Grand spots to get pickled in Forks

For those who enjoy a little tang in their life, Greater Grand Forks really hits the spot! Whether it be in food, drink or game form, our two towns have plenty of places for you to get your pickle on.

Prior to indulging in all the dillectable eats and drinks Forks has to offer, raise that heart rate by getting in a little cardio! A game or two of pickleball is one great way to do just that, while also having some competitive fun with friends. Unfamiliar with the sport? Imagine tennis, ping pong and badminton all rolled into one! A major reason pickleball is so popular has to do with it being suitable for most ages and athletic abilities. Another advantage is that it can be played either indoors or outside.

PICKLEBALLIN’ IT

If you’d like to give pickleball a try, our community offers several spots (listed below) to paddle up. Before hitting the court, though, make sure to stop by SCHEELS and bag some cool new athletic apparel and equipment.

Optimist Park // 4600 Cherry Street, Grand Forks

O’Leary Park // 419 Bygland Road, East Grand Forks

  • O'Leary Park is open only to Grand Cities Pickle Club members on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 PM to Dusk and Sundays from 4 PM to Dusk.

Choice Health & Fitness // 4401 South 11th Street, Grand Forks

Altru Sports Complex

  • This state-of-the-art community athletic facility, which will feature several pickleball courts, is slated to open in early 2027. Stay tuned for more updates here.

PlayIT Multi-Sport Complex // 2767 32nd Avenue South, Grand Forks

  • PlayIT is the official home of the Grand Cities Pickleball Club. They offer a $20 daily rate and monthly plans that run from $65 per individual (June-August) to $85 (September-May). Household and family plans are also available.

Another great way to learn more about the game is by having a front-row seat to all the action! On May 10, the University of North Dakota Pickleball Class and Grand Cities Pickleball Club will be hosting the 2025 Spring Slam Pickleball Tournament. Events include Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. All skill levels are eligible to compete; registration closes on May 3. The tournament will take place at Play-IT Multi-Sport Complex.

For additional information about the Spring Slam or how to become a Grand Cities Pickleball Club member, go to GrandCitiesPickleball.com.

RHOMBUS GUYS

Dreaming about pizza with pizzazz? Rhombus Guys can make all your foodie fantasies come true! This funky three-level eatery, with seasonal rooftop seating overlooking Downtown, specializes in gourmet pies dubbed Best Pizza in the State by Business Insider. My go to Rhombus pie is the Spicy Pickle: Roasted jalapeño cream cheese sauce, Canadian bacon, bacon, pickles, parmesan, provolone, cheddar and mozzarella.

ELY’S IVY

If you’re on the hunt for something uniquely delicious, this eatery serves up the dishes. Chef Franz and his crew serve up not one but two tasty pickle appetizers. The Deep-Fried Cheese & Pickles features house made bread ‘n butter pickles and cheese curds that are tempura battered with southern comeback sauce. If you’re a dipper, try the dillightful Pickle Dip: Ely’s corned beef, pickles and cream cheese served with potato chips, carrots and celery.

BONZER'S

This popular sandwich pub has been a Downtown mainstay for decades. While all their between-the-buns creations are amazing, patrons will highly recommend you give John’s specially prepared Pickled Eggs a try. They come plated with a mound of pretzels and chili peppers. Beforehand, though, best order up a schooner of beer or their legendary Long Island iced tea.

HALF BROTHERS BREWING COMPANY

Beer and pizza with a pickle twist…what could possibly be bad about that?! First up, order the yummy Pickle Me Rick topped with marinara sauce, pepperoni, bacon, pickles, dill and mozzarella. While waiting for your pizza to come out of the oven, play a game or two of pinball while sipping on some house brewed Pickle Rickle Golden Pickle Beer.

WIDMAN'S

For those who prefer their sour with a whole lotta sweet, this iconic candy store can deliciously accommodate your taste buds. Family owned and operated since the 1940s, Chippers (chocolate covered potato chips) are their claim to fame. However, the pickles hand-dipped in creamy milk chocolate are a close runner up!

THE SPUD JR.

While The Spud is best known for scrumptious burgers and Red River Valley fresh-cut fries, their Weekend Brunch (served 10 AM to 2 PM on Saturday and Sunday) is also a must-try. Even though there may not be any primarily pickle dishes on the brunch menu, The Spud’s top-rated Bloody Mary comes adorned with numerous edible goodies…including one dillicious pickle!

VARSITY ICE HOUSE

This buzzing neighborhood sports bar offers a small but mighty menu. While here, pair your beer with an order of Fried Pickle Chips. These golden gems of goodness are served with some of their secret recipe buttermilk ranch. If you like to spice things up, be sure to get an extra side of the zestylicious jalapeno ranch.

THE TOASTED FROG

With its cool metropolitan vibe, extensive martini and wine lists and diverse food, The Toasted Frog is the perfect place to get pickled! Of course, everyone knows about their award-winning Fried Cheesy Pickles, which were once even featured on Food Network’s The Best Thing I Ever Ate show. Take an egg roll wrapper, add a crispy pickle spear and Havarti cheese, then deep fry until golden brown…definitely a recipe for success! Plated with a side of The Frog’s sriracha aioli, any of their many martinis makes a perfect thirst quencher.

BRICK & BARLEY

Stop here after work or on weekends when you need a cool cocktail or brew and a hot, hearty meal. With 48 beers on tap, everyone will surely find one that makes them hoppy. While Bricks’ extensive menu features many scrumptious options, pickle lovers will love the Pickle Pie simply adorned with house made remoulade, pickles and mozzarella cheese.

For more information on these and all our awesome places to play, stay, dine and unwind, go to VisitGrandForks.com. We also invite you to follow Visit Greater Grand Forks on Facebook and Instagram.