The best bites in Hopkins, Minnesota
Of course! As your local guide to the culinary heart of Hopkins, I'm thrilled to take you on a gastronomic tour down Mainstreet and beyond. This isn't just a list of restaurants; it's a story of family recipes, sizzling woks, simmering broths, and the vibrant tapestry of flavors that make our little city a true destination for food lovers. So, loosen your belt, and let's explore the ten essential eateries that define the delicious character of Hopkins, Minnesota.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of Hopkins, One Plate at a Time**
Hopkins, with its charming downtown and rich history, has quietly become a powerhouse of culinary diversity. For those in the know, it’s a place where you can travel the globe in a single afternoon, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the fragrant spice markets of East Africa, all within a few blocks. This is your insider’s guide to the very best dining experiences and the must-order dishes that will have you planning your return visit before you’ve even finished your meal.
#### **1. Star Wok: Where Wok Hei Meets Mainstreet**
**Location:** 1428 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Step through the doors of Star Wok and you are immediately greeted by the most intoxicating aroma in all of cooking: the breath of the wok, known in Cantonese as *wok hei*. It’s that elusive, smoky essence that can only be achieved by a skilled hand tossing ingredients over a blazing inferno. This isn't just a Chinese restaurant; it's a temple to the art of stir-fry.
**The Vibe:** Unassuming and functional, with a focus squarely on the food. The real theater is the open kitchen, where you can catch glimpses of flames leaping and ingredients dancing in the seasoned wok. It’s a place for a quick, satisfying solo lunch or a relaxed, flavor-packed family dinner.
**What to Order:**
* **The Star of the Show: Salt & Pepper Tofu.** Even dedicated carnivores will swoon over this dish. Cubes of silken tofu are delicately battered, fried to a perfect golden crisp, and then tossed in a wok with a vibrant mix of minced jalapeños, onions, and a masterful blend of salt and pepper. The exterior shatters to reveal a cloud-like interior, creating a textural symphony that is nothing short of addictive.
* **Cantonese Classic: Beef Chow Fun.** This is the ultimate test of a wok master, and Star Wok passes with flying colors. Wide, chewy rice noodles are seared with tender beef, crisp bean sprouts, and green onions in a dark, savory sauce. The slight char on the noodles from the intense wok heat is the hallmark of authenticity.
* **For the Adventurous: Szechuan Dumplings in Red Oil.** These are not your gentle, delicate dumplings. They are a bold declaration of flavor—plump pork dumplings swimming in a complex, spicy, and slightly numbing Szechuan chili oil, fragrant with garlic and sesame. It’s a dish that wakes up every single taste bud.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't shy away from the Chef's Specials section of the menu. This is where the kitchen's creativity truly shines, often featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes you won't find elsewhere.
#### **2. Hoagie's Family Restaurant: The Heartbeat of Hometown Comfort**
**Location:** 824 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
If Hopkins had a culinary town square, Hoagie's would be it. This is the kind of place where the coffee is always hot, the booths are comfortably worn, and the servers know the regulars by name and their usual order. It’s a timeless American diner, serving up generous portions of nostalgia and comfort food done right.
**The Vibe:** Pure, unadulterated nostalgia. The air smells of sizzling bacon, freshly baked pie, and brewing coffee. It’s bustling and cheerful, filled with the hum of conversation and the clatter of plates. This is where you come for a long, lazy weekend breakfast or a straightforward, satisfying meat-and-potatoes dinner.
**What to Order:**
* **Breakfast Perfection: The Skillet.** Any of them, really. But the Heart Stopper or Garbage skillet is a legendary start to the day—a cast-iron platter piled high with crispy hash browns, your choice of meat, peppers, onions, and cheese, all crowned with two perfectly cooked eggs.
* **Lunch Staple: The Reuben.** A classic diner litmus test, and Hoagie's version is top-tier. Piled high with perfectly corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye bread, it’s a messy, glorious masterpiece.
