Elbow Room Albert Lea
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Elbow Room

4.41667 reviews

Located at 310 E 8th St in Albert Lea, Elbow Room offers a cozy vibe and a welcoming atmosphere. This American restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on fresh ingredients and local flavors. Popular dishes include juicy burgers, onion rings, and hearty breakfasts. Elbow Room is a great spot for solo diners or families. Expect quick service, a friendly staff, and an overall enjoyable dining experience. Prices are affordable, ranging from $10 to $20, making it accessible for all. You can dine in, grab takeout, or opt for delivery if you want to enjoy the dishes at home.

About

Elbow Room has a rich history in Albert Lea, becoming a staple for locals. It embodies the spirit of the community. The cozy ambiance reflects the charm of a small-town eatery. Visitors often comment on its homey feel. The building has character, showcasing its age with pride. Diners appreciate the mix of history and contemporary comfort. Many come to enjoy memorable meals while exchanging stories with friends and family. Street parking is available for convenience. Wheelchair accessibility is a plus. Elbow Room creates a space for togetherness over delicious food.

Get in Touch

310 E 8th St, Albert Lea, MN 56007, United States

Opening Hours

  • Monday 08:00-20:30
  • Tuesday 08:00-20:30
  • Wednesday 08:00-20:30
  • Thursday 08:00-20:30
  • Friday 08:00-20:30
  • Saturday 08:00-20:30
  • Sunday 08:00-20:30

Where to Visit

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Customer Reviews

"Super yummy food. Cute little place...just a bit cold but hey it's an old building so dress warm if going in the winter. Never have had a bad meal there."

- Southern F.

"The crispiest and the best fries I've had in a long time! Great burger as well! Nice lady at the bar took my order."

- Sovannpanga H.

"Small restaurant. Busy, had to wait for a table to be cleaned. We were pretty hungry when we arrived. The wait was very, very long. I have been here before and do recall a long wait then. The onion rings were probably the best I ever tasted. The batter for the onion rings was light and crispy. We ordered a BLT and fried mushrooms. The food seemed to be fresh. I like the fact it isn't popped into a microwave and heated up. This could be the reason for the very long wait. Atmosphere...meh. Great servers. Street parking, not wheel chair friendly."

- Neelrad Y.

"Very rarely do i give 5 stars across the board. I can't remember the last time I got exactly what I was hoping for. Dorian saw some IG reel with this guy devouring a pork tenderloin sandwich, so we went on our trusted ( sometimes) Google machine to find a pork tenderloin sandwich. Several restaurants popped up and while we had intended to go to Bleachers, their kitchen was closed. Since we had driven from Waseca, we figured heck, since we drove all this way let's check out some place at least. So thumbed through Google for a second landing on the thirsty fox and elbow room.. thirsty fox looked a little to fancy for my snow pants attire ( its -2) so we settled on Elbow Room.. Best decision we've made this week! We got the large onion rings for an appetizer. Whatever the sauce is they serve with 'em is so good! Dorian got the pork tenderloin sandwich and fries. I got the cod sandwich with cole slaw and fries. I just can't express how good this fish sandwich was! Even the Pepsi tasted better here. We as most of you know don't drink much, but they did have a bar. It was just delicious. On our way there we were even greeted by the sun and a rainbow! ( it's been super grey and gloomy so that was a nice suprise) We will definitely eat there again! 55$ + for the bill"

- Sunshine D.

"First dinner of the new year at The Elbow Room! They posted a ton of great meals on their Facebook page which made us want to eat there. Great service and food. Never a bad experience!"

- Phil K.

"If you're looking for good food without the frills you'll love it here. They have a pretty big menu and some great daily specials like turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, cranberries and green beans. I had a bacon cheeseburger and onion rings and the bacon was quality and hanging out the sides underneath the lettuce. My husband had chicken strips and fries (they season with some special blend that reminds me of ranch). The onion rings and chicken strips were hand breaded and delicious."

- Rebecca H.

"This small gem is the definition of home cooked. Its a little restaurant in a little house. Its simple and small and huge at the same time. The staff are friendly and the atmosphere is authentic. The food is phenomenal, the prices are good, and the menu is actually huge. Bring your appetite, leave pretense at the door. Have a good time."

- William V.
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Why Visit

There are several reasons to visit Elbow Room. First, the breakfast menu is a standout. Classic dishes like pancakes and omelettes fuel the day. For lunch or dinner, you must try the Juicy Lucy or the crispy onion rings. They're iconic. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for solo diners and groups alike. Plus, the restaurant often features local specials that highlight community favorites. You can write down your favorite dish, or take notes on a chalkboard near the entrance. Regulars always have ideas on what to try next. If you visit during peak hours, be prepared to wait a bit. It's busy for a reason! However, it’s worth it. Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience without the crowd. Don’t forget to enjoy a unique cocktail while you wait!

Most Liked things

Elbow Room's cozy ambiance draws diners in. Popular dishes like the bacon cheeseburger and crispy onion rings receive rave reviews. The varied menu offers something for everyone, from hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners. Friendly staff enhances the dining experience, ensuring fast service and a welcoming environment. Many appreciate the breakfast all day! Affordable prices make it a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Delicious cocktails and locally sourced ingredients are also notable favorites.

Most Disliked things

Some diners mention long wait times, especially during peak hours like Thursday evenings. While most folks appreciate the food quality, the speed can vary. The older building may be chilly in winter, catching some off-guard. Limited wheelchair access has also been noted, which can be inconvenient. A few reviews comment on the atmosphere being less than exciting. However, these aspects do not detract from the overall dining experience. Many still enjoy the warm service and tasty food.

FAQ

What type of cuisine does Elbow Room serve?

Elbow Room specializes in American cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, and local specialties.

Is Elbow Room family-friendly?

Yes, Elbow Room is family-friendly. It offers high chairs and a kid's menu, making it suitable for guests of all ages.

What are the popular dishes at Elbow Room?

Popular dishes include breakfast items like omelettes and pancakes, along with their juicy burgers and unique appetizers such as Checalapeño Poppers.

Does Elbow Room offer takeout or delivery?

Yes, Elbow Room provides both takeout and delivery services. Enjoy delicious food wherever you are.