Minnesota is full of incredible, remote nature areas. With our Lake Superior coastline, grassy prairies, and countless lakes, there are plenty of places to get away throughout our gorgeous state. One of the most popular spots — and possibly the most remote — is the Boundary Waters. This expansive part of northern Minnesota is most often accessed through Ely.
If you’ve ever been to this charming town, you may already have a favorite restaurant or two. But why not try one that is even more remote? Here’s a hidden restaurant that is way out in the boonies, but it is more than worth the drive:
Touting itself as Ely’s best-kept secret, Stony Ridge is part resort, part cafe, and all charming.
nikkicocacola/TripAdvisor
It is located on the south shore Shagawa Lake, just north of downtown Ely.
JeriAnn E/TripAdvisor
Stony Ridge caters to Minnesotans who want to get away from it all, with hook-ups for RVs as well as rustic yet cozy cabins for rent.
JeriAnn E/TripAdvisor
To really experience the remote surroundings, you can choose to dine on the large patio that overlooks the lake.
Stony Ridge Resort & Cafe
But if it’s just a little too cold for that by the time you make your way up to Ely, the restaurant’s warm and cozy atmosphere will make you feel right at home.
Stony Ridge Resort & Cafe
Once you’ve taken in the remote surroundings of your new favorite Ely restaurant, it’s time to order food.
Beentheredonethat777/TripAdvisor
The menu at Stony Ridge is large and full of local favorites.
Isaac A./Yelp
If you’re having an eggs and bacon kind of day, try out one of their many filling breakfast choices.
lf479/TripAdvisor
A burger is also a great choice here. With more than 50 burgers on the menu, including burgers of the gourmet, stuffed, and traditional variety, you’re sure to find a mouthwatering burger suited to your taste buds.
Isaac A./Yelp
Other great choices? Pan fried walleye, chili, and more!
Stony Ridge Resort & Cafe/Facebook
You’ll find Stony Ridge Cafe at 60 West Lakeview Place in Ely, Minnesota. Their hours for the fall are Monday through Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to dark, and Friday through Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to dark.
Isaac A./Yelp
Don’t wait too long to visit! The leaves are incredible in Ely at this time of year, and chilly weather is on its way!
TumblingRun/Flickr
Do you have any other favorite hidden restaurants? Feel free to tell us all about them in the comments. Also, check out one of our other favorites, the hidden restaurant tucked away in a Minnesota forest.
nikkicocacola/TripAdvisor
JeriAnn E/TripAdvisor
Stony Ridge Resort & Cafe
Beentheredonethat777/TripAdvisor
Isaac A./Yelp
lf479/TripAdvisor
Stony Ridge Resort & Cafe/Facebook
TumblingRun/Flickr
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
