Owamni by the Sioux Chef

The neon sign near Owamni’s entrance reads “You Are On Native Land,” and it serves as a reminder of the restaurant’s mission. The menu relies on decolonized ingredients native to North America, which means you won’t find any dairy, wheat flour, cane sugar, beef, chicken, or pork. Instead, dishes center Indigenous cultures and seasonal flavors, like tacos filled with mushrooms and mustard greens and sorbet made from wild rice. Pair your dinner with a zero-proof cocktail that might be flavored with spruce tips or juniper berries, or try a tea made from locally-sourced herbs. 

If you can’t get a reservation for the dining room, grab a seat on the patio: seating is first come, first served, and you’ll get an excellent view of the Mississippi River and Owámniyomni (St. Anthony Falls), a spot that has spiritual significance for the Dakota and Anishinaabe people.