* **Sweet Finale: Homemade Pie.** Do not, under any circumstances, leave without a slice of pie. The banana cream is a cloud of pudding-like bliss in a flaky crust, and the seasonal fruit pies (like apple or cherry) taste like they were just baked by your Midwestern grandmother.
**Pro-Tip:** Come hungry. Portions are famously large, and you’ll want to save room for that pie.
#### **3. Sambusa King: A Taste of the Horn of Africa**
**Location:** 126 Blake Rd N, Hopkins, MN 55343
Sambusa King is a culinary gem that offers a vibrant and unforgettable journey to the Horn of Africa. Specializing in Somali cuisine, this spot is a masterclass in fragrant spices, tender stews, and its namesake: the sambusa.
**The Vibe:** Bright, clean, and welcoming. The service is incredibly friendly and patient, happy to guide newcomers through the menu. It’s a casual counter-service spot where the food is the undisputed star.
**What to Order:**
* **The King Himself: The Sambusa.** You must order at least two of these triangular pastries. The flaky, thin dough is stuffed with a beautifully spiced mixture of ground beef, lentils, onions, and cilantro. They are fried to a perfect, greaseless golden brown and are utterly irresistible. The veggie option is equally superb.
* **The Main Event: Goat Suqaar.** For a true taste of Somali home cooking, this is it. Tender, bite-sized pieces of goat are sautéed with a medley of peppers, onions, and a proprietary blend of spices that is aromatic, savory, and deeply comforting. Served with a side of perfectly cooked basmati rice or *anjero* (a spongy, fermented flatbread similar to a large, lacy pancake), it’s a dish that nourishes the soul.
* **The Ultimate Combo: The Chicken & Rice Plate.** This is the signature dish. Fragrant basmati rice, stained yellow with turmeric and infused with spices, is topped with a perfectly roasted half-chicken, a savory banana, and a fresh side salad. The combination of flavors and textures in a single bite is sublime.
**Pro-Tip:** Ask for a side of their green chili sauce. It’s fiery, fresh, and adds a fantastic kick to every single bite.
#### **4. China Palace Restaurant: The Grand Dame of Chinese-American Cuisine**
**Location:** 724 11th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343
China Palace has been a steadfast fixture in Hopkins for decades. While it honors the classic Chinese-American canon that we all know and love, it also boasts a Chef's Special menu that ventures into more authentic territory, making it a versatile spot for any craving.
**The Vibe:** Elegant in a timeless, red-and-gold-accented way. It’s spacious and quiet, perfect for a business lunch, a low-key date night, or a large family celebration. The service is polished and professional.
**What to Order:**
* **From the Authentic Menu: Szechuan Double Cooked Pork.** This dish is a flavor bomb. Thinly sliced pork belly is boiled, then stir-fried with leeks, cabbage, and fermented black beans in a pungent, spicy Szechuan sauce. It’s rich, complex, and a world away from the typical sweet-and-sour.
* **The Crowd-Pleaser: Happy Family.** True to its name, this dish has something for everyone. A luxurious mix of shrimp, chicken, beef, and fresh vegetables in a light, savory brown sauce. It’s a celebration on a plate.
* **The Crispy Classic: Orange Chicken.** For those who want the quintessential American-Chinese experience, China Palace’s version is a benchmark. The chicken is crispy, the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a hint of citrus zest, and it’s never gloppy or overly thick.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't hesitate to ask your server for recommendations from the Chef's Special menu. They are proud of these dishes and are happy to guide you.
#### **5. Cam Ranh Bay: A Vietnamese Culinary Oasis**
**Location:** 712 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Named for a beautiful bay in Vietnam, Cam Ranh Bay is a portal to the fresh, bright, and complex flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a family-owned establishment where every bowl of pho and every spring roll is made with care and tradition.
**The Vibe:** Simple, serene, and spotlessly clean. The walls are adorned with images of Vietnam, creating a tranquil atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels equally suitable for a restorative solo meal as it is for a casual dinner with friends.
