Mall Cuisine: Novel Noshing + Fan Favorites

Photos courtesy of Mall of America

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The combination of the spring weather and the vaccine rollout has a lot of us Minnesotans slowly crawling out of hibernation, ready to try some new things and discover what we missed over the last year. We are going to go ahead and assume that the Mall of America is on your list of places to rediscover in 2021 and—good news—there are three new Mall of America restaurants that you are going to want to experience. 

The Fair on 4 

The Fair on 4 is the cool new food and entertainment destination at the Mall of America. Take a few spins around the ¼ mile go-kart track, try your hand at axe throwing, and don’t you dare leave without indulging in the fair-inspired food items on the menu. From cheese curds to hand dipped corn dogs to cocktail floats, The Fair on 4 is the best way to enjoy all your fair favorites year-round. 

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM – 7 PM / Friday-Saturday 10 AM – 9 PM
Location:  4th floor East Side
Food: Fair Food, Pizza, Craft Beer
Opened:  March 2021

Wafels & Dinges

If the name “Wafels & Dinges” rings a bell, it is probably because you happened across one of their iconic yellow food trucks somewhere in New York City. Now you can scratch that NYC itch without hopping a plane—simply head over to the Mall of America and get your Belgian Waffle on. Top a “wafel” with your choice of “dinges” (that’s “toppings” for those of us who are not up on our Belgian slang), which include delectable options like whipped cream, fudge, strawberries, and more.

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM – 7 PM / Friday-Saturday 10 AM – 9 PM
Location: 360 West Market
Food: Belgian Waffles
Opened: August 2020

Dunkin’ Donuts

Chances are good that you are already familiar with Dunkin’ Donuts—which is all the more reason to stop by their most recent location. With more than 50 kinds of donuts to choose from and some of the most deliciously saccharine coffee in town, this is the perfect spot to grab a snack before you walk the classic Mall of America loop.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 9 AM – 7 PM
Location: 280 East Broadway
Food: Coffee, Donuts, Breakfast Sandwiches
Opened: July 2020

For anyone looking for a sit-down dining option next time you venture out to the mall, try one of our tried-and-true Mall of America favorites:

Cantina Laredo: Located at 3rd Floor West, Cantina Laredo is a Mexican restaurant that features made-from-scratch recipes. With its mouth-watering appetizers and entrees, Cantina Laredo is sure to become a go-to if it is not already (Cantina Laredo also happens to make this writer’s favorite margarita in town).

Masu Sushi & Robata: Located at 344 East, Masu Sushi & Robata is known for its delicious sushi and unparalleled noodles. Whether you are feeling ramen, yakisoba, robata, or steamed buns, you are going to leave this meal feeling a little happier.

Sugar Factory: Located at 206 South, Sugar Factory is the place to go if you are looking for something gorgeous to feature on your Instagram. Sugar Factory serves great American food like burgers and specialty pizzas. Make sure you treat yourself to their over-the-top drinks and sweet treats! 

FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar: Located in the Radisson Blu connected to the Mall of America, FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar offers a fun menu, including a mean Minnesota Wild Rice soup and a robust selection of specialty cocktails. Needless to say, this cozy spot is a great option for date night!

The Mall of America is committed to keeping everyone safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The mall has taken measures like installing hand sanitizer dispensers and directional arrows to guide foot traffic throughout the mall. Please do your part when at the Mall of America by following current COVID guidelines like wearing a mask and staying socially distant. 

Let’s make this escape from hibernation sustainable by being as safe as possible!