A guide to some of the most impressive local resurants in Rochester, MN, including pizza, BBQ, Sushi, and traditional, upscale fare.
Jenpachi Japanese Steak House3160 Wellner Dr NE, Rochester, MN
507-292-1688
Jenpachi is one of the city's best Asian spots with traditional Japanese cooking tables, which make for a great evening out with a group. Friendly staff and gregarious chefs that entertain you while they cook, provide not only great food, but a generous portion of laughs as well. Jenpachi is also Rochester's best spot for fresh, creative sushi with daily specials.
Red Wood Room 300 First Ave. N.W., Broadstreet Cafe, Rochester, MN 507-281-2978
This romantic wine bar provides great atmosphere, innovative and traditional eats, and live acoustic music. An impressive wine list and a menu that serves light nosh and full meals make this a great place to relax at the end of the day alone or with someone special.
Zorba's Greek Restaurant 924 7th St NW, Rochester, MN
507-281-1540
Zorba's won't win any prizes for décor, with its Spartan Formica tables, but the food is the best Greek around. The menu features traditional Greek favorites from Slavaki to Mousaka, and all is served hot, fresh, and with a smile. This little spot has outdoor seating in the summer and outstanding Greek deserts for dine in or carry out.
Michael's Restaurant 15 S Broadway, Rochester, MN
507-288-2020
Any list of local favorites would be incomplete without a nod to Michael's. This upscale, traditional spot boasts surf and turf, along with daily specials. The service is legendary, the wine diverse, and the food is always good. Expect upscale décor, but nothing nouvoe as the place still sits as it did in the 80's.
Henry Wellington's 216 1st Ave SW, Rochester, MN
507-289-1949
Wellington boasts on of the most eclectic, and visually appealing menu's in town. This charming, intimate restaurant serves everything from the Fillet Wellington (an obvious signature) to enchiladas rancheros. The upscale atmosphere includes small sectioned off dining rooms and friendly service. Their nachos are legendary and their wine list ample.
Bilotti's Italian Village 304 1st Ave SW, Rochester, MN
507-282-8668
Hands down, Bilotti's has the best thick crust/deep dish pizza in town. Traditional red and white checkered tablecloths, and standard candles on the tables make this the stereotypical Italian pizza joint, but there is nothing regular about the food.
John Hardy's BBQ 929 Highway 52 N, Rochester, MN
507-288-3936
If you don't mind eating in a shack, but love true down home barbecue, this is the best place in town. The décor leaves much to be desired, but that becomes part of the charm. The menu features a variety of barbecued meats, stewed okra, and amazing fried potatoes. The food is cheap, the beverages are cold, and service is fast and friendly.
Chardonnay 723 2nd St SW, Rochester, MN
507-252-1310
If you are looking for romantic charm and an intimate setting, complimented by amazing, upscale cuisine, this is the place to go to find it. A converted historic home in central Rochester, upscale Chardonnay carries one of the most impressive wine lists in town and the nightly dinner presentations are second to none. Seating is limited. Call for reservations.
