20 Best Restaurants in Eagan, MN

This article was written by local contributor Jack Chen & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Jack Chen

Jun 25, 2023 • 17 min read

As someone who has lived in Eagan, Minnesota, for quite some time, I can confidently say that one of the best things about our lovely city is the diverse and delicious food scene.

I've had the pleasure of dining at various establishments in the area, and I must say, we're truly spoiled for choice.

So, whether you're a fellow resident or just passing through, I invite you to join me on a culinary adventure as we explore some of the best restaurants in Eagan, Minnesota.

Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Oryza Poke & Ramen

I always love discovering new places to eat, and one of my recent favorites is Oryza Poke & Ramen, a Japanese restaurant that has quickly become my local favorite for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Last week, I went there for the first time and was immediately impressed by the menu, which was full of fresh and tasty options.

I ordered the steamed buns, which were absolutely amazing - the bun itself was cooked to perfection, and both the chicken and pork were incredibly flavorful.

I also tried their ramen, which was presented beautifully and tasted fantastic.

The broth was definitely the highlight of the dish, but the tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork took it to another level.

They made sure that my meal was perfect and that I had everything I needed throughout my dining experience.

I noticed that they also had a steady stream of takeout orders, which reinforced my belief that I had found a true gem in my neighborhood.

During my visit, I also made a quick trip to the bathroom, which was exceptionally clean, although a bit on the warm side.

Brianno's Deli Italia

There's no doubt that one of the best places to find mouth-watering Italian food is at Brianno's Deli Italia.

The moment I enter the restaurant, I'm always greeted with an aroma that instantly makes my stomach rumble with anticipation.

What I love most about Brianno's is their impressive variety of dishes, ranging from made-to-order pizzas, Italian subs, sausages with onions, lasagna, and more.

I'm a huge fan of their pizza, as they use high-protein bread flour dough, which gives it a unique, crispy texture.

Not to mention the fact that they make their own sausage, loaded with fennel and bursting with flavor.

My partner, on the other hand, can't resist their delicious sandwiches.

While I still think their pizza is the star of the menu, we can always agree on one thing - the quality of the food at Brianno's Deli Italia is unmatched.

Aside from their scrumptious hot food, they also have a fantastic selection of imported Italian groceries, perfect for when I want to whip up my own Italian meal at home.

Plus, they have a refrigerated section and a deli that never disappoints.

Although the prices are a bit on the higher side, the quality of their food justifies every penny spent.

ZZQ Smokehouse

I recently visited ZZQ Smokehouse in Eagan, and it exceeded my expectations.

The unfussy BBQ joint offers a variety of meats, sides, and sauces, as well as a nice craft beer selection.

I opted for the brisket meal with Smokehouse Beans and Cole Slaw as my sides, and it was amazing.

The ½ pound of meat was cooked to perfection, and the beans were smokey and flavorful.

Although the Cole Slaw was a bit sweet for my taste, I'm sure many people would enjoy it.

One of the highlights of my visit was the BBQ sauce "bar," where I could pump out my preferred sauce combination.

I ended up mixing sweet and spicy, which turned out to be the perfect balance.

The atmosphere was simple and cozy, and the place smelled delightful.

I am definitely going back to try their potato salad and ribs.

Last week, I decided to give Southern Social a try, and I was not disappointed!

On arrival, I was greeted by the friendly bartenders who whipped up some excellent old fashions for me.

I decided to start my meal with the pork belly burnt ends, and, let me tell you, they were scrumptious.

For my main course, I had a tough time deciding between all the tempting options on the menu.

Eventually, I settled on the shrimp and grits, which turned out to be an excellent choice.

The shrimp were seasoned to perfection, and the grits were just the right level of cheesy goodness.

My friends, who accompanied me, tried the jambalaya and pastrami sandwich with sweet potato fries – both of which were highly praised.

Not only was the food fantastic, but the atmosphere was enjoyable as well.

We had the pleasure of dining on their patio, which offered a comfortable and quiet setting.

Hovie's

I've been residing in Eagan for over a decade now, and I can't believe it took me this long to discover Hovie's.

It has quickly become my favorite breakfast spot in the Twin Cities metro area, and it's right here in my hometown!

