Looking for a unique dining experience in Minnesota? If so, one of their supper clubs may be a great option. However, we must warn you, they’re not your standard type of eatery.
If you’ve never heard of these establishments, you’re not alone. Luckily, we’ve got all the answers and suggestions for you to consider.
Today, we’re diving underground and looking at the best Minnesota supper clubs. Which ones should you give a try?
Let’s look and see!
A supper club is an intimate dining experience that combines unique culinary dishes with social connections. While the first supper club occurred in Beverly Hills, California, it was in the 1930s and 1940s that they gained much traction. They became regular staples in the Upper Midwestern states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, and Iowa.
These establishments come in various forms, including pop-up restaurants, underground dining experiences, and events in private homes or secret venues. Finding them can be somewhat challenging, but it adds to the adventure.
The menus typically showcase the creativity and skills of chefs. As a result, you’re not likely to see many of these dishes on standard restaurant menus. They’re a fantastic opportunity to take a break from your typical run-of-the-mill dining experience and try something new.
Pro Tip: Check out more supper clubs in Wisconsin, but be sure to read How to Go Camping in Wisconsin State Parks first!
Unlike traditional restaurants, supper clubs focus more on intimacy, creativity, and community. They typically don’t operate on fixed schedules and often have irregular hours. As mentioned, you’ll usually find them in unconventional settings, like private homes, warehouses, or outdoor spaces.
Additionally, there’s often more interaction between the chef, hosts, and the guests. As a result, the chef generally has more freedom regarding the offerings. They’re able to test their skills and explore a variety of flavors when it comes to the culinary world. Due to the emphasis on community, it’s not uncommon for diners to share tables and interact with one another.
On the other hand, traditional restaurants typically have fixed menus. If you’ve visited one Outback Steakhouse, you’ve seen them all. The menus and decor are almost always the same from one establishment to the next. In addition, when you dine at a traditional restaurant, you’re not likely to converse or interact with those sitting at other tables.
Are you planning to visit Minnesota and try one of its famous supper clubs? We’ve compiled a list of the best options with a reputation for providing incredible experiences. Let’s take a look!`
Jax Cafe sits in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is a popular establishment. Not only does it offer warm hospitality and an exceptional menu, but it also has a timeless charm. This family-owned steakhouse has welcomed guests since the early 1930s and has become a fixture in the Twin Cities.
Guests love that it feels like they’re stepping back in time when they walk through the doors. This cozy dining room has vintage decor and gas lamps that flicker as you dine. Don’t miss your chance to taste some of the best aged steaks and fresh seafood with first-class service.
Another fantastic Minnesota supper club to consider is the W.A. Frost & Company. You’ll find it in the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood of St. Paul. This culinary gem is in a Victorian mansion that dates back to the late 1800s. With its ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and multiple fireplaces, patrons can enjoy a fine dining experience.
Their menu spotlights locally sourced ingredients that change seasonally. It includes both small plates and hearty entrees. Since opening in 1975, W.A. Frost & Company has become a premier dining destination in the Twin Cities. You’ll find something tasty whether you come for dinner, dessert, or brunch.
The Lexington opened in 1935 and has cemented itself in the hearts of the St. Paul community and all of Minnesota. While it’s undergone renovations and revitalizations over the years, it has retained its commitment to exceptional dining.
When you walk into this supper club, one of the first things you notice is the elegant art deco-inspired interior, mahogany woodwork, and leather booths. Although, the sparkling chandeliers are the icing on the cake. The Lexington is the definition of sophistication and class.
Their menu contains the finest food, wine, and spirits you’ll find just about anywhere. It’s the perfect spot to grab a snack at their bar, drink on the rooftop, or celebrate a special occasion.
Another of the best Minnesota supper clubs is Murray’s. With over 1,700 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, they know what they’re doing. They’ve been open since 1946 and offer mouthwatering steaks and sophisticated ambiance. With dark wood paneling, plush leather booths, and nearly perfect decor, every trip to Murray’s is an unforgettable experience.
One of the most popular menu items is their Silver Butter Knife Steak. It received this name because it received the Silver Butter Knife Award in 1951. Despite this, it received the most attention from the public for its reputation for using massive amounts of butter.
If you want something to wash down your delicious steak, their extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails will do the trick. This luxury experience is popular with locals and visitors who want to enjoy a taste of Minneapolis’s history.
Another legendary super club in St. Paul is Mancini’s Char House. Like Murray’s, it’s got many reviews and a high rating. With almost 4,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this family-run supper club is worth a visit.
They’ve been serving sizzling steaks and classic Italian-American cuisine since 1948. Their cozy red booths and dim lighting create a bit of old-school charm. They’ve built a strong following by using fresh ingredients and offering hearty meals.
Patrons come to enjoy their mouthwatering charcoal-grilled steaks, delicious lobster tail, and homemade Italian specialties. At the same time, Mancini’s Char House has a full schedule of live music and entertainment, unlike the others on our list. It’s a great place to enjoy the finest food and the best entertainment.
If you have high standards when it comes to dining, these Minnesota supper clubs are as good as it gets. It shouldn’t surprise you that these premium experiences will come with premium price tags. Unfortunately, you’ll need deeper pockets to enjoy many of these fine dining establishments. Nevertheless, many patrons find they’re worth every penny.
