Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks

Dec 9, 2021

Lunch is the often forgotten meal of the day. Many people rush through it just to get something that will keep them satisfied until dinner while others see it as an inconvenient necessity. However, this sometimes overlooked meal is an important part of your daily schedule that provides an opportunity for you to enjoy some quality food. Whether you’re from Thompson, North Dakota, or are just visiting the Grand Forks area, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the unique eateries and diners you’ll find ready to serve you. 

Read on to learn about our staff’s suggestions for the top five best lunch spots near and in Thompson, North Dakota. 

Darcy’s Cafe

Hamburger at Darcy's Cafe.
Image via Flickr by adactio | License CC by 2.0

Darcy’s Cafe is the perfect destination to head to when you’re needing some quality comfort food to get you through the day. Whether you’re craving a burger or some cinnamon roll pancakes, Darcy’s Cafe will help you fill your tummy with some comfort food that is “better than your grandma’s, as good as your mom’s.” With their friendly atmosphere, attentive service, and helpful staff, Darcy’s Cafe will make your midday meal a delight. 

Darcy’s serves breakfast all day, so whether you are an early riser or prefer eggs and bacon for lunch, you’ll find that Darcy’s is ready to please your appetite. Loyal customers love Dave’s Special. This breakfast platter comes with a pile of crispy hash browns or American fries topped with sausage, bacon, ham, diced onions, mixed peppers, cheese, and two eggs. Customers can choose either toast or pancakes along with this delectable dish. 

If you want the full Darcy’s Cafe experience, you must try the Piggy Burger at least once. All burgers start with 1/3 pound of fresh hand-formed quality beef and a grilled bun. The Piggy Burger is topped with smoked ham, bacon, smoked cheddar cheese, and barbecue sauce. The smokey flavor mixes perfectly with the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce for a pop of flavor in each bite. 

You’ll find Darcy’s Cafe at 105 North Washington in Grand Forks, North Dakota. It is only a few miles away from Thompson, but it’s completely worth the drive. Darcy’s is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They offer dine-in and curbside services. Their curbside pickup window makes ordering something on the go easy and convenient. For information or to place an order, call 701-775-4050.

Northside Cafe

Northside Cafe cooks it up just like mom used to. The menu comprises an array of home-cooked food sure to take you back to your days of sitting at your mom’s kitchen table, enjoying quality conversation and food made just for you. This family-friendly establishment knows how to please groups with varying food preferences, with a menu as diverse as their clientele. Locals love the sirloin dinner for only $8. It is a perfectly cooked and seasoned steak served with a twice-baked potato, coleslaw, and ice cream. 

The Northside Cafe sits at 3450 Gateway Dr. in Grand Forks. To give yourself a break from a busy Sunday morning, try ordering their family-style breakfast. This treat, available for takeout only, will save you time and help you avoid the dreaded pile of breakfast dishes. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. For information or to place your takeout order, call 701-738-8500.

Brewskis

Those looking to have a relaxed lunch while washing everything down with a fresh pint of lager should head over to Brewskis. The owners have cultivated a fun and welcoming atmosphere that is ideal for a lunch with friends or a casual afternoon date. The menu at Brewskis, clearly displayed, offers a little of something for everyone, no matter what you like. They have appetizers ranging from pickle fries to cheddar nuggets, offer unique pizza topping, and serve up some creative and juicy burgers. Their wings, which pair perfectly with the beer they have on tap, are crispy and savory. 

You’ll find this hidden gem at 402 Pacific Ave., right here in Thompson. For information, call 701-599-9087. 

The Blue Moose Bar and Grill

The Blue Moose Bar and Grill in East Grand Forks provides a unique atmosphere with some quality food that can’t be beaten. If you’re looking to nosh on some walleye, a local favorite, or chomp on some barbecue ribs, the Blue Moose Bar and Grill is your lunch destination. 

The Blue Moose Bar and Grill has both a seasonal and regular menu, ideal for those that love consistency and for customers who like to try new things. The kids’ menu has the tried-and-true favorites little eaters adore. Tiny diners can choose from chicken strips, mac and cheese, corn dogs, and pasta. For the adults, we suggest the Tequila Lime Chicken. This perfectly grilled chicken breast sits on a bed of cilantro-lime rice and is topped with fiesta sauce. 

The Blue Moose Bar and Grill is at 507 2nd Street NW, near Thompson. They open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. This family-friendly spot is a great location for your next family celebration. They offer catering and banquet services. For information, call 218-773-6516.

Ground-Round Grill and Bar

This barbecue spot offers customers an enormous meal for a great price. The Ground-Round Grill and Bar serves some of the best barbecue you’ll find near Thompson. The menu has everything from bourbon salmon to burgers. There is also a gluten-free menu for customers with special dietary needs and an extensive kids’ menu to keep hungry tummies happy. Order the St. Louis slow-smoked barbecue ribs and you’ll never want barbecue from anywhere else. 

The Ground-Round Grill and Bar is 2800 32nd Ave. South in Grand Forks. You can order online or reserve a table for faster service. For information regarding their catering, call 701-775-4646.

So there you have it. Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks has shared with you our list of the top five best lunch spots in Thompson, North Dakota. If you’re at a loss for where to grab a bite to eat, one of these suggested restaurants is worth your time. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite local lunch spot? If we did, let us know! Leave a message and we’ll be happy to check out your ideas.