Tucked away in Bloomington, Minnesota, Mallards Southern Kitchen is a small restaurant with a seriously big reputation. With a 4.8-star rating from nearly 3,500 reviews, this cozy spot has won over locals and travelers alike with its bold Southern flavors.
The shrimp and grits alone are worth the trip, but the menu goes far beyond that one dish. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or settling in for a full dinner, Mallards delivers a memorable meal every single time.
The Shrimp and Grits That Started It All
Some dishes earn a restaurant its reputation, and at Mallards Southern Kitchen, the shrimp and grits is that dish. Creamy, rich, and packed with bold Southern seasoning, this plate hits every note perfectly.
Guests keep coming back just for this one bowl.
The grits are cooked low and slow, giving them a silky texture that soaks up every drop of savory sauce. The shrimp are cooked just right — tender but never rubbery.
Together, they create a bite that feels like a warm hug on a cold Minnesota evening.
Reviewers rave about the balance of flavors, and it’s easy to see why this dish has become a local legend. If you only order one thing at Mallards, make it this.
You won’t regret a single spoonful of this Southern classic.
Corn Risotto With Shrimp (And Optional Lobster Upgrade)
One customer said she would come back to Mallards just for the corn risotto — and honestly, that tracks. This dish is rich, filling, and deeply flavorful without ever feeling too heavy.
It’s the kind of meal that surprises you in the best possible way.
The sweet corn base gives the risotto a natural warmth, and the shrimp adds a satisfying bite. Want to take it up a notch?
Add lobster. Several guests have done exactly that, and not one of them has complained.
Lauren, one of the standout servers at Mallards, is known for recommending this dish to guests who aren’t sure what to order. Her suggestion almost always lands.
If you’re visiting for a date night or a special occasion, the corn risotto with shrimp and lobster is about as impressive as dinner gets in Bloomington.
Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles Done Right
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and just spicy enough to keep you reaching for another bite — Mallards’ Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles is a crowd-pleaser through and through. One reviewer pointed out that the Nashville sauce wasn’t overly salty, which made the heat feel clean and satisfying rather than overwhelming.
The waffles are fluffy with just the right amount of chew, and together with the crunchy chicken, the combo is seriously hard to beat. Three waffles come with the order, which means nobody’s leaving hungry.
Even guests who don’t normally gravitate toward spicy food find themselves polishing off this plate. It’s become one of the most talked-about dishes on the menu, showing up in review after review.
Whether it’s brunch or dinner, this plate brings the heat in the most delicious way possible.
Lobster Rosa Pappardelle — A Pasta Dish Worth Traveling For
Wide ribbon noodles. Perfectly cooked lobster.
A creamy pink sauce that somehow manages to be both light and luxurious. The Lobster Rosa Pappardelle at Mallards is the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-bite and just appreciate what’s happening on your fork.
One traveler on a business trip tried it as the nightly special and liked it so much that he came back the very next evening. That’s not a coincidence — that’s a dish doing its job exceptionally well.
The portion is generous, and the lobster is the real deal.
Chef David clearly knows how to handle seafood, and this pasta is proof of that. The sauce clings to every noodle just right, and the flavor is layered and memorable.
For pasta lovers who also love seafood, this dish is an absolute must-order at Mallards Southern Kitchen.
Crab Cake Benedict: A Brunch Special That Melts in Your Mouth
Weekend brunch at Mallards brings out one of the most talked-about dishes on the entire menu: the Crab Cake Benedict. One guest described it as melting in her mouth while still holding together perfectly when cut — a rare and impressive culinary achievement.
The crab cake is the star here, seasoned beautifully and cooked to a satisfying golden crust. Pair it with the richness of hollandaise and a perfectly poached egg, and you’ve got a brunch plate that rivals anything you’d find at a high-end restaurant.
Server Noel reportedly calls it her personal favorite, and her enthusiasm for recommending it is well-earned.
This dish is only available on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. It fills up fast, and for good reason.
If you haven’t tried brunch at Mallards yet, the Crab Cake Benedict is the perfect reason to finally make the trip.
Cast Iron Apple Pie A La Mode: The Dessert Everyone Talks About
Few things in life are as satisfying as a dessert that genuinely earns its reputation. The cast iron apple pie at Mallards Southern Kitchen does exactly that.
Served sizzling hot on a platter with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream, it’s the kind of ending to a meal that stays with you long after you’ve left the restaurant.
The balance of warm, flaky crust with sweet-tart apple filling and cold, creamy ice cream is just right. Multiple reviewers specifically called this dessert out as the highlight of their entire visit.
One guest said it was the perfect finishing touch to an already incredible dinner.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a date night, or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, do not skip dessert here. The apple pie alone is worth the drive to Bloomington.
Order it. Trust the reviews on this one.
Boudin Balls: The Appetizer You Didn’t Know You Needed
Ordering something you’ve never tried before at a restaurant can feel like a gamble — but at Mallards, the boudin balls are a bet that always pays off. One reviewer admitted he wouldn’t normally order them, but after one bite, he was completely sold.
Great flavor, satisfying texture, and a dipping sauce that ties it all together.
Boudin balls are a classic Louisiana appetizer made from seasoned pork and rice stuffed inside a crispy fried shell. Mallards nails the execution, delivering an appetizer that’s bold without being overwhelming.
