Years later, the old grade school saying still rings true: never judge a book by its cover. Or in this case, never judge a restaurant by its exterior. Minnesota’s Rock Creek Cafe is the perfect embodiment of this rule. This hole in the wall restaurant doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it has earned a reputation for serving up mouthwatering food. Next time you’re traveling on I-35, pop in to this local favorite.

The Rock Creek Cafe doesn’t look like much. In fact, the first thing you’ll notice is that it’s also a gas station and convenience store. But don’t let that scare you away.

Aspenluver/TripAdvisor

This restaurant is extremely popular with both locals and frequent I-35 travelers. It’s a great spot to get a bite to eat on the road.

J S./Yelp

When you park, the next thing you’ll notice is the large chicken statue advertising dumpling soup. With that kind of welcome, you should probably walk in, right?

Eric D./TripAdvisor

Inside the restaurant, you’ll find a bustling atmosphere.

Eric D./TripAdvisor

The dining area is pretty small, so be prepared to get cozy with your companions. Still, it’s a comfortable spot to enjoy a local meal.

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

The restaurant’s menu is expansive. They’re open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily, so you can go there for every meal.

Kevin O./TripAdvisor

As for the food itself, you’d be smart to listen to the chicken. The dumpling soup is outstanding.

Kevin O./TripAdvisor

There are many other homestyle favorites as well. If you’re craving comfort food, this truck stop restaurant is just the place.

Eric D./TripAdvisor

One of the restaurant’s most popular meals is the Haystack. It’s eggs, sausage, and hash browns covered in gravy. Take one bite, and you’ll understand why it’s a Rock Creek Cafe classic.

Marguerite A./Yelp Rock Creek Cafe is located at 5737 MN-70 in Rock Creek. You’ll find it at exit 165 off of I-35.

Have you ever been to this hole in the wall restaurant? Let us know what you got!

Aspenluver/TripAdvisor

J S./Yelp

Eric D./TripAdvisor

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

Kevin O./TripAdvisor

Marguerite A./Yelp

Rock Creek Cafe is located at 5737 MN-70 in Rock Creek. You’ll find it at exit 165 off of I-35.

For more great eating in Minnesota, check out these 11 hometown restaurants that will take you back in time.

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