Best Eats In Alexandria
Depot Express
104 Broadway Street
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-7712
Website
Located right across the street from Big Ole, the Depot Express is located in what used to be the Alexandria railroad depot. Enjoy the patio in the summer where you can watch bikers, walkers and runners enjoy the Central Lakes Trail and the brick-oven pizza is one of the specialties.
Bug-a-Boo Bay
2800 N Nokomis Street NE
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 846-1122
Website
Located on Lake Le Homme Dieu, Bugaboo Bay, it's a good place to kick back and enjoy a few beverages and enjoy the beauty of the Alexandria Lakes area.
Pizza Ranch
1522 Broadway Street
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 762-4010
Website
My list wouldn't be complete without a mention of the Alexandria Pizza Ranch's buffet. Get the buffet -- and if you want a pizza that isn't out, they'll cook one right up. Between that and the dessert pizza, I'm all set. Got a crowd? There's a room off to the side where you can sit for more privacy.
Roers Family Bakery
430 Broadway Street
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-4771
Website
Walk in and your nose won't want to leave. You can find your favorite treat here -- everything from donuts to cookies to snowballs -- and all kinds of bread to round out any meal you're planning. Get there early, because like many bakeries, they're not open late.
Downtown Diner
411 Broadway St
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-1703
Another great breakfast/brunch/lunch spot not to be missed in Alexandria. Fill up on eggs, 10-inch pancakes, French toast, omelets and caramel rolls before heading out to the lakes.
Bennigan's
110 30th Avenue West
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-7763
Website
Yes, it's a chain but since it's just one of three locations in Minnesota, I'm including Bennigan's in this list for two words alone: pretzel bun. It's a great place if you're looking to soothe your sunburn inside for a bit or if you're up north in the winter. They feature a lot of comfort food -- and in February, the Day After Thanksgiving Sandwich can't be beat.
Fat Daddy's
115 30th Avenue East
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-6565
Website
Favorite team playing while you're at the lake for the weekend? It's no problem at Fat Daddy's. Sports fans can get their fix and if playing sports is more your style, they've got bowling and in the summer, sand volleyball.
Tio's
217 North Nokomis
Alexandria, MN 56308
320-762-1192
Craving some tacos and burritos and you're in a bit of a hurry? Make a quick stop at Tio's for some quick hot-off-the grill Mexican delight.
Travelers Inn Café
511 Broadway Street
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-4000
Hungry for breakfast, lunch or brunch? Stop by the Travelers Inn Café for homemade soups and great breakfasts right in downtown Alexandria.
The Green Iguana
14566 State Highway 29
Glenwood, MN 56334
(320) 283-5030
It's not in Alexandria per se, but the patio is worth the very short drive. Head about 5 miles south on Highway 29 and you'll see the Iguana. Actually, if you're not looking for it, you just might miss it, but you won't want to miss out on the beautiful patio overlooking Lake Reno. The bloody Mary's aren't to be missed and the onion rings are fried perfectly.
-Toby Collodora is the Executive Editor of WCCO.COM and spends many a summer day -- and a few winter days -- in the Alexandria area.