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Don’t Let The Plain Exterior Fool You—Inside, This Northern Minnesota Bar Is A Flavor Explosion

Say you’re cruising down a remote Minnesota highway when suddenly you spot a packed parking lot surrounding what looks like just another roadside bar.

What magic could possibly draw crowds to this unassuming building miles from anywhere? The answer lies in award-winning wings that have earned legendary status across the Iron Range and beyond.

Since 2005, Thirsty Moose Bar & Grill has been locally owned and operated by Tom and Linda Herring, transforming this highway hideaway into Minnesota’s most talked-about wing destination.

Located on Highway 37 just minutes east of Range Regional Airport, this family-friendly establishment has built its reputation on an astounding 33 wing flavors and has earned awards for “best garlic,” “most unique,” and “best overall flavor.”

Wing Paradise & Menu Highlights

The Famous 33 Flavors: The crown jewel of Thirsty Moose is undoubtedly their wing selection, featuring 33 mouthwatering flavors ranging from classics like garlic parmesan, buffalo, and sweet chili to creative combinations like maple & bacon and their signature “moose” flavor.

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You’ll find yourself torn between tried-and-true favorites and adventurous new tastes that have earned this spot its award-winning reputation.

Signature Burgers Worth The Drive: Their 1/3 pound burgers are cooked well-done and served with fries and coleslaw, but the real standout is their beer fries – a local favorite that transforms ordinary fries into something special.

The raspberry jalapeño burger has developed quite a following among regulars who return specifically for this unique flavor combination.

Fresh-Made Pizza Excellence: Every pizza is made to order from scratch using their secret pizza sauce recipe, available in 12-inch small and 16-inch large sizes. You can customize your own creation or choose from their 14 specialty pizzas that have become local favorites for both dine-in and takeout.

Fries With Personality: Why settle for regular fries when you can choose from four distinct varieties? Pick from regular, beer, cajun, or cajun beer fries, or substitute onion rings or baby bakers for a different twist.

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The beer fries have become so popular that locals specifically request them with every burger order.

Family-Friendly Options: The menu extends well beyond wings and burgers with salads, wraps, and appetizers, plus a dedicated kids menu that makes this a perfect family destination. Despite being a bar and grill, the atmosphere welcomes diners of all ages throughout the day.

Atmosphere & Character

Unassuming Exterior, Surprising Interior: Don’t judge this book by its cover – while the exterior might look like any roadside tavern, step inside and you’ll discover a warm, welcoming space that’s always buzzing with activity.

The intimate setting creates a cozy atmosphere where you can unwind after a long day.

Always Packed For Good Reason: Despite its remote location standing alone on Highway 37, the parking lot is consistently packed, and there’s no question why: amazing wings, burgers, pizza, and service.

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The small space fills up quickly, especially during busy summer months, creating an energetic vibe that speaks to the quality of what’s being served.

Dive Bar Charm With Quality Focus: You’ll experience authentic dive bar atmosphere without sacrificing food quality. The casual, laid-back environment encourages lingering conversations over frosted mugs of beer while you wait for your order of those legendary wings.

Big Rig Friendly: The expansive parking area accommodates even big rigs, trucks with trailers, and campers, making this a popular stop for travelers exploring Minnesota’s Iron Range. This practical touch shows how the owners understand their diverse clientele.

Other Considerations

Wallet-Friendly Pricing: You’ll find reasonable prices that deliver exceptional value for the quality and portion sizes. Special deals include Tuesday’s $2 burger baskets and Thursday’s $2 off wings, making already affordable meals even more budget-friendly.

Timing Your Visit: The restaurant gets packed quickly, so arriving early for dinner tables is recommended, especially on weekends. During busy summer months, you might need to settle for takeout when dine-in seating fills up. The takeout option works perfectly given the quality travels well.

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Location Quirks: While listed with a Hibbing address, the restaurant is actually located in the small town of Cherry on Highway 37 between Eveleth and Hibbing. GPS sometimes shows it as Cherry rather than Hibbing, but don’t let that confuse you – you’re in the right place when you see the crowded parking lot.

No Hard Liquor License: They offer setups only rather than serving hard alcohol directly, but the beer selection and overall beverage options complement the food perfectly. The focus remains squarely on the exceptional food that draws people from across the region.

Takeout Excellence: Given the limited seating and high demand, takeout has become a popular option that maintains the same quality as dine-in service. Many locals call ahead to ensure their order is ready when they arrive.


Thirsty Moose Bar & Grill
📍 10550 Highway 37, Hibbing, MN 55746

Writer: Alicia Verville
Click to read bio

I love writing and I love Minneapolis! My favorite places to explore are charming small towns, vibrant arts scene, and hidden gems anywhere outdoors. Fall foliage with a good documentary is my version of heaven.