Whether you’re a casual grazer or a full-blown food enthusiast, Duluth, Minnesota is a hidden gem on the culinary map. Perched on the edge of Lake Superior, Duluth blends fresh local ingredients, inventive chefs, and Midwestern hospitality into an irresistible food scene. And while the lake views are certainly stunning, we’d argue the food is just as breathtaking.
Staying at The Inn on Gitche Gumee means you’re always just a short drive—or sometimes even a scenic stroll—from Duluth’s best eats. Each morning can start with lakefront sunrises and rich coffee (yes, every room comes with it!), and your days can be filled with flavorful experiences across the city.
Let’s dive into the ultimate foodie’s guide to Duluth, complete with must-visit spots, insider tips, and hidden gems.
1. Northern Bites Café – The Perfect Start to Your Day
Start your culinary journey just 10 minutes from our inn at Northern Bites Café, a cheerful local favorite known for its warm service and hearty breakfasts. The ingredients are locally sourced and the menu rotates with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try.
Try This: The smoked trout omelet with hashbrowns and fresh sourdough toast
Bonus: They partner with a local roastery, so the coffee’s top-notch, too.
Local Tip: Arrive early on weekends—it fills up fast with locals who know it’s the best breakfast in town.
2. Lakefront Bistro – Fresh, Seasonal Lunch with a View
After a morning of exploring Canal Park or hiking a nearby trail, fuel up with a laid-back lakeside lunch at Lakefront Bistro, just a 15-minute drive from the inn. Known for its rotating seasonal menu and unbeatable patio seating, this bistro offers fresh takes on classic Midwest dishes with a coastal twist.
Must-Try: The whitefish sandwich with a lemon-dill aioli and house-pickled veggies
Good to Know: Many dishes are gluten-free or vegetarian, and the staff is happy to accommodate dietary needs.
Insider Tip: Ask your server about the daily special—it often features that morning’s farmers’ market finds.
3. Duluth Farmers’ Market – Saturday Morning Foodie Heaven
If you’re visiting over the weekend, carve out time for the Duluth Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday at the Lake Superior Market, just 15 minutes from the inn. From locally made jams and cheeses to artisan breads and smoked meats, the market is a treasure trove of North Shore flavors.
Foodie Finds:
- Wild rice pastries
- Small-batch honey and maple syrup
- Hand-crafted cheese curds
- Duluth-roasted coffee beans
Meet the Makers: Chat with farmers, foragers, and bakers to learn the stories behind your food.
Learn more about the Duluth Farmers’ Market →
4. Maple & Dine – Dinner That Delivers Innovation
Ready for dinner with a little flair? Maple & Dine, located about 20 minutes from the inn, is one of Duluth’s most exciting modern eateries. This chef-driven restaurant focuses on sustainable ingredients and innovative pairings that honor northern Minnesota’s culinary roots while pushing boundaries.
Recommended Dish: Cedar-planked lake trout with spruce tip beurre blanc
Perfect Pairing: Ask for the sommelier’s pick to match your meal with a regional wine or craft cider.
Local Tip: Book ahead—this spot fills up fast, especially on weekends.
5. Food Truck Rally – Street Food & Local Vibes
Every 3rd Friday of the month, the Food Truck Rally transforms a downtown Duluth parking lot into a buzzing, flavorful festival. Just a 15-minute drive from the inn, this monthly gathering showcases Duluth’s mobile kitchens—from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean BBQ tacos.
Fan Favorites:
- Walleye tacos
- Vegan sweet potato sliders
- Mini donuts with local berry sauce
More Than Food: Live music and lawn games make this an evening to remember.
Check rally schedules and vendors →
Local Tip
Ask about the daily specials at cafés and bistros—chefs often build them around what’s freshest at the market that week. It’s the best way to get a true taste of Duluth.
FAQ: “Are there gluten-free and vegetarian options available?”
Absolutely! Duluth’s food scene is wonderfully inclusive. Most eateries—including food trucks—offer dishes for gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free diners. When in doubt, ask your server—they’re used to accommodating all kinds of dietary preferences with a smile.
Where to Stay: The Inn on Gitche Gumee
After indulging your taste buds, return to The Inn on Gitche Gumee, where cozy lake-view rooms and a peaceful setting await. Whether you’re sipping morning coffee overlooking Lake Superior or grilling up your own farmers’ market haul at our shared BBQ space, we’ve created a space that’s perfect for foodies at heart.
We’re also pet-friendly, so your four-legged foodie can come along for the ride.
Tip: Book our charming “Three Bears” cabin for your own private foodie retreat—it even has its own kitchenette, perfect for prepping farmers’ market finds!
Ready to taste your way through Duluth while enjoying a cozy stay with us?
