Chester's Kitchen & Bar
A stylish, upscale American destination in downtown Rochester, known for its welcoming ambiance and a menu that balances classic comfort food with ref...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Chester's Kitchen & Bar
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stylish, upscale American destination in downtown Rochester, known for its welcoming ambiance and a menu that balances classic comfort food with refined culinary touches.
Reservations Recommended
Due to its popularity, making reservations is advised, even for lunch to avoid disappointment.
Try Unique Menu Items
Explore beyond the classics; consider unique options like Scotch Eggs or Parmesan-Crusted Walleye.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
$$$
Phone
(507) 424-1211
Address
Shops At University Square, 111 Broadway Ave S #108, Rochester, MN 55904, USA
Website
chesterskb.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Award-Winning Desserts
Indulge in decadent desserts like the highly acclaimed Banana Cream Pie and rich Chocolate Cake, often cited as exceptional.
Cozy & Stylish Ambiance
Experience a warm, inviting atmosphere with modern decor, perfect for dates or family gatherings, complemented by patio seating.
Accommodating for Dietary Needs
The restaurant is praised for its staff's attentiveness to dietary restrictions, offering numerous gluten-free options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Recommended
Due to its popularity, making reservations is advised, even for lunch to avoid disappointment.
Try Unique Menu Items
Explore beyond the classics; consider unique options like Scotch Eggs or Parmesan-Crusted Walleye.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
For a quieter dining experience, consider visiting between the main lunch and dinner hours.
Ask for Recommendations
Servers are knowledgeable and can provide excellent recommendations or suggest menu customizations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Recommended
Due to its popularity, making reservations is advised, even for lunch to avoid disappointment.
Try Unique Menu Items
Explore beyond the classics; consider unique options like Scotch Eggs or Parmesan-Crusted Walleye.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
For a quieter dining experience, consider visiting between the main lunch and dinner hours.
Ask for Recommendations
Servers are knowledgeable and can provide excellent recommendations or suggest menu customizations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chester's Kitchen & Bar is generally praised for its upscale yet cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu featuring American classics and decadent desserts. While many rave about dishes like the Parmesan-crusted walleye and banana cream pie, some find certain dishes to be pricey or not living up to expectations, and there have been isolated incidents of poor service.
"I had the half a chicken. I told him to make it extra crispy on the top and they did. It was perfect with the mashed potatoes and the asparagus I would definitely come back. I met the owner , and his wife was extra special to us during Thanksgiving as well thank you so much ."
Joanne Otremba
"Driving through Rochester on Labor Day, we decided to get something to eat. In the downtown area, close to Mayo, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from, though options were a little more limited because of the holiday. We picked Chester’s because we liked the lunch menu selection.
It was a little after noon, and there were several other small groups already there. The place is nicely laid out, with plenty of seating areas available, offering both tables and booths. We were greeted by a friendly host, seated, and then offered waters by our server. It didn’t take us long to decide on the Big Mac Burger with fries, and the Cranberry Walnut Salad with shrimp.
The food came out quickly, and everything tasted very good. The burger was cooked to order (pink), and the fries were hot. The burger had been put together with care, and all the parts were well presented. The salad was fresh, and the shrimp were a nice addition (though it would have helped to have a couple more).
The service was efficient and helpful, with plenty of refills on the water.
Overall, a decent meal with good service. I would stop back for another meal."
Scott W
"Chester's Kitchen & Bar has excellent food and desserts! We have always had excellent food and service here. On our recent visit with our family we had everything from the Halibut to the Rotisserie Chicken. All very flavorful and cooked to perfection. We finished off with a large slice of the Key Lime Pie to go for dessert. The Key Lime Pie was excellent and rivails the best Key Lime Pie that Key West, FL. has."
John Kahrs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Chester's offers a kid-friendly menu with options like chicken fingers and mac & cheese, making it suitable for family dining.
Absolutely. Many items on both the lunch and dinner menus are gluten-free, including chicken wings, burgers, and prime rib.
Diners frequently rave about the Parmesan-crusted walleye, slow-braised short ribs, and their award-winning banana cream pie and chocolate cake.
Yes, it's highly recommended to make reservations, even for lunch, as the restaurant is very popular.
Yes, Chester's has a bar area offering a selection of wines, martinis, and craft cocktails.
Yes, the restaurant features a seasonal al fresco patio that extends onto the Peace Plaza courtyard.