The food at Hovie's is simply amazing.

I once had an omelet that was loaded with cheese, served piping hot with warm toast, perfectly buttered.

Their breakfast potatoes are crispy and fresh and don't have that rancid aftertaste you find at some diners.

One thing that really stands out to me about Howie's is how clean everything is.

The floors aren't sticky, the sports memorabilia on the walls are dust-free, and even the condiments and salt & pepper shakers sparkle.

The bathroom, though old, is also very clean.

Finding parking at Hovie's is a breeze, and it's conveniently located across the street from Hy-Vee in a small strip mall, near Napa auto parts, Wildcat's Bar and Grill, and the Original mattress factory.

It's never too crowded, and every time I visit, I'm greeted promptly with a friendly smile.

The service is always attentive, and they never let my coffee cup go empty.

Ze's Diner Eagan

I always enjoy starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and Ze's Diner Eagan never disappoints.

This 50s-themed diner has a colorful, bright interior that makes me feel comfortable and right at home.

One of my favorite things about Ze's is their unique omelet offerings.

The ingredients are always fresh, and they give you control of the ratio by serving the fillings under the fluffy eggs.

I love having the option to choose from three different types of bread to pair with my omelet, and their house-made jam is simply divine.

Ze's Diner is a popular spot in the neighborhood, so I often see it packed with locals enjoying their meals.

The service is quick and attentive, with drinks being topped off regularly and tables being cleaned and set as soon as patrons exit.

The prices at Ze's are reasonable, too, making it a much better choice than chain diners.

Their menu isn't limited to breakfast, though.

I've tried their shakes and cheese curds, and I highly recommend the strawberry shake.

The cheese curds are not greasy and taste wonderful.

Jensen's Food & Cocktails

As an Eagan resident, I can confidently say that Jensen's Food & Cocktails is one of my favorite spots for a delicious meal.

Whenever my family and friends are in town, I make sure to take them to this amazing steak house.

You can check out their website for more information on their menu and special deals.

The atmosphere is both casual and elegant, making it the perfect place to share a meal for any occasion.

Their menu features classic steak and seafood dishes, as well as a few surprises, like their mouthwatering lobster mac and cheese.

My personal favorite is the swordfish, paired with their famous French onion soup.

No meal at Jensen's is complete without their freshly baked popovers served with delectable honey butter.

To ensure a table, I'd highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

If you get a chance, try to request a table on their cozy patio — it's the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a relaxed dinner with friends.

Junior's Cafe & Grill

I love exploring new breakfast spots in the Twin Cities, and I was thrilled when I discovered Junior's Cafe & Grill.

This nostalgic diner serves up an extensive menu of American classics, malts, and blue-plate specials, making it the perfect spot for a delicious meal.

I remember my first visit there with a group of friends; we started our meal with the Jumbo Cinnamon Roll.

The name doesn't lie – it was the largest cinnamon roll I've ever seen and tasted amazing.

We easily shared it among the four of us.

For our main courses, we tried Junior's Breakfast, Cajun Andouille Sausage Breakfast and Toast, and Eggs Benedict with Hash Browns.

Each dish was delicious, but the standout was the Cajun Andouille Sausage Breakfast.

It's now my go-to order whenever I go back to Junior's.

I've also tried their Chicken Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans for lunch on a Sunday.

The flavor was great, it's a tasty option for those looking for a hearty meal.

Andiamo Italian Ristorante

Andiamo Italian Ristorante has quickly become one of my favorite places to dine.

This comfy, family-operated eatery offers an amazing selection of gourmet pizzas, eclectic pastas, and hearty meat dishes that have never disappointed my friends or me.

You can check out their website here.

One of the things that keep drawing me back to Andiamo is their service.

I remember one visit where I requested a dish without prosciutto, and they were more than willing to cater to my preferences.

The restaurant itself has a cozy atmosphere, with a mix of booths and tables and a fireplace that adds a touch of warmth to the environment.

As for the food, I highly recommend trying the pear and Gorgonzola pizza - it's absolutely delicious.

Their stuffed mushrooms and pesto sauce are also to die for, and you'll definitely want to leave room for their divine desserts.

