No Trip Through Minnesota Is Complete Without A Stop For Wild Rice Soup Here

Minnesota is known for its beautiful lakes, friendly people, and a special dish that warms the heart: wild rice soup. This creamy comfort food combines native wild rice with vegetables and a rich broth that locals have cherished for generations.

Whether you’re passing through the Twin Cities or exploring small-town diners, finding a perfect bowl of wild rice soup is a must-do experience that captures the spirit of the North Star State. Its popularity stems from wild rice being a naturally abundant and culturally significant grain in Minnesota, especially among Indigenous communities.

The soup’s rich, earthy flavor and hearty texture make it ideal for cold Midwestern winters. It’s also incredibly versatile – served in diners, upscale restaurants, and even grocery store delis. For many Minnesotans, wild rice soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic taste of home.

1. Little Six Restaurant: Prior Lake

Little Six Restaurant in Prior Lake offers more than just casino-side dining; it’s a cozy spot where you can enjoy one of Minnesota’s most iconic comfort foods: Chicken Wild Rice Soup. This creamy, savory soup features tender chicken, locally sourced wild rice, and a rich broth that warms you up whether you’re escaping winter winds or just craving something hearty.

Served alongside classic American fare like burgers and salads, the soup is a favorite among regulars and visitors alike. Located inside Little Six Casino, the restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere with friendly service and generous portions. It’s a convenient stop for travelers exploring the area or heading to nearby Mystic Lake.

For anyone looking to taste a true Minnesota staple, Little Six delivers with a bowl that’s both satisfying and steeped in local tradition.

2. Grandma’s Saloon and Grill in Duluth

Perched along the scenic shores of Lake Superior, Grandma’s Saloon and Grill has been feeding hungry visitors since 1976. Their wild rice soup is so popular that they serve it year-round, not just during the chilly months. The recipe balances earthy wild rice with tender vegetables and a velvety cream base that makes every bite memorable.

What sets Grandma’s apart is the waterfront location that adds magic to your meal. You can watch ships glide across the lake while enjoying a steaming bowl of comfort. The restaurant’s casual vibe welcomes families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Many guests order a cup as an appetizer before diving into their main course. The portion sizes are generous, so come hungry and ready to experience true Minnesota hospitality. Staff members are happy to share the history behind this beloved recipe, making your dining experience even more special.

3. Keys Cafe and Bakery Locations Throughout Minnesota

With multiple locations scattered across Minnesota, Keys Cafe and Bakery makes it easy to grab a fantastic bowl of wild rice soup no matter where your travels take you. This local chain has perfected the art of comfort food while maintaining quality across every restaurant. Their soup features a perfect blend of wild rice, carrots, celery, and chicken in a smooth, satisfying broth.

Morning visitors can pair their soup with fresh-baked pastries from the bakery section. The aroma of cinnamon rolls and bread fills the air, creating an irresistible atmosphere. Servers are known for their warm smiles and quick service, even during busy breakfast rushes.

Regulars swear by ordering a side of their homemade toast for dipping. The restaurants maintain a classic diner feel with booth seating and friendly chatter filling the space. Whether you’re in St. Paul, Roseville, or another Minnesota city, finding a Keys location means finding reliable, delicious wild rice soup.

4. Tavern on Grand in St. Paul

Nestled in the heart of St. Paul’s Grand Avenue neighborhood, Tavern on Grand elevates wild rice soup to gourmet status without losing its comforting soul. The chefs here treat this Minnesota classic with respect, using high-quality ingredients and careful preparation techniques. Each bowl arrives at your table garnished beautifully, showing that presentation matters just as much as taste.

The restaurant’s atmosphere blends casual comfort with upscale touches, making it perfect for both date nights and family gatherings. Exposed brick walls and soft lighting create an inviting environment that encourages you to linger over your meal. The wild rice soup here includes subtle herbs that enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Wine pairings are available if you want to make your soup experience extra special. Locals consider this spot a neighborhood gem that tourists are lucky to discover. Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours, especially on weekends when the place fills quickly.

5. Hazelwood Food and Drinks: Bloomington

Hazelwood Food and Drink in Bloomington is a stylish, modern eatery that blends comfort food with upscale flair, and yes, they serve a classic Chicken Wild Rice Soup. This Minnesota staple features tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy broth that’s perfect for chilly days or just a cozy lunch.

Whether you’re stopping in before a flight at nearby MSP Airport or winding down after shopping at Mall of America, Hazelwood’s soup delivers a warm, regional touch that locals love and travelers appreciate. It’s available by the cup or bowl, making it easy to pair with one of their signature sandwiches or salads.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a menu full of Midwestern favorites, Hazelwood is a great place to experience Minnesota flavor in a relaxed, polished setting.

6. Hell’s Kitchen in Downtown Minneapolis

Bold flavors and creative presentations define everything at Hell’s Kitchen, including their take on Minnesota wild rice soup. Located in the bustling heart of downtown Minneapolis, this restaurant attracts both tourists and business professionals looking for something special. The wild rice soup here comes loaded with roasted vegetables and tender meat in a broth that bursts with savory depth.

Unlike traditional versions, Hell’s Kitchen adds their signature twist with unexpected seasonings that wake up your taste buds. The restaurant’s quirky decor matches the adventurous menu, with colorful artwork covering the walls. Breakfast and brunch are particularly popular times to visit, though the soup is available all day.

Many diners order a cup to start before exploring other menu items like their famous lemon ricotta hotcakes. The lively atmosphere makes solo dining comfortable and group meals memorable. Service is attentive without being intrusive, allowing you to enjoy your meal at your own pace.

7. French Meadow Cafe & Bluestem Bar: Minneapolis

If you’re exploring Minneapolis and craving a taste of local comfort, French Meadow Cafe & Bluestem Bar has you covered. This iconic Uptown spot is known for its organic, locally sourced menu – and yes, that includes a hearty bowl of Chicken Wild Rice Soup.

Served hot and satisfying, it’s packed with tender chicken, earthy Minnesota wild rice, and a creamy broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re grabbing lunch between museum stops or winding down after a bike ride around the lakes, this soup is a cozy classic that feels like home. French Meadow has been a pioneer in sustainable dining since 1983, and their wild rice soup is just one example of how they blend regional flavor with wholesome ingredients.

You can order it for dine-in, pickup, or even delivery if you’re staying nearby. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-spoonful and say, “Yep, this is Minnesota.” So don’t just pass through – pull up a chair and dig in.

8. Lunds & Byerlys

If you’re road-tripping through Minnesota and skipping Lunds & Byerlys, you’re missing a spoonful of state pride. This upscale grocery chain isn’t just for locals stocking up on organic kale – it’s a pilgrimage site for anyone craving the legendary Wild Rice Soup.

Creamy, hearty, and packed with Minnesota-grown wild rice, this soup has earned cult status among travelers and residents alike. Whether you grab it hot from the deli or frozen to-go, it’s the kind of comfort food that makes you feel like you’ve been hugged by the North Woods. The original recipe dates back decades and still holds up, with savory chunks of ham or chicken, slivered almonds, and just the right touch of herbs. It’s not fancy, but it’s unforgettable. Locals swear by it, and visitors who try it once often leave with a few containers tucked in their luggage.

So if your GPS takes you near a Lunds & Byerlys, do yourself a favor – pull over, grab a bowl, and taste a true Minnesota classic. Your taste buds will thank you.