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A Food-Focused Getaway in the Midwest

May 2025
SMTWTFS
May 2025
SMTWTFS

If you follow the food world at all, then you’ve likely heard of at least some of the acclaimed Midwest restaurants in Chicago. Chicago is a powerhouse in the food world – but it’s truly just one of the many Midwest cities that offer exceptional and award-winning restaurants worth trying. So, whether you’re an avid gourmand or just someone who enjoys trying new places to eat, there’s an incredible slate of Midwest restaurants waiting to please your palette this fall and winter.

There’s no doubt that cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and even Madison, Wisconsin, lead the way as food meccas in the Midwest. From eating on the cheap with Chicago-style Italian beef sandwiches made famous by the acclaimed show The Bear to dining at high-end Michelin-starred restaurants, your food journey through the Midwest is just beginning. Wherever you travel, you’ll find Midwest restaurants bringing an impressive blend of farm-to-table dining and globally inspired flavors to your plate. Each city brings its own culinary identity to the table and truly makes the Midwest a must-visit region for food enthusiasts. 

Small towns across states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska are brimming with local gems, from classic Wisconsin Supper Clubs to innovative farm-to-table bistros; the food scene in the Midwest is most certainly not limited to big cities. In Wisconsin, you can savor authentic cheese curds in towns like New Glarus, while Minnesota’s small towns offer a chance to explore Scandinavian-inspired dishes. Whether you’re in Iowa for a classic tenderloin sandwich or exploring craft breweries in Nebraska, these smaller communities often offer some of the best Midwest restaurants hidden in plain sight.

As you travel through the Midwest, finding unique places to stay is part of the experience. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns offers charming accommodations that range from historic bed and breakfasts to boutique inns, giving you the perfect home base to enjoy the incredible diversity of things to do in the Midwest. Whether planning a weekend trip to a major city or a quiet getaway to a small town, these inns provide exceptional hospitality and easy access to some of the best Midwest restaurants. A New year is coming, with new food adventures on the way. Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities – book your stay at our top-rated places to stay in the Midwest today!

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The Best Midwest Restaurants, by State

If you haven’t experienced much in the way of restaurants in the Midwest, at first thought, you might think these eateries will offer little more than heavy meat and potatoes. You’d be wrong, though. Sure – you can find plenty of delicious meat and potato dishes out there, and let’s not forget about Friday fish fry’s or classic prime beef and Brandy Old-Fashioned’s at Wisconsin Supper Clubs. They are essential staples linking us to the Midwest’s diverse history – a history at the heart of our nation’s transportation and trade industry.  

But today’s modern Midwest restaurants offer something more than tradition. Rather, what you’ll find at some of the most exemplary Midwest restaurants is a range of dynamic dining experiences ranging from Michelin-starred establishments to local joints serving innovative fusion cuisine. But the Midwest isn’t just about what you’ll find in the cities — head into smaller towns in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, and you’ll discover some of the best-hidden gems offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to Midwestern classics with a modern twist.

Whether enjoying an upscale dinner or digging into local comfort food, the Midwest has something to satisfy every palate. Below, we’ve broken out some of the best Midwest restaurants by state—including a healthy mix of what you’ll find in our region’s leading cities and the best of the best in small towns across the region.

Illinois Restaurants

There’s no doubt that, of all the fantastic places to eat in the Midwest, Chicago is at the pioneering forefront. With big-name restaurants that have won coveted awards and Michelin Stars, like Alinea, Kasama, and North Pond, to newcomers on the food scene like Esmé and The Duck Inn, Chicago most certainly won’t disappoint. But Chicago isn’t the only great city in Illinois with award-winning food.

