Gordy’s Hi-Hat Carries on Tradition With the Next Generation

In the northern Minnesota town of Cloquet, where a gas station designed by Frank Lloyd Wright stands as a landmark, another local gem keeps the community connected to its past. Gordy’s Hi-Hat, a ’50s-style diner, remains a cherished spot, serving classic American dishes that have delighted generations.

Since 1960, Gordy’s has been a family-run establishment. Started by Gordon and Marilyn Lundquist, the restaurant quickly gained fame for its hand-pattied hamburgers, homemade onion rings, and freshly blended shakes. Despite the passing years, the menu remains unchanged, honoring the founders’ commitment to quality and tradition.

This spring marks the first opening without Gordon and Marilyn, who both played pivotal roles in the diner until their later years. Their grandson, Sever Lundquist, now leads the third generation in preserving their grandparents’ legacy. Despite the absence of the beloved founders, the community’s support remains steadfast, providing comfort to the Lundquist family.

Over the decades, Gordy’s has welcomed visitors from near and far, including Oscar-winning actress Jessica Lange. Yet, it’s not the occasional celebrity visits but the lasting relationships with loyal customers that define Gordy’s. The diner has become a popular pit stop for travelers heading to Lake Vermilion, and its reputation extends beyond the Twin Cities.

While the loss of Gordon and Marilyn is deeply felt, their spirit lives on in the diner’s warm atmosphere and the memories shared by customers. The Lundquist family remains committed to continuing the tradition of community-building that their grandparents began.

As a new chapter unfolds, a new generation of Lundquists steps up to carry forward Gordy and Marilyn’s life’s work. With a focus on maintaining relationships and preserving the diner’s unique charm, Gordy’s Hi-Hat looks ahead to many more years of serving great food and fostering community bonds.

In Cloquet, Gordy’s isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place where memories are made and families come together.