Recently I had the opportunity to take a fun family trip up the north shore of Lake Superior from Superior to Two Harbors. Even in the winter, with no leaves on the trees and no lush green vegetation on the ground, the short journey never disappoints.
There is new splendor to be found every time I gaze out the window and study the vast shoreline and stop to explore at the little rest areas along the way. Spending a lazy Saturday afternoon skipping stones, hiking a short trail to see a beautiful waterfall and finding creatively painted rocks along the way is always at the top of my list, especially if I get to share it with my family. There’s something so special about Lake Superior, it just feels like home; always has and always will.
Once we reached Two Harbors, we decided it was time to grab a bite to eat, and my cousin suggested what turned out to be an incredible little gem, Madeira Bistro.
Being the Lake Superior historical enthusiast that I am, I knew I had heard the name Madeira before. Once I walked through the doors of this quaint little Bistro, the story behind the name “Madeira Bistro” quietly unfolded as it was tied into the decor of the restaurant itself.
Here we learn that the Madeira was one of 20+ ships that were shipwrecked during the terrible Mataafa Storm back in 1905. The Madeira was a schooner barge in ballast and undertow of the steamer ship, the William Edenborn.
After being separated during the storm, the Madeira struck ground and broke in two. One of the ship’s crew, Fred Benson, managed to grab onto a line, jump to the rocks and climb to the top of a 60-foot cliff, where he then pulled all but one of his crewmen to safety. With such a great loss of life and property, a campaign was launched to erect a lighthouse.
In 1910 this resulted in Split Rock Lighthouse being built within sight of the Madeira shipwreck, which currently lies off Gold Rock Cliff. I was so touched by this tragic narrative and costly legend of Lake Superior, what an incredible way to honor the memory of those lost in the storm and to carry on the history of this beautiful small town.
The Madeira Bistro opened its doors in June 2022 with a mission to share their love of food. And let me tell you…they know a thing or two about good food! Not only is the menu full of fresh and fun items, but it is also always evolving and changing.
Madeira Bistro takes pride in offering locally sourced produce, as well as house made soups and sauces. They also offer the freshest sliced meats and a variety of Minnesota made bakery breads. Because of their seasonal menu and innovative thinking, you can expect to see exciting new menu items often!
It’s important to Madeira Bistro’s mission to keep food waste low as a part of their sustainability goal. If ordering take out, you can expect to see paper and bamboo products being used, and if you’re fortunate enough to enjoy a meal at the Bistro engulfed in its playful atmosphere, you may enjoy your meal on dishes that were sourced secondhand. I love this so much as a statement of sustainability and also personally as an avid thrifter, and it certainly adds so much more character and whimsy to the experience.
This quaint, cozy and heavenly-smelling dining room features order-at-the-counter service. They serve a variety of beer, wine and house-made specialty drinks. They also offer call ahead service take out and encourage customers to pop across the street to enjoy their lunch with a delicious brew at Castle Danger Brewery’s beautiful taproom.
Upon entering the establishment, the foodie in me was awakened and I knew instantly that we were in for a true culinary treat. The air was filled with the scent of yeasty bread and an assortment of herbs and spices. The tables were filled with cheerful patrons who were lost in conversation, food and drink.
As we approached the counter and dove into the palate pleasing menu, which featured a delectable variety of sandwiches, bowls, soup, chili and of course a special section for the kiddos, we were quickly greeted by a lovely woman at the front counter. There is something so special about a small town; the charm, the quaint feel and the overwhelming friendliness.
We placed our orders at the counter, I personally went with the Knife River Roast Beef sandwich. I was instantly so thankful that I was there with a large group of family members, which allowed me to taste, smell and see so many incredible dishes! My beef sandwich was tender, juicy and smothered with gooey melty cheese and savory onions. The horseradish mayo added a splendid kick, and the bread was incredibly fresh. Some of the other reviews from our trip included:
The Harvest Grain Bowl at Madeira Bistro
A hearty grain bowl featuring MN wild rice, quinoa and maple-roasted sweet potatoes served warm over fresh arugula, shredded carrot and red cabbage. Topped with scallions, dried cranberries, pecans and slices of green apple. Served with our house made curry – spiced apple dressing.
“The curry sauce was incredible – I had to ask for extra because it was so delicious! All of the vegetables were very fresh and well balanced.”
Matt (a vegan) Son-in-law
Thai Peanut Bowl at Madeira Bistro
Warm jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, carrots and edamame served beside fresh shredded carrot, red cabbage and sliced bell peppers. Topped with cilantro, scallions, crushed peanuts, a lime wedge and a side of our Thai peanut sauce.
“This bowl was the perfect combination of ingredients and flavors. The Boylan root beer was a great addition to my meal!
Corey, Cousin
Pastrami Reuben
Freshly sliced pastrami, sauerkraut, swiss and 1000 island dressing served warm and melty on toasted pumpernickel.
“Hands down the best pastrami I have ever eaten!”
Jairo, Brother-in-Law
Hibiscus and Tea Lemonade at Madeira Bistro
“Wonderfully refreshing, just the right amount of sweetness!”
Briah, Daughter (also a vegan; shared the Harvest Grain Bowl with husband Matt)
Knife River Roast Beef Sandwich at Madeira Bistro
Warm roast beef, swiss and sauteed onions drizzled with horseradish mayo on a toasted baguette.
“Bread was so soft and the horseradish sauce gave the sandwich a tasty kick! The perfect sandwich!”
Laura, Sister
Where is Madeira Bistro Located?
Located in the lovely little town of Two Harbors, MN, Madeira Bistro is just across the street from Castle Danger Brewery and the The Tipsy Mosquito Wine And Spirit Room.
Madeira Bistro Address:
632 1st Ave, Two Harbors, MN 55616
Wrapping Up Our Visit to Madeira Bistro
If you’re looking for a quick bite to pick up for carry out on your travels along the North Shore, or you are looking for a deliciously balanced, locally sourced sustainable meal to enjoy in a playful wholesome atmosphere, add Madeira Bistro to the top of your list. My friend, you will not be disappointed!
