When people talk about the Edina food scene, Southdale or 50th & France usually steal the show. But for those in the know, the Countryside neighborhood has quietly and confidently blossomed into a cozy culinary oasis. Nestled between Vernon Avenue and the gentle curves of Interlachen Boulevard, Countryside offers a surprising and delightful mix of dining that turns a stroll or a short drive into a delicious adventure.
Where Breakfast Dreams Begin
The day starts perfectly in Countryside, especially at *Patisserie Margo* on Cahill Road. This delightful bakery is a classic French escape wrapped in Minnesota warmth. Locals rave about their buttery croissants and pain au chocolat—ideal with a cup of robust coffee. Their almond pastries are rich without ever feeling heavy, and the space feels like a friendly neighborhood kitchen where regulars are always greeted by name.
Just down the road on Vernon Avenue, *Edina Grill* (technically near the border but beloved by Countryside residents) serves up hearty brunches that bring together families, friends, and hungry early risers. The breakfast burritos are stuffed to the brim, and the lemon ricotta pancakes might just ruin you for all others. Don’t miss their caramel rolls—they’re legendary.
Lunchtime Favorites: From Local Comforts to Global Flavors
For casual lunch vibes, *Countryside Kitchen* on Interlachen Boulevard is as neighborhood as it gets. Their homemade soups rotate daily, matching perfectly with their grilled cheese or turkey avocado melts. It’s a spot where you’ll overhear everything from business brainstorms to toddlers giggling over fruit cups.
If you crave something globally inspired, *Pho 79* in the Vernon Center strip brings the bold, herbaceous flavors of Vietnamese cuisine to the suburbs. The house-special pho is aromatic, packed with tender slices of beef, and brightened up by a tray of fresh basil and lime. Their banh mi sandwiches are a quick, affordable treat—ideal for a midday pick-me-up under $10.
Heading toward the intersection of Benton Avenue and Vernon, you’ll find *Taqueria El Patron*—a local food truck that often parks in the corner lot during spring and summer. Their tacos are made with homemade corn tortillas, and the carne asada with cilantro and onion tastes like a sunny vacation. Try their homemade salsas for a real kick, and be sure to check their social media for up-to-date schedules.
Sweet Treats & Cozy Coffee Breaks
Café culture is alive and well here, thanks in part to *Rustica Bakery & Café* on Vernon Avenue. This offshoot of the beloved Minneapolis bakery brings signature cardamom buns, rustic loaves, and delicate cookies to Edina. Inside, mid-century modern décor and friendly service make it a favorite for meetings and me-time alike. Coffee is locally roasted and matches perfectly with their famous bittersweet chocolate cookies.
For a nostalgic twist, *Countryside Creamery* on Cahill Road offers small-batch ice cream and classic malts in a vintage-inspired parlor setting. Flavors rotate with the seasons—a summer scoop of strawberry basil is always a hit, while pumpkin spice arrives in the fall. Parents appreciate the kid-friendly corner with coloring books, and couples love the cozy booths.
Dinner Destinations: Upscale & Under-the-Radar
Evenings in Countryside are for lingering over memorable meals. *Terzo Edina*—a satellite of the lauded Minneapolis Italian eatery—brings handmade pastas, local produce, and a thoughtfully curated wine list to a softly lit space on Interlachen. The spaghetti carbonara is creamy perfection, and the seasonal risottos channel the best of both north and south Italy. Main dishes range from $16 to $32, making it a solid choice for date nights or celebrating milestones.
If low-key comfort is more your mood, *Sunny’s Countryside Pizza* on Vernon Avenue is a longstanding neighborhood favorite, run by the same family for over fifteen years. Their pepperoni pizza, with a crust that strikes the ideal balance between chewy and crispy, is a crowd-pleaser. The Greek salad—loaded with feta, olives, and house-made dressing—is another standout, and the lunch special means you can feast for less.
A recent addition is *Omakase Sushi & Sake Bar* a discreet spot tucked in a quiet strip on Interlachen. With only ten counter seats, this is a reservations-only experience. Each course is a miniature masterpiece—watching the chef torch fresh salmon right in front of you is a show all on its own. The omakase menu starts at $40, an affordable way to experience premium sushi without leaving Edina.
Hidden Gems: Neighborhood Nooks & Occasional Surprises
Not all treasures are easy to spot. *Heidi’s Market*—a European-style corner store off Interlachen—offers fresh baguettes, imported cheeses, and their house-made quiche. It’s a local secret for grabbing gourmet picnic essentials, and their Saturday morning tastings (think local honey, small-batch kombucha, or Minnesota maple syrups) are worth setting an alarm for.
If you wander down Vernon Avenue in late summer, watch for pop-up farmers’ stalls near Countryside Park. Local gardeners and bakers sell zucchini bread, sun-ripened tomatoes, and bouquets of wildflowers. It’s proof that community and great food go hand-in-hand here.
Why Countryside? It’s All About Character
What elevates the Countryside food scene is its blend of authenticity, hospitality, and community spirit. Here, you’re more likely to chat with an owner, discover a new specialty, or be tempted by a seasonal special. You can have an old-school American breakfast one day, wander into a Vietnamese bistro the next, and finish your week with Parisian pastries and hand-rolled sushi—all within a mile or two.
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Countryside, Edina offers something rare: small-town warmth with big-city flavor. Bring your appetite—and an adventurous spirit. Your new favorite spot might be just around the corner.