Best Restaurants in Illinois

  1. Alinea, in Chicago, is one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the world. It is known for its avant-garde, multi-course tasting menu, which is as much an artistic experience as a culinary one. 
  2. Esmé, a Michelin-starred gem in Lincoln Park, offers an ever-evolving experience that is second to none. The tasting menu changes every 12 weeks and is a rotating collaboration meant to highlight Chicago’s diverse art and culture, bringing an always-fresh dining experience to Midwest restaurants.
  3. The Duck Inn, located on the border of Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood, is a truly inviting gastropub that will leave you immensely satisfied. From its well-executed dishes and exquisite cocktails to its pre-prohibition-era space, you’ll love the entire dining experience at this Illinois restaurant.
  4. Don’t miss the chance to savor Chicago’s exquisite Mexican cuisine, like that found at Mi Tocaya Antojeria. With one of the country’s largest Mexican-American populations, Chicago is perhaps a surprising spot to find some of the country’s best tacos, tortas, and traditional specialties. 
  5. For some farm-to-table cuisine outside of Chicago, head to Bloomington. Here, you’ll find Epiphany Farms Restaurant, which just so happens to be connected to its own farm for the freshest meal possible. You’ll find a bit of everything here, too, from classic French Technique served with a healthy side of small-town American roots and even a nod to Korean cuisine. 
  6. Discover a meat-heavy (but delicious!) Irish regional specialty in Springfield, at a local Irish gem called Darcy’s Pint. 
  7. Want the best hot dogs in the state (and maybe the country)? You might want to head to Gene and Jude’s in River Grove. 
  8. Finally, we can’t mention Midwest restaurants in Illinois without including at least one spot for deep-dish pizza. Though there are plenty of world-famous spots in Chicago, we think you should head out into the ‘burbs to a place like Burt’s Place. 

Minnesota Restaurants

Just as many of the top restaurants in Illinois are found in Chicago, many of the top Minnesota restaurants are found in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. While the Twin Cities offer a fantastic place to start your food-focused journey in the Midwest, there are just as many fantastic Midwest restaurants in the quaint communities across the Land of 10,000 Lakes. We’ve listed a few places to try below.

Best Restaurants in Minnesota

  1. Spoon and Stable, a North Loop favorite in Minneapolis, is a French-inspired, New American restaurant led by James Beard Award-winning chef Gavin Kaysen. The menu offers elegant, seasonal dishes in a modern yet comfortable setting.
  2. Meritage, a French brasserie in the heart of downtown St. Paul, offers a traditional French menu with oysters, steak frites, and escargot paired with an extensive wine list. The bistro-style setting adds to its charm.
  3. Young Joni in Minneapolis is a chic spot whose Chef specializes in wood-fired pizzas and creative small plates. The back bar offers a cozy spot for craft cocktails before or after dinner.
  4. You can’t leave Minneapolis without trying at least one “Jucy Lucy” Burger – and one fantastic place to do that is Matt’s Bar, a classic dive bar that is unassuming and will satisfy every burger urge you’ve ever had. OF course, you may also want to try the Juicy Lucy at the 5-8 Club – there’s a bit of controversy as to which spot had the actual original version of this Minnesota classic. 
  5. Oro by Nixta was nominated for Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Association this year, earning it a spot on your must-try list of Midwest restaurants. This unique restaurant is dedicated to a single ingredient: Corn. Don’t let that fool you, though. Their menu is sensational. 
  6. One of the state’s best-regarded farm-to-table dining spots, especially if you’re in search of fantastically fresh seafood, is the Angry Trout Cafe in Grand Marais. You’ll find a broad range of dishes on their menu, including Lake Superior whitefish and grilled bison tenderloin, alongside regional staples like fish and chips. Much of their seafood is sourced for their neighboring Dockside Fish Market for the freshest experience.
  7. Enjoy unbeatable views of Lake Superior and a taste of Minnesota’s Nordic Heritage, head to Duluth’s New Scenic Cafe. To start, enjoy a smörgåsbord with pickled herring, smoked salmon, pickled beets, and more, or a Nordic plate starter with shrimp, beet gravlax, and pickled beets.
  8. With elevated and unobstructed views of the Mississippi River, don’t miss a stop at Reads Landing Brewery. Not only will you enjoy fantastic craft brews and unmatched views of the river, but their menu is diverse and exceptional, an authentic taste of small-town Minnesota.
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Wisconsin Restaurants

Like our neighbors, Illinois and Minnesota, there are plenty of exceptional Midwest restaurants in Wisconsin. From major metropolitan areas like Milwaukee and Madison to smaller towns in our agriculturally-rich Dirfltess area, we have no doubt these sensational Midwest restaurants offer a taste of something for everyone. 

