North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe

North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe

⭐ 4.9/5 (11 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Casual Dining

📍 261 Centennial Dr Stop 7305, Grand Forks, North Dakota

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9/5.0 • 11 reviews
📍 Address
261 Centennial Dr Stop 7305
Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

Closed ⋅ Opens 11 am

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into the North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting ambiance. The cozy, trendy space exudes a laidback vibe, making it the perfect spot for a casual dining experience. With its bright, modern decor and large windows offering picturesque views of the museum's grounds, the cafe creates an atmosphere that seamlessly blends art, nature, and culinary delights.

The menu at the North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe is a true celebration of plant-based cuisine, offering an impressive array of vegan and vegetarian dishes that cater to a wide range of palates. From their signature house-made veggie burgers and hearty lentil-based chili to the ever-changing selection of seasonal salads and freshly baked pastries, every item showcases the kitchen's commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The cafe also serves a fantastic selection of coffee, tea, and craft cocktails, making it a popular destination for breakfast, lunch, and happy hour alike.

The service at the North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe is consistently attentive and friendly, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure each guest's dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you're enjoying a quick bite before exploring the museum or settling in for a leisurely meal with friends, the cafe's commitment to value and quality is evident in every aspect of your visit. With its wheelchair-accessible facilities, family-friendly atmosphere, and LGBTQ+ safe space, the North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe truly offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
On-site services available Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast Popular for lunch Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol Serves beer Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves happy-hour drinks Serves happy-hour food Serves healthy options Has private dining room Quick bite Serves small plates Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves lunch Has catering Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly Good for groups LGBTQ+ friendly Popular with locals Popular with tourists Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts cheques Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Paid parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

The North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends the casual charm of a local eatery with the refined elegance of an art gallery. The space is bathed in natural light, which filters in through the large, picture windows, casting a gentle glow on the modern, Scandinavian-inspired decor. Sleek, minimalist furnishings in muted tones of gray and white create a clean, uncluttered aesthetic, complemented by vibrant splashes of color from the rotating art exhibits that adorn the walls.

The cafe's seating arrangements cater to a variety of dining experiences, from intimate two-tops perfect for a quick solo lunch to communal tables that encourage lively conversation and shared meals. The cozy, inviting ambiance is further enhanced by the soothing hum of chatter and the enticing aromas of freshly brewed coffee and delectable vegan dishes. Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or lingering over a leisurely meal, the North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe offers a truly unique and memorable dining experience.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free breads, pasta, and baked goods are available.
  • Raw Food Choices - Salads, wraps, and smoothies made with fresh, uncooked ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and protein sources for those with allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb vegan entrees and side dishes made with healthy fats.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - This is an ideal time to visit the North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe as it offers a quieter atmosphere, quick service, and a chance to try their delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes.
  • Friday dinner - The restaurant's casual yet trendy ambiance and extended service hours make it a great option for a relaxed Friday evening meal, with the added bonus of serving beer and wine.
  • Weekend brunch - The cafe's popularity among locals and tourists alike makes weekend brunch a lively and enjoyable experience, with a focus on their popular breakfast offerings and coffee.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Expansive Vegan Menu: The North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe offers an extensive vegan menu that features a wide range of creative plant-based dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences and supporting a sustainable food system.
  • Seasonal and Local Ingredients: The restaurant's chefs work closely with local farmers and producers to source fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring their menu reflects the flavors and bounty of the region.
  • Sustainability Practices: The cafe is committed to sustainable practices, from using energy-efficient equipment to minimizing food waste, making it a eco-conscious dining destination in the heart of Grand Forks.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

The North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe is situated in the heart of Grand Forks, a vibrant city known for its thriving arts and culture scene. The cafe is located just steps away from the renowned North Dakota Museum of Art, one of the region's premier cultural institutions. The surrounding neighborhood is a hub of activity, with charming boutiques, independent galleries, and cozy coffee shops lining the streets. The area is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, attracting art enthusiasts, students from the nearby University of North Dakota, and those seeking a unique dining experience.

The North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe caters to a diverse clientele, from families and solo diners to groups of friends and colleagues. The cafe's commitment to serving delicious, plant-based fare has made it a beloved gathering place for the city's growing vegan and vegetarian communities. The casual and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the cafe's proximity to the museum, make it a popular spot for art lovers, museum-goers, and anyone seeking a relaxing and nourishing dining experience.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Amazing little gem in town. The food is great. The chicken risotto is amazing and the chef does a great job with his pre..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Small establishment with very nice and attentive service. Good place for lunch if you have extra time."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Excellent food and even better atmosphere. Located downstairs at the art museum this little eatery is one of the best pl..."

— Customer #3