Minneapolis and St. Paul have given the world one of the most delicious burger creations ever invented: the Juicy Lucy. This cheese-stuffed wonder features a molten core of gooey cheese sealed inside a juicy beef patty, creating an explosion of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting the Twin Cities, hunting down the perfect Juicy Lucy is a delicious adventure worth taking.
1. Matt’s Bar
Matt’s Bar claims to be the birthplace of the original Juicy Lucy, and one bite will make you understand why locals have been flocking here since 1954. The no-frills South Minneapolis dive bar serves up a simple but perfect version: two thin beef patties sealed around molten American cheese.
You’ll wait about 10 minutes for your burger because they cook each one fresh to order. The cheese gets incredibly hot, so heed the server’s warning and let it cool for a minute or two.
The atmosphere is pure old-school Minneapolis, with checkered floors and handwritten signs everywhere. Cash only, so come prepared and ready to experience burger history.
2. 5-8 Club
Just down the street from Matt’s sits the 5-8 Club, the other restaurant claiming Juicy Lucy fame. Their version features a thicker patty with your choice of cheese, making it a bit heartier than the competition…