The Minnesota State Fair is a culinary smorgasbord that can overwhelm even the most seasoned fairgoers. With nearly 500 food items at 300 vendors, it can be challenging to navigate the endless options and find the best bites. Local fair fanatic Alex Lodner, who has been attending the fair for the past 15 years, has gathered valuable intel on the fair’s hidden gems, affordable eats, and timeless favorites. Let’s take a stroll down Dan Patch Avenue in her shoes and uncover the must-try foods at the Minnesota State Fair.
### The Classics
One cannot visit the Minnesota State Fair without indulging in some classic fair foods. Start your culinary journey by wandering down Dan Patch Avenue to the newest Pronto Pup stand on Underwood Street. Whether you prefer Pronto Pups or classic corn dogs, the distinction between the two is worth noting. Across the street, make a stop at the Mouth Trap in the Food Building for a cup of creamy, golden-fried cheese curds. And no fair experience is complete without a visit to Sweet Martha’s Cookie Jar for a bucket of warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. Pro tip: Head to the back of the building for shorter wait times.
### Affordable Eats
Taking a family to the fair can be expensive, but there are bargains to be found if you know where to look. Visit the RC Cola tent on Dan Patch Avenue for sodas priced as low as a dollar. Don’t forget to grab a Blue Ribbon Bargain Book for coupons that offer discounts on food and drinks. For classic burgers and bargain beers, stop by the Midway Mens Club. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal for the kids, head to Giggles for a kids‘ meal of chicken nuggets, fries, and Oreo cookies.
### Hidden Gems and Fan Favorites
For a unique breakfast experience, seek out Steichen’s Grocery for a freshly made breakfast sandwich. Fuel up with a creamy maple nitro cold brew from the Minnesota Farmers Union Coffee Shop before indulging in Manny’s Tortas‘ nonalcoholic pina colada served in a fresh hollowed-out pineapple. Make sure to try the frozen key lime pie-on-a-stick from Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe for a tart and refreshing treat. And don’t miss the Donut Family in the Mighty Midway for mini doughnut sundaes with decadent toppings.
### Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free Foods
For those with dietary restrictions, the fair offers a variety of options. Auntie M’s is a go-to for gluten-free funnel cakes, corn dogs, and cheese curds. The Herbivorous Butcher serves up vegan delights like deep-fried sesame balls stuffed with vegan cheeseburger filling. French Meadow offers Earth sliders made with „chicken“ patties and gluten-free sconuts. Baba’s hummus bowls are a protein-packed option for vegan and vegetarian fairgoers. And for a refreshing treat, try the Fruit & Booch cup filled with fresh fruit and kombucha.
As you navigate the culinary delights of the Minnesota State Fair, be sure to sample a variety of foods, from classic fair favorites to unique and innovative dishes. With Alex Lodner’s insider tips and recommendations, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the fair’s diverse food offerings and create a memorable dining experience at this iconic event.