If you find yourself in Minnetonka’s Forest Hills neighborhood with an appetite for adventure, you’re in for a delightful culinary journey. This quiet, tree-lined pocket just south of Minnetonka Boulevard and west of Hopkins Crossroad might not scream “dining destination” at first glance, but ask any local and you’ll uncover a surprisingly vibrant food scene brimming with personality.
Savor the Favorites: Tried-and-True Classics
Nestled along the corridor of Hopkins Crossroad, Forest Hills offers several go-to spots beloved for their consistency, cozy ambiance, and mouthwatering flavors.
- Lake & Irving Eatery (Near Minnetonka Blvd & Hopkins Crossroad)
- Despite the name, this casual, modern eatery has carved out a devoted following in Forest Hills for its elevated American fare. Think truffle fries, crispy brussels sprouts, and gourmet burgers stacked high. The cocktails here—classics with a playful twist—also make this spot ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or happy hour meetup. Prices range from $15–$30 for entrees, offering quality without pretense.
- Grandma’s Bakery (Highway 7 & Williston Rd)
- Pastry lovers flock to this family-run bakery for pillowy cinnamon rolls, flaky fruit danishes, and fresh-baked loaves of artisan bread. Their coffee is bold, their service warm, and the aroma of fresh bread alone is worth the visit. Perfect for a quick breakfast, after-school treat, or picking up dessert for company. Most pastries fall under $5, making this a haven for sweet-toothed bargain hunters.
International Cuisine: Where Forest Hills Embraces Global Flavors
For a small neighborhood, Forest Hills punches above its weight in international eats.
- Pho 21 (Minnetonka Blvd, just west of Hopkins Crossroad)
- Serving up deeply flavorful Vietnamese cuisine, Pho 21 is an underrated gem. The beef pho is aromatic and generously portioned, with fresh basil and lime on the side. Don’t miss their bánh mì sandwiches or the grilled pork vermicelli bowls. Prices hover around $10-$15, and locals love the genuine hospitality.
- El Maguey Mexican Grill (Williston Rd & 36th St W)
- This sunny eatery delivers all the fiesta vibes, with colorful murals and sizzling plates of fajitas. Locals recommend the enchiladas verde and the house-made salsa trio. With entrees in the $12–$20 range, it’s a lively spot for family meals, Taco Tuesdays, or a casual night out.
Coffee Culture and Cozy Cafés
Forest Hills may be suburban, but its café culture rivals its urban neighbors.
- Gathered Grounds Coffeehouse (Glen Lake Blvd & Excelsior Blvd)
- Bright and inviting with a rotating selection of locally roasted beans, Gathered Grounds is where Forest Hills’ neighborhood heartbeat is on full display. Pair your latte with their signature cardamom scone or a breakfast burrito, all priced affordably between $3–$8.
- The Green Turtle Tea Room (Minnetonka Blvd & Williston Rd)
- Tucked away in a charming turn-of-the-century house, this whimsical tea room serves elegant loose-leaf teas, cucumber sandwiches, and the city’s fluffiest lemon bars. Afternoon tea here feels nostalgic—and it’s a lovely spot for mother-daughter dates or solo reading retreats. Expect to pay $15–$25 for a light lunch or afternoon tea.
Hidden Gems and Locals-Only Delights
Venturing off the main roads, Forest Hills has a way of surprising curious diners.
- The Rolling Oven Food Truck (often parked by Hilloway Park)
- Specializing in wood-fired pizzas and seasonal salads, this food truck draws a lunchtime crowd whenever it pops up. Their arugula-prosciutto pizza and summer peach salad both get rave reviews. Track them on social media for their ever-changing schedule. Most pizzas are $9–$14.
- The Nosh Nook (inside Forest Hills Community Center on select weekends)
- Open only for Saturday brunch and Friday pop-up dinners, this communal kitchen brings together local chefs and foodies. Menus change regularly but look for Sunday morning shakshuka, poppyseed pancakes, and creative, globally-inspired vegan fare. A true hyperlocal gem, with most dishes under $12.
Local Food Traditions and Gathering Spots
No Forest Hills food guide would be complete without a nod to the neighborhood’s community spirit and signature events.
- Forest Hills Farmers’ Market (Summer Saturdays at Forest Hills Park)
- The summer farmer’s market is a highlight, with stalls overflowing with heirloom tomatoes, hand-churned ice cream, and homemade jams. Grab a breakfast taco, sip a lavender lemonade, and mingle with Minnetonka neighbors under towering maples.
- Annual Taste of Forest Hills
- Each September, local restaurants and food trucks team up for a neighborhood food crawl. It’s the best opportunity to sample everything from locally smoked BBQ to vegan Thai wraps—a festive tradition that brings the whole community together.
Clusters of Flavors: Where the Foodies Gather
If you’re planning a food crawl or just want to explore on foot, look for dining clusters at:
- Minnetonka Blvd & Hopkins Crossroad for casual eats and coffee stops
- Williston Rd & 36th St W for international cuisine and vibrant local hangouts
- Glen Lake Blvd & Excelsior Blvd for neighborhood cafés and sweet treats
Why Forest Hills’ Food Scene Shines
What sets Forest Hills apart isn’t just the diversity of its menus, but its welcoming, local spirit. Many eateries are family-owned, with proprietors who remember your name and ask about your day. You’ll find gluten-free pastries, global flavors, and old-fashioned MN comfort food—all in a few leafy, walkable blocks.
Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a weekend bruncher, or a parent out with the kids, Forest Hills serves up dining experiences filled with character, comfort, and (best of all) no pretense. It’s a slice of Minnetonka that makes every meal feel like coming home—one delicious plate at a time.