The best restaurants in Grand Forks

“Skies 322 nails the sweet spot between laid-back and polished, with house-made takes on American favorites, legit steaks, and craft cocktails worth lingering over. Put it on your this-week list for dinner or brunch, especially if you want downtown vibes without any fuss.”

From the Grand Forks newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Whether you want a quick plate or to graze the buffet, Aaltos Garden Cafe keeps it classic with in-house comfort favorites. Slide in this week for their lineup like Thursday Chicken & Ribs, Friday Surf & Turf, Saturday Roast Beef, or Sunday Homestyle Roasted Turkey, then pretend you cooked.”

From the Grand Forks newsletter, August 3, 2026

“From ramen and teriyaki to sashimi, nigiri, and special rolls, Sakura | Japanese Steakhouse covers the crave spectrum. When you want dinner to be a show, grab a spot at the hibachi grill and let the chef handle the knife tricks while you handle the conversation.”

From the Grand Forks newsletter, August 6, 2026

“If you want real-deal chicken strips this week, 1st and Tenders Grand Forks hand-breads all-white tenders to order in buttermilk, then lets you go dry-rubbed (BBQ, Cajun, Ranch, Spicy, Lemon Pepper) or fully sauced, which basically turns any watch party into a victory lap.”

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

“Local chain serving Mexican faves, including flame-grilled fare, in a casual, traditional space.”

“American fare with global influences & martinis amid brick walls, high ceilings & abstract art.”

“Relaxed hangout featuring burgers with creative topping combos & an assortment of craft beers.”

“Neighborhood pub known for its fries, burgers, and gourmet grilled cheeses, plus local beer on tap.”

“Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.”

“Pizzeria offering a wide range of beers on tap, plus appetizers, and soups.”

“Upscale eatery whipping up creative eats such as pork belly, scallops, and steak, plus cocktails.”

“Old-school, over-21 hangout providing a variety of sandwiches, cocktails & big schooners of beer.”

“Imaginative pizzas with plenty of veggie options dished out in a funky storefront, plus beer.”

“No-nonsense take-out counter & drive-thru window serving old-fashioned hamburgers, fries & shakes.”

“Buffet chain offering pizza, fried chicken & classic American sides in an Old West-themed setting.”

“Local pizzeria chain serving creative pies, plus chicken & pasta, in a low-key setting.”

“Casual eatery offering breakfast, quick bites, and coffee, plus a pizza menu.”

“Farm-to-table spot for burgers, steak, seafood and other eats in a relaxed space with a full bar.”

“Casual diner specializing in American fare, including breakfast plates and lunch mains.”

“Japanese restaurant serving sushi, noodles & hibachi fare in a dimly lighted, contemporary space.”

“Counter-serve chain offering international noodle & pasta dishes from mac 'n' cheese to Pad Thai.”

“Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.”

“Cozy establishment offering brunch, breakfast burritos, and Swedish meatballs, as well as baked goods.”

“Strip-mall operation with late hours offering create-your-own pizza from a variety of options.”

“Casual, open-kitchen Mexican restaurant serving fajitas, margaritas, and other classics, plus a kids' menu.”

“Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.”