While it may be known for its beautiful parks, unforgettable attractions, and vibrant community, Plymouth, MN, is also home to a culinary scene that is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you’re a fan of international flavors or crave classic American fare, the restaurants in Plymouth, MN, offer something for every palate. Here’s a guide to five of the best dining spots in the area, where great food and warm atmospheres come together to create unforgettable dining experiences.
1. Kobe Japanese Restaurant: A Feast for the Senses
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Japan right in the heart of Plymouth, Kobe Japanese Restaurant is a must-visit. This vibrant eatery offers a dining experience that’s as entertaining as it is delicious, thanks to its lively hibachi grill and extensive sushi menu.
At Kobe, the chefs are as much performers as they are culinary artists, dazzling diners with their skillful preparation of hibachi-grilled meals. The menu is packed with a wide variety of sushi rolls, from classics like California and spicy salmon rolls to house specialties like the BMW roll, which combines spicy tuna and avocado, which is then deep-fried and topped with a trio of flavorful sauces. If sushi isn’t your style, Kobe also offers hearty dishes like steak teriyaki, served with a comforting bowl of miso soup, or the savory chicken and shrimp udon, perfect for a satisfying meal.
At Kobe, the chefs are as much performers as they are culinary artists, dazzling diners with their skillful preparation of hibachi-grilled meals. The menu is packed with a wide variety of sushi rolls, from classics like California and spicy salmon rolls to house specialties like the BMW roll, which combines spicy tuna and avocado, which is then deep-fried and topped with a trio of flavorful sauces. If sushi isn’t your style, Kobe also offers hearty dishes like steak teriyaki, served with a comforting bowl of miso soup, or the savory chicken and shrimp udon, perfect for a satisfying meal.
2. Rock Elm Tavern: Comfort Food with a Craft Twist
Rock Elm Tavern is where comfort food meets creativity, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the menu offers a fresh take on classic dishes, all paired perfectly with a selection of craft beers.
One of the standout dishes is the Mushroom Toast, a starter that sets the tone for the rest of your meal. It features herb ciabatta bread topped with roasted wild mushrooms, Montamore cheese, and a walnut aioli, finished with a balsamic reduction and smoked sea salt. For mains, the Fish & Chips are a must-try, featuring cornmeal-crusted walleye served with crispy Rock Fries and a tangy dill tartar sauce. And for burger lovers, the Rock Elm Burger doesn’t disappoint, with its Montamore cheese, roasted mushrooms, and a sweet-and-savory candied walnut aioli that elevates this classic dish.
One of the standout dishes is the Mushroom Toast, a starter that sets the tone for the rest of your meal. It features herb ciabatta bread topped with roasted wild mushrooms, Montamore cheese, and a walnut aioli, finished with a balsamic reduction and smoked sea salt. For mains, the Fish & Chips are a must-try, featuring cornmeal-crusted walleye served with crispy Rock Fries and a tangy dill tartar sauce. And for burger lovers, the Rock Elm Burger doesn’t disappoint, with its Montamore cheese, roasted mushrooms, and a sweet-and-savory candied walnut aioli that elevates this classic dish.
3. Northern Taphouse: A Hub for Flavorful Fusion
Northern Taphouse brings together a diverse range of flavors in a laid-back, friendly setting, making it a top choice for those who enjoy a mix of traditional and inventive dishes. The menu offers everything from hearty burgers to light and fresh options, all prepared with high-quality ingredients.
The Ahi Tuna Rice Bowl is a perfect example of Northern Taphouse’s approach to fusion cuisine. It features seared Ahi tuna over a bed of jasmine rice, topped with mango salsa, cucumber, avocado, and ginger aioli, all finished with a drizzle of hoisin sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For a more indulgent option, try the Jalapeño Bacon Burger, which packs a punch with its smoked bacon, spicy jalapeños, and a blend of cheddar and jack cheeses. For a unique twist on a classic sandwich, the Turkey Banh Mi offers roasted turkey, pickled vegetables, and a kick of Thai chiles, all nestled in a soft banh mi bun.