Best Restaurants in Wisconsin

  1. Ardent in Milwaukee has long been recognized as one of the best Midwest restaurants. This intimate spot is all about high-end, innovative dining, and is known for its creative tasting menus. The chef comes from a local farming family and uses the incredible ingredients grown at his family’s farm as inspiration for his unique dishes.
  2. The Diplomat is another Milwaukee staple, and is a spot that strikes the perfect Midwest balance between classy and comfortable. Since earning recognition in 2022 as one of the best Midwest restaurants, this spot hasn’t ceased to disappoint. 
  3. Amilinda in Milwaukee does a spectacular job of bringing creative fusion plates to its menu, which is deeply inspired by Spanish and Portuguese flavors.
  4. Do you like choice in dining when it comes to Midwest restaurants? So does Milwaukee – and that’s why the 3rd Street Market Hall is such a popular destination for locals (and visitors!). 
  5. L’Etoile is a Madison staple known for its farm-to-table dining. Like so many Midwest restaurants, L’Etoile focuses on seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers. 
  6. If you’re looking for a classic Wisconsin Supper club experience, head to The Old Fashioned in Madison. This classic supper club pays homage to local traditions, serving up cheese curds, bratwurst, and an extensive list of Wisconsin beers.
  7. Get out of the cities and head to Chef Shack in Bay City, Wisconsin. This incredible spot brings a fusion of French classics with delicious Peruvian-inspired dishes home to the Midwest.
  8. Another exceptional farm-to-table spot is the Driftless Cafe in Viroqua. This small town cafe feels hip in all the best ways, and sources its ingredients from the organic farms that populate the scenic Driftless area. 

Iowa Restaurants

While Des Moines, Iowa certainly offers up some of the best Midwest Restaurants, including notable James Beard Award Semifinalist Clyde’s Fine Diner, you’ll find fantastic steakhouses, farm-to-table establishments, and more at restaurants around Iowa. 

Best Restaurants in Iowa

  1. Brazen Open Kitchen in Dubuque is a true classic among Midwest restaurants. While the food feels familiar for those who’ve dined at fine dining Midwest restaurants, the atmosphere is more approachable, and quintessentially Midwest. 
  2. Django in Des Moines focuses on classic French cuisine. Think crepes and coq au vin – the perfect choice among Midwest restaurants for a classy dinner out while exploring this vibrant Iowan city. 
  3. Another great spot in Des Moines is Centro. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, this menu features a delightful blend of Italian and New American cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas and house-made pasta.
  4. One of the best Midwest restaurants for 2024 is Clyde’s Fine Diner in Des Moines. This classed-up diner features a fantastic menu of elevated diner food, including what some would call the best burger in Des Moines. 
  5. La Mie, a beloved French bakery and café in Des Moines, is known for its fresh pastries, bread, and wholesome breakfast and lunch options. It’s a popular spot for locals to enjoy a casual but delicious meal with a European flair.
  6. Cobble Hill in Cedar Rapids focuses on farm-to-table dining with a creative, seasonal menu. This restaurant showcases local ingredients and offers a modern take on Midwestern classics.
  7. The Iowa Chop House in Iowa City is a rustic steakhouse that serves some of the best cuts of meat in Iowa. It also offers a wide selection of craft beers and locally sourced ingredients. This is a quintessential choice for Midwest restaurants. 

Nebraska Restaurants

From a classic steakhouse to exceptional international cuisine, Midwest restaurants in Nebraska will do anything but disappoint. Of course, cities like Lincoln and Omaha have plenty to offer, but there’s also exceptional detail paid to menus across the small towns of Nebraska. 

