmet Sandwiches at 221 E. Myrtle St. This eatery offers a variety of handcrafted sandwiches, including fried chicken, Reubens, and smash burgers, aiming to elevate the traditional sandwich experience. Sorensen’s dedication to quality and innovation has quickly made this spot a local favorite.
Río 1854
Breathing new life into the former Dock Cafe space, Río 1854 is a family-run Latin craft kitchen that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The menu features fusion dishes inspired by Latin American cuisine, with highlights like chilaquiles, birria, arepas, fire-grilled filet mignon, Peruvian ceviche, and Mexican aguachile. The restaurant’s prime location offers stunning views of the St. Croix River, enhancing the dining experience.
Established Favorites
Feller
Located within the historic Lora Hotel at 402 S. Main St., Feller pays homage to hunters and gatherers with a menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, Feller provides a modern dining experience in a setting that reflects Stillwater’s rich history.
LOLITO
Situated at 241 Main St. S., LOLITO offers a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on Latin barbecue. The menu boasts organic heirloom masa tortillas, fresh guacamole, and a variety of tacos and margaritas. With weekday lunch features starting at $12 and a Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., LOLITO caters to both casual diners and those seeking a festive dining experience.
Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits
Found at 232 Main St. N., Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits specializes in locally sourced, farm-to-table meats and fish, prepared over a natural wood-fired grill or smoker. The rustic dining room offers a warm ambiance, complemented by an extensive selection of fine wines and over 2,000 unique spirits. The menu’s generous, shareable small plates appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Papa’s Rooftop
Perched on the fourth floor of the Water Street Inn, Papa’s Rooftop provides panoramic views of the St. Croix River. This seasonal venue offers craft cocktails, seasonal bites, and weekend brunch, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience.
Stillwater’s culinary scene is a dynamic blend of innovation and tradition, with new establishments like E’s Gourmet Sandwiches and Río 1854 adding fresh flavors to the town’s offerings. Meanwhile, longstanding favorites such as Feller, LOLITO, Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits, and Papa’s Rooftop continue to provide exceptional dining experiences that celebrate the community’s rich heritage and commitment to quality cuisine.