Location: Benson
Where to Eat in Benson: The Best Restaurants and Bars
Benson is a city in Swift County, Minnesota, United States, which is located along the Chippewa River. The population was 3,240 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat.
1. Whistle Stop Diner
Overall Ratings
5 based on 16 reviews
1220 Atlantic Avenue in Benson. We are located in a old railroad dining car parked between buildings in downtown Benson, MN
Reviewed By FayFargo - Bend, Oregon
I understand the locals look on their facebook page to see what the specials are. The day I was there it was Swedish meatballs (be sure and come hungry). If the gravy is white it is Swedish meatballs and if the gravy is brown it is Norwegian meatballs (same meatballs).
2. Dairy Queen
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By E954HTrichardh
At a time when everyone is clamoring for something new and exciting, the traditional offerings of a small town Dairy Queen can be quite compelling. The DQ in Benson is no exception. Run by a soft spoken and hardworking family, this DQ makes hot summer nights fun no matter what your age is.
It has a typical DQ menu, but their ice cream offerings seem to be more generous than other DQ's. They have nicely shaded picnic benches to eat your food on and perhaps catch up on the gossip from your neighbors.
If you're new to Benson, and it's summer time, drop in and take a look at the Benson Golf Club and Cafe next door to the DQ. It's a pretty good course.
A little further along, you'll find the Benson Swimming Pool, which has, in my opinion, somewhat crazy hours, but it's a very good swim part.
Then mosey across the Chippewa River and play some (free) miniature golf at the Ambush Park Campground. You might want to bring your own balls, but if you don't, you should be able to find one or two in the bush around the course.
3. Benson Bakery
Overall Ratings
5 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By HowdyDoody4 - Minnetonka, Minnesota
In this age of fast food and big box stores it's heartening to know that, at least in the heartland, a great small town tradition lives. The Benson Bakery has been serving up delicious baked goods in this small western Minnesota town for decades.
It survives (and hopefully flourishes) because the breads and pastries are as homemade and delicious today as they were 60 years ago. Unlike some bakeries that bag your goodies for enjoying elsewhere, there are booths so you can enjoy lunch, or just a baked good treat, and get caught up on the latest news with friends and family.
When you go, be sure to try the Whole Wheat Flatbread. It's delicious!
4. Mi Mexico
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By SIOUXFANFOREVER - Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Asked for recommendations on a place to entertain a couple clients for lunch. Mi Mexico was the lucky spot...We were seated promptly and given fresh hot chips and salsa. We were given menus that are incredibly vast on options...almost to many to look at to consider. I choose the steak burrito which was very tasty and filling. Mi had a great lunch crowd for such a small town. My clients were impressed that such a restaurant existed. I will be back when I can take more time to enjoy
5. J & J Chinese Cafe
Overall Ratings
5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By Damon D - Kerkhoven, Minnesota
This is the best dining experience we've had in a long time. We were greeted by the owners who seemed genuinely glad to see us and eager to make our visit enjoyable. The menu is extensive and includes both Chinese and Thai selections. Combination plates are available if you'd like to sample a variety of items. There are several Chef Specialties as well. A favorite appetizer of ours is the pork wontons. A bowl of soup is a meal unto itself. We've enjoyed everything we've eaten and look forward to trying something different each time we visit.
6. McKinney's on Southside
Overall Ratings
4 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By GingerGinny - Scotch Plains, New Jersey
Service is great. Everyone is very kind and polite. Good hearty food and lots of drink choices. There is also a hall for rental for parties and weddings.
7. Burger King
Overall Ratings
4 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By Todd H - Cold Spring, Minnesota
We were in rural Minnesota and there had not been much to see for miles and we stopped in for dinner. The employees were friendly and the food was good. I will stop again if in this area
8. Subway
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Dolly3261 - Wood Lake, MN
I often eat at Subway restaurants, but the one in Benson is the first place I've encountered where the sandwich artist asked if I was allergic to some ingredients she had used on the previous patron's sandwich (specifically, hot peppers). Thankfully I'm not allergic to anything, but I thought it was great that she asked! Also, the restroom was sparkly clean.
9. Sandy's Cafe
Overall Ratings
3 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By FayFargo - Bend, Oregon
Local place, been around for a very long time. The breakfast was your typical fare. The waitress could use a large dose of personality - she sure seemed like she was being put out to serve anyone.
The bathroom was directly off the eating area and the door was about 3 inches off the ground. It was uncomfortable to be the person in the bathroom but I couldn't imagine what it would have been like for the person eating only a few feet from the door.
10. Jimmy's Pizza
Overall Ratings
3 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By Yuto W - Stanford, California, United States
Stopped by here because we were in town for a friend's wedding. It was decent, but nothing special. Open till pretty late, which was good.