Kyndred Hearth

I've been hearing so much hype about Kyndred Hearth lately, so I finally decided to give it a try.

Let me tell you, it was an unforgettable experience!

As soon as I walked in, I was amazed by the polished atmosphere and the open-concept kitchen, which allowed me to watch the chefs in action.

The service was outstanding from the moment I was seated.

I was blown away by the quality and flavor of the food, and the generous portions made it perfect for sharing.

In addition to the fantastic food, the drink options were also impressive.

I tried a couple of their specialty cocktails and found them to be just as amazing as the dishes.

To top it all off, the sea salt caramel soft serve was an absolute delight and the perfect way to end my meal.

Cielito Lindo Mexican Restaurant

I recently dined at Cielito Lindo Mexican Restaurant, and it was a delightful experience.

As I entered, I was amazed by the retro '50s theme that gave the restaurant an unassuming charm.

The Lindo Burrito I ordered was nothing short of amazing, and my friends also enjoyed their meals.

The atmosphere at Cielito Lindo is warm and inviting, and I heard that they even have live entertainment on certain nights.

I can't wait to go back and catch one of those performances.

Although one of my friends found their fajitas to be more of an Asian stir fry than a traditional Mexican dish, my experience was still enjoyable overall.

Eagan Arms Public House

Last weekend, I decided to check out Eagan Arms Public House, an Irish pub that's the sister restaurant to Merlin's Rest.

I was really excited as their website looked fantastic, but quite skeptical about the location in a strip mall.

Lo and behold, the food was surprisingly tasty!

I tried the fish, and it was really good – firm and flavorful.

The pasty had a nice crust, with an okay filling and onion gravy.

My friends tried the Bangers and Mash, Speyside pie, and Scotch egg, which they enjoyed.

I ordered a cocktail, but I found it to be too sweet for my liking, almost like sipping maple syrup.

Plus, the London Broil and wrapped fish and chips that we ordered were delicious.

Punch Pizza Eagan

I've been to Punch Pizza Eagan numerous times, and I can wholeheartedly say that it's my go-to pizzeria.

The wood-fired oven at this Neapolitan pizzeria is the real deal; it's heated to 900F, which allows them to bake your pizza in just 15 minutes!

The variety of toppings is amazing, and I find myself trying something new every time I go there.

They're always super friendly and attentive, which makes the dining experience so enjoyable.

Prices are quite reasonable, too, considering the quality of the pizza.

Doolittles

Let me tell you about one of my favorite dining spots in town: Doolittles Woodfire Grill.

This American restaurant has become my top choice whenever I'm craving a delicious meal in a warm and refined atmosphere.

The rotisserie-grilled meats are always cooked to perfection, and their lengthy wine list is sure to keep any wine enthusiast satisfied.

It's not only the food that keeps me coming back; the service at Doolittles is always top-notch.

One of my all-time favorite dishes at Doolittles is the Walleye.

It's cooked just right and full of flavor.

My partner, on the other hand, can't get enough of the seasonal butternut squash ravioli – it's simply divine!

And if you're a fan of wings, you won't be disappointed; they are some of the best I've ever had.

Ansari's Mediterranean Grill & Lounge

I recently dined at Ansari's Mediterranean Grill & Lounge and had a fantastic experience.

The atmosphere was welcoming and perfect for a date night or dinner with friends.

The delicious menu offered a variety of appetizing Mediterranean dishes, and I couldn't resist ordering the lamb kabob plate and chicken kabob plate.

The food was tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

I was thrilled to discover their happy hour deals and the live entertainment they offer, such as belly dancing on Fridays and Saturdays.

I also appreciated the option to dine on their patio, which added an extra layer of ambiance to my visit.

Volstead House Whiskey Bar & Speakeasy Eagan

One of my favorite places to unwind after a long week is the Volstead House Whiskey Bar & Speakeasy in Eagan.

It's truly a hidden gem in our town with an incredible atmosphere and a wide selection of quality spirits.

I'm a big fan of their "smoked" Manhattan – the presentation and taste are both top-notch!

The Forrester bourbon they use is simply amazing.

Aside from their fantastic cocktails, Volstead House also offers delicious food options.

