Rochester, MN Restaurant Week: A Local’s Guide to Must-Try Spots

by Niki Fleming

It’s that delicious time of year again! Experience Rochester’s Restaurant Week returns Monday, January 26 through Sunday, February 1, 2026 — a weeklong celebration of the incredible dining scene here in Rochester, Minnesota. During this special week, nearly 30 local restaurants across town are offering curated breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that highlight chef creativity, seasonal ingredients, and classic favorites, with both dine-in and takeout options available.

You can find a full list of participating restaurants and their menus at the official event page: 🔗 Experience Rochester’s Restaurant Week.

Here are some of my personal favorites to check out this year:

🌞 Brunch & Breakfast

🔗 Benedict’s Morning Heroes – A downtown classic for creative breakfast and brunch. From loaded benedicts to pancakes and brunch cocktails, it’s a great way to start your Restaurant Week adventure.

🍣 Eclectic Lunch & Dinner Options

🔗 Crave Food & Drink – Sushi, burgers, and global-inspired dishes make this a versatile stop for lunch or dinner.
🔗 Chester’s Kitchen & Bar – A local favorite serving hearty mains and seasonal dishes with friendly service.
🔗 ThaiPop – Bold Thai flavors and vibrant curries that are always crowd-pleasers.

🍝 Elevated Dining Experiences

🔗 Latitude 44 – Modern American cuisine in an elevated setting, perfect for a special night out.
🔗 Terza Ristorante – Classic Italian cooking with handcrafted pastas, fresh seafood, and great wine.

🍻 Neighborhood Favorites & Comfort Classics

🔗 Forager Brewery – Locally inspired dishes and craft beers in a laid-back setting.
🔗 Saints on Second Bar & Grill – Casual and classic with solid comfort food and tasty drinks.
🔗 Twigs Tavern and Grille – A long-time local staple with hearty American classics and a friendly vibe.

🍴 Tips for Enjoying Restaurant Week

Plan Ahead: Many restaurants offer prix-fixe menus or unique dishes just for this week — reservations are a good idea!
Mix It Up: Try a brunch spot one day, global flavors the next, and finish with Italian or elevated dining later in the week.
Share Your Experience: Snap a photo and tag #RochMNEats on social media for a chance to win gift cards from restaurants!

Restaurant Week is one of my favorite winter traditions — it’s a delicious way to support local restaurants, try new flavors, and celebrate the vibrant culinary scene in Rochester. 🍷🍜🍝 Ready, set, dine!