Valleyfair

One of Valleyfair's most popular dining locations will host a variety of local chefs, including Justin Sutherland, for the 2019 season. 

"Valleyfair is Minnesota tradition and we want to focus on our connection to Minnesota's food culture this season," Matt Anderson, Valleyfair's Food and Beverage Director, said. Depot Refreshments will feature new menus developed by local chefs with a new restaurant taking over each month. 

Iron Chef Champion, Justin Sutherland

Starting in June, Depot will serve a menu specifically designed for Valleyfair by Iron Chef Champion, Justin Sutherland. Sutherland is an Apple Valley native who attended Le Cordon Bleu in Atlanta. He was a sous chef at Meritage and Brasserie Zentral before opening Handsome Hog in 2016. Sutherland became an Iron Chef Champion when he defeated Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli. He has also competed on Top Chef. 

Valleyfair will feature a variety of Handsome Hog menu items including Shrimp Po Boy, Brisket Sandwich, Buttermilk & Dry Rub Wings, and Carolina Pulled Pork. Sides will include Mac N Cheese, Wedges, Slaw, and Hushpuppies. 

Menu items will be available on the All Season Dining Plan, All Day Dining Plan, and Single-Meal Deal. 

Carolina Pulled Pork with Mac N Cheese

"I am honored to invite these local chefs to Valleyfair," David Whitmer, Valleyfair's Executive Chef, said, "We are excited for our associates to learn from their expertise." 

Depot will also feature a variety of beer and cocktail selections for guests 21 years of age and older. Guests can enjoy Tattersall's Valleyfair Rum Punch, Summit Slugfest, and other domestic selections. 

The Depot 2019 Residencies

June - Handsome Hog

We call our food contemporary Southern and it’s very pig-centric. We use all the parts of the hog, from the snout to the tail—you’ve got to try our Crispy Pig Tails & Whole Roasted Hog Jowls. Of course, we’ve got all your Southern staples too, like Chicken N Waffles, Smothered Tomahawk Pork Chops, and Pickle Brined Roasted Chicken, not to mention P.O.D. (Pig of the Day).

handsomehog.com

July - Blue Plate Restaurant Co. - Groveland Tap
A neighborhood beer and burger joint, the Groveland Tap is your home away from home! Order over a pound of Wings, a Cajun Lucy, or some Golden Fried Cheese curds and you'll understand why our family-friendly dining room is always packed.

grovelandtap.com

August - Pajarito
Think great neighborhood hangout with superb Mexican food. We are pushing the envelope on traditional Mexican fare with modern touches and fresh, vibrant flavors. We're putting thought and effort into every aspect, from the selection of the meats and vegetables, to how they’re prepared, creating dishes that feel familiar but new. 

pajaritostp.com

Sept. & Oct. - Smalley's Caribbean Barbeque
Authentic Caribbean style jerk offered to an Americanized palate. Caribbean specialties and BBQ, burgers, sandwiches, and more.

facebook.com/smalleyscaribbeanbbq