I've tried the Wall-eye and the Prohibition Burger, and both were outstanding!

Not to mention, their Parmesan Fries and Crab Cakes are to die for.

Although the menu isn't extensive, the dishes they offer are well-crafted and satisfying.

During the summer, I love to sit outside and enjoy a cigar in their outdoor seating area.

It's a perfect spot to catch up with friends or simply relax and savor the ambiance of this unique establishment.

Dickey's Barbecue Pit

I have always been a fan of barbecue, and I have tried almost every BBQ joint in the area.

But one place that stands out for me is Dickey's Barbecue Pit.

I've been coming here for a while now, and it never disappoints.

Their brisket is, hands-down, my favorite item on the menu.

It's so moist and flavorful, and it goes great with the mac and cheese.

I also enjoy the jalapeno kielbasa sandwich, which has a nice kick to it.

Sometimes, I add some mac and cheese on top of the meat to give it a unique twist.

I've been told their ribs are incredible, too, so that's next on my list to try.

What I love most about Dickey's is their commitment to excellent service.

Wildcats Bar & Grill

One of my favorite spots to unwind after a long day is Wildcats Bar & Grill, a cozy neighborhood pub in our area.

The atmosphere at Wildcats is always lively and inviting, making it the perfect place to grab a drink and catch up with friends.

Though the beer selection on tap is quite limited, their mixed drinks more than make up for it.

I often find myself trying out their popular and affordable cocktails, making each visit a unique experience.

However, what really keeps me coming back to Wildcats is their amazing food.

As a fan of both American and Mediterranean cuisine, I appreciate the diverse options they offer on their menu.

One of my favorite deals at Wildcats is their Monday night burger special.

The burger is enormous, juicy, and grilled to perfection, making it an absolute steal at just $5.

And their onion rings?

Hands down, the best I've ever had.

Crispy, firm, and flavorful, they're the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Another aspect I enjoy about Wildcats is their small, covered patio that extends into the parking lot.

During warm evenings, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal while people-watching.

Other restaurants nearby

Olivia's Organic Café (Burnsville)

I've always been curious about Olivia's Organic Café in nearby Burnsville, Minnesota.

Last week, I finally decided to give it a try, and oh boy, I was not disappointed.

I have a gluten-free sister, so I know how challenging it can be to find a place that caters to her needs.

At Olivia's, every item on the menu is gluten-free, which is a huge relief for people with dietary restrictions.

I couldn't resist trying their cinnamon roll, and it was simply amazing!

During my visit, I also had their chicken salad, which was out of this world.

They even offered it with mixed greens instead of bread, making my experience even better.

My sister and I also tried their creamy chicken soup and kids' pancakes, both of which were delicious.

Although the mixed greens were a bit plain, the salad dressing more than made up for it.

On a side note, their cinnamon rolls were a bit grainy but still very tasty.

And the cranberry chicken salad wrap had a slightly bitter exterior, but once all the flavors were mixed together, it tasted great.

Hazelwood Food and Drink (Bloomington)

Last weekend, I finally decided to try out Hazelwood Food and Drink, a New American restaurant in the neighborhood that I had heard so much about.

And it certainly did not disappoint!

The atmosphere was clean, lively, and perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a special date night.

Their margaritas were some of the best I've ever had, and the bartender certainly knows how to mix a great drink.

I ordered the salmon, which was cooked to perfection – not dry or undercooked at all.

My friend had the turkey sandwich and was equally impressed.

Not able to resist dessert, we shared a slice of their chocolate cake, which was enormous and definitely meant for sharing.

The entire experience was pleasant, with the food being seasoned perfectly and the vibe matching the quality of the dishes.

Apart from the food, what stood out to me was the amazing customer service we received throughout our meal.

I can't wait to go back and try their brunch offerings, especially the monkey bread that caught my eye during my visit.

Final Thoughts

Living in Eagan has truly been a delightful experience, especially when it comes to exploring its diverse dining scene.

Whether craving authentic Mexican cuisine, mouthwatering BBQ, or even some refreshing poke, there is something for everyone here in Eagan.

The warm and welcoming atmosphere at each of these restaurants truly makes them feel like a part of the Eagan community, making it even harder for me to pick just one favorite.

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