The 15 Best Restaurants on Lake Minnetonka

Lake Minnetonka, nestled in the heart of Minnesota, boasts a culinary scene that is second to none. With its picturesque lakeside settings and a plethora of dining options, this enchanting destination is a haven for food enthusiasts. From charming waterfront bistros to upscale fine dining establishments, the restaurants on Lake Minnetonka offer a delightful blend of ambiance, hospitality, and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, mouthwatering steaks, or innovative farm-to-table creations, there is something to satisfy every palate. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey as we unveil our carefully curated list of the 5 restaurants that grace the shores of Lake Minnetonka.

1. Vann Restaurant

Vann Restaurant

Vann Restaurant is located in Spring Park and is the top pick for restaurants on Lake Minnetonka. This stylish Scandinavian-inspired restaurant serves a daily changing menu of creative upscale dishes. Chef and owner Erik Vann puts a modern twist on classic techniques and ingredients. Standout dishes include the venison tartare, grilled octopus, and anything with the rotating selection of housemade charcuterie. Vann has a cozy, romantic ambiance with Scandinavian decor. Reservations are recommended.

2. The Lake Room

The Lake Room restaurant

Located in Wayzata, The Lake Room is an upscale American restaurant with stunning views of Lake Minnetonka. The menu focuses on seafood and steaks, using seasonal and local ingredients. Standout starters include the ahi tuna tartare and the crab cake. For entrees, you can’t go wrong with the prime ribeye or the pan-seared walleye. The restaurant has an airy, contemporary ambiance with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake.

3. Cast & Cru Restaurant

Located in the Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Cast & Cru is a contemporary American restaurant with a focus on seafood. The lakeside setting provides wonderful views. Cast & Cru has an airy, nautically-inspired ambiance with vaulted ceilings. The menu offers creative seafood preparations like the pan-seared scallops and classics like the lobster mac and cheese. They also serve hand-cut steaks and offer a pre-theater menu. The cocktail menu is very inventive.

With quality food, creative cocktails, and a great lakeside setting, Cast & Cru is one of the best choices for waterfront dining on Lake Minnetonka. The contemporary vibe makes it a great date spot.

4. Bellecour

Bellecour is a modern French bistro located in Wayzata serving seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine. The space is bright and airy with large windows overlooking Lake Minnetonka. Standout starters include steak tartare and mussels. For entrees, the rotating cassoulet is a must-try, as is the chicken chasseur. The dessert menu offers classic French pastries. Bellecour has an extensive French and American wine list with many fine options by the bottle or glass. The atmosphere is lively and casual.

With its scenic lake views and excellent modern French fare, Bellecour is a great Restaurants on Lake Minnetonka for a romantic date night or gathering with friends. The seasonal menu offers new dishes to try with each visit.

5. The Dough Room

For a more casual Lake Minnetonka dining experience, check out The Dough Room in Wayzata. This laid-back pizzeria and bar focuses on Neopolitan-style pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. Toppings range from classic pepperoni to more gourmet options like prosciutto and arugula. Dough Room also offers a great selection of craft beers, unique cocktails, and a variety of panini sandwiches. The vibrant, industrial-chic setting has garage doors that open to outdoor patio seating when the weather allows.

The Dough Room offers delicious wood-fired pizzas in a fun, casual setting. It’s a great spot for grabbing a bite after spending the day on Lake Minnetonka.

6. Baja Haus

Baja Haus restaurant

For Mexican fare on Lake Minnetonka, check out Baja Haus in Wayzata. They specialize in seafood-centric Baja California cuisine. Signature dishes include fish tacos made with freshly grilled mahi mahi, shrimp enchiladas topped with a rich mole sauce, and scallop ceviche. Baja Haus also offers a great tequila and mezcal selection. The vibrant, colorful interior sets the mood for a fun dining experience. In nice weather, grab a seat on the patio overlooking the lake.

With its festive vibe and delicious coastal Mexican cuisine, Baja Haus is one of the most fun and unique restaurants on Lake Minnetonka. The seafood dishes and tequila cocktails shine.

7. Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge

Lord Fletcher’s in Spring Park is a historic lodge and restaurant that first opened in the 1920s and helped establish Lake Minnetonka as a dining destination. Today, Lord Fletcher’s maintains its classic Minnesota North Woods lodge ambiance with taxidermy animals adorning the walls and a huge stone fireplace. The menu features traditional American fare like walleye, steak, chicken pot pie, and prime rib. Lord Fletcher’s also has an extensive wine list and classic cocktails like old fashioneds. Weather permitting, dine out on the lakefront deck.

Lord Fletcher’s is all about the historic Minnesota lodge ambiance. The traditional American fare may be dated but it’s well-executed. It’s a great spot for steaks and prime rib.

8. Minnetonka Drive-In

For a fun, casual bite with loads of nostalgia, head to the Minnetonka Drive-In. This old-school drive-in burger stand has been serving up burgers, fries, shakes, and malts since 1961. Dine in your car or grab a picnic table on the patio. Indoor seating is also available. Menu staples include burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken sandwiches, and ice cream treats. The Drive-In’s lakeside location offers nice views. Nothing fancy here, just delicious greasy comfort food in a retro setting.

For a nostalgic burger and shake by the lake, you can’t beat the Minnetonka Drive-In. It’s a Lake Minnetonka staple.