**What to Order:**
* **The National Dish: Pho Dac Biet (Special Combination Pho).** This is non-negotiable. The broth is the soul of this dish—a clear, deeply aromatic, and complex beef broth that has been simmered for hours with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and clove. It’s served with rice noodles and a variety of meats (brisket, meatballs, flank steak) and you customize it with fresh bean sprouts, basil, lime, and jalapeños. It’s the ultimate comfort in a bowl.
* **The Appetizer Supreme: Goi Cuon (Summer Rolls).** These are the fresh, unfried counterpart to spring rolls. Translucent rice paper wraps plump shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs into a light, refreshing package. Dip them in the accompanying peanut-hoisin sauce for a perfect bite.
* **The Flavor Explosion: Bun Thit Nuong Cha Gio (Vermicelli Bowl with Grilled Pork & Egg Roll).** This is a textural dream. A bowl of cool vermicelli noodles is topped with incredibly flavorful, char-grilled marinated pork, a crispy egg roll, fresh herbs, chopped peanuts, and a sweet and tangy *nuoc cham* dressing. You mix it all together for a party in your mouth.
**Pro-Tip:** Add a Vietnamese Iced Coffee with condensed milk to your order. It’s strong, sweet, and the perfect capstone to your meal.
#### **6. New Jasmine Garden Restaurant: Cantonese Refinement**
**Location:** 1601 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
New Jasmine Garden offers a slightly more refined take on Chinese cuisine, with a strong emphasis on Cantonese specialties. The menu is extensive, the ingredients are fresh, and the execution is consistently excellent.
**The Vibe:** A step up in ambiance from a standard takeout spot. It’s a comfortable, sit-down restaurant with white tablecloths and attentive service, ideal for a nice dinner out where the food is the main event.
**What to Order:**
* **The Showstopper: Whole Fried Fish with Ginger and Scallions.** If you're dining with a group, this is a must-order. A whole fish (often tilapia or sea bass) is scored, fried until the skin is impossibly crisp, and then smothered in a sizzling, aromatic sauce of fresh ginger, scallions, and soy. The contrast between the crispy skin and the tender, flaky flesh is divine.
* **The Seafood Delight: Salt & Pepper Shrimp.** Similar to Star Wok's tofu, but with shrimp. The shrimp are fried in their shells with the heads on, which might be intimidating to some, but trust me—the shells become crispy, edible, and packed with flavor. Sucking the seasoning off the shell before eating the sweet shrimp inside is part of the ritual.
* **The Comforting Classic: Walnut Shrimp.** For those with a sweeter palate, this dish is legendary. Large, tender shrimp are coated in a light, creamy, sweet mayonnaise-based sauce and tossed with candied walnuts. It’s rich, indulgent, and utterly delicious.
**Pro-Tip:** Explore the Clay Pot section of the menu. These dishes are cooked and served in a hot clay pot, which keeps them sizzling and infuses the rice and ingredients with a wonderful, toasty flavor.
#### **7. El Lorito Mexican Grill: Authentic Flavors from South of the Border**
**Location:** 502 Blake Rd N, Hopkins, MN 55343
El Lorito is a no-frills, family-run spot that serves some of the most authentic and satisfying Mexican food in the west metro. This is the real deal—tortillas made in-house, rich moles, and meats slow-cooked to perfection.
**The Vibe:** Casual, colorful, and completely focused on the food. It feels like you’ve stumbled upon a beloved neighborhood spot in a Mexican town. The service is warm and the portions are generous.
**What to Order:**
* **The Weekend Special: Birria Tacos.** If you’re lucky enough to visit on a weekend when they have them, do not miss these. Tender, slow-braised beef or goat is stuffed into corn tortillas, griddled until crisp, and served with a side of the rich, consomme-like broth for dipping. It’s a messy, juicy, and euphoric experience.
