I am the luckiest photographer in the world, because I am a Minnesota wedding and elopement photographer. I get to spend so much time in some of the coolest parts of our state. There are very few corners I haven’t explored, and I love it.
My favorite part of it? THE FOOD. I might be biased, but Minnesota is delicious.
Last summer, I spent a ton of time along the North Shore of Lake Superior, which means I was able to sample so much of the best culinary creations the region has to offer.
My five favorites? Let me tell you the must haves from up north:
- CUSTARD FROM SYDNEY’S FROZEN CUSTARD
After I turn off of the Gunflint Trail and return to Grand Marais proper, I usually want one post-wedding treat: Frozen custard from Sydney’s. With a whole variety of classic and modern mix-ins, these cold concoctions are the perfect summer night lakeside treat. I don’t remember what the one is I bought in this picture, but it was raspberry and coffee and awesome.
- BREAKFAST AT COHO CAFE
My favorite North Shore breakfast is served at the Coho Cafe, which is located on the property of Bluefin Bay. There’s not one breakfast in particular; all of them from here are amazing. I guess if you twisted my arm, I would say their sausage gravy and biscuits are my go-to. Rich, creamy, made with wild rice…they are a little plop of heaven in a ramekin.
- LUNCH AND DINNER AT BLUEFIN GRILLE
Just a block or two down from Coho Cafe is another restaurant on the property of Bluefin Bay called Bluefin Grille. They are a must for lunch or dinner. Honest, anything on their menu is worth it, but the creamy wild rice and duck chowder is *chef kiss*.
- BRISKET FRYBREAD TACO FROM HUNGRY HIPPIE TACO
I’ve written about this restaurant several times, because their name is worth repeating. They are a wonderful little foodie gem in a wonderfully rural area. It proves how cool Northern Minnesota really is. The brisket frybread taco is honestly one of the best things I have ever eaten.
- COFFEE FROM FIKA COFFEE
If you are zipping through Lutsen on your way north, swing into a little place on the left to get one fine cup of coffee. Fika (FEE-kuh; Swedish word for “coffee break) Coffee is an artisanal roaster that have hand crafted an uniquely delicious cup. My favorites are any of the espresso drinks, especially the 740 Estate. Oat milk and cardamom…it warms your hands and soul (and is best enjoyed down by the lakeshore).
Let’s keep the suggestions going–what is your favorite place to eat along the North Shore?
Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer. She provides services to elegant, authentic, sentimental couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest! See more about the KLP Wedding Experience!
