Tucked along the scenic St. Croix River valley in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, The Drive In Restaurant is a beloved retro spot that has been delighting families for years. With a menu packed full of juicy burgers, homemade root beer, and creamy malts, it checks every box for a satisfying meal.
What really sets it apart, though, is the on-site mini golf course that turns a simple lunch stop into a full-blown family adventure. Whether you are a first-timer or a regular, this charming drive-in delivers the kind of experience that keeps people coming back all summer long.
The Retro Drive-In Atmosphere
Walking up to The Drive In Restaurant feels like stepping into a time machine. A giant spinning root beer mug greets you at the entrance, setting the tone for a nostalgic experience that is hard to find anywhere else in Minnesota.
The outdoor setup features picnic tables, cheerful signage, and a classic drive-in layout where you can actually eat in your car. Reviewers consistently rave about the retro vibe, calling it charming, cute, and genuinely old-school.
Even on a busy Saturday evening, the atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming. The combination of upbeat music, fresh air, and the sight of families enjoying their meals makes this place feel like a true community gathering spot.
It is the kind of ambiance that turns a quick burger stop into a full memory worth keeping.
Homemade Root Beer That Steals the Show
Ask any regular at The Drive In what to order first, and they will almost certainly say the root beer. Made completely in-house, this is not the kind of root beer you pour out of a can — it is rich, smooth, and packed with flavor that commercial brands simply cannot match.
One reviewer called it “possibly the best root beer I have ever had,” and another made a point of buying a half-gallon jug to take home. The root beer float, with its perfect ice cream-to-soda ratio, is equally legendary among fans of the restaurant.
You can also grab the root beer as a freeze for something a little thicker and more indulgent. No matter how you order it, this handcrafted drink is the kind of thing that makes the whole trip worthwhile.
Do not leave without trying it.
Juicy, Perfectly Crafted Burgers
The burgers at The Drive In are the kind that remind you why a simple, well-made patty beats a fancy restaurant meal any day. Reviewers describe them as incredibly juicy, perfectly sized, and loaded with classic toppings that complement every bite.
The All American burger is a crowd favorite, while the bacon cheeseburger earns high marks for its fluffy bun and crispy, flavorful bacon. One customer poetically noted that the bun was “so soft it felt like a pillow” — present enough to hold everything together without stealing the spotlight from the patty.
Rough-chopped onions, pickles, and Thousand Island dressing create a combination that feels both familiar and satisfying. Add optional tomato and onion for just a small upcharge.
Whether you are a burger purist or love loading yours up, this menu delivers the goods every single time.
On-Site Mini Golf for the Whole Family
Here is something you do not see every day: a burger joint with its own mini golf course right on the property. The Drive In Restaurant takes family dining to a whole new level by giving kids and adults alike a fun activity to enjoy before or after their meal.
Multiple reviewers mention spotting families putting their way around the course while enjoying the relaxed outdoor atmosphere. One customer even said watching people play mini golf from the picnic tables made the whole evening feel “peaceful and relaxing.”
Kids who order a meal deal can score a two-for-one discount on mini golf, making it an even better value for families. The course adds a playful energy to the whole visit that turns a regular dinner outing into something genuinely memorable.
Pack your competitive spirit and get ready for some friendly putting battles.
Classic Crinkle Fries and Onion Rings
Every great burger needs a great sidekick, and The Drive In delivers with its classic crinkle fries. Simple, golden, and familiar, these fries are exactly what you expect from a proper American drive-in — no frills, just comfort food done right.
Onion rings are another side worth ordering, though a few reviewers note the portion can be on the smaller side. Still, the crispy coating and soft interior make them a satisfying addition to any meal, especially when paired with the restaurant’s homemade root beer.
Some guests suggest the fries could use a little extra seasoning for those who like a bolder flavor. That said, the straightforward, unfussy style is part of the charm here.
These sides are meant to complement the star of the show — the burger — and they do exactly that without trying too hard. Grab a basket and dig in.
Creamy Malts and Shakes Worth Every Sip
If you thought the root beer was impressive, wait until you try one of the malts or shakes at The Drive In. Thick, creamy, and generously portioned, these old-fashioned treats are the kind that make you slow down and savor every single spoonful.
The strawberry malt earns consistent praise from customers, with one reviewer noting how much they enjoyed it alongside a bacon cheeseburger. Chocolate and butterscotch malts are also on the menu, though a couple of reviewers suggest the butterscotch version could pack a bit more flavor punch.
Malts are served in classic metal cups, adding to the authentic retro experience that makes this place so special. Whether you are cooling down after a round of mini golf or just treating yourself after a long hike nearby, a malt from The Drive In is the perfect way to finish your visit on a sweet note.
Cheese Curds That Hit the Spot
Cheese curds are basically a Minnesota food group, and The Drive In does not disappoint in this department. Golden, crispy on the outside, and gooey on the inside, these cheddar cheese curds are a fan-favorite appetizer that disappears fast at the table.
