Exploring the Flavors of Grand Casino Arena: A Culinary Journey for Minnesota Wild Fans
For generations, St. Paul has been renowned for its exceptional restaurants, and the chefs at Grand Casino Arena are no exception. As the Minnesota Wild prepare to face off against Columbus on Saturday, the arena’s culinary team has introduced a range of new and exciting food options for fans to enjoy. From classic Eastern European dishes to innovative twists on beloved favorites, there’s something for every palate at the Grand Casino Arena.
In the lead-up to the Wild’s 2025-26 home opener, members of the media were invited to sample some of the new offerings at various stands throughout the arena. Here are a few highlights that visitors won’t want to miss this winter. With a focus on local flavors and authentic ingredients, the Grand Casino Arena’s chefs have outdone themselves, creating a truly unique dining experience that complements the thrill of the game.
New Menu Items to Try at Grand Casino Arena
One of the standout additions to the menu is the St. Paul Pierogi, available at the Club level near section 36. This classic Eastern European dish is a Minnesota staple, and the arena’s chefs have put their own spin on it, offering three varieties of potato-and-cheese pierogies. The Ohgee ($12) features caramelized onions and sour cream, while the Minnesoti ($13) adds a local touch with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions. For a heartier option, the protein-loaded Kielbasa Novi ($16) includes grilled kielbasa, caramelized onions, sour cream, spicy mustard, and sauerkraut.
According to Chef Matt Rosson, the pierogi idea was the brainchild of Chef Kyle Bowles, and the team is thrilled with how it’s been received. “We always try to lean into Minnesota. Anything we can do to be local and be authentic,” Rosson said. This commitment to local flavors and authenticity is evident throughout the menu, making the Grand Casino Arena a must-visit destination for foodies and hockey fans alike.
More Highlights from the Grand Casino Arena Menu
Another exciting addition to the menu is the Crunchy Commuter, available at the Main Concourse near Section 122. This innovative take on the walking taco features five different varieties of Old Dutch chips in a bag, filled with other fixings. Options include the classic taco, a barbeque flavor with pulled pork and crispy onions, a chicken Caesar version, a dill pickle version, and a jerk chicken option, each priced at $10. As Chef Rosson explained, “We think it’s an ode to our non-seriousness. We are professionally trained chefs, but we want to have fun and make food that people love to eat.”
For a taste of the Great Minnesota Get-Together, head to the State Fare stand, located at the Main Concourse near Section 117. This stand features a range of State Fair-inspired items, including Pronto Pups ($11), Deep Fried Ranch served with hot honey ($13), O’Gara’s Shepard’s Hand Pie ($8) served with brown gravy, and Dill Pickle Tater Tots ($8.29), a vegan offering. As Rosson noted, “We have a full commitment to State Fair-focused items. Every summer we get together as a team to go to the State Fair and come up with ideas based on things that we love.”
Finally, for a sweet treat, be sure to check out J&R’s Cookie Dough, located at the Main Concourse near Section 109. The Grand Casino Arena chefs have developed a Scotcheroo cookie dough, available for $6.99, which is a classic Minnesotan favorite. As Rosson explained, “New cookie dough concepts, specifically the Scotcheroo cookie dough, is an exciting addition. We’ve been changing it up and doing different cookie dough concepts for 10 years. Scotcheroo bars are something you get at a church potluck, and that’s an ode to our history and the people here.”
The Wild play host to Columbus on Saturday, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. Gates open to the public 90 minutes before the first faceoff, giving fans plenty of time to explore the arena’s culinary offerings. For more information on the new menu items and to plan your visit, check out the Grand Casino Arena’s website or visit Here
Image Source: www.twincities.com