The Ahi Tuna Rice Bowl is a perfect example of Northern Taphouse’s approach to fusion cuisine. It features seared Ahi tuna over a bed of jasmine rice, topped with mango salsa, cucumber, avocado, and ginger aioli, all finished with a drizzle of hoisin sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For a more indulgent option, try the Jalapeño Bacon Burger, which packs a punch with its smoked bacon, spicy jalapeños, and a blend of cheddar and jack cheeses. For a unique twist on a classic sandwich, the Turkey Banh Mi offers roasted turkey, pickled vegetables, and a kick of Thai chiles, all nestled in a soft banh mi bun.
4. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill: A Plymouth Staple
For over forty years, Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill has been a go-to spot for those seeking a relaxed dining experience with a menu full of American favorites. This homey bar and restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere, extensive beer list, and large outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying Minnesota’s sunny days.
The menu at Sunshine Factory is packed with satisfying options, but the Steakhouse Salad is a particular standout. It combines sliced broiled sirloin with mixed greens, spinach, bleu cheese, hard-cooked egg, tomato, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Another crowd favorite is the Pan-Fried Walleye, featuring a perfectly seasoned cracker crumb coating that adds a satisfying crunch to this classic Minnesota dish. And if you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, the Cajun Chicken Fettuccini, served with a spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce, is sure to hit the spot.
The menu at Sunshine Factory is packed with satisfying options, but the Steakhouse Salad is a particular standout. It combines sliced broiled sirloin with mixed greens, spinach, bleu cheese, hard-cooked egg, tomato, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Another crowd favorite is the Pan-Fried Walleye, featuring a perfectly seasoned cracker crumb coating that adds a satisfying crunch to this classic Minnesota dish. And if you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, the Cajun Chicken Fettuccini, served with a spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce, is sure to hit the spot.
5. Samarkand Restaurant: A Journey Through Russian and Azerbaijani Cuisine
Samarkand Restaurant offers an exotic yet familiar dining experience, bringing the rich flavors of Russian and Azerbaijani cuisine to Plymouth. The restaurant’s classy, inviting ambiance is the perfect backdrop for its traditional dishes, each prepared with authentic ingredients and techniques.
Start your meal with Dolma, a traditional dish made with grape leaves, cabbage, and peppers stuffed with a flavorful mix of ground beef, rice, onions, and spices. For a hearty main course, the Cornish Hen is a standout, marinated and cooked to perfection under a brick, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. The assortment of shish kebabs is also not to be missed, offering options like shrimp, lamb, chicken, and salmon, each grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re new to this cuisine or a longtime fan, Samarkand offers a culinary journey that’s as satisfying as it is intriguing.
Start your meal with Dolma, a traditional dish made with grape leaves, cabbage, and peppers stuffed with a flavorful mix of ground beef, rice, onions, and spices. For a hearty main course, the Cornish Hen is a standout, marinated and cooked to perfection under a brick, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. The assortment of shish kebabs is also not to be missed, offering options like shrimp, lamb, chicken, and salmon, each grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re new to this cuisine or a longtime fan, Samarkand offers a culinary journey that’s as satisfying as it is intriguing.
Bonus: Lucky Street – Asian Street Food with a Modern Twist
For those looking to spice things up with bold flavors and a vibrant, contemporary atmosphere, Lucky Street in Plymouth offers an enticing selection of Asian street food favorites with a modern twist. This trendy eatery is a hidden gem, bringing together the best of East Asian street fare with a fresh and innovative approach.
A must-try at Lucky Street is their signature Korean BBQ Tacos. This fusion dish combines the flavors of Korean barbecue with the handheld delight of a taco, featuring marinated beef bulgogi, crisp lettuce, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, all drizzled with a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce. For a hearty, satisfying option, try the Pork Belly Ramen, where slow-cooked pork belly meets a savory, umami-rich broth, complemented by a perfectly soft-boiled egg, scallions, and mushrooms. Vegetarians will love the Sesame Cauliflower Bites—crispy cauliflower tossed in a sticky, tangy sesame glaze, creating a deliciously addictive snack.
With its creative menu and lively ambiance, Lucky Street brings a new twist to Asian street food, making it the perfect spot for a casual yet unforgettable dining experience in Plymouth.
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*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
