1. Ely’s Ivy

I never keep it a secret for too long that Ely’s Ivy is one of my favorite gems in downtown Grand Forks. From romantic date nights to girls’ night out to after work cocktails, the atmosphere, food and drink selections are some of the best. One of my favorite pairings here is the spinach artichoke dip with Evolution Riesling. Delicious.

 

Ely’s often has tasting menus available that include wine pairings. Their farm-to-table dining and fresh-from-scratch offerings are sure to tantalize your tastebuds. Pair that with chef-selected wines and cocktails, and your tastebuds are in for an amazing evening.

2. Helix Wine & Bites

This intimate wine bar & restaurant is located on the south end of Grand Forks. Owner Michael Schepp is probably one of the top wine experts in the region. He hand selects every wine offered at Helix. Their self-serve preservation system offers a variety of wines to taste, pour a half glass or a full glass. They offer a wine club, where members get a first taste of some unique wines, as well as discounts on bottles.

 

Their chef prepared menu of appetizers, meals, and desserts is original and creative. Their artisan meat and cheese tray pairs lovely with almost any wine and a friend group. I highly recommend making reservations before heading out to experience all Helix has to offer because the intimate space is often fully booked.

3. Grape Mill Vineyard & Winery

That’s right – the Grand Forks region has its own vineyard. Located in East Grand Forks, the Grape Mill Vineyard and Winery grows their own grapes, specifically bred for cold weather climates. Their unique tastes have won many awards.

 

On the weekends, you can visit the tasting room and sample all their delicious wines. Unsure of what to try? Order a wine flight! You select the four wines you want to sample from a menu and sit back and enjoy. My favorite from the flight was Zeus, a semi-sweet rosé. Guests are welcome to walk around the vineyard while they sip their wine. Outdoor seating with gorgeous views is also available. And the best part? The Vineyard and tasting room are dog-friendly and kid-friendly! Bring the whole family for a fun adventure.

4. Harry’s Steakhouse

One of the newer fine dining establishments in Grand Forks, Harry’s Steakhouse has already positioned itself as a high-quality restaurant with impeccable customer service and unique décor. The main character here is their steaks, but customers are also raving about the truffle mac and cheese, the Harry’s style hashbrowns, and their mouth-watering desserts. As the menu states, pair the “1881” Napa cabernet wine with a juicy steak cooked to perfection. You can’t go wrong.

5. Last Chance Trading Post

Okay, so this one is a little off the beaten path, but I promise it is worth the drive. About an hour northwest of Grand Forks, the small town of Hallock, Minnesota is experiencing a renaissance. With a coffee shop, brewery, distillery, and wine bar, you’re sure to find a place to wet your whistle. Last Chance Trading Post features a full bar, wine bar, gourmet foods, and locally sourced charcuterie boards. Wine bottles line one wall, with a huge selection of Minnesota wines just ready to take home.

I was lucky during my latest visit to Last Chance. I hit the half-priced mimosas sale! The drinks were beautiful and delicious, and served by friendly, helpful bartenders. Several weekends in the summer you can take in live bands, food trucks, and all the quaint shops that line the street. The Last Chance Trading Post is so unique – with original ceilings, windows, and floors, you are brought back to a simpler era. You can’t help but relax and take in the unique and inviting atmosphere. They also offer farm-raised beef you can purchase and take home. May I recommend a few New York Strips and a lovely red, both of which are made in Minnesota?

6. Happy Harry’s

Let’s be honest. Sometimes we want to drink wine in our sweatpants. At least I do. Sometimes sitting at home on your deck enjoying the last days of summer while sipping your favorite crisp white is so good for the soul. This is where Happy Harry’s comes in. What’s in my glass? Well, that’s a Coppola pinot grigio. It’s my go-to summer sipper.

Don’t miss Happy Harry’s twice annual Penny Wine Sale, where you can purchase one bottle of wine at regular price and get the second for only a penny. It’s a great way to stock up and make sure you always have a bottle on hand, for yourself or to bring to that dinner party. They have a huge selection of wines from all over the world, and a staff willing to answer all your wine-related questions.