Note: The photo above is of a picture hanging in the restaurant. It is the original Lonsdale railroad station.

Last Saturday we had business to do in the Northfield, MN area (about 100 miles from our house). Knowing that we couldn’t spend the whole day there, we decided we would take the ‘long’ way home by taking county roads rather than the freeway. The goal was to find a small town restaurant for lunch. It didn’t take long to find a restaurant.

We went west across I-35 out of Dundas. It wasn’t long and we were in Lonsdale. We are not very familiar with Lonsdale so we decided to drive around a bit and guess what – we found a family restaurant. Even better – the restaurant has a train theme – which pleases me since I am a fan of trains.

The Whistle Stop Tavern and Grill is appropriately located on Railway Street. The restaurant is clean and bright and decorated in railroad decor.

It is always a plus when the food is good. I had fried potato dumplings which are mashed potatoes rolled in a ball, chilled, sliced and cooked in butter. They are very similar to the potato pancakes that I make except that I add onions and garlic. We saw the waitress bring out a plate of broasted chicken so chances are good that we will return to the Whistle Stop and check it out. Hot beef commercials are always of interest to my husband – another potential choice. There is a good selection of menu items.

When you are out  and about, take a little side trip and check out the small town restaurants. You never know when you will find a gem.

Thanks for reading! I hope you return.