4 New Restaurants to Try Around Rochester, Minnesota

The culinary scene in Rochester is expanding, with new restaurants popping up to suit most any palate. From brewpubs to fine dining, you don't have to travel far from Springs at South Broadway to find what you're craving. Here's a look at four new local restaurants to put on your must-try list.

1. Grand Rounds Brewpub  
4 Third St SW

The creators of this local brewpub wanted it to be a gathering place where people of all backgrounds and interests could meet and have a great discussion over a pint of great beer. House brews include the Hop Bollocks Session IPA, which features light citrus flavors, and the Freedom Strong Scotch Ale, which has hints of smokiness and toasted caramel. On the food menu, you'll find an assortment of delectable appetizers and small plates like fried cheese curds, Scotch eggs, crispy shrimp, and poutine. Of course, the burgers and sandwiches are hard to beat, too!

2. Forager Brewery  
1005 Sixth St NW

At Forager Brewery, wood-fired pizza and locally brewed beers combine to guarantee a great time. One favorite is the Forager IPA, which features a bouquet of American hops with notes of pine and orange zest. The Starry Eyed Blonde, a Belgian blonde ale, which has notes of bananas and apples, is another unique brew to try.

You also won’t want to miss out on the restaurant's wood-fired pizza. Options include the Greek Pizza, topped with braised ham feta, and a lemon cream sauce, and the Piggy Pie, a sensational pie topped with sausage, mozzarella, balsamic and cream cheese. Forager Brewery is even open for brunch on Sundays, and the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect place to dine with friends.

3. La Vetta  
30 Third St SE

Located on a rooftop, this casual, Italian-inspired bar and restaurant offers a great view of the downtown Rochester area. The restaurant opens daily at 4 p.m. and offers happy hour drink specials from 4 to 6 p.m. With plenty of craft beers on tap (some available by the growler), along with an assortment of specialty cocktails and martinis, you're sure to find something to suit your palate. Order a few small plates, like the chicken meatballs and the tomato bruschetta, and share with friends.

4. 5 West Kitchen  
1991 Commerce Dr NW

Offering New American cuisine in a classy, welcoming environment, 5 West Kitchen is a great place for a relaxed date or a special meal with friends. The dinner menu includes entrees like the Manhattan Steak, served with roasted smashed potatoes and a red wine reduction, and Spicy Rose Fettuccine with chicken, mushrooms, and a spicy rose sauce. Brunch is served on the weekends, and many items on the menu can be prepared gluten-free upon request.

Have you had the opportunity to try any of these new Rochester area restaurants? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!