Unearth The Voyage
Minnesota and walleye go together like lakes and sunsets, and locals know exactly where to find the best plates in the state. From historic supper clubs to cozy pubs with lake views, each spot brings a fresh take on this beloved fish. You will taste crispy, buttery filets, creative sandwiches, and shore-lunch classics done right. Ready to plan your next walleye road trip across Minnesota?
1. Pickwick Restaurant & Pub – Duluth
Locals swear by Pickwick for comfort, history, and walleye that hits every craving. The crispy filets come perfectly seasoned with a squeeze of lemon, pairing well with buttery mash or simple rice. You feel the Duluth heritage in every bite.
The wood beams and crackling fireplace set a relaxed vibe that practically begs for a lingering meal. If fried is not your style, try their broiled option for a lighter take. Either way, the lake spirit shines through warmly.
Service is friendly, pacing is easygoing, and portions satisfy hungry hikers. Come hungry, leave happy.
2. Naniboujou Lodge Restaurant – Grand Marais
Naniboujou Lodge feels like stepping into a North Shore storybook, complete with dazzling painted ceilings. The walleye keeps it simple and proud, often broiled to highlight fresh, clean flavor. Wild rice on the side nods to tradition and place.
After a day exploring Superior’s rugged shoreline, this calm room restores you. Buttered lemon drips down flaky filets, and conversation slows. You savor, not rush.
Service is kind and unhurried, matching the lodge’s timeless rhythm. Make a reservation if you can. You come for the beauty, but the walleye convinces you to linger longer.
3. The Anchor Fish & Chips – Minneapolis
The Anchor gives walleye a British twist that totally works. Light, shattering batter, flaky interior, and a side of proper chips make this an instant favorite. A splash of malt vinegar and creamy tartar are nonnegotiable.
It is compact, lively, and always smells fantastic. You order at the counter, snag a seat, and watch baskets fly by. The buzz is half the fun.
Prices are friendly, portions generous, and the line moves fast. When cravings hit hard, this place answers. Simple, honest, and exactly what you want from fish and chips with Minnesota soul.
4. The Fireside – Detroit Lakes
The Fireside dresses walleye up without losing comfort. Think crisp sear, herb butter melting into delicate flakes, and bright veggies that keep the plate balanced. You taste care in every step of the preparation.
Big windows frame lake views that do some heavy lifting for the mood. Date night or celebratory dinner, it fits. The room hums with happy conversation.
Servers guide you through pairings, from a clean white to local beers. Portions satisfy without weighing you down. When you want polished Minnesota flavor, this is a sure bet and worth the drive.
5. Ernie’s on Gull – East Gull Lake
Ernie’s nails the lake day energy with walleye that tastes like vacation. Go for the shore-lunch style with crispy coating and bright lemon. Fries, coleslaw, and a cold beer round it out perfectly.
The patio is the hangout, boats easing in and music floating over the water. You can linger for hours. Kids run around while you soak it up.
Inside is cozy when the weather turns. Service keeps things quick, even during rushes. If your mood says sun and crunch, Ernie’s delivers a very Minnesota afternoon on a plate.
6. Grandma’s Saloon & Grill – Duluth
Grandma’s is the spot you hit after exploring Canal Park, when the smell of fried goodness calls your name. Their walleye arrives crisp outside, flaky inside, with sides that keep it classic and comforting. You can go sandwich style or a hearty dinner plate.
The vibe is upbeat and nostalgic with Duluth flair. Watch ships glide by while you dig into tartar sauce and lemon. It feels like summer, even when the wind bites.
Service keeps things moving, and portions are generous. Bring friends, share baskets, and leave room for dessert because the walleye is only the start.
7. Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge – Spring Park
On Lake Minnetonka, Lord Fletcher’s is a scene in the best way. The walleye comes fried or broiled, both reliably excellent, with careful seasoning that lets the fish shine. A sandwich version keeps things casual and perfect for patio days.
Boats drift by and conversation carries across the docks. You get that timeless lodge feel with a modern heartbeat. It is Minnesota summer captured.
Service is polished but friendly, and the menu offers enough variety for groups. Come for the views, stay for the walleye. It is a solid go-to for lake gatherings.
8. The Big Fish Supper Club and Resort – Bena
The Big Fish is classic supper club comfort, the kind of place where walleye tastes like family tradition. Expect hearty portions, buttery filets, and sides that stick to the ribs. Rye bread and baked potato make it feel right.
The room wears its history proudly, with a wink and plenty of charm. Service is neighborly, never fussy. You settle in, relax, and eat well.
Perfect after a long drive or fishing day, it rewards appetites and nostalgia equally. Prices feel fair, and you leave full. This is the dependable Northwoods walleye fix worth detouring for.
9. Gary’s Supper Club – Lakeville
Gary’s brings a modern polish to the supper club idea without losing heart. Their walleye often arrives crusted or lightly pan fried, with sauces that elevate without overpowering. It tastes like care and intention.
Booths are comfortable, lighting flattering, and cocktails smartly mixed. You feel taken care of from first pour to last bite. It is easy to make a night of it.
Service is attentive, pacing steady, and portions generous. Perfect for date nights or family celebrations. When you want classic Minnesota with a current touch, Gary’s is a confident choice.
10. Passport – Brainerd
Passport gives walleye a playful spin by leaning into bright, global flavors. Think citrus herb glazes, fresh herbs, and crisp textures that let the fish shine. It is familiar yet exciting, perfect for curious eaters.
The room feels lively and modern without being loud. Plates look beautiful, but comfort stays center stage. You taste a traveler’s curiosity rooted in Minnesota tradition.
Service helps you navigate options and pairings easily. Portions are satisfying without heaviness. If you love walleye and want something new, Passport makes the journey delicious and memorable.
11. Block North Brew Pub – Aitkin
Block North pairs house beer with walleye that feels tailor-made for a pint. The sandwich is a standout, with crisp fish, soft bun, and tangy sauce. It is pub fare elevated by freshness.
The brewing tanks gleam and the room buzzes with small town warmth. Grab a flight, then your walleye, and settle in. Nothing complicated, just honest flavor.
Staff are upbeat and quick. Pricing is friendly, and the menu keeps groups happy. When you are cruising through Aitkin, this is an easy, delicious stop for walleye and beer.
12. Trailside Tavern – Crosby
Trailside Tavern hits the sweet spot after biking the Cuyuna trails. Their walleye basket is the kind of crisp, salty reward that makes the miles worth it. Grab extra lemon and do not skip the tartar.
Inside, it is all friendly faces and easy conversation. You can roll in dusty and still feel welcome. It is a no-judgment, good-food hangout.
Service keeps things moving, prices are fair, and portions generous. Fuel up, swap trail stories, and recharge. If you love outdoor days with simple comforts, this walleye totally delivers.
13. BayView Bar and Grill – Onamia
By Mille Lacs, BayView serves the kind of walleye dinner that tastes like weekends at the cabin. Expect a golden crust, tender flakes, and classic sides that make you smile. It is straightforward and satisfying.
The patio fills with families and sunset chasers, while the bar keeps the energy easy. You linger without realizing. The lake sets the tone, calm and welcoming.
Servers are quick with refills and friendly advice. Portions satisfy hungry anglers and day trippers alike. When you want simple, well-done walleye with a view, this is the move.
14. Waterfront Lakeside Grille – South Haven
Waterfront Lakeside Grille embraces clean flavors and sunshine on a plate. The broiled walleye with lemon dill lets the fish remain star, light yet deeply satisfying. It fits a warm day perfectly.
Views do heavy lifting, pouring calm across the room. You settle into the easy pacing and watch the water change colors. It is low-stress from start to finish.
Service is attentive without hovering. Portions fit both casual lunches and relaxed dinners. When fresh and bright is your mood, this walleye checks every box gracefully and consistently.
15. Streetcar Kitchen & Pub – Carlton
Streetcar Kitchen & Pub keeps things fun with walleye tacos that pack crunch and zip. Slaw brings tang, lime cuts through, and the fish stays tender. It is an easy order you will repeat.
The space blends history with casual comfort. Brick walls, good beer, and friendly service make it a reliable hangout. You can keep it quick or linger.
Prices are reasonable, portions generous, and flavors consistent. Whether you are road tripping or local, it satisfies. Consider this your Carlton stop for playful walleye with a laid-back vibe.
