Food & Drinks: Flavor and fun in Hastings
Welcome to the heart of culinary delights in Hastings, Minnesota, where local eateries and drink establishments are not just places to dine, but vibrant centers of taste, community, and creativity. The "Food & Drinks" page is your gateway to the diverse flavors of our local cuisine, each offering a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and warmth.
From beloved family recipes to modern culinary twists, explore the gastronomic experiences that define us. Whether it's a dish that tells a story of generations, a locally brewed craft beer that connects friends, or the simple joy of a community market, these flavors bring to life the core of our community's culinary culture.
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LOCAL REVIEWS
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Artisanal Flavors by the River: Lock & Dam Eatery
Nestled in the heart of downtown Hastings, the Lock & Dam Eatery welcomes you to a haven of handcrafted food and drinks. With an ambiance that mirrors the quaint charm of the town, this eatery is a place where every meal is a cozy gathering. Whether you're a local or a day-tripper, the Lock & Dam Eatery's inviting atmosphere and delectable offerings promise a delightful escape beside the serene riverside scenery.
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Polka Dot Dairy: A Legacy of Freshness and Community Bond
Journey through the legacy of fresh, local dairy at Polka Dot Dairy, a family-run haven established in 1956. Upholding a tradition of high-quality dairy products sold at fair prices, this quaint dairy has grown into a leading supplier to grocery and convenience stores in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. From a humble dairy distribution business to an ever-expanding array of over 100 dairy products, Polka Dot Dairy remains rooted in outstanding service, fair practices, and a strong community ethos, embodying a cherished local tradition with every fresh pour.
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Culinary Riverscapes: The Confluence Hotel's Missi's Sip & Savor
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Mississippi River, Missi's Sip & Savor at The Confluence Hotel in Hastings offers a sublime dining retreat. Revel in the fusion of exceptional cuisine and stunning river vistas, as you create cherished memories with loved ones. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch, a romantic dinner under the stars in the BKYD “Backyard,” or sipping hand-crafted beverages, every moment is a celebration of culinary artistry and natural beauty.
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A Mexican Fiesta in Hastings: El Original Mexican Grill
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Original Mexican Grill in Hastings. With a menu filled with traditional authentic Mexican delicacies and a wide array of tap and bottled beers, this eatery promises a culinary journey to Mexico. Whether you're craving a zesty taco, a hearty burrito, or simply a refreshing drink, El Original brings the rich Mexican culinary tradition right to your table amidst a friendly and welcoming ambiance.
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Roots in Every Pour: Alexis Bailly Vineyard
Step into the cradle of Minnesotan viticulture at Alexis Bailly Vineyard, the state's original winery established in 1973. With a lush vineyard that unfolds the legacy of the first-ever commercial wines from 100% Minnesota-grown grapes, it's a place where tradition meets the glass. The vineyard's signature wine, Voyageur, mirrors the pioneering essence of their lineage, intertwining historic French grape varieties with modern Minnesotan vines to craft a wine that was heralded as the "Best Wine in MN" by MN Monthly in 2012. Just a short drive southeast from the Twin Cities, the vineyard's welcoming tasting room awaits, offering a serene escape to explore the rich tapestry of flavors that Alexis Bailly Vineyard has perfected over decades.
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A Toast to Tradition: The Busted Nut Bar & Grill
Revel in the cozy neighborhood charm of The Busted Nut Bar & Grill, nestled in Historic Downtown Hastings. Since 2004, it's been a delightful retreat for both locals and visitors. With a menu boasting Minnesota's Best Bloody Mary of 2023, classic burgers, pizzas, and a heartwarming Fish Fry every Friday, there's a taste for every palate. Celebrate the close-knit community spirit as you savor delectable meals and cold drinks in this quaint hometown haven where every guest is family.
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Where Every Hour is Happy: 2nd Street Depot
Venture into 2nd Street Depot, the cozy corner in Hastings for savory hamburgers, tasteful food, and new experiences. Whether it's bonding over a Philly Cheesesteak, challenging friends at a game of pool, or simply enjoying the lively ambiance, this depot is a stop you wouldn't want to miss on your town tour.
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A Tex-Mex Haven in the Heartland: Me & Julio
Discover a blend of Tex-Mex and Midwest at Me & Julio in Hastings, MN. This cozy locale, where strangers become friends and friends become family, offers an inviting atmosphere for everyone. With a variety of scrumptious dishes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Relish in the camaraderie, savor the flavors, and make cherished memories at Me & Julio, a culinary crossroad where Tex-Mex goes Midwest.