* **The Ultimate Plate: Molcajete.** Named for the volcanic stone bowl it's served in, this is a feast. It’s filled with a bubbling hot concoction of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, nopales (cactus), and onions, all smothered in a spicy salsa verde or roja. It’s dramatic, shareable, and packed with flavor.
* **The Breakfast Champion: Chilaquiles.** For a morning meal that will power you through the day, this is your dish. Crispy tortilla chips are simmered in a red or green salsa until they soften, then topped with cheese, crema, onions, and your choice of eggs and meat. It’s the perfect hangover cure and a brilliant breakfast all in one.
**Pro-Tip:** Always check the whiteboard for daily specials. This is where the chefs often showcase their most traditional and labor-intensive dishes.
#### **8. Thirty Bales: Modern Midwest Gastropub**
**Location:** 1106 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Named after the hops used in brewing (a bale is a unit of hops), Thirty Bales is the modern heart of Hopkins' social scene. It’s a sleek, contemporary gastropub that pairs an exceptional tap list of local craft beers with a creative and elevated pub food menu.
**The Vibe:** Industrial-chic meets cozy neighborhood pub. Exposed brick, warm wood, and a bustling, energetic atmosphere make it the go-to spot for a after-work pint, a date night, or catching a game. The patio is one of the best in town.
**What to Order:**
* **The Signature Burger: The Thirty Bales Burger.** This is a contender for one of the best burgers in the Twin Cities. A perfectly grilled patty is topped with white cheddar, bacon jam, garlic aioli, and arugula on a brioche bun. The balance of savory, sweet, and peppery flavors is masterful.
* **The Perfect Shareable: Bavarian Pretzel.** A massive, warm, soft pretzel served with beer cheese and whole-grain mustard. It’s the ideal start to your meal and the perfect companion for your first beer.
* **The Elevated Comfort: Short Rib Grilled Cheese.** This isn't your childhood grilled cheese. Sourdough is stuffed with braised short rib, caramelized onions, and gruyere cheese, then grilled to buttery, golden perfection. It’s rich, decadent, and incredibly satisfying.
**Pro-Tip:** Let the staff guide your beer selection. They are knowledgeable and can expertly pair a local brew with whatever you’re eating.
#### **9. Nachos Mexican Grill: The Name Says It All**
**Location:** 1016 Main St, Hopkins, MN 55343
Sometimes, you just need a massive, shareable, gloriously over-the-top plate of nachos. And at Nachos Mexican Grill, that is exactly what you will get. This casual spot specializes in exactly what its name promises, along with other Mexican favorites.
**The Vibe:** Quick, casual, and colorful. It’s a perfect spot for a fast, delicious, and affordable lunch or a relaxed, no-fuss dinner. The focus is on hearty, familiar flavors.
**What to Order:**
* **The Obvious Choice: The Super Nachos.** You can build your own or go with one of their signature versions. The Carne Asada version is a winner—a mountain of crisp tortilla chips loaded with tender grilled steak, refried beans, melted cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. It’s a communal eating experience that never fails to delight.
* **The Burrito Beast: The California Burrito.** A massive flour tortilla stuffed with your choice of meat (the carnitas are excellent), French fries, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. It’s a San Diego classic that is as satisfying as it is hefty.
* **The Simple Pleasure: Tacos al Pastor.** The marinade on the spit-roasted pork is a perfect balance of sweet and savory from the pineapple and chilies. Served on double corn tortillas with onions and cilantro, they are simple, authentic, and perfect.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't forget the salsa bar! It offers a range of fresh salsas, from mild pico de gallo to fiery habanero, to customize every bite.
#### **10. Casa Deli Hopkins: A Hidden Gem for Sandwich Connoisseurs**
**Location:** 720 11th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343
Tucked away in a small strip mall, Casa Deli is the kind of unassuming spot that locals fiercely protect. It’s a classic, no-nonsense deli that focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well: making fantastic, overstuffed sandwiches.