9. Sushi Fix

Sushi Fix in Wayzata offers a contemporary take on sushi in a sleek, modern setting. The extensive menu features both classic and inventive sushi rolls, along with starters like tuna tataki and miso soup. Signature rolls include the crunchy tempura shrimp roll and colorful rainbow roll with assorted fish. The sushi is extremely fresh and affordably priced, especially during happy hour. Sushi Fix also has a great sake selection. The vibe is casual yet trendy.

Sushi Fix is the place to go for fresh, inventive sushi and a trendy vibe. Reasonable pricing makes it a great spot for trying high-quality sushi without breaking the bank.

10. Tannins Wine Bar & Bistro

Tannins in Wayzata offers a wide selection of wines along with a seasonal menu of salads, flatbreads, cheese boards and other shareable plates. The wine list features over 75 selections from around the world offered by the glass or bottle. Tannins has an intimate, upscale vibe with warm lighting and cozy seating. Choose a bottle of wine and graze your way through an assortment of small plates, from grilled Spanish octopus to truffle mac and cheese. The knowledgeable staff provides excellent wine recommendations.

For wine lovers, Tannins is a must-visit when dining on Lake Minnetonka. Grab a table, order a fabulous bottle, and indulge in the perfect wine night.

11. Tequila Butcher at The Caribou

Located inside the Caribou Lodge in Wayzata, Tequila Butcher offers a festive Mexican dining experience with lovely lake views. The menu features tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and other Mexican staples, along with steakhouse cuts like ribeye and filet mignon. The tequila list is extensive, along with a solid margarita menu. Dine in the colorful indoor restaurant or grab a table on the lakeview patio. On warmer nights, listen to live music at the outdoor Tiki Bar.

Tequila Butcher at The Caribou is a great spot for indulging in Mexican classics with a modern twist. The tequila selection and lakeside location make it a fun place to spend an evening.

12. Maynard’s Restaurant

Located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Maynard’s Restaurant offers stunning lake views and a menu that features American cuisine with global influences. From wood-fired pizzas to seafood, steak and pasta dishes, there is something for everyone at Maynard’s. Enjoy your meal in the elegant indoor dining room or on the expansive outdoor deck overlooking the water. Maynard’s also offers boat docking for guests arriving by water.

Maynard’s Restaurant is a top choice for lakefront dining restaurants on Lake Minnetonka. The menu is diverse and the views are unbeatable. Don’t miss their famous walleye dish, a local favorite.

13. Al and Alma’s Supper Club

Al and Alma’s Supper Club has been a popular spot for dinner and events on Lake Minnetonka since 1926. The charming, rustic interior and lakeside location make it a popular spot for weddings and special occasions. The menu features classic supper club fare like prime rib, steak, seafood, and walleye cakes. Al and Alma’s also offers scenic cruises on Lake Minnetonka aboard their luxury yacht.

For a traditional supper club experience with stunning lake views, Al and Alma’s is a must-visit restaurants on Lake Minnetonka. The food and atmosphere are top-notch, making it a favorite for special occasions. Overall, the restaurants on Lake Minnetonka offer a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual bites to upscale fine dining. With beautiful lake views and delicious food, these restaurants are perfect for any occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends and family.

14. 6Smith

Located in downtown Wayzata with a prime lakeside location, 6Smith offers a modern twist on classic American cuisine. The menu features dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including seafood and steaks. In addition to the indoor dining area, there is also an outdoor patio with stunning views of Lake Minnetonka. For a unique dining experience, guests can also reserve a spot on the rooftop deck, complete with a full bar and outdoor fireplace.

6Smith is a top pick for elevated dining on Lake Minnetonka. With its modern atmosphere and delicious food, it’s perfect for date nights or special occasions. Don’t miss their signature craft cocktails and extensive wine list. Overall, the restaurants on Lake Minnetonka offer a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual bites to upscale fine dining. With beautiful lake views and delicious food, these restaurants are perfect for any occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends and family.

15. The Narrows Saloon

The Narrows Saloon is a local favorite for its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and classic American fare. The menu features burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, and wings – all made with fresh ingredients. The outdoor patio offers picturesque views of Lake Minnetonka and is the perfect spot to hang out on a warm summer day. Inside, guests can enjoy the eclectic decor and friendly service while sipping on a cold beer or cocktail.

For a casual, fun dining experience with great food and lake views, The Narrows Saloon is the place to be. Don’t forget to try their famous walleye sandwich, a local favorite. Overall, the restaurants on Lake Minnetonka offer a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual bites to upscale fine dining. With beautiful lake views and delicious food, these restaurants are perfect for any occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends and family. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out these top dining destinations for a taste of Lake Minnetonka’s culinary scene.

Recommended Reading: Top 10 Best South Shore Restaurants

Restaurants on Lake Minnetonka – Conclusion

From fine dining to casual eats, the restaurants on Lake Minnetonka offer something for everyone. With stunning lake views and delicious food, these dining destinations are a must-visit when in the area. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great meal with friends and family, be sure to check out these top picks. And don’t forget to try some of the local specialties like walleye and other fresh seafood dishes. So come hungry and get ready to savor the flavors of Lake Minnetonka at these fantastic restaurants!

Other links:

Día de Todos los Santos – A Guatemalan Feast on All Saints’ Day

Little Elm Beach – A Hidden Gem for Fun and Relaxation [Update 2023]

Leave a Comment