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Community on a Platter: Dugarel's Bar and Grill
Embrace the friendly spirit of Hastings at Dugarel's Bar and Grill, a cherished gathering spot since 2003. Relish in the hearty "bar and grill" fare, from classic burgers to monthly specials, all while enjoying the extensive local and craft beer selection. Whether it's a casual lunch, a lively happy hour, or a celebration in the semi-private "Dugout at Duggies," the warm hospitality at Dugarel's ensures memorable times with great food and great people.
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Legacy of Freshness: Duff's Meats 2
Duff's Meats 2, the premiere meat market in Hastings, Minnesota, has been serving the community with fresh and quality meats since 1983. As a family-owned and operated business now in its second generation, it has become a cornerstone in Hastings for all meat lovers. Their wide variety of offerings includes wild game sausages, fresh cuts of pork and beef, beef sticks, jerkys, brats, frozen foods, and a delightful selection of seafood and groceries, all cut and prepared on site to ensure freshness and quality. The story of Duff's Meats 2 goes beyond the meats; it's about a family's passion and commitment to serving the community with the best, building lasting relationships, and carving a legacy that's rooted in quality, freshness, and family values.
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A Toast to German Tradition: Hastings Bierstube
Dive into the warm, traditional ambiance of the Hastings Bierstube, a beloved fixture in the community since 1962. Known for its authentic German flair, the Bierstube tempts with classic Reubens, Bratwursts, and the famous sizzling heart steak, among other delightful offerings. Come enjoy a cold beer on tap and savor the taste of Germany right in the heart of Hastings, where every meal is a cozy gathering echoing the friendly spirit of the old-world taverns.
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A Taste of Tradition: El Mexican Restaurant
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at El Mexican Restaurant in downtown Hastings. The dedicated team brings years of culinary expertise to the table, inviting the community to partake in a vibrant dining experience. Their passion for Mexican culinary traditions shines through in every dish, offering a delightful gastronomic journey amid a warm and welcoming ambiance.
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Slice of Italy in Hastings: Carbone's Pizzeria
Savor the timeless taste of Italy at Carbone's Pizzeria in Hastings, MN. From a fresh slice of your favorite pizza to classic Italian family favorites including hot hoagies, pasta, wings, soup, and salad, Carbone's brings the hearty flavors of Italy to your table. Whether you prefer dining in, taking out, or catering, Carbone's ensures a satisfying Italian feast for every occasion.
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Hastings' Spirited Brews: Spiral Brewery
Immerse in a brew of community and tradition at Spiral Brewery, where the spirit of Hastings' rich brewing legacy comes alive. Established in 2018, Spiral Brewery is a cherished locale that invites everyone to enjoy quality beer amid a welcoming ambiance. The brewery offers a variety of beers and the option for online beer To-Go orders, ensuring you can savor their crafted brews however you prefer. With a solid rating across different platforms, it's clear that Spiral Brewery has nestled itself into the hearts of locals and visitors alike. So, whether you're a beer aficionado or someone looking to explore the local brew scene, Spiral Brewery is a stop you wouldn't want to miss.
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Culinary Crossroads: Savor the Moroccan-American Melange at Taste of Tayb
A Taste of Tayb" in Hastings, Minnesota, is a unique culinary experience blending American and Moroccan flavors. This family-owned business, born from a passion for diverse culinary traditions, offers an inviting atmosphere where customers can enjoy innovative recipes rooted in the owners' cultural heritage. The menu features a fusion of tastes that provide a comforting, home-like experience, reflecting the owners' commitment to creating dishes with love and care.
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Nourishing Community Roots: A Peek into Spiral Food Co-op's Local Love
Spiral Food Co-op in Hastings, Minnesota, isn't just a grocery store; it's a vibrant community hub dedicated to nourishing both bodies and bonds since 1979. With a focus on organic, locally-sourced produce, this co-op takes pride in fostering strong connections with local farmers, offering an array of fresh, wholesome food options. From grass-fed meats to all-natural dairy and a rich wellness section, Spiral Food Co-op invites everyone to experience the joy of eating well and supporting local. Their commitment to affordability and community enrichment makes each visit more than just shopping—it's an embrace of local love and sustainability.
Why eat local?
A study found that for every $1,000,000 in sales, independent restaurants generate $650,000 in local economic activity, compared to $300,000 for chains1.
Spending at locally owned and independent businesses can recirculate through the local economy 2-4 times more than money spent at non-local companies, generating more local wealth and charitable contributions2.
The restaurant industry fosters regional job growth, supports local agriculture, and keeps money within the community. Choosing to dine at a local business generates almost four times more economic benefits for the local community3.
Restaurants are described as engines of economic growth across the country, injecting billions into local and state economies, creating jobs, developing careers, and supporting local programs and businesses4.