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 Myrtle St. E, the shop offers a variety of options, including hot chicken sandwiches, burgers, and cold-cut Italian clubs. Sorensen’s dedication to crafting unique and flavorful sandwiches has quickly made this spot a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
Río 1854
Bringing a Latin twist to the former Dock Cafe space, Río 1854 offers an all-day dining experience with stunning views of the St. Croix River. The family-run restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, 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. The combination of flavorful dishes and picturesque scenery makes Río 1854 a standout addition to Stillwater’s dining options.
Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits
For those seeking a farm-to-table experience, Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits offers a menu centered around locally sourced meats and fish. Prepared on a natural wood-fired grill or smoker, the dishes are crafted for robust flavor. The restaurant also boasts an extensive collection of over 2,000 rare and unique spirits, providing a comprehensive dining experience for both meat enthusiasts and vegetarians.
Beloved Local Favorites
Feller
Located within the historic Lora Hotel, Feller pays homage to hunters and gatherers with a menu that reflects the region’s rich culinary traditions. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, Feller offers a modern dining experience in a setting that echoes Stillwater’s history.
LOLITO
For a taste of Latin barbecue, LOLITO Cantina provides a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients. The menu features organic heirloom masa tortillas, queso fundido, birria enchiladas, and a variety of salsas and mezcal options. With weekday lunch specials and Sunday brunch, LOLITO continues to be a favorite among locals.
Papa’s Rooftop
Perched on the fourth floor of the Water Street Inn, Papa’s Rooftop offers panoramic views of the St. Croix River alongside craft cocktails and seasonal bites. Consistently ranked as one of the top patios in Minnesota, it’s an ideal spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Food Trucks Adding Flavor to the Streets
Greater Tater
Specializing in jumbo stuffed, deep-fried potatoes, Greater Tater brings creative flavor combinations to the streets of Stillwater. Options like Cheddar Bacon Chive, Reuben, and Breakfast Skillet offer a hearty and satisfying meal on the go.
Two Cups
For coffee and crepe enthusiasts, Two Cups provides a seasonal menu curated by the nature of Minnesota. This food truck emphasizes local, delicious, and simple breakfast food, creating a space for the community to connect over comforting fare.
Stillwater’s culinary scene is a dynamic blend of new ventures and established favorites, each contributing to the town’s rich tapestry of flavors. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this charming riverside community.