BigDog
Head Chef
If one's travels bring the to Minnesota, it usually constitutes going through the Twin Cities area (unless you are following I 90). From the standpoint of places to eat that are Minnesota exclusive, I don't know of many. Of those I know, the highest category they would all in to is classy/dressy casual. My all time favorite is Timberlodge Steakhouse. Used to be called Minnesota Steakhouse, but they are planning on expanding outside of Minnesota.
The Timberlodge Steakhouse runs with the theme of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Everything is served in very hearty portions. The eating utensils are oversized as well. The atmosphere is very mellow and arguably romantic. The lighting is usually somewhat dim. Pricing is fairly reasonable. Most steaks are in the $15 to 20 range, with some higher and lower. Mrs. Big Dog and I usually wind up spending $50 for both of us, tip included (no adult beverages). These restaurants are readily found throughout the Twin Cities area, so if ther ewas interest to stop little more then general information RE: your route would be needed to locate the closest, most convenient location.
There are finer dining establishments, but frankly I have never been to them because I can't afford them.
If you go to the Mall of America, there are countless eating establishments there, but I do not think any of them are Minnesota exclusive. Well, except the Twin City Grill. Haven't been there, but have a gift card to go. From the looks of it, the restaurant is a step up from the Timberlodge, but classy casual is still reasonable dress.
The Timberlodge Steakhouse runs with the theme of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Everything is served in very hearty portions. The eating utensils are oversized as well. The atmosphere is very mellow and arguably romantic. The lighting is usually somewhat dim. Pricing is fairly reasonable. Most steaks are in the $15 to 20 range, with some higher and lower. Mrs. Big Dog and I usually wind up spending $50 for both of us, tip included (no adult beverages). These restaurants are readily found throughout the Twin Cities area, so if ther ewas interest to stop little more then general information RE: your route would be needed to locate the closest, most convenient location.
There are finer dining establishments, but frankly I have never been to them because I can't afford them.
If you go to the Mall of America, there are countless eating establishments there, but I do not think any of them are Minnesota exclusive. Well, except the Twin City Grill. Haven't been there, but have a gift card to go. From the looks of it, the restaurant is a step up from the Timberlodge, but classy casual is still reasonable dress.
Red Wing is a neat little town. 