**The Vibe:** Straightforward and friendly. You walk in, you order at the counter, you get a giant sandwich. It’s a place of efficiency and quality, with a few small tables for eating in.
**What
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of Hopkins, One Plate at a Time**
Hopkins, with its charming downtown and rich history, has quietly become a powerhouse of culinary diversity. For those in the know, it’s a place where you can travel the globe in a single afternoon, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the fragrant spice markets of East Africa, all within a few blocks. This is your insider’s guide to the very best dining experiences and the must-order dishes that will have you planning your return visit before you’ve even finished your meal.
#### **1. Star Wok: Where Wok Hei Meets Mainstreet**
**Location:** 1428 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Step through the doors of Star Wok and you are immediately greeted by the most intoxicating aroma in all of cooking: the breath of the wok, known in Cantonese as *wok hei*. It’s that elusive, smoky essence that can only be achieved by a skilled hand tossing ingredients over a blazing inferno. This isn't just a Chinese restaurant; it's a temple to the art of stir-fry.
**The Vibe:** Unassuming and functional, with a focus squarely on the food. The real theater is the open kitchen, where you can catch glimpses of flames leaping and ingredients dancing in the seasoned wok. It’s a place for a quick, satisfying solo lunch or a relaxed, flavor-packed family dinner.
**What to Order:**
* **The Star of the Show: Salt & Pepper Tofu.** Even dedicated carnivores will swoon over this dish. Cubes of silken tofu are delicately battered, fried to a perfect golden crisp, and then tossed in a wok with a vibrant mix of minced jalapeños, onions, and a masterful blend of salt and pepper. The exterior shatters to reveal a cloud-like interior, creating a textural symphony that is nothing short of addictive.
* **Cantonese Classic: Beef Chow Fun.** This is the ultimate test of a wok master, and Star Wok passes with flying colors. Wide, chewy rice noodles are seared with tender beef, crisp bean sprouts, and green onions in a dark, savory sauce. The slight char on the noodles from the intense wok heat is the hallmark of authenticity.
* **For the Adventurous: Szechuan Dumplings in Red Oil.** These are not your gentle, delicate dumplings. They are a bold declaration of flavor—plump pork dumplings swimming in a complex, spicy, and slightly numbing Szechuan chili oil, fragrant with garlic and sesame. It’s a dish that wakes up every single taste bud.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't shy away from the Chef's Specials section of the menu. This is where the kitchen's creativity truly shines, often featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes you won't find elsewhere.
#### **2. Hoagie's Family Restaurant: The Heartbeat of Hometown Comfort**
**Location:** 824 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
If Hopkins had a culinary town square, Hoagie's would be it. This is the kind of place where the coffee is always hot, the booths are comfortably worn, and the servers know the regulars by name and their usual order. It’s a timeless American diner, serving up generous portions of nostalgia and comfort food done right.
**The Vibe:** Pure, unadulterated nostalgia. The air smells of sizzling bacon, freshly baked pie, and brewing coffee. It’s bustling and cheerful, filled with the hum of conversation and the clatter of plates. This is where you come for a long, lazy weekend breakfast or a straightforward, satisfying meat-and-potatoes dinner.
**What to Order:**
* **Breakfast Perfection: The Skillet.** Any of them, really. But the Heart Stopper or Garbage skillet is a legendary start to the day—a cast-iron platter piled high with crispy hash browns, your choice of meat, peppers, onions, and cheese, all crowned with two perfectly cooked eggs.
* **Lunch Staple: The Reuben.** A classic diner litmus test, and Hoagie's version is top-tier. Piled high with perfectly corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye bread, it’s a messy, glorious masterpiece.
* **Sweet Finale: Homemade Pie.** Do not, under any circumstances, leave without a slice of pie. The banana cream is a cloud of pudding-like bliss in a flaky crust, and the seasonal fruit pies (like apple or cherry) taste like they were just baked by your Midwestern grandmother.
