Nestled in the heart of Maple Grove, the Rock Elm Tavern offers a dining experience that beautifully marries classic American flavors with innovative culinary craftsmanship. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully curated menu, this tavern is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, a lively dinner with friends, or a quiet evening of exceptional food and drinks, the Rock Elm Tavern Maple Grove menu caters to a wide range of tastes and occasions.
The menu showcases fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a dedication to quality that shines through every dish.
From hearty appetizers to sophisticated entrees and indulgent desserts, the Rock Elm Tavern excels at creating dishes that satisfy and delight. Their commitment to seasonal sourcing means the menu evolves, offering new tastes while keeping beloved staples available year-round.
Paired with a diverse selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and a well-rounded wine list, every visit promises an opportunity to explore and enjoy. The ambiance complements the menu perfectly, with rustic yet modern décor that invites guests to relax and savor each bite.
Exploring the Rock Elm Tavern Maple Grove menu is a journey through thoughtfully prepared dishes, rich in flavor and crafted with care. This post delves into the highlights of their offerings, from shareable starters to satisfying mains, and everything in between.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, understanding the menu’s nuances will help you make the most of your dining experience here.
Appetizers and Shareables
The appetizers at Rock Elm Tavern set the tone for a memorable meal, offering enticing flavors that are perfect for sharing or starting your solo dining adventure. Designed to stimulate the palate, these dishes blend comfort with culinary creativity, making them an essential part of the menu.
Each appetizer is crafted to highlight quality ingredients and bold flavors. From crispy fried pickles to rich cheese plates, the selection caters to diverse preferences.
The kitchen balances traditional favorites with inventive twists, ensuring every bite surprises and satisfies.
Popular choices include the signature Pretzel Bites served with spicy mustard, and the Rock Elm Nachos, which come generously topped with house-made cheese sauce, jalapeños, and a choice of protein. For those who enjoy a lighter but flavorful option, the seasonal vegetable plate offers fresh, roasted vegetables with a tangy dipping sauce.
Appetizer Highlights
- Pretzel Bites: Soft, warm pretzels paired with a spicy mustard dip, perfect for sharing.
- Rock Elm Nachos: Crisp tortilla chips layered with cheese sauce, jalapeños, pico de gallo, and choice of pulled pork or chicken.
- Fried Pickles: Crunchy, tangy pickle slices fried to golden perfection, served with ranch dressing.
- Seasonal Vegetable Plate: Fresh roasted vegetables accompanied by a house-made aioli.
“Our appetizers are designed to bring people together, encouraging conversation and connection over shared plates.”
Signature Entrees
The Rock Elm Tavern’s signature entrees showcase a diverse selection of hearty and refined dishes, combining classic comfort food with contemporary culinary techniques. These entrees are crafted to satisfy a variety of dietary preferences without compromising on flavor.
Steak lovers will appreciate the perfectly grilled Ribeye, seasoned and cooked to order, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a choice of sides. For those seeking something lighter yet equally flavorful, the Cedar Plank Salmon offers a smoky-sweet profile enhanced by fresh herbs and lemon.
Vegetarian and gluten-sensitive options are thoughtfully incorporated, with dishes like the Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl providing a nourishing and colorful alternative. Each entree is complemented by rich sauces and fresh garnishes, elevating the dining experience.
Comparison of Popular Signature Entrees
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Gluten-Free | Price |
| Ribeye Steak | 12 oz ribeye, herbs, seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes | Yes (without gravy) | $28 |
| Cedar Plank Salmon | Salmon filet, lemon, dill, roasted asparagus | Yes | $24 |
| Quinoa & Roasted Vegetable Bowl | Quinoa, zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, vinaigrette | Yes | $18 |
| Chicken Marsala | Chicken breast, marsala wine sauce, mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes | No | $22 |
Note: The kitchen is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
Burgers and Sandwiches
The burger and sandwich section of the menu offers a variety of satisfying options, each crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. These dishes are perfect for casual dining, delivering bold flavors in every bite.
All burgers are made with 100% Angus beef, grilled to your preferred temperature, and served on a freshly baked bun. The menu includes classic cheeseburgers, as well as specialty creations like the “Maple Grove Melt,” featuring smoked cheddar, caramelized onions, and a house-made maple glaze.
Sandwiches range from the traditional turkey club to the inventive roasted beet and goat cheese sandwich, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians. Each sandwich comes with a choice of fries, salad, or soup, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Burger and Sandwich Options
- Classic Rock Elm Burger: Angus beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and house sauce.
- Maple Grove Melt: Angus beef, smoked cheddar, caramelized onions, maple glaze, on a brioche bun.
- Turkey Club Sandwich: Roasted turkey breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on toasted bread.
- Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Sandwich: Roasted beets, goat cheese, arugula, and balsamic glaze on multigrain bread.
“Our burgers and sandwiches are crafted to offer both comfort and creativity, perfect for any time of day.”
