A Rustic Downtown Bite Worth the Trip: Brainerd’s Ultimate Crunch & Dumpling Comfort
Brainerd, Minnesota’s downtown is a postcard come to life—clean streets lined with historic brick facades, a touch of the Northwoods in every detail, and that warm, small-town rhythm you can feel as soon as you step out of the car. Nestled in the middle of it all is a cozy spot offering the kind of diner seating that feels timeless—take your pick between the casual chatter of counter service or a street-view table, perfect for people-watching.
The cashier recommended The Ultimate Crunch and it did not disappoint! Think lettuce wraps with a twist: crispy chicken bits, nuts, avocado slices, and bold flavors in every bite.
Also took home the dumpling soup—pulled chicken, tender dumplings, and a few vegetables in a clear, rich broth. Comforting, flavorful, and worth every spoonful. Highly recommend if you’re in Brainerd and want fresh, flavorful food in a cozy setting.
Give Chicken N Rice a try…I think you’ll love it.
Bon appétit!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Denver F
Was an amazing place to eat while it was open, prices were good, and staff as well. Sadly I don’t think this place will be reopening, judging by the “for sale’ sign posted on the door.
Ruth Schneider
Great place to eat. Good food.
Danelle Rahn
Don't know it was closed
Krrrag Say it like a pirate (Krrrag)
I miss this place so much. Best breakfast joint in the area. Best, crispiest hash browns. Best steak and eggs. Best breakfast sandwiches. Best cheap coffee. I hope they reopen soon, they have been closed since Covid-19 broke out.
A Rustic Downtown Bite Worth the Trip: Brainerd’s Ultimate Crunch & Dumpling Comfort
Brainerd, Minnesota’s downtown is a postcard come to life—clean streets lined with historic brick facades, a touch of the Northwoods in every detail, and that warm, small-town rhythm you can feel as soon as you step out of the car. Nestled in the middle of it all is a cozy spot offering the kind of diner seating that feels timeless—take your pick between the casual chatter of counter service or a street-view table, perfect for people-watching.
The cashier recommended The Ultimate Crunch and it did not disappoint! Think lettuce wraps with a twist: crispy chicken bits, nuts, avocado slices, and bold flavors in every bite.
Also took home the dumpling soup—pulled chicken, tender dumplings, and a few vegetables in a clear, rich broth. Comforting, flavorful, and worth every spoonful. Highly recommend if you’re in Brainerd and want fresh, flavorful food in a cozy setting.
Give Chicken N Rice a try…I think you’ll love it.
Bon appétit!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Was an amazing place to eat while it was open, prices were good, and staff as well. Sadly I don’t think this place will be reopening, judging by the “for sale’ sign posted on the door.
Great place to eat. Good food.
Don't know it was closed
I miss this place so much. Best breakfast joint in the area. Best, crispiest hash browns. Best steak and eggs. Best breakfast sandwiches. Best cheap coffee. I hope they reopen soon, they have been closed since Covid-19 broke out.
Best place for food home cooked in Minnesota
Cool setting and good food!
Great budget breakfast
Great food.
Great food and service
Restaurantji Recommends
BLT and Cheeseburger soup was very delicious!
Great food and service.
Their breakfast/food is to die for
Awesome food
Great service and food.
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