The Nook
A legendary Minneapolis-St. Paul institution known for its iconic cheese-stuffed Juicy Lucy burgers and a fun, retro basement bowling alley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Nook
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Minneapolis-St. Paul institution known for its iconic cheese-stuffed Juicy Lucy burgers and a fun, retro basement bowling alley.
"The Nook serves up the juiciest burgers in town, a true taste of Minnesota Nice!"
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Avoid crowds and get faster service by visiting during less busy times.
Don't Skip Signature Dishes
Be sure to try their famous Juicy Lucy or the Spanish Fly Chorizo Juicy Lucy for a taste sensation.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Legendary Juicy Lucy
Experience the iconic cheese-stuffed burger that's a Minneapolis-St. Paul legend, with molten cheese oozing from every bite.
Old-School Bowling Alley Charm
Dine or bowl in a unique, century-old basement bowling alley for a retro and fun-filled dining experience.
Hand-Battered Cheese Curds
Indulge in perfectly hand-battered cheese curds, with a variety of flavors including flaming hot and honey bacon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Avoid crowds and get faster service by visiting during less busy times.
Don't Skip Signature Dishes
Be sure to try their famous Juicy Lucy or the Spanish Fly Chorizo Juicy Lucy for a taste sensation.
Make Time for Bowling
Enjoy a game on the functional, 100-year-old basement bowling alley for added fun.
Beware of Hot Cheese
The cheese filling in the burgers is extremely hot, so be cautious when taking your first bite.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Avoid crowds and get faster service by visiting during less busy times.
Don't Skip Signature Dishes
Be sure to try their famous Juicy Lucy or the Spanish Fly Chorizo Juicy Lucy for a taste sensation.
Make Time for Bowling
Enjoy a game on the functional, 100-year-old basement bowling alley for added fun.
Beware of Hot Cheese
The cheese filling in the burgers is extremely hot, so be cautious when taking your first bite.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Nook is widely celebrated for its legendary Juicy Lucy burgers, praised for their incredible juiciness and flavor. Diners also rave about the unique atmosphere, especially the basement bowling alley, and the delicious, hand-battered cheese curds. While some mention it can be a bit pricey and loud, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with friendly service and a truly memorable dining experience.
"Wow , wow. Wow. Local great place here. Triple D never fails. This place was busy for a Sunday. Ate downstairs next to the bowling alley. Cajun seasoned fries, fire, little kick, and the dipping sauce amazing. Went with the Guys big bite burger and, of course, onion rings. Amazing!!!!! Good cold local beer. Service was friendly, and food came out fairly fast for bring busy. Will 100% come back again. Even had a nice chat with a nice family at the bar. Loved it!!!"
Mizzo Strack
"The Nook is an absolute gem when it comes to burgers. Seriously — the burgers here are next level delicious. Perfectly cooked, juicy, and full of flavor. If you’re a burger lover, this place should be at the top of your list.
The staff is super friendly and welcoming, giving the whole place a laid-back, comfortable vibe. The atmosphere is cozy and lively, with a fun, classic pub-style decor that mixes sports bar energy with local charm. Think vintage signs, wood accents, and a neighborhood feel that makes you want to come back.
Whether you’re grabbing dinner with friends or just popping in for a great meal, The Nook delivers on taste, service, and ambiance. Highly recommend!"
Ed
"When I tried to search the best burgers on my visit here in Minneapolis, I’ve heard a lot about ‘The Nook’, I just had to try it, especially when Guy Fieri featured it. It didn’t disappoint. The juiciest burger I ever had. Sweet potato fries were spot on. You can’t go wrong with the deep fried cheese curds. This is what a Jucy Lucy should be. A little warning though, careful when digging in your burgers, cheese filling is hot."
Hector Baraoidan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The Juicy Lucy is a burger with cheese stuffed inside the patty, so it oozes out when you bite into it. The Nook is famous for perfecting this classic burger.
Yes, The Nook features a unique, old-school basement bowling alley that's open for guests to enjoy while dining.
The hand-battered cheese curds are a must-try, especially the flaming hot or honey bacon varieties. Chicken wings are also highly recommended.
The Nook generally operates on a walk-in basis, but it's advisable to check their policy for larger groups or specific events.
Yes, The Nook is considered family-friendly, with a fun atmosphere and options like bowling that appeal to all ages.
Diners also rave about their Cajun seasoned fries, sweet potato fries, and walleye tacos.
Yes, The Nook has been featured on Food Network's 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,' highlighting its iconic burgers.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Best Kid & Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Paul
Enjoy the taste of the juicy nookie in the atmosphere of a cozy bar decorated with dollar bills. Plus, head downstairs to the Ranham Bowling Center for an evening of extended fun. For larger parties, head to Shamrocks (its sister location on West 7th Street) to enjoy the same delicious eats in a spacious atmosphere, live entertainment, and free shuttle rides to and from Minnesota Wild and Vikings home games via the Paddywagon.
Where to Go in Minneapolis-St. Paul For the Best Cheese Curds
The Nook and Shamrocks are often credited with serving up the best curds in the Twin Cities (the sister restaurants have similar menus and are only 1.5 miles apart). Pick from the classic version, or try the Nook curds, which include honey-glazed bacon. Heat lovers should order the flaming hot cheese curds, which are tossed in a spicy batter, dusted with ghost pepper, and served with a side of spicy honey.
St. Paul's Best Restaurants
Perched on the edge of Highland Park and Mac-Groveland, The Nook doesn’t claim to have invented the Jucy Lucy (we’re looking at you, Matt’s Bar and 5-8 Club), but many savvy food folks around town will whisper in your ear that it may just be the best. One thing’s for sure: The Nook’s fresh-cut fries and basement bowling alley (yes, bowling alley) make it a destination worth visiting.
11 Famous Minnesota Restaurants You Must Try
Matt's may be home to one of the original Juicy Lucys, but there are plenty of other options in the Twin Cities. If you're on the hunt for a cheesy burger east of the river, the Nook is a go-to spot. They actually have a few stuffed burgers to choose from, so you can go with a classic cheddar or mix things up with queso or swiss.
Minnesota's Most Famous Restaurants You Need to Visit ASAP
The funny thing is, it's had two different names since it was officially called 'The Nook', but that's what people still call it. You'll still find it if you look up 'The Nook' but the official name currently is Casper's and Runyon's Nook. They're another spot that's been featured on 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives'.
Jason's Guide to Great St. Paul Restaurants
You’ll find iconic spots like the Nook, Cafe Latte, the Lexington, and El Burrito Mercado, as well as newer places like Brunson’s Pub and due foccaceria. I threw some beer bars on there, too. I hope you find it as useful as Riley hopefully will.
Defining a City By Its Food: 17 Uniquely St. Paul Dishes
There are, of course, plenty of places to get a good Jucy Lucy in St. Paul. Blue Door Pub, for example, does it with unmatched creative flare. But nowhere truly captures the St. Paul aesthetic of big flavors in quaint settings like the Nook.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit