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Nicollet Island Inn, Minneapolis, MN

Nicollet Island Inn

4.8
4.8
3179 Reviews
$31 to $50
American
The Nicollet Island Inn has stood witness to over a century of change on the shores of the Mississippi River. The Inn is consistently named the most romantic restaurant in the area and its river views have been voted some of the best in the city. An immediately recognizable Minneapolis landmark, the Inn offers world-class cuisine created by Executive Chef Michael Rain , whose innovative and constantly updated menu includes a variety of seafood, steaks and gourmet specialty dishes. Our wine menu has been chosen specifically to compliment the food and highlight producers from the world's leading wine regions.

Nic's bar, just off the main dining room, is a casual, old-world tavern and the patio offers stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline. The Inn is a convenient, comfortable destination for breakfast or lunch meetings while the 3 or 5-course Sunday Brunch is the perfect weekend indulgence.

Make a reservation

2 people

11:00 PM


Booked 23 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    American, Contemporary French, Mediterranean
  • Hours of operation
    Brunch Sat, Sun 9:00 am–2:00 pm Lunch Wed–Sat 11:00 am–2:00 pm Bar Wed–Sat 2:00 pm–10:30 pm Dinner Wed–Sat 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Sun 3:00 pm–8:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (612) 331-1800 ext. 1
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Owned/operated by
    LGBTQ+, Middle Eastern, Persons with Disabilities, Women
  • Executive chef
    Michael Rain
  • Catering
    Contact Lily <br />events&#64;nicolletislandinn.com <br /><br />Island Room or St. Anthony Event Spaces <br /><br />-Newly Remodeled, Hardwood flooring<br />-An outdoor Private Garden Patio<br />-Space for 10-120 guests seated and up to 200 for a reception <br />-Free wireless Internet access <br /><br />Our professional staff provides attentive service combined with excellent cuisine to create a productive and memorable event. <br />Please visit our website for more information: www.nicolletislandinn.com/specialevents.html<br />
  • Private party facilities
    With four private dining rooms for up to 23 guests and two large banquet halls, Nicollet Island Inn is the ideal restaurant destination for intimate gatherings and grand celebrations! contact Events@NicolletIslandInn.com for your family gathering, book club, business meeting, wedding or party ne
  • Private party contact
    Lily Hansen: (612) 331-1800 ext. 3
  • Neighborhood
    Downtown / North Loop
  • Cross street
    Merriam St.
  • Parking details
    Complimentary parking for guests of the Nicollet Island Inn.<br />
  • Public transit
    Bus Stop
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, High Tea, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Outdoor Smoking Area, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 3,179 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.9Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Minneapolis - St. Paul

    Best Ambiance

  • Minneapolis - St. Paul

    Romantic

  • Minneapolis - St. Paul

    American

  • Twin Cities / Minneapolis

    Best Service

  • Twin Cities / Minneapolis

    Best Ambiance

  • Twin Cities / Minneapolis

    Great for brunch

  • Twin Cities / Minneapolis

    Romantic

  • Twin Cities / Minneapolis

    Great for scenic views

  • Twin Cities / Minneapolis

    American

3,179 Reviews
  1. OpenTable Diner

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall4food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food, very good service, but coffee was tepid. Coffee should be served hot. Server was very attentive, but each refill seemed to be from the bottom of the pot. Not surprising it wasn’t hot.

    Is this helpful?

  2. MerryDK

    Minneapolis

    10 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The staff is very friendly and attentive. Everything was excellent-from the cocktails to the salads (the Wedge is SO good; Caesar is ginormous and also delicious) to the entrees ( the Elite steaks are AMAZING!) Lobster Ravioli was outstanding, rich and flavorful. Get the Cookies and ice cream! We had a lovely night and our waiter Daniel was fantastic. Made my birthday dinner experience special.

    Is this helpful?

  3. Carmelita

    Minneapolis

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Great special occasion place for us. Services is always great, food is carefully prepared. Delicious, unique and well-crafted cocktails.

    Is this helpful?

  4. KarlS

    Minneapolis

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful location with great view along the Mississippi River. Warm ambiance. Excellent food and service.

    Is this helpful?

  5. Alex

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    highly recommend coming to this restaurant! Had a wonderful thanksgiving and the staff were amazing!

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  6. OpenTable Diner

    Minneapolis

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our Thanksgiving dinner was excellent! We were all so pleased. We had a nice table somewhat private in a little nook. It wasn’t loud and crazy like most places. Our food and drinks were superb!! We had a very enjoyable time!!!!!

    Is this helpful?

  7. KarenS

    Minneapolis

    35 reviews

    5.0

    35 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Wonderful Thanksgiving plated menu. We enjoyed simple ingredients perfectly cooked from traditional turkey dinner to Gluten-free turkey lasagna to succulent beef tenderloin. All the pie choices and a paper bag with turkey sandwich to go! Highly recommend.

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  8. James

    Minneapolis

    9 reviews

    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I brought my sister there for Thanksgiving dinner as our family has not yet resumed the large extended gatherings. This is the 3rd year we have gone to the Inn, and like it very much. The quality of food is very high; our waiter is always excellent. We think it is really fun to see the young chef come out of the kitchen and say hello; he is also impressive because if the servers are getting a bit behind and there is food to bring out, he grabs the plates and carries them out himself..

    Is this helpful?

  9. Justin

    Minneapolis

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A must visit. My wife and I celebrated our 20 year Anniversary at the same table I proposed to her. Beautiful setting and view. The lamb chops and Wagu steak were delicious. The service is best in Mpls. Love this place!!

    Is this helpful?

  10. PRGuy

    Phoenix

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I have always loved the ambiance at the Inn, and our dinner was delightful. Excellent across the board. And I appreciate their selection of American whiskey and the way their cocktail list always has some creative new things to try.

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  11. COLLEENM

    Minneapolis

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Classy, yet comfortable dining with top notch service and excellent food. One of the things I really like about it is that I can go there at any time of day, breakfast, lunch, afternoon drinks or happy hour, and finally dinner, and have the same outstanding experience in unique and varied settings. Being right on the river also creates a certain ambiance that few other restaruants in the city can match. You'll love it!

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  12. Gopher34

    Chicago

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Lovely setting for a beautiful late fall morning. Not an extensive menu, but everything was well prepared and excellent. Great venue for a relaxed brunch, beverages, and good conversion.

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  13. DaleS

    Minneapolis

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Always classy. The staff are helpful, knowledgeable, and gracious. Enjoy a great cocktail while you're there and ask for a wine recommendation for dinner, you won't be disappointed.

    Is this helpful?

  14. xxxx

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Very good but also very expensive. Excellent service.

    Is this helpful?

  15. Hunch

    Minneapolis

    44 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    44 reviews

    Dined on November 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Lilliana is an amazing server. Personable, informative and responsive. The food is alway good and the atmosphere nice and quiet allowing for normal conversation .

    Is this helpful?

  16. EDuncan

    Minneapolis

    26 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    26 reviews

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It’s become a favorite for the salmon salad, bread and ice cream, and place to have good conversations. But best of all is the service: Ann and her colleagues are warm, responsive, and remember. It’s a treat!

    Is this helpful?

  17. BryanA

    Minneapolis

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Lobster cakes were excellent, as was the filet mignon.

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  18. LJAF

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    Great food, and I enjoyed the vintage atmosphere!

    Is this helpful?

  19. Jammer

    Orange County

    40 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    40 reviews

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Rebecca, our waitress was attentive . All the staff were cheerful and helpful creating a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere for dining. Thank you.

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  20. skipper

    Minneapolis

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I was hoping for good, quiet conversation in a beautiful setting inside and out. I knew the food would be great. Our server was thoughtful and attentive. The Inn is a favorite.

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  21. Dorene

    Minneapolis

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was fantastic, and everyone in our party was delighted with their selections. The waiter was helpful and cheerful, and took good care of us. And the restaurant is lovely. I've taken friends there several times, and have always had a great time.

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  22. ClaireS

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great place to take friends for lunch and dinner . The service is top notch !!! I love the ambiance,the view of the river. Thank you for great service!!!

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  23. Bonnie

    Minneapolis

    69 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    69 reviews

    Dined on November 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We go to the NII each November for our anniversary because we had our reception there 23 years ago. The restaurant continues to be quiet and elegant and the wait staff excellent. Rebecca has served us in the past and remains a wonderful server. The food is always high quality and nicely presented. We plan to go back to this lovely setting on the river away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

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  24. CDL2

    Minneapolis

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    I have enjoyed the Nicollet Island Inn restaurant many times over the years with guests from Chicago this most recent time being memorable. Keep up the good work. Thank you.

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  25. KarlS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was excellent (as always) as was the service. The venue is charming and is a SE Minneapolis treasure.

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  26. WhiteDahlia

    Minneapolis

    11 reviews

    4.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on November 1, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience5
    My husband said the lamb chops were excellent. My tandoori chicken was good. I especially liked the zucchini noodles and sauce. The bread was excellent as were the chocolate ice cream and the special ice cream/pineapple dessert. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the noise level was low enough so that it was not a problem, and our waiter was fine. We will be back!

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  27. JaniceK

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I always enjoy the Inn and prefer it for all the above ratings, its intimate surroundings good good and coziness. Don’t change a thing - that’s another of its charms.

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  28. Linda

    Minneapolis

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is one restaurant we can always count on for excellent service, delicious drinks, excellent food and beautiful presentation of the meals. It's a rare treat these days to dine in an atmosphere that allows you to not be seated back to back at the next table, or to have the noise at a level that means you can actually have a conversation with the people at your table. There is no accompanying music that gets louder as the conversation in the room gets louder. In our opinion the Nicollet Island Inn is the perfect restaurant to share a meal with friends. On Oct. 28 we were celebrating the marriage proposal of a family member. We had a lot to talk about and catch up on and the wait staff was so patient to let our excitement die down before she even asked if we were ready to order. Most places now seat you and ask for your drink order at the same time, then ask for your meal order when the drink arrives. Kudos to you for allowing us time to celebrate and enjoy ourselves.

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  29. JaniceM

    Minneapolis

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    ambiance and service amazing! Saturday brunch is delicious!

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  30. jzzz

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 28, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    It was a great spot for a nice, quiet evening with my wife. Food was good, it was quiet...about the only "issues" i would have would be if there are open tables in a better location could one just be seated there? no "snacks" either (bread, etc) at the table

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  31. JoanC

    Minneapolis

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on October 27, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    We had a delightful young waitress who didn't rush us, yet was very attentive to our requests. There were two of us "old ladies" who were celebrating our birthdays - both of us turned 84 in October - and we were so pleased with the atmosphere and service.

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  32. CarlaH

    Minneapolis

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a wonderful lunch at the Nicollet Island Inn. The scene looking out over the river is exquisite, the food was excellent, the atmosphere so we could easily have a conversation, and our server was just outstanding. She made sure that our meal was leisurely as we requested, and invited us to linger as long as we wished at the table to continue visiting with friends.

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  33. ShawnM

    Minneapolis

    13 reviews

    3.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on October 22, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience4
    The location and venue is quite nice but the food and service is only average, making it not a great value. We were there for Sunday brunch and the place was almost empty so it seems that everyone else already knew....

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  34. ACoupleofNicDiners102023

    Minneapolis

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A bit pricey, but we had a nice time ... good food and service. Rather cozy atmosphere ... not noisy.

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  35. PatiD

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    As usual, exceptional service and wonderfully tasting dinners. The atmosphere is calm, inviting as are the views. This has always been a favorite.

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  36. JeffW

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a great experience. Our waiter was top notch. Definitely coming back

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  37. Mustgo

    Minneapolis

    26 reviews

    5.0

    26 reviews

    Dined on October 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and ambience were superb. Lobster roll is maybe the best I’ve ever had! 100% tail meat (wow!!!) (no claw meat, which can be rubbery) and utterly delicious!!! Steak was delicious also. Service was attentive and accommodating without hovering. Everything was top tier. We will be back again!

    Is this helpful?

  38. BobL

    Minneapolis

    9 reviews

    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on October 18, 2023

    overall5food3service4ambience5
    We love to go for the lobster roll. This time the L roll was on the poor side. Chefs make a big difference in the preparation of foods, so this might have been a one-time downer...I hope so.

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  39. LarryK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    If you would like to enjoy your meal while gazing at quaint river and bridge-choose Nicollet Island Inn. A quiet place to relax enjoy in this frequently hectic world.

    1 person found this helpful

  40. Netty

    Minneapolis

    14 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on October 7, 2023

    overall4food3service4ambience4
    Nostalgic in a positive way…with chandeliers, dark woodwork, white table clothes and all my favorite things.

    1 person found this helpful

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables
  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
    • Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Nicollet Island Inn does offer delivery in partnership with Uber Eats. Nicollet Island Inn also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (612) 331-1800 ext. 1.

Nicollet Island Inn is rated 4.8 stars by 3179 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

11:00 PM


Booked 23 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Nicollet Island Inn

95 Merriam, Minneapolis, MN 55401

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Merriam St.
  • Neighborhood
    Downtown / North Loop
  • Hours of operation
    Brunch Sat, Sun 9:00 am–2:00 pm Lunch Wed–Sat 11:00 am–2:00 pm Bar Wed–Sat 2:00 pm–10:30 pm Dinner Wed–Sat 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Sun 3:00 pm–8:00 pm
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    American, Contemporary French, Mediterranean
  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Parking details
    Complimentary parking for guests of the Nicollet Island Inn.<br />
  • Public transit
    Bus Stop
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Owned/operated by
    LGBTQ+, Middle Eastern, Persons with Disabilities, Women
  • Executive chef
    Michael Rain
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, High Tea, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Outdoor Smoking Area, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
    (612) 331-1800 ext. 1
  • Catering
    Contact Lily <br />events&#64;nicolletislandinn.com <br /><br />Island Room or St. Anthony Event Spaces <br /><br />-Newly Remodeled, Hardwood flooring<br />-An outdoor Private Garden Patio<br />-Space for 10-120 guests seated and up to 200 for a reception <br />-Free wireless Internet access <br /><br />Our professional staff provides attentive service combined with excellent cuisine to create a productive and memorable event. <br />Please visit our website for more information: www.nicolletislandinn.com/specialevents.html<br />
  • Private party facilities
    With four private dining rooms for up to 23 guests and two large banquet halls, Nicollet Island Inn is the ideal restaurant destination for intimate gatherings and grand celebrations! contact Events@NicolletIslandInn.com for your family gathering, book club, business meeting, wedding or party ne
  • Private party contact
    Lily Hansen: (612) 331-1800 ext. 3
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