Hey neighbors, Benjamin Hanson here with a look at where to eat right now in Inver Grove Heights. Whether you’re craving soul food, fried chicken, Mexican street eats, or just a dependable burger, there’s a lot cooking—and eating—to be excited about.
Southern eats and standout flavors
Mallards Southern Kitchen is the go-to when you want rich, hearty fare. From jambalaya to chicken and waffles, it delivers strong flavor with that messy, comforting charm. The smoked salmon plate appetizer is frequently praised for being a perfect opener for a full meal; staff is welcoming, if volume gets high at peak dinner times. It’s a place built on atmosphere and warmth.
New fried chicken in town
A fresh brick-and-mortar location of Official Fried Chicken opened recently, giving residents a spot to grab classic fried chicken in sandwich or tender form, alongside sides like mac and cheese and JoJo potatoes. If you’ve been hunting for that crispy, indulgent fried bird fix, this one’s worth filling up for.
Mexican flavors and street-style bites
Don Papi Chulo deserves mention. Located on Cahill Avenue, their tacos (especially birria and asada), tortas, botanas, and traditional treats like elotes and raspados get high marks. It’s casual, fun, and authentic—exactly what your tacos should be.
Local staples to keep on your radar
- B-52 Burgers & Brew: A solid pick for burgers, fries, and bar vibes; reliable when you want casual and filling.
- Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks: A go-to for deep-dish style or classics—never disappoints if you’re craving pizza and cheesy steak sandwiches.
- Iwa Sushi: Fresh sushi and Japanese flavors are available here—great for when you need something lighter or want to mix up what’s on your plate.
- PAD THAI & SUSHI RESTAURANT: Balanced Thai and sushi offerings, lots of variety—friendly spot if you’re bringing someone with different cravings.
Food trucks & festivals
If you like eating under the sky, the IGH Days Food Truck Festival is a highlight. Held annually with over 10 vendors, it brings together mobile vendors and locals for a mix of tacos, treats, international flavors, and good music in a festive atmosphere. There are also multiple food truck gatherings over summer evenings, which are perfect for spontaneous dinner plans.
Tips for choosing where to eat
- Go early or late on weekends if you hate crowds—popular spots like Mallards will fill up and the noise rises noticeably.
- Check hours for newer or food truck-based businesses—they may change their schedule seasonally or when weather’s bad.
- Ask about specials. Many locally owned places have daily dishes that aren’t always obvious online.
The restaurant scene here is growing in exciting ways. If you feel like something familiar or want to try something new with friends— there are more good options than ever. I’ll be keeping tabs on openings, trucks, and menus so you don’t miss out.