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Top Restaurants In Rochester, Minnesota
A much-loved restaurant, Chester’s Kitchen and Bar has been the recipient of various accolades including Rochester Magazine’s Best Restaurant of 2011 and Taste of Rochester’s Golden Fork Best Overall Taste and Presentation Award for its banana cream pie dessert in the same year. From its upmarket and contemporary interior the restaurant’s talented chefs Scott Foster and Derek offer all-American classics with global flavours, like the brie cheese curds appetizer served with a lingonberry ketchup, and the slow-smoked, chargrilled baby back BBQ ribs entrée with campfire beans, coleslaw and French fries. Post-dinner, guests can relax in Chester’s bar with one of its many wines, martinis or craft cocktails.
12 of the Best Restaurants in Rochester MN https://www.lifeinminnesota.com/restaurants-in-rochester-mn/
Classic American dining marries with a charming atmosphere at Chester’s Kitchen and Bar—a great option for families to enjoy among all the restaurants in Rochester MN!. Offering up brunch, dinner, and a kid-friendly menu as well, Chester’s Kitchen and Bar boasts many favorites like burgers and steak, as well as salads and an array of appetizers. There are also some vegetarian options such as vegetarian chili for those in need of it!
Rochester's Best Restaurants and Bars
Right in the heart of downtown, delicious meals and top-tier people watching are both on the menu at Chester’s. Their classic American food pops in a contemporary, casual setting with a seasonal al fresco patio that extends onto the Peace Plaza courtyard — the gem of downtown Rochester. For an extra bit of fun, pair your meal with live jazz performances on Friday and Saturday nights.
Sweet Spots: 5 Best Places to Get Dessert in Rochester, MN
Try Chester’s Kitchen and Bar’s banana cream pie if you’re looking for a unique and wonderful pie. Their banana cream pie is exceptional because of its shape and seamless blend of walnuts, toasted almonds, graham cracker crust, fresh caramelized whipped cream and custard, and bananas. Chocolate cake, bread pudding, and pumpkin cheesecake are also available.
20 Best Restaurants in Rochester, Minnesota
Chester’s is a fun and modern restaurant in Rochester that is stylish, upscale, and refined in aesthetic. The restaurant has stone accents, wooden floors, warm, cozy light fixtures, galvanized steel siding, and comfortable chairs, elevating the dining experience. Chester’s is consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in Rochester, MN.
3 Favorite Family Restaurants in and Around Rochester, MN
Perfect for a meal with the kids, Chester’s is open Sunday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM and on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. They are located at 111 Broadway Ave. S. There is a kiddie menu that has options such as chicken fingers, mac & cheese, and noodles with red sauce.
14 Best Restaurants in Rochester MN in 2025
Chester’s Kitchen and Bar is a popular restaurant in Rochester, Minnesota. Located in University Square, Chester’s offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of classic American favorites. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and other classic dishes.
Looking for gluten- or dairy-free options in Rochester? The number of restaurants is growing - Post Bulletin
Another dinner option in downtown Rochester is Chester’s Kitchen and Bar. A large variety of the restaurant’s lunch and dinner menus have gluten-free options, including chicken wings, a wild mushroom burger, roasted prime rib and more.
Valentine's Day Specials in Downtown Rochester, Minnesota
Chester’s Kitchen & Bar – A Downtown staple, Chester’s offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a mix of classic comfort foods and chef-inspired dishes. Book your reservation for Valentine's weekend here.
The 14 Best Gluten-Free American Restaurants in Rochester
He learned of my gluten allergy and even came back and said the tater tots I ordered weren't gluten free and offered options. Great job Chester's. Next time we are in Rochester we will be back!
Expanded Outdoor Dining Returns to Downtown Rochester
The five restaurants that initially received the barricades include Bleu Duck Kitchen, Café Steam, Chester’s Kitchen and Bar, Pasquale’s Neighborhood Pizzeria, and Potbelly Sandwich Shop.
The Top 10 Places to Get Lunch in Rochester
Located on the Peace Plaza, you'll find the place that has been named the "Best Restaurant in Rochester!" many times. I'm a big fan of the veggie chili and rotisserie chicken myself.
Highest-rated Restaurants in Rochester, Minnesota by Diners
- Rating: 4.1/5 (873 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 111 South Broadway Rochester, Minnesota - Categories: New American, Desserts, Breakfast & Brunch- Read more on Yelp
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If you are looking for good comfort food, Chester's Kitchen is the perfect spot. They are located in the heart of downtown Rochester. They serve brunch, lunch, and dinner.
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