Dolsie’s Lunch Box Grille is next up on the list of St. Cloud’s local restaurants. Dolsie’s is locally owned and is settled in the heart of Downtown St. Cloud on West St. Germain Street. Dolsie’s menu includes a range of comfort food from cheesesteak sandwiches, salads and soups, to fish tacos and “Olies” – their famous fried potato rounds. Paul and Pam Dols are the owners, chefs and masterminds behind the sweet and savory flavors that emerge from the kitchen. With the burgundy awning out front, you can’t miss it. Dolsie’s is another favorite of the St. Cloud State Women’s Hockey team, one that is always the go-to option on any given day. Dolsie’s Facebook Page brags “If you haven’t stopped in to try us out yet, we would love to see you. If you’re a regular visitor at our second home, we can’t tell you how much we appreciate your business.” This is a place that really cares about their customers and strives to create an environment that will create a second home for all who dine with them.
I sat down with Paul Dols and talked about what makes Dolsie’s so great. Dolsie’s has 4 employees who are as passionate about the work they do and are excited to come into work every single day. They enjoy free lunch, free dinner and flexibility within their personal schedules. Dolsie’s is a very family centered establishment and they understand that life happens, and things come up. Paul’s says his favorite part about working at the restaurant is the “customers that come in every single day – They are friendly and welcoming, and they know how to have a good time”. Paul and his staff are “all about the customers” and want to make sure that each experience is top-notch and enjoyable for everyone. Customers can be challenging sometimes but the most challenging part of the day to day for Paul is coming up with new ideas for the restaurant, new menu items and keeping the atmosphere new and fresh. He says it’s a creative process that takes time but is all worth it in the end.
As for social media, Dolsie’s utilizes Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up with their customer needs. Everything on social is personalized to the taste of Dolsie’s and they enjoy the natural aspect of that specifically. Paul’s favorite dish is the Philly-Cheesesteak (I would have to agree) and their famous “Olies”. You can’t walk away from Dolsie’s without a cupcake and the go-to for Paul and I is the Peanut Butter cupcake. Stop in during regular restaurant hours for the best lunch in Central Minnesota!