They’re also the kind of shareable starter that makes everyone at the table happy.
Server John is known for recommending these to guests who are on the fence, and his track record speaks for itself. Start your meal here and you’ll set a high bar for everything that follows — which, at Mallards, is saying something.
Jerk Nachos: A Flavor Mashup That Actually Works
Jerk seasoning on nachos sounds like a bold move, and at Mallards, it absolutely delivers. The smoky, spiced Caribbean-inspired flavors blend surprisingly well with the crunch of chips and the richness of melted cheese.
It’s the kind of creative combination that makes you wonder why more restaurants haven’t tried it.
One guest ordered these as part of a spread that also included seafood rolls and crab legs, and the jerk nachos held their own at the table. That’s not an easy feat when you’re competing with shellfish.
The portions are solid, and the flavor is bold but not overpowering.
Mallards has a knack for blending Southern soul food with unexpected twists, and the jerk nachos are a great example of that creativity in action. They work perfectly as a shared appetizer or as a solo snack during happy hour.
Either way, order them.
Canadian Walleye: A Minnesota Staple Done Southern Style
Walleye is practically a Minnesota state symbol, so it makes sense that Mallards would put their own Southern spin on it. The Canadian Walleye dish has earned serious praise from guests, including one traveler who tried it on a second visit after being blown away by his first meal there.
That kind of return visit says everything.
The fish is cooked beautifully — flaky, moist, and full of flavor without being greasy. Mallards treats this local favorite with the care and technique of a seasoned kitchen, elevating it beyond typical fish preparations you’d find at most Minnesota restaurants.
For guests who want something familiar but elevated, the walleye is a reliable choice. It bridges the gap between Midwest comfort and Southern cooking in a way that feels natural and satisfying.
Chef David and the team have clearly put real thought into making this dish shine on the menu.
Pimento Mallard Melt and Cajun Sweet Potato Fries
There’s something deeply comforting about a perfectly made melt, and the Pimento Mallard Melt at this Bloomington restaurant hits that comfort zone with confidence. Pimento cheese is a Southern staple, and Mallards uses it well — gooey, tangy, and rich between toasted bread that’s crisped just right.
The real surprise? The Cajun sweet potato fries on the side.
One reviewer called them “killer,” and that word choice feels completely accurate. The sweetness of the potato plays off the spice of the Cajun seasoning in a way that’s hard to stop eating.
They’re the kind of side dish that steals attention from the main event.
Together, the melt and fries make for a lunch or dinner combo that feels both indulgent and grounded. It’s hearty Southern cooking with personality.
If you’re craving something satisfying without going full seafood, this is your order at Mallards.
Exceptional Service That Elevates Every Visit
Great food is only part of what makes a restaurant worth returning to — and at Mallards, the service is just as impressive as the menu. Servers like John, Lauren, Sara, Noel, and Dylan have been mentioned by name across dozens of glowing reviews, which is a strong sign that the team takes hospitality seriously.
John in particular seems to have become something of a fan favorite, praised for his humor, attentiveness, and spot-on menu recommendations. Lauren earned her own loyal following after turning a last-minute date night into an unforgettable experience for one couple.
These aren’t accidents — they reflect a culture of genuine care.
At Mallards, the staff treats guests like regulars even on a first visit. That warmth, combined with the quality of the food, is exactly why so many people leave saying they’ll definitely come back.
And most of them do.
A Cozy Atmosphere With Indoor Booths and an Outdoor Patio
Mallards Southern Kitchen may be small, but the space is thoughtfully designed to feel welcoming no matter where you sit. Indoor booths give the dining room a warm, tucked-in feel — perfect for date nights, birthday dinners, or catching up with friends over a long meal.
For guests who prefer fresh air, the outdoor patio is a fantastic option. One reviewer mentioned that a rainstorm rolled in while he was eating outside, and rather than ruining the night, it actually added to the cozy, intimate atmosphere.
That’s the kind of charm that’s hard to manufacture — it just happens naturally at a place like this.
Located at 2300 W 80th 1/2 St in Bloomington, the restaurant is conveniently close to several hotels, making it an easy stop for business travelers and tourists alike. The vibe is relaxed, the setting is comfortable, and the whole place just feels right.
Why Mallards Southern Kitchen Keeps Earning Five-Star Reviews
A 4.8-star rating from nearly 3,500 reviewers doesn’t happen by luck. At Mallards Southern Kitchen, every element of the experience — from the first bite to the last sip — seems carefully considered.
The kitchen is consistent, the staff is warm, and the menu offers something genuinely exciting for everyone at the table.
What’s especially striking is how many guests mention that they’re coming back. Not “maybe someday” — but “we’ll definitely be back.” That kind of enthusiasm is rare, and it speaks to a restaurant that has figured out the formula for keeping people happy.
Mallards is open most days from 11 AM to 10 PM, with weekend brunch starting at 10 AM. You can reach them at 952-405-8499 or visit mallardsmn.com to check out the menu before your visit.
Once you go, you’ll completely understand why the reviews never seem to dip below exceptional.
Enjoyed this story?
Add Fast Food Club as a preferred source to see more of our reporting on Google.