Best Restaurants in Nebraska

  1. Dish, located in downtown Lincoln, Nebraska, offers a modern, New American menu. The dishes here are innovative and artfully plated, bringing all of our senses to the dining experience at what is quickly becoming one of the best Midwest restaurants. 
  2. In some places, it’s farm-to-table. In others, it’s ocean (or lake) to table. In Lincoln, at least at Casa Bovina, it’s ranch-to-table – and it’s done with a classic farm-to-table approach reminiscent of Italy’s Piedmont region. 
  3. Sushi may not be your first thought when it comes to restaurants in Nebraska – or maybe even Midwest restaurants as a whole. But with spots like Yashimoto in Omaha, NE, it should be! Yashimoto is an intimate, upscale neighborhood sushi spot that’s focused on inspired Japanese small plates and more.
  4. The Boiler Room, housed in a converted boiler room in the Old Market in Omaha, offers an industrial-chic setting paired with an inventive New American menu. 
  5. A great spot for Indian cuisine makes this list, but this time in Omaha. Kinaara does a remarkable job of marrying local ingredients, like Nebraska-raised beef, with international flavors. 
  6. Among Midwest restaurants, there’s no finer place to grab a steak than Omaha, especially when you consider top city destinations like The Drover.
  7. If you’re looking to get out of the city for a fantastic Nebraska beef dining experience, don’t miss The Peppermill in Valentine, owned by a 6th generation rancher. 
  8. Get out of the cities and enjoy eateries like The Black Cow Pig and Steak in Norfolk. Here, there’s a special emphasis on local that’s hard to beat, and that’s why it’s one of our top-rated Midwest restaurants. 
Couple out enjoying biking in the Midwest this fall, while enjoying the best places to stay in the Midwest

The Best Places to Stay in the Midwest

Midwest Independent Inns offer some of the best places to stay in the Midwest, providing easy access to top-rated cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and St. Louis. These locations mean guests can explore some of the best Midwest restaurants, from innovative urban eateries to iconic local spots.

For those looking to venture off the beaten path, these inns are also located in charming small towns, offering the chance to uncover hidden dining gems and local culture. The inns offer attentive hospitality, ensuring clean and licensed accommodations for a relaxing stay.

Conveniently located across the Midwest, these inns provide a personalized experience and thoughtful amenities, ideal for both city adventures and countryside retreats. Staying at one of these properties through the Midwest Association of Independent Inns means enjoying both comfort and authentic Midwest charm. Perfect for anyone seeking exceptional places to stay in the Midwest.

Lodging Properties near topics in our blog

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The Speckled Hen Inn

  • 5525 Portage Road
    Madison, Wisconsin 53704
  • 608-244-9368
  • Email Us
The Speckled Hen Inn is a farm-stay B&B and features uniquely different Guest Rooms, offering private baths with whirlpool jetted tubs and fireplaces. Close to everything yet feels miles away!
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The Olde Rectory Bed and Breakfast

  • 204 Benton Avenue East
    Albia, Iowa 52531
  • 641-436-1950
  • Email Us
Come join us for a relaxing stay exploring our stores, the many events hosted by the town or catch up with old friends and family. Our home is the perfect location for planning your activities.
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Historic District Bed and Breakfast

  • 483 Ashland Avenue
    Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102
  • 763-360-3717
  • Email Us
A high value boutique inn with a gourmet breakfast and personal service in a unique and historic neighborhood. Close to museums, concert venues, small business owned restaurants and bars.
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Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast

  • 2018 6th Avenue
    Nebraska City, Nebraska 68410
  • 402-205-7003
  • Email Us
Offering 5 unique rooms with modern comforts amidst 1878 Victorian charm in Historic Southeast Nebraska. Featuring gourmet breakfasts, outdoor hot tub, fire pit, open air porch and pet-friendly rooms.
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Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages

  • 2752 West Cording Road
    Galena, Illinois 61036
  • 815-777-4100
  • Email Us
You are invited to relax, restore, and explore at our Galena Illinois Bed and Breakfast, a nature lover’s destination. We are located just 8 miles east of downtown Galena, IL.
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The Three Elizabeths Guest House