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor, the salads and lighter fare section offers refreshing and nutrient-rich options. These dishes are designed to be vibrant, fresh, and satisfying, showcasing seasonal produce and house-made dressings.
The signature Rock Elm Salad combines mixed greens with dried cranberries, candied pecans, and crumbled blue cheese, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Another popular choice is the Grilled Chicken Caesar, featuring crisp romaine, parmesan, and garlic croutons tossed in classic Caesar dressing.
Vegetarian and vegan options like the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad are also available, featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a lemon-herb dressing. These lighter dishes can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course, depending on your appetite.
Salads Overview
- Rock Elm Salad: Mixed greens, dried cranberries, candied pecans, blue cheese, vinaigrette.
- Grilled Chicken Caesar: Romaine, grilled chicken, parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, lemon-herb dressing.
- Seasonal Fruit Plate: Fresh, locally sourced seasonal fruits served with honey yogurt dip.
Tip: Pair salads with a light white wine or a refreshing craft beer for a balanced meal.
Craft Beers and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Rock Elm Tavern complements the food offerings with an impressive selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and classic drinks. The bar emphasizes local breweries and seasonal ingredients, providing guests with unique and memorable drink experiences.
The rotating craft beer list features a variety of styles, from crisp pilsners to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts. Bartenders also craft signature cocktails like the Maple Grove Mule, which blends vodka, ginger beer, and a hint of maple syrup for a uniquely local twist.
Non-alcoholic options include house-made sodas and fresh-pressed juices, catering to all guests. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to recommend pairings based on your meal choices, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Craft Beer and Cocktail Highlights
| Drink | Description | Price |
| Maple Grove Mule | Vodka, ginger beer, fresh lime, maple syrup | $10 |
| Local IPA | Hoppy, citrus-forward IPA from a nearby brewery | $7 |
| Classic Old Fashioned | Bourbon, bitters, sugar, orange twist | $11 |
| House-Made Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic) | Fresh lemons, simple syrup, sparkling water | $4 |
“Our drink menu is crafted to elevate the flavors of our dishes and celebrate the local craft beverage community.”
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert options at Rock Elm Tavern provide a delightful conclusion to any meal. Each dessert is handmade with care, featuring seasonal ingredients and classic techniques to satisfy a sweet tooth.
Standout desserts include the rich Chocolate Lava Cake, served warm with vanilla ice cream, and the seasonal Fruit Crisp, which highlights fresh, local fruits topped with a crunchy oat topping. For a lighter finish, the house-made sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser.
These desserts pair wonderfully with dessert wines or a cup of freshly brewed coffee, offering a perfect ending to your dining experience. The dessert menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh and exciting options year-round.
Dessert Selections
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, gooey chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream.
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp: Local fruits baked with cinnamon and oat topping.
- Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée: Classic creamy custard with a caramelized sugar crust.
- House-Made Sorbet: Rotating flavors featuring seasonal fruits.
“Dessert is not just an afterthought here; it’s an experience crafted to delight and surprise.”
Family and Kids Menu
Understanding the importance of family dining, Rock Elm Tavern offers a dedicated kids menu with options that are both nutritious and appealing to younger palates. The menu is designed to provide a balanced meal while keeping flavors simple and familiar.
Children can enjoy smaller portions of favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken tenders, and mac and cheese. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and without unnecessary additives, ensuring parents feel confident in their children’s meal choices.
Additionally, the family-friendly atmosphere encourages relaxed dining, where parents and kids alike can enjoy a warm and welcoming environment. Special requests and dietary needs are accommodated whenever possible.
Popular Kids Menu Items
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic American cheese melted on toasted bread.
- Chicken Tenders: Breaded, crispy chicken served with a choice of dipping sauce.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy cheddar sauce with elbow pasta.
- Mini Cheeseburger: Angus beef patty with cheese on a soft bun.
Note: The kids menu also includes a selection of beverages and a small dessert portion to round out the meal.
Conclusion
The Rock Elm Tavern Maple Grove menu offers a thoughtfully crafted selection that caters to a wide array of tastes and occasions. Its strength lies in the balance between familiar comfort foods and innovative dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and attention to detail.
From the inviting appetizers and hearty signature entrees to the carefully curated craft beverages and indulgent desserts, every element of the menu is designed to create a memorable dining experience.
Whether dining with family, enjoying a casual meal with friends, or celebrating a special occasion, the Rock Elm Tavern provides an environment where great food and warm hospitality come together seamlessly.
The seasonal adaptability of the menu ensures that guests always find something fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits and long-lasting relationships with patrons. This commitment to quality and community is evident in every bite and sip, making the Rock Elm Tavern a standout destination in Maple Grove’s vibrant dining scene.
Ultimately, exploring the menu is more than just choosing a meal; it’s an invitation to savor thoughtfully prepared dishes that reflect the spirit of the region and the passion of the culinary team. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Rock Elm Tavern promises an experience that delights the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
