It’s the end of a long day. You’re tired, you’re hungry, and the last thing you want to do is figure out where you’re going to eat.

Luckily, you don’t always have to leave Minot Air Force Base to find dinner.

Whether you’re looking for a full meal or a quick snack after a late shift, there are several options around base. The trick is knowing what’s open and when.

For a more traditional dinner, the Dakota Inn Dining Facility (or DFAC) has a wide array of both grab-and-go and dine-in options, ranging from pizza and deli items to grilled and international dishes. The DFAC, located at 213 Tanker Trail, closes at 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 6 p.m. on weekends. If you go to the DFAC during a special holiday event or activity, special dishes may be included as well, adding some variety to the menu.
If you’re looking for something a little more casual, Rockers Bar & Grill is another option. Located at 292 Peacekeeper Place, Rockers offers the kind of food you might expect from a casual grill, along with a place to sit down and spend some time with friends. The menu includes wings, baskets, build-your-own burgers and more. With later closing times, generally around 10 p.m., it makes for a convenient choice for dinner after work.

But what if your shift doesn’t end at 5 p.m.?

The Fly By Inn Kiosk (also known as the Flight Kitchen) has late-night meal options for late-shift personnel, or anyone who might want a late-night snack. The facility is located at 846 Fighter Drive, making it a convenient option if you are working late or on a nontraditional work schedule.

And sometimes, you might just want pizza.

Papa John’s, located on 300 Missile Ave., Building 284, stays open much later. Depending on the day, it is open until midnight or 1 a.m., giving people another option when the traditional dinner window has passed.
So, what’s the selection like?

It depends on what time you’re hungry. Early in the evening, the DFAC offers the widest variety, while Rockers provides a more casual sit-down option. Later in the night, although choices become more limited, the Flight Kitchen and Papa John’s can still help fill the gap.

For those who work late, live in the dorms, or simply don’t feel like driving into town after a long day, knowing what’s available on base can save a little time and effort and, perhaps most importantly, answer the question: “What am I going to eat tonight?”

Hours are subject to change. Check with individual facilities for the most current schedule.