As a parent, you’re not allowed to have a favorite child (or so they say). But as a chef or restaurant owner? All bets are off. This category gives you a peek behind the curtain, showcasing the dishes you’re most passionate about. These are the culinary creations you’ve poured your heart and soul into, the ones that make your tastebuds sing, the dishes you believe best represent your restaurant’s culinary philosophy. It’s like getting a personal recommendation from the chef, except you don’t have to awkwardly ask them at your table.
Mexican Village
Food, fun and margaritas! Voted the best Mexican Food in St. Cloud, Mexican Village features a menu of comfort classics & a wide range of margarita flavors. From burritos to tacos, top-shelf tequila to Coronas, get into the party mode at Mexican Village.
Location: 509 W St Germain St, St. Cloud, MN 56301
Menu Item: Pollo Fundido
Copper Pony
Whether you’re in the mood to shop or snack, or better yet, both, the Copper Pony is there for you! Enjoy stunning home decor, grab a coffee, sweet treat, healthy snack or an OUTSTANDING sandwich and shop to your hearts delight. The Copper Pony, located in downtown Sauk Rapids, is the perfect place to buy a gift for friends, yourself, or both!
Location: 208 N. Benton Dr., Sauk Rapids, MN 56379
Menu Item: Strawberry Matcha Cookie
Catalina’s Michoacana
Catalina’s Michoacana in Waite Park is a vibrant explosion of authentic Mexican treats that’ll make your sweet tooth (and salty cravings) dance. Step inside this colorful ice cream shop and you’ll find more than just scoops—think creamy paletas, fruity aguas frescas, spicy-sweet dorilocos, and elote loaded just the way you like it. It’s the kind of place where dessert is just the beginning, and every bite feels like a mini fiesta.
Location: 262 2nd street S, Waite Park, MN 56387
Menu Item: Mangonada
Restaurant Week Special: Tuesday and Thursday $1 off any size Mangonada
Jupiter Moon Ice Cream
Jupiter Moon can be found at their storefront location in St. Joseph, on their bicycle cart mobile shop that rolls into the streets of the downtown St. Cloud, special events, and celebrations during the summer, and their new location in Munsinger Clemens Gardens. Jupiter Moon serves up handcrafted small-batch ice cream in 20+ flavors with fresh-baked waffle cones and hot fudge sundaes, plus ice cream flights and ice cream by the pint. The adorable shop also has a patio with a walk-up window for an easy sweet treat on those hot summer days.
Location: 15 E Minnesota Street, Suite 108, St. Joseph, MN 56374
Menu Item: Dirty Soda Ice Cream Floats
Restaurant Week Special: Treat yourself to a dirty soda during restaurant week and receive a coupon for a FREE SCOOP!
La Casita
La Casita in Waite Park is where bold flavors meet cozy cantina vibes. This local favorite dishes out everything from sizzling fajitas to chimichangas that could double as comfort food therapy. Pair your meal with a margarita (or two) from their bustling bar, and you’ve got yourself a fiesta. Whether you’re a spice seeker or a queso connoisseur, La Casita serves up a taste of Mexico right in the heart of Minnesota.
Location: 314 Division St, Waite Park, MN 56387
Menu Item: Carnitas
The Pickled Loon
The Pickled Loon isn’t just a tavern—it’s a vibe. Born in 2013 from the brains of four friends who cut their teeth working downtown St. Cloud, this two-level hangout brought fresh energy to a college classic. Think elevated bar food with a twist, plus plenty of vegetarian and vegan love. Outside, you’ll find a dreamy patio and a fire pit table perfect for sipping cocktails under the stars. Downstairs is all about good eats and chill vibes, while upstairs turns into a weekend party zone where dancing is encouraged!
Location: 715 W St Germain St, St. Cloud, MN 56301
Menu Item: Fried Chicken and Street Corn Tacos with their ALL NEW Spicy Carrot Margarita
Flat Iron Nutrition
Flat Iron Nutrition in downtown St. Cloud is where historic charm meets modern health vibes. Housed in a 1925 brick building that once served as a Prohibition-era tavern, it’s now a go-to spot for protein shakes, energizing teas, and aloe bombs!
Location: 202 8th Avenue North, St. Cloud, MN 56303
Menu Item: Blueberry Fritter and Oreo dirt dessert
Restaurant Week Special: Code word “DowntownLove for 20% off entire store”