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 handcrafted sandwiches, including fried chicken, Reubens, and smash burgers. Sorensen’s dedication to elevating the sandwich experience is evident in every bite.
Xelas
Chef Cristian de Leon introduces Mayan-inspired cuisine to Stillwater with Xelas. Situated at 1180 West Frontage Road, Xelas offers dishes like salbutes topped with duck breast and cochinita pibil. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by artwork from Jimmy Longoria and a mural by Pablo Kalaka, creating a vibrant dining environment.
Río 1854
Breathing new life into the former Dock Cafe space, Río 1854 is a family-run Latin craft kitchen. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fusion dishes inspired by Latin American cuisine. Guests can enjoy chilaquiles, birria, arepas, and prime steaks while overlooking the St. Croix River.
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 offers a modern dining experience in a setting that reflects Stillwater’s rich history.
LOLITO
For those craving Latin flavors, LOLITO at 241 Main St. S. delivers with its focus on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients. The menu features organic heirloom masa tortillas, birria enchiladas, and a variety of salsas and guacamoles. With weekday lunch specials and Sunday brunch, LOLITO caters to diverse palates.
Papa’s Rooftop
Perched atop the Water Street Inn, Papa’s Rooftop offers panoramic views of the St. Croix River. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails, seasonal bites, and weekend brunch in a setting that has been consistently ranked among the top patios in Minnesota.
Food Trucks and Mobile Eateries
Greater Tater
Specializing in jumbo stuffed, deep-fried potatoes, Greater Tater brings unique flavor combinations to the streets of Stillwater. Options like Cheddar Bacon Chive and Reuben-stuffed taters make this food truck a must-visit for comfort food enthusiasts.
Two Cups
For coffee and crepe lovers, Two Cups offers a mobile café experience with a seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients. Founded by friends Tara and Kevin, the food truck aims to create a community space where people can connect over comforting food and coffee.
Stillwater’s culinary scene is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, with new establishments complementing the town’s longstanding favorites. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s always something delicious to discover in this charming riverside town.