**Pro-Tip:** Come hungry. Portions are famously large, and you’ll want to save room for that pie.
#### **3. Sambusa King: A Taste of the Horn of Africa**
**Location:** 126 Blake Rd N, Hopkins, MN 55343
Sambusa King is a culinary gem that offers a vibrant and unforgettable journey to the Horn of Africa. Specializing in Somali cuisine, this spot is a masterclass in fragrant spices, tender stews, and its namesake: the sambusa.
**The Vibe:** Bright, clean, and welcoming. The service is incredibly friendly and patient, happy to guide newcomers through the menu. It’s a casual counter-service spot where the food is the undisputed star.
**What to Order:**
* **The King Himself: The Sambusa.** You must order at least two of these triangular pastries. The flaky, thin dough is stuffed with a beautifully spiced mixture of ground beef, lentils, onions, and cilantro. They are fried to a perfect, greaseless golden brown and are utterly irresistible. The veggie option is equally superb.
* **The Main Event: Goat Suqaar.** For a true taste of Somali home cooking, this is it. Tender, bite-sized pieces of goat are sautéed with a medley of peppers, onions, and a proprietary blend of spices that is aromatic, savory, and deeply comforting. Served with a side of perfectly cooked basmati rice or *anjero* (a spongy, fermented flatbread similar to a large, lacy pancake), it’s a dish that nourishes the soul.
* **The Ultimate Combo: The Chicken & Rice Plate.** This is the signature dish. Fragrant basmati rice, stained yellow with turmeric and infused with spices, is topped with a perfectly roasted half-chicken, a savory banana, and a fresh side salad. The combination of flavors and textures in a single bite is sublime.
**Pro-Tip:** Ask for a side of their green chili sauce. It’s fiery, fresh, and adds a fantastic kick to every single bite.
#### **4. China Palace Restaurant: The Grand Dame of Chinese-American Cuisine**
**Location:** 724 11th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343
China Palace has been a steadfast fixture in Hopkins for decades. While it honors the classic Chinese-American canon that we all know and love, it also boasts a Chef's Special menu that ventures into more authentic territory, making it a versatile spot for any craving.
**The Vibe:** Elegant in a timeless, red-and-gold-accented way. It’s spacious and quiet, perfect for a business lunch, a low-key date night, or a large family celebration. The service is polished and professional.
**What to Order:**
* **From the Authentic Menu: Szechuan Double Cooked Pork.** This dish is a flavor bomb. Thinly sliced pork belly is boiled, then stir-fried with leeks, cabbage, and fermented black beans in a pungent, spicy Szechuan sauce. It’s rich, complex, and a world away from the typical sweet-and-sour.
* **The Crowd-Pleaser: Happy Family.** True to its name, this dish has something for everyone. A luxurious mix of shrimp, chicken, beef, and fresh vegetables in a light, savory brown sauce. It’s a celebration on a plate.
* **The Crispy Classic: Orange Chicken.** For those who want the quintessential American-Chinese experience, China Palace’s version is a benchmark. The chicken is crispy, the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a hint of citrus zest, and it’s never gloppy or overly thick.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't hesitate to ask your server for recommendations from the Chef's Special menu. They are proud of these dishes and are happy to guide you.
#### **5. Cam Ranh Bay: A Vietnamese Culinary Oasis**
**Location:** 712 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Named for a beautiful bay in Vietnam, Cam Ranh Bay is a portal to the fresh, bright, and complex flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a family-owned establishment where every bowl of pho and every spring roll is made with care and tradition.
**The Vibe:** Simple, serene, and spotlessly clean. The walls are adorned with images of Vietnam, creating a tranquil atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels equally suitable for a restorative solo meal as it is for a casual dinner with friends.