One reviewer called them “good” while another made a point of mentioning they are made with cheddar — something worth knowing if you have specific cheese preferences. The kitchen uses real cheddar, which gives the curds a sharper, more distinct flavor compared to the milder white cheese curds you might find elsewhere.
Pro tip: order these as a starter while you wait for your burgers to arrive. They pair exceptionally well with the homemade root beer.
The portion size is solid, and the price is fair for what you get. These little golden bites are a must-try for any first-time visitor to the restaurant.
Car-Side Service for a True Drive-In Experience
One of the most unique features of The Drive In is the option to pull your car into a designated spot and have your food brought right out to you. This classic carhop-style service is a throwback to the golden age of American dining and adds a layer of fun that regular sit-down restaurants simply cannot offer.
Spots do fill up quickly, especially on busy summer weekends, so arriving early gives you the best shot at snagging one. Reviewers who planned on the car-side experience but missed out on a spot still found great alternatives, like picnic tables across the street in the shade.
The flexibility of the setup means there is really no wrong way to enjoy your meal here. Whether you eat in your car, at a picnic table, or inside the dining area, the food and the friendly service travel well in any direction.
It is a genuinely fun way to eat out.
Family-Friendly Menu With Something for Everyone
Feeding a group of picky eaters is never easy, but The Drive In makes it significantly less stressful. The menu covers all the classic American comfort food bases — burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, fries, malts, and more — so everyone from toddlers to grandparents can find something they love.
Kids meal options come with a bonus: a two-for-one deal on mini golf that makes the whole outing even more affordable for families. Staff members are noted by multiple reviewers for being especially kind and accommodating to young diners, which goes a long way when you are wrangling hungry kids.
One reviewer even highlighted a server named Autumn who carefully checked every menu item for allergens to keep a one-year-old with dairy allergies safe. That level of attentiveness is rare and deeply appreciated.
This is a place that genuinely cares about making every guest feel welcome and well-fed.
Picturesque Location in Taylors Falls
Location matters, and The Drive In has one of the best in the state. Situated on Bench Street in Taylors Falls, the restaurant sits right in the heart of a town known for its stunning natural scenery, river views, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Many visitors stop in after hiking the trails at Interstate State Park or exploring the dramatic rocky terrain along the St. Croix River. The outdoor dining area even features a water feature that adds a calming, scenic backdrop to your meal.
Taylors Falls itself is a charming small town with a lot of personality, and The Drive In fits right into that character. The combination of great food, fresh air, and beautiful surroundings makes this stop feel like more than just a meal — it feels like a proper Minnesota summer experience.
Plan a full day trip and make the drive absolutely worth it.
Friendly and Hardworking Staff
Behind every great restaurant experience is a team of people who genuinely care, and The Drive In has plenty of those. Reviewers from all walks of life — including a visitor from Syria and a Texan who drives an hour just to come back — consistently praise the staff for being warm, welcoming, and attentive.
One standout mention goes to a server named Autumn, who went above and beyond to protect a baby with food allergies by checking every single ingredient on the menu. Another reviewer compared the friendly energy of the staff to the hospitality of their hometown in Texas — which is about as high a compliment as it gets.
Sure, on the busiest summer weekends, wait times can stretch a bit longer than expected. But most guests agree that the genuine kindness of the team makes the wait feel much more manageable.
Good people truly make a difference.
Hours, Location, and What to Know Before You Go
Planning your visit to The Drive In is easy once you know the basics. The restaurant is located at 572 Bench St, Taylors Falls, MN 55084, and is open every day of the week from 11 AM to 9 PM — perfect for a late lunch or early dinner after a day of outdoor adventures.
A few things worth knowing before you arrive: the restaurant gets very busy on summer weekends and holidays, so arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday gives you the smoothest experience. Also, if you plan to pay by credit card, be aware there is a 4.9% processing fee, so bringing cash is a smart move.
You can check out their website at taylorsfallsdrivein.com or call ahead at 651-465-7831 for more details. With a 4.6-star rating from over 3,000 reviews, this spot has clearly earned its reputation as a Minnesota must-visit.
Why This Spot Deserves a Spot on Your Summer Bucket List
Some restaurants are just places to eat. The Drive In in Taylors Falls is a full-on experience.
Between the handcrafted root beer, the juicy burgers, the on-site mini golf, and the retro charm that wraps it all together, this place delivers something that is genuinely hard to replicate anywhere else in Minnesota.
Families drive from hours away just to make a meal here part of their summer ritual. One Texas visitor makes the hour-long trip every time she is in the state.
A couple from who-knows-where called an unplanned picnic table lunch across the street their best decision ever. That kind of enthusiasm does not happen by accident.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday, wrapping up a hiking trip, or just craving the kind of simple, joyful meal that feels like summer in a basket, The Drive In belongs on your list. Go once and you will understand immediately.
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