The Best Duluth Restaurants - COVID Update

Note: This post was originally published in January of 2020 You can imagine that things have changed a little since the dawn of quarantine. I’ve updated this as of 6/22/2020 to cover the changes. These are still my favorite places in Duluth, but things are, of course, a little different now.

I assume you’re here because you’re either new to Duluth or visiting. Either way, welcome! When we moved to Duluth in August of 2019, we had the serious problem of not knowing where “our place” was yet. There isn’t one place though. There were so many! Where do you go on dates? What about breakfast? Coffee? Where do I bring my parents when they come to town? All these things will be revealed in time, don’t worry, but today I wanted to run down our top five in no particular order.

Where to go?

At Sara’s Table

We go to Sara’s probably more than any other restaurant in Duluth. It doesn’t make things worse that we live only a few blocks away, so we can walk there in the summer! There is a beautiful patio during the warmer months that is completely dog-friendly. Favorite picks off the menu are Thai Curray or Breakfast Tacos.

Covid Update: As of 6/22, limited capacity dine in is open, and they have a really cute setup in their parking lot for outdoor eating.

New Scenic Cafe

So this isn’t technically in Duluth. You have to take a little drive outside of town, but it’s well worth it. It’s a little fancier, so we usually save it for a special occasion. This place is very aesthetically beautiful in that light wood-Scandinavian kind of way, and it makes for some impressive ‘grams. It also has some stunning views of the lake and a fantastic cocktail menu. Favorite picks are Sea Bass and Norwegian Salmon.

Covid Update: New Scenic Cafe, as of 6/22 has not reopened. However, they are doing cook at home meal kits a la HelloFresh or HomeChef. This is a super unique idea and I love it!

Duluth Grill

This place is…weird. It’s good but weird, and single-handedly began the gentrification of Duluth’s Lincoln Park. It has an interesting array of foods…a little Asian, a little Americana, a little vegan-friendly. IT’s busy, so you’ll want to call ahead to get on the list (no reservations!) but it’s worth the wait. I recommend the Biscuits and Gravy specials or the Moroccan Lamb Bowl.

Covid Update: Duluth Grill is open for indoor dining as well as on their covered patio.

OMC Smokehouse

This place is owned by the same team that runs the Duluth Grill, and they bring the same quality and commitment to local suppliers. There is a wonderful locally-sourced beer list, but this is a barbecue joint at the heart. The OMMC in the name is for “oink, moo, cluck” or the things that you can eat there. I suggest the beef fat fries or the OMC Burger.

Covid Update: OMC is open for dine-in, and they also have a very efficient to-go situation. They also recently expanded to include a larger cocktail menu and a large whiskey selection.

Lake Ave Restaurant

The last one for today is Lake Ave, located steps from the Lake in the heart of Canal Park. This was the first restaurant I ever ate at in Duluth, and I think it might always hold a special place. It’s casual but has an upscale feel that I love. Like the others on this lift, you’ll find a small business that supports locals. Fancy, but not pretentious. Favorites are the sweet potato gnocchi or duck casserole.

Covid Update: Lake Ave is open to the public starting on Wednesday, June 24th! They have a fun new summer menu with brand new cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Are more individual restaurant reviews something you’re interested in? I’ll be writing up some as we continue our summer of strangely isolated nights out! Happy dining!