Warm Up with Cozy Comfort Food in Duluth

A bowl of pasta next to olive oil and bread

When it’s chilly outside, there’s nothing quite like warming up from the inside out. Duluth is no stranger to cold weather, and luckily is home to a wide variety of restaurants with delicious eats to keep you cozy in any season. Here are some Duluth comfort foods that will warm your body and brighten your spirit:

  • Enjoy a classic: Chicken wild rice soup from Grandma’s Saloon and Grill. This Minnesota-favorite is rich and hearty, and it’s a Duluth classic for a reason. Pair it with a sandwich or eat it all on its own.
  • Looking for the perfect pairing? Find soup and sandwiches everyone will enjoy at Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake, whether you’re in the mood for a classic Reuben or something a bit different like their Pickled Pig sandwich with house made porchetta. Add a cup of homemade smoked butternut squash or English onion soup and you have the perfect comfort meal.
  • What’s more comforting than pasta? Head to Va Bene or Bellisio’s for classic Italian favorites and modern takes featuring both imported and local ingredients, all of which are sure to hit the spot. 
A barbeque sandwich
  • Warm your belly and your soul with local barbeque. Howard’s Que and OMC Smokehouse are located right in the heart of Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft District. Both of these eateries feature hearty sides, original sauces and fresh, smoked meats you’ll think about long after your meal is done.
  • Need some spice to keep you warm? JamRock Cultural Restaurant will transport you to an island in the sun right in downtown Duluth. Serving homemade Jamaican food with a local twist, this is an experience created to bring people together over incredible food.
  • Craving brunch? Visit At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe. Pancakes, omelets and specialty dishes like wild rice muesli are just the start to their extensive farm-to-fork menu. This is a popular weekend spot, so be sure to get there early!
  • The Boat Club Restaurant and Bar is the spot to go for anyone hungry for lakeside views and maritime ambiance. With award-winning food like fresh fish, seafood, steaks and more, it’s a great spot to stay warm while gazing at Lake Superior.
  • Does it get more comfort food than meatloaf and mashed potatoes? If this is your idea of the ideal meal, head to Corktown Deli to try their newly expanded menu which includes these classics are more, in addition to the sandwiches you know and love.
  • No meal is complete without dessert, especially a comfort meal, so why not have a slice of pie? Check out Duluth Grill’s selection of pies, including banana cream and blueberry. Or head over to Bridgeman’s for made-from-scratch pies and desserts created daily (or one of their signature sundaes or mega malts, since it’s never too cold for ice cream).
Posted on October 13, 2023