A trip to Mall of America isn’t just about shopping. Between riding roller coasters, exploring stores, and walking miles through the mall, everyone is going to get hungry. Thankfully, Mall of America has far more than your typical food court. Whether your family wants an exciting themed restaurant, a fun dessert stop, or a quick meal before heading back to Nickelodeon Universe, there’s something for everyone.
Here are some of our favorite family-friendly and teen-approved places to eat during your next visit to Mall of America.
1. Rainforest Cafe
Location: Level 3, South
If you’ve never eaten at Rainforest Cafe, it deserves a spot on your Mall of America bucket list. The restaurant is designed to feel like you’re dining deep inside a tropical jungle. Throughout your meal you’ll hear thunder, watch tropical rainstorms roll through, and see animatronic elephants, gorillas, tigers, and other jungle animals come to life.
Kids absolutely love the experience, while teens usually enjoy the over-the-top atmosphere and fun photo opportunities.
Popular menu items include:
- Burgers
- Chicken tenders
- Pasta
- Salads
- Seafood
- Colorful mocktails
This is one of the most memorable dining experiences at the mall and is perfect if you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want dinner to be part of the adventure. Mall of America features several themed restaurants that make dining part of the entertainment experience.
2. The Fair on 4
Location: Level 4, East
If your family loves the Minnesota State Fair, you’ll feel right at home here.
The Fair on 4 combines great food with entertainment under one roof. While waiting for your meal, families can enjoy activities like arcade games, axe throwing (for older guests), and indoor go-karts.
The menu includes many Minnesota fair favorites such as:
- Cheese curds
- Corn dogs
- Loaded fries
- Pizza
- Burgers
- Mini donuts
It’s one of the best places to spend an afternoon when you want more than just a meal. The Fair on 4 is especially popular with teens because there’s plenty to do after everyone finishes eating.
3. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Location: Level 3, South
Inspired by the movie Forrest Gump, this restaurant is packed with movie memorabilia and fun trivia.
Even if someone in your family doesn’t love seafood, there’s still plenty to choose from including:
- Burgers
- Chicken
- Sandwiches
- Fish
- Pasta
The themed atmosphere makes it feel like you’re stepping into the movie, and the staff often interact with guests in fun ways.
It’s a great choice for families with older kids and teens who enjoy unique restaurants.
4. CRAVE Food & Drink
Location: Level 3, South
CRAVE Food & Drink Mall of America offers something for nearly everyone in the family.
Their menu includes:
- Sushi
- Flatbreads
- Burgers
- Steaks
- Pasta
- Salads
- Desserts
Parents appreciate the upscale atmosphere while teens often enjoy trying sushi or ordering one of the creative appetizers. It’s also a nice option if you’re looking for a quieter sit-down meal after a busy day.
5. Benihana
Location: Level 3, South
Dinner becomes a show at Benihana.
Your chef prepares the entire meal right at your table while performing entertaining tricks with knives, flames, and flying shrimp.
It’s an experience that’s fun for all ages and perfect for:
- Birthdays
- Family celebrations
- Special outings
- First-time visitors
Menu choices include steak, chicken, seafood, vegetables, fried rice, and hibachi favorites.
6. Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
Location: North Garden
Looking for something different?
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar has quickly become a favorite for many teens.
Instead of ordering everything from a menu, small plates travel around the restaurant on a conveyor belt. Simply grab whatever looks delicious as it passes by.
Even if someone isn’t adventurous with sushi, there are plenty of cooked options, desserts, and kid-friendly choices available.
The interactive experience makes this one of the most unique restaurants in the mall.
7. Twin City Grill
Location: Level 1, North
Want to introduce visitors to Minnesota flavors?
Twin City Grill offers classic American comfort food with a local twist.
Popular dishes include:
- Walleye
- Burgers
- Meatloaf
- Steaks
- Cheese curds
Parents will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere while teens usually find plenty of familiar favorites on the menu.
It’s consistently considered one of the mall’s most popular sit-down restaurants.
8. Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café
Location: North Garden
Need a lighter meal or afternoon snack?
Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café serves beautiful sweet and savory crêpes that are almost too pretty to eat.
Favorites include:
- Nutella and strawberries
- Bananas and caramel
- Ham and cheese
- Chicken pesto
- Breakfast crêpes
It’s also a wonderful stop for coffee while teens enjoy specialty drinks and desserts.
9. Sugar Factory
Location: Level 3
If your teen has TikTok or Instagram, they’ve probably already seen Sugar Factory.
This colorful restaurant is famous for:
- Over-the-top milkshakes
- Giant candy-covered desserts
- Huge mocktails
- Colorful sweets
- Burgers and comfort food
Everything is designed to be fun, colorful, and camera-ready.
It’s definitely one of the most exciting places to celebrate birthdays or special occasions.
10. Beard Papa’s
Location: North Garden
Sometimes all you need is dessert.
Beard Papa’s specializes in fresh cream puffs filled after you order them.
Choose from flavors like:
- Vanilla
- Chocolate
- Matcha
- Seasonal specials
They’re light, delicious, and easy to enjoy while continuing your shopping adventure.
11. Dough Dough
Location: Level 3, Northeast Corner
Warm cookies and edible cookie dough?
Yes, please!
Dough Dough has become a favorite stop for families looking for an afternoon treat.
Choose from:
- Fresh baked cookies
- Cookie dough
- Ice cream
- Cookie sandwiches
- Specialty desserts
It’s the perfect reward after spending several hours exploring the mall.
12. Oppa Sweets
Location: Level 3
Looking for something a little different?
Oppa Sweets serves fun Korean-inspired desserts that have become increasingly popular with teens.
Depending on the season, you may find:
- Bubble waffles
- Korean-style desserts
- Soft serve ice cream
- Specialty drinks
- Colorful toppings
The desserts are almost as fun to photograph as they are to eat.
Tips for Eating at Mall of America
Before you head out, keep these tips in mind:
- Eat before the busiest lunch rush if possible.
- Sit-down restaurants can be busy on weekends, so reservations are helpful when available.
- The Level 3 food courts are great if everyone wants something different.
- Don’t forget to save room for dessert—Mall of America has dozens of specialty sweet shops.
- Plan your meals around attractions. For example, grab lunch before heading into Nickelodeon Universe or enjoy dessert after a round of shopping.
One of the best things about visiting Mall of America is that every trip can feel different. One visit might include burgers and arcade games at The Fair on 4, while the next might feature sushi, hibachi, or an unforgettable jungle adventure at Rainforest Cafe.
Whether you’re planning a family day, entertaining out-of-town guests, or simply looking for a fun outing with your teen, the dining options at Mall of America are part of what makes the experience so memorable. So come hungry—you’ll find plenty of delicious reasons to take a shopping break!
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