Gordy’s Hi-Hat in Cloquet, Minnesota, might stretch the definition of a hole-in-the-wall—but only spatially.
At its core, this 1950s drive-in packs more flavor per square foot than seems legally possible.
Open seasonally from March to October, the family-owned shack hooks road-trippers and locals with hand-pattied burgers smashed thin on a griddle, onion rings crunchier than a Midwest winter, and shakes so thick they defy straw physics.
Its checkerboard floors, red vinyl stools, and vintage vibe make every meal feel like a slice of the 1960s—no time machine required.
Food Highlights
- Double Cheeseburger: Smashed thin on a flat-top grill, oozing melted American cheese and topped with fried onions. A Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives favorite for its juicy, charred edges.
- Homemade Onion Rings: Lightly battered with cornmeal and Bisquick, these golden hoops stay crunchy without greasiness. “Skip the fries” isn’t just a suggestion here.
- Alaskan Pike Fish Sandwich: Hand-battered filets fried to golden perfection. Regulars swear it’s the Midwest’s best.
- Blackberry Shake: Made with fresh berries, it’s a sweet-tart companion to salty burgers. Jessica Lange-approved!
- Mushroom Swiss Burger: Sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese piled high—bring a fork for the drips.
- Gordy’s Famous Chili: Hearty, meaty, and served year-round in the adjacent Warming House.
Atmosphere
Step into a 1950s diner dream: checkerboard floors, jukebox-worthy booths, and a bustling counter where orders fly.
Outdoor picnic tables, a dog park, and a playground make it a pit stop for families and pups.
The line snakes around the building on summer weekends—proof that good things come to those who wait.
Why It’s One of the Best in Minnesota:
Three generations of the Lundquist family have kept the menu unchanged since Eisenhower was president.
Fresh ingredients, relentless consistency, and a side of small-town charm turn first-timers into lifers.
Address: 411 Sunnyside Drive, Cloquet, MN