**What to Order:**
* **The National Dish: Pho Dac Biet (Special Combination Pho).** This is non-negotiable. The broth is the soul of this dish—a clear, deeply aromatic, and complex beef broth that has been simmered for hours with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and clove. It’s served with rice noodles and a variety of meats (brisket, meatballs, flank steak) and you customize it with fresh bean sprouts, basil, lime, and jalapeños. It’s the ultimate comfort in a bowl.
* **The Appetizer Supreme: Goi Cuon (Summer Rolls).** These are the fresh, unfried counterpart to spring rolls. Translucent rice paper wraps plump shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs into a light, refreshing package. Dip them in the accompanying peanut-hoisin sauce for a perfect bite.
* **The Flavor Explosion: Bun Thit Nuong Cha Gio (Vermicelli Bowl with Grilled Pork & Egg Roll).** This is a textural dream. A bowl of cool vermicelli noodles is topped with incredibly flavorful, char-grilled marinated pork, a crispy egg roll, fresh herbs, chopped peanuts, and a sweet and tangy *nuoc cham* dressing. You mix it all together for a party in your mouth.
**Pro-Tip:** Add a Vietnamese Iced Coffee with condensed milk to your order. It’s strong, sweet, and the perfect capstone to your meal.
#### **6. New Jasmine Garden Restaurant: Cantonese Refinement**
**Location:** 1601 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
New Jasmine Garden offers a slightly more refined take on Chinese cuisine, with a strong emphasis on Cantonese specialties. The menu is extensive, the ingredients are fresh, and the execution is consistently excellent.
**The Vibe:** A step up in ambiance from a standard takeout spot. It’s a comfortable, sit-down restaurant with white tablecloths and attentive service, ideal for a nice dinner out where the food is the main event.
**What to Order:**
* **The Showstopper: Whole Fried Fish with Ginger and Scallions.** If you're dining with a group, this is a must-order. A whole fish (often tilapia or sea bass) is scored, fried until the skin is impossibly crisp, and then smothered in a sizzling, aromatic sauce of fresh ginger, scallions, and soy. The contrast between the crispy skin and the tender, flaky flesh is divine.
* **The Seafood Delight: Salt & Pepper Shrimp.** Similar to Star Wok's tofu, but with shrimp. The shrimp are fried in their shells with the heads on, which might be intimidating to some, but trust me—the shells become crispy, edible, and packed with flavor. Sucking the seasoning off the shell before eating the sweet shrimp inside is part of the ritual.
* **The Comforting Classic: Walnut Shrimp.** For those with a sweeter palate, this dish is legendary. Large, tender shrimp are coated in a light, creamy, sweet mayonnaise-based sauce and tossed with candied walnuts. It’s rich, indulgent, and utterly delicious.
**Pro-Tip:** Explore the Clay Pot section of the menu. These dishes are cooked and served in a hot clay pot, which keeps them sizzling and infuses the rice and ingredients with a wonderful, toasty flavor.
#### **7. El Lorito Mexican Grill: Authentic Flavors from South of the Border**
**Location:** 502 Blake Rd N, Hopkins, MN 55343
El Lorito is a no-frills, family-run spot that serves some of the most authentic and satisfying Mexican food in the west metro. This is the real deal—tortillas made in-house, rich moles, and meats slow-cooked to perfection.
**The Vibe:** Casual, colorful, and completely focused on the food. It feels like you’ve stumbled upon a beloved neighborhood spot in a Mexican town. The service is warm and the portions are generous.
**What to Order:**
* **The Weekend Special: Birria Tacos.** If you’re lucky enough to visit on a weekend when they have them, do not miss these. Tender, slow-braised beef or goat is stuffed into corn tortillas, griddled until crisp, and served with a side of the rich, consomme-like broth for dipping. It’s a messy, juicy, and euphoric experience.
* **The Ultimate Plate: Molcajete.** Named for the volcanic stone bowl it's served in, this is a feast. It’s filled with a bubbling hot concoction of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, nopales (cactus), and onions, all smothered in a spicy salsa verde or roja. It’s dramatic, shareable, and packed with flavor.
