Are you craving a quick bite in the charming town of Northfield, Minnesota, but short on time for a leisurely sit-down meal? Or perhaps you’re a student balancing classes and a budget, needing a convenient and affordable lunch option between lectures? Maybe you are just passing through on a road trip! Northfield, known for its beautiful downtown and strong sense of community, also offers a variety of fast food options to satisfy those on-the-go cravings. This guide explores the fast food choices available in Northfield, offering insights into what’s available, local favorites, and maybe even some quick-bite gems. We’re here to help you navigate the world of quick eats in our town!
The Lay of the Land: Exploring Existing Fast Food Options
Northfield, while possessing a unique small-town feel, still offers a selection of national fast food chains. These provide familiarity and convenience for residents and visitors alike, offering some budget options.
McDonald’s
The golden arches are a familiar sight, and Northfield is no exception. Located on the edge of town, this McDonald’s offers the classic menu of burgers, fries, and breakfast items. It’s a popular spot for families and travelers. The restaurant features both a drive-thru and indoor seating. Popular items for our local college students includes the McChicken and the always loved French Fries. It’s a fast, affordable and familiar stop! They open early and stay open late, which makes it convenient for grabbing a bite anytime!
Subway
For those seeking a slightly healthier fast food option, Subway provides customizable sandwiches and salads. Located on the main street, Northfield’s Subway offers a convenient lunch spot. It is perfect for a light meal or a filling dinner, and you can customize your order to your exact needs! The option to build your own sandwich with fresh vegetables and lean proteins makes it a frequent choice for health-conscious individuals. Students love that they can add all of the toppings they want!
Dairy Queen
A Northfield classic! Dairy Queen is a popular spot for all things ice cream and fast food. Locals love to go here for a treat or to grab lunch. More than just ice cream, this Dairy Queen offers burgers, chicken strips, and the classic Blizzard. The drive-thru makes it easy to grab a quick treat on a hot day! A popular place for a family after a sporting event.
Taco John’s
Craving something with a little kick? Taco John’s offers a menu of tacos, burritos, and potato olés. Located a little further away from the main area of town, this Taco John’s provides a change of pace from the standard burger fare. A beloved regional chain. College students love the super potatoes!
Jimmy John’s
Known for its “freaky fast” delivery and fresh sandwiches, Jimmy John’s is a go-to for a quick lunch or late-night snack. Located near the colleges, it’s a favorite among students and anyone needing a speedy meal. Fresh ingredients are always available, and a wide variety of options means that everyone is sure to find something that they like! They also have a catering menu, and students can always order it delivered right to their dorm!
Caribou Coffee
Okay, so Caribou Coffee isn’t strictly a fast food restaurant, but in the era of grabbing a breakfast sandwich and a coffee on the way to work, it counts! It provides a decent selection of grab-and-go breakfast and lunch items. The coffee is popular here and the atmosphere is a bonus! Students love getting study time in with a warm drink!
Beyond the Chains: Discovering Local “Fast-Casual” Alternatives
While national chains offer convenience, Northfield also boasts local eateries that provide a unique “fast-casual” experience. These businesses often focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and create distinct dishes that reflect the town’s character.
Chapati
While technically a sit-down restaurant, Chapati is included here because their delicious Indian food is served quickly! From curry to biryani, they have amazing options. Great for taking out, but also nice to sit down and enjoy. Often, college students will walk here for lunch. It is delicious and affordable, with vegetarian options available!
Hogan Brothers Acoustic Cafe
More than just a coffee shop, Hogan Brothers offers a selection of quick and tasty breakfast and lunch items. This cafe serves quick sandwiches and salads, as well as breakfast wraps, which are available every morning! The lattes and espresso beverages are a bonus too! A great alternative to chain coffee shops, and the ingredients are locally sourced!
Tanzenwald Brewing Company
Though primarily a brewery, Tanzenwald offers some simple foods like pizza to snack on! Often they have specials and events that pair well with food! A great place to hang out and eat something while enjoying a local beverage.
Northfield Lines
A bowling alley that serves pizza, burgers and fries! What more could you want? The food comes fast and is great to eat while you bowl or hang out with friends! If you are looking for something to do, this is the perfect place to grab a bite!
The Wish List: Addressing Fast Food Gaps in Northfield
Northfield has a decent selection of fast food, but some widely-desired chains are absent. Identifying these gaps reveals opportunities for new businesses to thrive and cater to unmet needs.
One of the most common desires among Northfield residents, particularly the college student population, is a Chick-fil-A. The chain’s customer service and popular menu of chicken sandwiches and waffle fries makes it a highly sought-after addition to Northfield’s dining scene. However, the market size may be a factor in Chick-fil-A’s absence. Northfield is a small town and this could cause them to be hesitant to open here.
Another notable absence is Starbucks. While Caribou Coffee serves the area, Starbucks has a huge fan base and is frequently requested. It could also be that Northfield’s downtown is home to several long-standing coffee shops that give competition.
The absence of certain fast food chains in Northfield could be attributed to a number of factors: Market size limits, competition from existing local restaurants, or real estate constraints. The local feel is important in Northfield. It’s a small town, and the residents love to support each other and local businesses. It’s possible that this contributes to the chain restaurants taking a step back.
Fast Food Hacks & Tips for Northfield
Navigating the fast food scene in Northfield requires knowing when and where to find the best deals and avoid the crowds. Here are some practical tips:
- Avoid College Rush Hours: Be aware of peak lunch and dinner times for Carleton and St. Olaf College students, as these locations will likely be busier during those periods.
- Check for Student Discounts: Students should inquire about discounts at local fast food restaurants, as many offer deals to students with a valid college ID.
- Utilize Mobile Apps: Most fast food chains have mobile apps with exclusive deals, coupons, and ordering options, which can save you money and time.
- Consider Delivery Services: For a convenient option, consider ordering through delivery services like DoorDash or Grubhub, which offer delivery from many of Northfield’s fast food restaurants.
- Grab-and-Go Before Events: If you are headed to a performance at the colleges, grab a bite to eat beforehand. Lines get long quickly!
- The Quickest Drive Through: Many locals say Dairy Queen has the fastest and most efficient drive through. If you are looking for the best and fastest, this is the place to go!
- Visit during off peak hours. Many times during the day fast food restaurants have downtime. This is when it is best to go!
- Take advantage of deals. Apps usually provide the best deals. Save money by ordering through the app!
Conclusion
Northfield’s fast food scene may not be extensive, but it offers a mix of familiar chains and unique local alternatives. From a quick burger at McDonald’s to a fresh sandwich at Subway or a delicious and unique meal at a local spot, there’s something to satisfy every craving. While some popular chains may be missing from the landscape, this opens the door for local businesses to fill the gaps and provide unique, community-focused dining experiences.
So, the next time you’re craving fast food in Northfield, consult this guide and discover the options that are right for you. Do you prefer to grab something from a local eatery or stick with the classics at one of the chain restaurants? What is your favorite quick bite in Northfield?
