Minnesota’s food scene is rich with locally sourced ingredients, innovative chefs, and restaurants committed to caring for what goes on your plate. Choosing where to eat isn’t just about great flavors—it’s also an opportunity to support businesses that care for the land, minimize waste, and strengthen local communities.

By dining at sustainable restaurants, you’re making a direct impact on Minnesota’s food system, natural places, and economy. 

Why Choose Sustainable Restaurants?

Supporting sustainable restaurants goes beyond enjoying a good meal—it helps care for Minnesota’s natural resources and supports local farmers and producers. Here’s why it matters:

• Local Sourcing Reduces Carbon Footprint – When restaurants buy from nearby farms and suppliers, they cut down on transportation emissions and ensure fresher ingredients.
• Ethical Food Practices – Sustainable restaurants prioritize humane animal treatment, fair wages for workers, and responsible sourcing of seafood and meats.
• Less Waste, More Impact – Many eco-conscious restaurants compost, minimize single-use plastics, and donate excess food to reduce their impact.
• Supports Minnesota Farmers & Economy – Choosing restaurants that source locally keeps money within the community and helps small farms thrive.

What to Look for in a Restaurant that Priortizes Caring for Our Natural Places

Not sure how to identify an eco-friendly restaurant? Here are some key things to look for:

1. Locally Sourced Ingredients

Check menus for mentions of local farms, farmers’ market partnerships, or Minnesota-grown ingredients. Many sustainable restaurants proudly list their suppliers.

2. Seasonal Menus

Sustainable dining means working with what’s in season rather than relying on out-of-season produce shipped from thousands of miles away. A rotating menu is a good sign of a restaurant committed to fresh, local food.

3. Eco-Friendly Packaging & Waste Reduction

Look for places that use compostable or reusable packaging and offer recycling or composting options. Many sustainable restaurants work hard to minimize food waste and reduce plastic use.

4. Ethical Meat & Seafood Sourcing

Restaurants with a commitment to sustainability often source meats from pasture-raised or grass-fed farms and seafood from responsibly managed fisheries.

5. Energy Efficiency & Green Practices

From LED lighting to energy-efficient kitchen equipment and water conservation practices, sustainable restaurants take steps to minimize their carbon footprint.

Take the Next Step in Stewardship

Dining sustainably in Minnesota is about more than just finding a good meal—it’s about making choices that support local farmers, caring for our natural places, and strengthen communities. Next time you eat out, consider choosing a restaurant that shares your values.

Where will you dine next to support a better food future? Let’s make every meal count for Minnesota!