Top 10 most famous restaurants currently open in North Dakota.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, a local food lover, or someone planning a memorable outing, this guide covers iconic eateries with personality, flavor, and a strong reputation. Each section highlights one celebrated spot—so you’ll get a sense of location, cuisine, history, and why it stands out.
A Taste of North Dakota’s Top Table Settings
From Fargo’s bustling downtown to Bismarck’s refined dining rooms and beyond, North Dakota restaurants showcase regional ingredients, creative menus, and hospitable atmospheres.
1. Mezzaluna in Fargo — The Upscale Prairie Jewel
Located at 309 Roberts Street in downtown Fargo, Mezzaluna delivers fine dining with flair. Mezzaluna+1 Chef-driven, with a menu influenced by European techniques and seasonal Midwestern ingredients, this restaurant has earned national attention—notably being named among the 50 best in the U.S. in recent coverage. US 103.3+1
What makes it memorable: polished presentation, a swanky bar and speakeasy vibe, and thoughtful service. Ideal for date nights, celebrations, or when you want a standout dining experience in North Dakota.
2. Rosewild at Jasper Hotel in Fargo — Contemporary Comfort Meets Local Flavour
At 215 Broadway N, Fargo, Rosewild offers a relaxed yet elevated vibe. OpenTable+1 The menu is rooted in regional traditions but driven by creativity—think dishes featuring heritage grains, premium meats, and a strong connection to North Dakota’s culinary identity. Jasper Hotel+1
Why it’s worth visiting: It’s family-friendly yet refined, serving brunch, lunch and dinner with an approachable but polished attitude. Great for groups or when you want something upscale without being ultra-formal.
3. The Walrus Restaurant in Bismarck — A Local Icon Since 1995
In Bismarck, The Walrus Restaurant has quietly become a beloved institution. thewalrusrestaurant.com Since 1995, it has treated diners to reliable, flavorful food in a comfortable atmosphere. They focus on fresh ingredients, craft beers and a welcoming setting.
Highlight to try: rotating feature dishes along with comfort food done with care. For those seeking a dependable dining landmark in North Dakota’s capital region, The Walrus delivers.
4. Pirogue Grille in Bismarck — Fine Dining with State-Pride
Pirogue Grille, located at 121 N. 4th St., Bismarck, blends fine dining with a strong sense of place. Pirogue Grille | Fine Dining Bismarck+1 Chef-owned and locally run, the restaurant features top-quality seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully prepared dishes—from house-made venison sausage to expertly cooked steaks.
Why you’ll remember it: The combination of refined cuisine with an unpretentious atmosphere makes it a standout for visitors and locals alike looking for sophistication in a North Dakota setting.
5. Peacock Alley in Bismarck — Historic Elegance with Modern Taste
Set inside what was once the lobby of the Patterson Hotel (dating to 1911), Peacock Alley exudes historic charm. peacock-alley.com+1 Positioned at 422 E. Main St., Bismarck, this restaurant draws on its legacy with a menu that focuses on top-quality steaks and upscale American fare.
Why it stands out: The ambiance is as much the draw as the food—perfect for those looking for a memorable night out in a space rich with history.
6. Butterhorn in Bismarck — Midwestern Roots, Elevated Plate
As noted in a feature about North Dakota’s culinary scene, Butterhorn is a notable table in Bismarck, recognized for its commitment to local produce and seasonal menus. Commerce | North Dakota Here you’ll find dishes that incorporate regional staples like bison and lefse, prepared with finesse.
What to know: It’s a fine option for those who appreciate a connection to place and heritage, yet want creativity and refinement in their meal.
7. Harry’s Steakhouse in Grand Forks — A Steak Lover’s Destination
In downtown Grand Forks, Harry’s Steakhouse holds its own among the state’s top venues. Commerce | North Dakota Known for specialty steaks aged to perfection and sourced from the region, this spot caters to meat-lovers seeking prime dining in North Dakota.
Why it’s on the list: It ticks the “famous” box for steakhouse fans and adds distinction through quality and consistency.
8. Red Pepper in Grand Forks (and Fargo) — A Laid-Back Legendary Bite
For something more casual but still iconic, Red Pepper (in Grand Forks with additional locations) has been a landmark since the 1960s, known for fresh-made, value-driven food. ndtourism.com+1
What makes it special: It’s got local heritage, an authentic feel, and it appeals to families, locals, and visitors alike who crave something less formal but still worthy of a “best places to eat in North Dakota” list.
9. JL Beers (various locations) — Burgers, Beer, and Name-Recognition
Across North Dakota (including Fargo, Bismarck, Minot), JL Beers has made a name for itself through inventive burgers and solid craft-beer selections. ndtourism.com+1
Why it ranks: While less formal than fine dining, JL Beers is widely known, frequently recommended by local chefs and diners, and serves as a go-to for comfort, quality, and fun in North Dakota’s dining scene.
10. Skies 322 in Grand Forks — Modern Dining in a Growing Food Scene
Within the Olive Ann boutique hotel in downtown Grand Forks, Skies 322 represents the new wave of North Dakota restaurants—seasonally inspired menus, craft cocktails and elevated hospitality. ndtourism.com
Why it belongs: It demonstrates how the state’s restaurant culture continues to evolve. It’s not just about tradition—it’s about innovation. For visitors interested in contemporary dining with a strong local identity, Skies 322 delivers.
How to Choose Your Restaurant Adventure
For special occasions or fine dining: Choose Mezzaluna, Pirogue Grille or Peacock Alley.
For a refined yet approachable meal: Try Rosewild or Butterhorn.
For steak and hearty fare: Harry’s Steakhouse or Pirogue Grille.
For casual but beloved local spots: Red Pepper or JL Beers.
For newer, trend-forward choices: Skies 322.
For a dependable neighborhood favorite: The Walrus Restaurant.
What Makes These Restaurants Stand Out
Each of these restaurants meets several key criteria:
They’re currently open and active in North Dakota’s dining scene.
They have recognition—through national mentions, local reputation, chef endorsements or historic significance.
They serve distinctive experiences, whether through ambiance, culinary style, use of local ingredients or historic building.
They cover diverse parts of the state, from Fargo and Bismarck to Grand Forks, providing geographic balance across North Dakota.
They appeal across categories: casual, upscale, family-friendly, date night, group dining.
Insider Tips Before You Go
Reservations recommended: The fine-dining places (Mezzaluna, Rosewild, Pirogue Grille) tend to fill up—book ahead.
Check hours and menu updates: Given seasonal changes and staffing, always confirm operation hours and specials.
Dress accordingly: Some spots lean smart-casual; you don’t need formalwear, but avoid flip-flops or overly casual attire when heading to upscale venues.
Mention local ingredients: Ask about regionally sourced meats, heritage vegetables, or “prairie-inspired” dishes—many menus lean into North Dakota roots.
Bring an appetite for variety: Some restaurants highlight more than one cuisine or style—e.g., burgers and craft beer at JL Beers; elevated Midwestern fare at Rosewild.
If you’re traveling across the state: Use the list to plan stops—combining a Fargo meal with a visit to Bismarck or Grand Forks gives you culinary diversity.
Looking Ahead: The Dining Story of North Dakota
North Dakota’s restaurant scene is quietly rich. It balances hospitality rooted in the prairie ethos with rising culinary ambition. From humble local favorites to chef-driven fine dining, the state offers options that surprise. As more attention turns toward the region’s food narratives—local sourcing, regional ingredients, modern interpretations—it’s worth trying at least a couple of these top restaurants to get a feel for what dining in North Dakota can be.