* **The Breakfast Champion: Chilaquiles.** For a morning meal that will power you through the day, this is your dish. Crispy tortilla chips are simmered in a red or green salsa until they soften, then topped with cheese, crema, onions, and your choice of eggs and meat. It’s the perfect hangover cure and a brilliant breakfast all in one.
**Pro-Tip:** Always check the whiteboard for daily specials. This is where the chefs often showcase their most traditional and labor-intensive dishes.
#### **8. Thirty Bales: Modern Midwest Gastropub**
**Location:** 1106 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
Named after the hops used in brewing (a bale is a unit of hops), Thirty Bales is the modern heart of Hopkins' social scene. It’s a sleek, contemporary gastropub that pairs an exceptional tap list of local craft beers with a creative and elevated pub food menu.
**The Vibe:** Industrial-chic meets cozy neighborhood pub. Exposed brick, warm wood, and a bustling, energetic atmosphere make it the go-to spot for a after-work pint, a date night, or catching a game. The patio is one of the best in town.
**What to Order:**
* **The Signature Burger: The Thirty Bales Burger.** This is a contender for one of the best burgers in the Twin Cities. A perfectly grilled patty is topped with white cheddar, bacon jam, garlic aioli, and arugula on a brioche bun. The balance of savory, sweet, and peppery flavors is masterful.
* **The Perfect Shareable: Bavarian Pretzel.** A massive, warm, soft pretzel served with beer cheese and whole-grain mustard. It’s the ideal start to your meal and the perfect companion for your first beer.
* **The Elevated Comfort: Short Rib Grilled Cheese.** This isn't your childhood grilled cheese. Sourdough is stuffed with braised short rib, caramelized onions, and gruyere cheese, then grilled to buttery, golden perfection. It’s rich, decadent, and incredibly satisfying.
**Pro-Tip:** Let the staff guide your beer selection. They are knowledgeable and can expertly pair a local brew with whatever you’re eating.
#### **9. Nachos Mexican Grill: The Name Says It All**
**Location:** 1016 Main St, Hopkins, MN 55343
Sometimes, you just need a massive, shareable, gloriously over-the-top plate of nachos. And at Nachos Mexican Grill, that is exactly what you will get. This casual spot specializes in exactly what its name promises, along with other Mexican favorites.
**The Vibe:** Quick, casual, and colorful. It’s a perfect spot for a fast, delicious, and affordable lunch or a relaxed, no-fuss dinner. The focus is on hearty, familiar flavors.
**What to Order:**
* **The Obvious Choice: The Super Nachos.** You can build your own or go with one of their signature versions. The Carne Asada version is a winner—a mountain of crisp tortilla chips loaded with tender grilled steak, refried beans, melted cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. It’s a communal eating experience that never fails to delight.
* **The Burrito Beast: The California Burrito.** A massive flour tortilla stuffed with your choice of meat (the carnitas are excellent), French fries, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. It’s a San Diego classic that is as satisfying as it is hefty.
* **The Simple Pleasure: Tacos al Pastor.** The marinade on the spit-roasted pork is a perfect balance of sweet and savory from the pineapple and chilies. Served on double corn tortillas with onions and cilantro, they are simple, authentic, and perfect.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't forget the salsa bar! It offers a range of fresh salsas, from mild pico de gallo to fiery habanero, to customize every bite.
#### **10. Casa Deli Hopkins: A Hidden Gem for Sandwich Connoisseurs**
**Location:** 720 11th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343
Tucked away in a small strip mall, Casa Deli is the kind of unassuming spot that locals fiercely protect. It’s a classic, no-nonsense deli that focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well: making fantastic, overstuffed sandwiches.
**The Vibe:** Straightforward and friendly. You walk in, you order at the counter, you get a giant sandwich. It’s a place of efficiency and quality, with a few small tables for eating in.
**What
Comments
Post a Comment