Welcome to Highlands: Edina’s Delicious Secret
Tucked between rolling parks and tree-lined streets, the Highlands neighborhood of Edina offers an unexpected burst of culinary creativity. Whether you’re a hungry local or a curious visitor, the area’s intersection of tranquil suburban charm and foodie culture is a revelation. From family bakeries with morning pastries to polished restaurants for that perfect date night, Highlands satisfies cravings at every price point. Let’s take a stroll (and a bite) through the neighborhood’s most beloved dining destinations — the must-trys, the under-the-radar gems, and the local traditions that give Highlands its flavor.
Standout Restaurants: Destination Dining in Highlands
The heart of Highlands’ dining scene pulses along Vernon Avenue and stretches toward Interlachen Boulevard—where locals and visitors gather for outstanding meals.
- Tavern on France *(6740 France Ave S)*
While technically hugging the neighborhood’s edge, this Edina institution is worth every step. Known for its build-your-own menu—from pizzas with scratch-made dough to colossal burgers—Tavern on France is casual, lively, and endlessly customizable. Prices range from about $12 for a loaded salad to $20+ for robust entrees. Neighborhood folks love sharing flatbreads and lingering over local beers. Pro tip: it gets busy on weekends, so bring your appetite and your patience.
- Hilltop Restaurant *(5101 Arcadia Ave)*
An Edina brunch and comfort-food staple, Hilltop is a sunlit, family-friendly spot where the cinnamon rolls are as big as your hand (and just as soft). For generous breakfasts, classic burgers, and weekday lunch specials, prices mostly hover in the $10–$18 range. Hilltop’s retro charm and hearty portions make it a Highlands ritual, especially on lazy Sunday mornings.
- Cahill Bistro *(7078 Amundson Ave)*
Just a quick drive from Highlands, this neighborhood bistro is a sleeper hit for its Mediterranean-inspired plates and surprisingly upbeat atmosphere. Lamb kabobs, spanakopita, and fresh salads are stars. It’s ideal when you want global flavors without venturing far from home. Most mains fall in the $14–$22 range.
Café Culture: Perk Up Your Palate
No neighborhood is complete without welcoming cafés. Highlands covers you for both grab-and-go convenience and cozy nooks.
- Patisserie Margo *(2823 Hedberg Dr)*
Hidden off the main drag and beloved by locals, this French-inspired bakery-café is the place to wind down or fuel up. Their almond croissants, buttery galettes, and pain au chocolat give Parisian vibes—without needing to leave Edina. Enjoy a cappuccino with your pastry while watching bakers at work. Treats start around $3, breakfast sandwiches from $7.
- Ambrosia Coffee *(7027 Amundson Ave)*
Tucked in a small plaza just outside the neighborhood, Ambrosia is a gathering spot for Highlands’ remote workers, book club regulars, and caffeine seekers en route to Todd Park. Their single-origin espresso drinks are a highlight, alongside locally sourced pastries and light sandwiches (mostly $3–$8). Try their lavender latte for a subtle twist.
Bakery Bliss: Sweet Stops
Highlands residents have a soft spot for quality baked goods. Several bakeries both in and just beyond the neighborhood bring irresistible indulgence.
- Wuollet Bakery *(3608 W 50th St)*
A Minneapolis classic with an Edina address, Wuollet is famed for its cakes, donuts, and specialty cookies. Whether grabbing a box for a family gathering or a solo slice of cheesecake, the old-school charm and fresh baking make it a sweet staple. Pastries typically range $2–$5.
- Edina Creamery *(5055 France Ave S)*
For summer days or whenever you need a pick-me-up, this local creamery dishes up joy by the scoop. Their small-batch ice cream and playful sundaes celebrate Minnesota’s dairy best. Family-friendly, with cones starting around $4. Take a stroll through Arden Park with a cone for the ultimate Highlands treat.
Local Legends: Food Trucks & Seasonal Finds
Highlands keeps things fresh with food trucks and seasonal food events, often popping up at intersections like 50th & Vernon or near local parks.
- Flame Mobile Pizza
When you spot their oven-on-wheels at a Highland park event, go for the margherita or spicy pepperoni pizzas. Made-to-order, bubbly, and crisp, each pie costs $12–$18. Catch them at community concerts or pop-ups at the Edina Art Center.
- El Jefe Cocina
Known to park on select weekends on Interlachen Boulevard, El Jefe serves street-style tacos and tangy elote (Mexican street corn). Affordable, casual, and packed with flavor—expect lines, happy crowds, and quick sellouts.
Hidden Gems & Community Favorites
While some hotspots get the hype, Highlands’ real charm lies in its lesser-known eats.
- Ciao! Edina *(5412 France Ave S)*
A petite, family-run Italian spot loved for housemade gnocchi, wood-fired pizzas, and a wine list tailored for food pairings. Tables fill fast—especially for dinner—so book ahead. Entrees run $16–$24, making it a date-night staple.
- Highlands Park Farmers Market
In season, this small but mighty market gathers local produce, pies, jams, and grab-and-go lunch bites. Held near Highlands Elementary, it’s the place to snag cookies and artisan breads, or to meet the makers behind the ingredients local restaurants love.
- Heidi’s Gluten-Free Bakery *(Pop-up at Highlands Park)*
For those who eat gluten-free or love a baking adventure, former pastry chef Heidi brings small-batch muffins, cakes, and oat bars, typically at weekend markets. Everything is fresh, flavorful, and safe for those with allergies.
Traditions & To-Do’s: Edina Eats Style
- Gathering with friends for breakfast at Hilltop before a day at Todd Park
- Pick-up ice cream at Edina Creamery after summer soccer — a rite of passage for Highlands kids
- Lazy Saturdays sipping espresso at Patisserie Margo, catch-ups with old friends
- Supporting local food trucks at neighborhood concerts and art shows
Beyond the Plate: What Makes Highlands Shine
The Highlands neighborhood stands out for its blend of old-fashioned hospitality and bold, contemporary flavor. You’ll find friendly service, locally sourced ingredients, and an easygoing vibe, whether sinking into a booth at a family-run diner or tasting pastries from a decades-old bakery.
It’s the kind of place where everyone has a “favorite”—but everyone is happy to share their secrets with a fellow foodie. Bring your appetite, grab a friend, and start exploring Highlands on a plate.