  • 101 West Main Street
    Elizabeth, Illinois 61028
  • 815-990-8618
  • Email Us
Located 15 minutes East of Galena, accommodations include three Guest Rooms, classically styled, each with their own private bath. Reasonable rates and a welcoming front porch entice visitors.
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Como Lake Bed and Breakfast

  • 1205 West Como Boulevard
    Saint Paul, Minnesota 55103
  • 651-399-4111
  • Email Us
Classic Craftsman style Inn overlooking St Paul’s Como Lake and adjacent to the regional gem, Como Park.
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Bakers Bed and Breakfast

  • 2106 Grant Street
    Blair, Nebraska 68008
  • 562-833-2063
  • Email Us
Escape from the city to the small town! Just a short drive from Omaha, our 1900 upscale farmhouse will give you all the feel of the past with all the convenience and comfort of the present!
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Hotel Ruby Marie

  • 524 East Wilson Street
    Madison, Wisconsin 53703
  • 608-327-7829
  • Email Us
A renovated Victorian railroad inn in the heart of Madison, the Hotel Ruby Marie offers time-tested hospitality as well as convenient access to the modern life of Wisconsin’s capital city.
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Afton House Inn

  • 3291 Saint Croix Trail South
    Afton, Minnesota 55001
  • 651-436-8883
  • Email Us
Historic Afton House Inn (24 rooms) Most rooms include Jacuzzi for 2, Gas or Electric Fireplaces, Balconies & Walkout Patios. Some rooms overlook Marina. Breakfast Included. 3 Restaurants on site.
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WunderRoost Bed and Breakfast

  • 14817 South 25th Street
    Roca, Nebraska 68430
  • 402-430-9130
  • Email Us
Enjoy country life minutes from Lincoln and walking distance to a winery. Our new grain bin and our historic home are great ways to get away and see the stars and enjoy the outdoors.
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Round Barn Farm B&B and Event Center

  • 28650 Wildwood Lane
    Red Wing, Minnesota 55066
  • 952-292-9340
  • Email Us
We are a unique Minnesota Wedding Venue with a charming Bed & Breakfast in Red Wing, Minnesota. Deluxe Jacuzzi tubs and Franklin gas stoves. Enjoy 5 star luxury with your 3 course breakfast.
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The Inn on the Olde Homestead

  • N4W22496 Bluemound Road
    Waukesha, Wisconsin 53186
  • 414- 915-7565
  • Email Us
‘It’s just like like coming home.” Looking for a unique getaway that combines history, charm and modern convenience? Our B & B offers one-of-a-kind experience with all the modern amenities you need
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Sheridan’s Bed & Breakfast

  • 5133 South Lake Drive
    Cudahy, Wisconsin 53110
  • 414-747-9810
  • Email Us
This historic 1920’s building has been beautifully renovated and offers 8 private guest rooms, each named and styled after wine making regions.
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The Muse Gallery Guesthouse

  • 602 East Lincoln Avenue
    Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53207
  • 414-745-7735
  • Email Us
The Muse Gallery Guesthouse is an art gallery inn in the heart of Bay View – Milwaukee’s, trendiest neighborhood. It is conveniently located near the Lake Express ferry port, airport, and downtown.
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Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast

  • 1237 Franklin Street
    Galena, Illinois 61036
  • 815-777-0583
  • Email Us
Guests to the Cloran will find modern comfort surrounded by historic charm. Treat yourself to 21st-century amenities certain to pamper while taking in the beauty of 1800s Italianate architecture!
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The Buckingham Inn

  • 1615 Summit Avenue
    Madison, Wisconsin 53726
  • 608-819-8029
  • Email Us
Dedicated to service and style near the UW-Madison campus, The Buckingham Inn features luxury guest suites and seasonal fresh breakfasts. Experience award-winning lodging in an award-winning city.
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Hotel Galena

  • 324 Spring Street
    Galena, Illinois 61036
  • 815-777-0123
  • Email Us
Located in historic downtown Galena, Hotel Galena offers a fabulous experience at an exceptional price. Boasting a 5* Google rating, it’s perfect for couples, families, groups, or solo travelers.
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