Hello fellow golfers! The golf season is off to a great start on the Iron Range. The sun has been shining and the courses are in great condition.If you’re planning your golf getaway to northeastern Minnesota this year, don’t forget about the great dining and entertainment found right here on the Iron Range.
Some of the best places to grab a bite to eat (often right on the courses) include, in no particular order:
The Wilderness Bar & Grille at The Wilderness at Fortune Bay – Tower
Have lunch on the beautiful patio here and enjoy the spectacular atmosphere of Northern Minnesota, along with a great view of The Wilderness Golf Course. With windows all around and a spectacular view of the course, you will be sure to have an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience. And, the menu is TOP NOTCH, too.
Michael’s on the Course - Virginia Golf Course
One of my favorite dishes here is the walleye. Try it breaded or broiled, to your taste. Another great option are the ribs. YUM! This popular dining venue sits atop the Virginia Golf Course.
The Whistling Bird – Gilbert
Now THIS restaurant is a little out-of-the-ordinary for northeastern Minnesota, but you won’t want to go home without making this dining adventure. Located on the main drag in Gilbert, this Jamaican themed restaurant has been visited my guests from all over the country. Try the Negril Grill Jerk Platter, offering a sampling of the tastiest Jamaican jerk chicken, pork tenderloin and shrimp found anywhere!
Alden’s – Biwabik
This mom & pop style café located on Biwabik’s main street is one of my favorites on the Iron Range. The burgers here are awesome. The menu offers a variety of toasted sandwiches to suit any taste. One of my favorites is the authentic gyro…..yum! Alden’s also offers an array of unique, homemade soups that do not disappoint.
Zimmy’s Bar & Grill – Hibbing
Zimmy’s is named after the Iron Range’s very own Bob Dylan. Located on Howard Street in Hibbing, Zimmy’s is loaded with Bob Dylan memorabilia and menu items named after a few Dylan Tunes. Try the Hwy 61 pizza…it’s unique and mmmmmm…..tasty!
The Wacootah Grille at Giants Ridge – Biwabik
Almost everything on this menu is spectacular! The burgers (paired with waffle fries) are my favorite. If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, try the cobb salad. If you’re around on a Friday evening, DO NOT miss the Friday Night walleye fish fry! It’s THE BEST in town, bar none.
La Cocina & Cantina – Virginia
Situated on Virginia’s Chestnut Street, La Cocina and Cantina features authentic Mexican cuisine in the perfect south of the border atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety of entrees, appetizers and vegetarian selections. Plus, La Cocina is well known for their variety of high quality tequilas, making the best margaritas on the Iron Range.
Four Corners Café – Embarrass
Another mom and pop café located at the “Four Corners” in Embarrass. Everyone here comes for the burgers and potato wedges and plain ‘ol good home cooking. This is a great stop if you’re traveling from the Giants Ridge courses to Fortune Bay…just drive up Highway 135 north toward Embarrass.
Sammy’s Pizza – Hibbing
This family owned and operated Iron Range franchise has spread throughout Minnesota. One of my favorite pizzas is the Taco Pizza. Or, be sure to check out the pasta menu – the chicken fettuccine is scrumptious!
Adventures Restaurant – Virginia
You can’t miss this Iron Range dining hot spot on Highway 53 in Virginia. Like many Iron Range restaurants, my favorite here is the walleye sandwich! If you’re a little more “adventurous,” try a wild dish like Elk Steak Tuscany. This tender and naturally lean elk steak is grilled to your liking then smothered with sautéed onions and mushrooms and accompanied by house-made garlic smashed potatoes and fresh vegetables. Yum….I’m officially hungry now!
Many locales across the Iron Range offer great entertainment, as well. Check out the entertainment line-up on the Iron Range here. Fortune Bay Resort – Casino also has a great summer event schedule. Check it out here.
Let me know where and when you’re planning to play and be sure to check back for more info on golf on the Iron Range.
See you on the links!