Just 25 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, Excelsior’s dining scene is having a moment. Water Street, the town’s main strip, has turned into a bona fide restaurant row, with a flurry of new openings joining longtime favorites. From sleek supper clubs and island-inspired hangouts to ramen shops and frozen-custard stands, it’s possible to eat your way through Excelsior from morning coffee to late-night cocktails. Here’s your guide to the old standbys and the shiny newcomers in and around the main drive, with a couple gems further afield.

*Opened in the past 12 months

Scratch cooking, lattes and music nights make this cozy cafe a neighborhood anchor. Great for lingering over breakfast or lunch, or a light dinner with live music.

318 Water St., three-eighteen.com

Excelsior’s beloved frozen custard stand has rotating daily flavors, with walk-up or drive-thru service. This seasonal stand (open until Thanksgiving) is a true summertime ritual.

800 Excelsior Blvd., adelescustard.com

Started by a former Paisley Park staffer, this just-opened dessert shop turns out decadent cheesecakes (mini and full-size) in seasonal and standard flavors.

House-brewed beers and a lively taproom make this a community hub, with regular live music and events.

421 3rd St., excelsiorbrew.com

The classic ice cream parlor serving scoops and housemade waffle cones since the ’80s has become a nostalgic Excelsior summer-night standby.

31 Water St., licksunlimitedmn.com

Since 2022, this airy, friendly cafe has been known for its fun latte flavors — cereal milk, strawberry cheesecake — plus plenty of seating that invites you to stay awhile.

This bakery that also has an outpost in Chaska is beloved for its breads and croissants (the kouign-amann is a highlight), but don’t miss lunch: sandwiches like ham and cheese on a fresh baguette show off the cafe’s strengths.

284 Water St., redbenchbakery.com

This polished American bistro from chef/owner Eli Wollenzien (also in Edina) is a go-to for apps, burgers and salads. Also a popular brunch stop on weekends.

227 Water St., coalitionrestaurant.com

Grab a bottle from the connected liquor store and enjoy it on-site with bar snacks, pull-tabs and lake views. The patio is prime in summer, and the club sandwich is top-notch.

Street-style tacos, margs and a festive vibe make this a post-boat-day favorite. The patio stays packed on sunny days.

30 Water St., lagotacos.com

Excelsior’s lakeside institution. Boats pull right up to the dock, bootleg cocktails flow freely, and the menu surprises with fresh, satisfying food — the salmon bowl and ceviche are standouts.

685 Excelsior Blvd., maynards-excelsior.com

This spacious, straightforward sushi restaurant offering a wide menu of rolls, sashimi, noodle soups and pan-Asian entrees is a reliable stop for a casual sushi night.

Founded by the family of Famous Dave’s and run by Dave’s son James, himself an award-winning pitmaster, this counter-service barbecue joint has a takeout window for quick bites — great if you’re grabbing a beer at Excelsior Brewing next door.

291 Water St., oldsouthernbbq.com

From Jester Concepts, this tiny, cheeky ramen shop (look for the mural of a woman lounging in noodles) serves steaming bowls of ramen, dumplings and sake. It’s connected to Mirabelle.

200 Water St., shikinoods.com

From InnerBloom Hospitality (Wayzata’s Josefina, Macanda), Layline opened in 2023 with a splashy dining room with bold wallpaper, surprising cocktails and fresh oysters. Don’t miss the cornmeal Johnnycake. Choose from the outdoor patio or the cozy covered porch that feels like summer, even on chillier nights.

Opened in late July by Jester Concepts, Mirabelle transforms a former beloved Irish pub into a stunning supper club–style destination with a massive central bar. The menu leans hearty — prime rib, cheese curds, baked manicotti — perfect for a special night out.

200 Water St., mirabellemn.com

Excelsior’s Caribbean escape since 2023 is known for jerk chicken, curries, flaky beef patties and standout wings. Tropical cocktails and open mic nights bring the island energy.

304 Water St., montegoblu.com

Casual, build-your-own pizzas with a huge range of toppings, Italian fries, salads and a twice-daily happy hour. Also in Edina.

The burger that made Parlour a Twin Cities icon is now in Excelsior. Expect the same craft cocktails, craveable fries and moody basement vibes as the Minneapolis original. Tartan fabric and taxidermy add to the dark, cozy feel.

200 Water St., parlourbar.com

David Fhima’s Sicilian spot serves wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and has an espresso-and-pastry counter for daytime treats. Stop in for coffee, spritzes or dinner — with breakfast and lunch on the way soon.

205 Water St., vagabondomn.com

Also from InnerBloom Hospitality, this reliable destination for sushi lovers offers fresh fish, creative rolls and happy-hour deals. (There are locations in St. Paul and at Southdale, too.) A solid Japanese whisky menu is another draw.