--- title: "32 Best Lake Minnetonka Restaurants: Top Places to Eat" description: "While exploring and marveling at Minnesota\'s beauty? There are a plethora of great Lake Minnetonka restaurants to taste various delicacies!" url: "https://viatravelers.com/lake-minnetonka-restaurants/" published_at: "2021-11-29T06:00:00-06:00" updated_at: "2026-08-16T22:12:11-06:00" author: "Kyle Kroeger" categories: - "Minnesota" tags: - "Camping" - "Cruise" --- Lake Minnetonka is one of the most picturesque lakes in the United States. Located in [Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/beaches-in-minnesota/), just outside the Twin Cities, it’s known for its beautiful natural sights and fantastic restaurants. Are you going to Lake Minnetonka soon? Looking for a restaurant on the water? You can find anything from traditional Japanese cuisine to a shop that sells malt-focused milkshakes and desserts. Visitors can also find pizzas, burgers, [excellent diner breakfasts](https://viatravelers.com/best-breakfast-in-minnesota/), and [breweries](https://viatravelers.com/breweries-in-duluth-mn/) surrounding Lake Minnetonka. Here’s our list of the best Lake Minnetonka restaurants and top dining options. ## Best Restaurants Near Lake Minnetonka ### 1. Al & Alma’s Supper Club and Charter Cruises ![Plate of Salmon and Vegetables at Al & Alma](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/al-and-almas-food.jpg)Salmon at Al & Alma’s (Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers) The Al & Alma Supper Club and Charter Cruises is a [Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-minnesota/) institution that has existed since the fifties. Great views of the lake and traditional American fare make Al & Alma’s worth a stop. Their burgers are something you’ll want to come back for. Additional charter cruises can, of course, be booked at the same spot if you feel adventurous. **See Related**: [Minnesota vs Wisconsin](https://viatravelers.com/minnesota-vs-wisconsin/) ### 2. Vann Restaurant ![Sunset view and tables in Vann Restaurant](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Vann-Restaurant-Spring-Park-Minnesota-800x600.jpg)Vann Restaurant / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vannrestaurant/) Vann Restaurant is a great, modern dining option based on American cuisine. It can be expensive once you have more than a starter or drink, but their food is good enough to consider this worth it. Located in Spring Park, MN, Vann Restaurant opens at 5 PM. **See Related**: [Best Things to Do in Rochester, Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-rochester-mn/) ### 3. The Lake Room ![Lake Room Restaurant interior and tables](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Lake-Room-Restaurant-Minnesota.jpg)Lake Room Restaurant / [Lake Room Restaurant](https://thelakeroomrestaurant.com/) The Lake Room is [one of the best restaurants on the shores](https://viatravelers.com/lake-street-restaurants/) of Lake Minnetonka. Their vast menu includes a kids option if you have children with specific, fussier tastes. Delivery or pickup is available from The Lake Room, which opens at 4 p.m. **See Related**: [Best Tumi Travel Kits](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-rochester-mn/) ### 4. Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lounge ![Boats at Lord Fletcher](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/lord-fletchers-boats.jpg) Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lounge is located in [Spring Park](https://www.ci.spring-park.mn.us/) and has a nice homely feel to its atmosphere and food. It focuses on an epic spot in the summer right on the lake and has a good indoor sports bar and steakhouse. Steak is most of what you’ll find on the menu, plus affordable drinks and delectable desserts. The Old Lake Lounge is one of the few venues that also has live music: Check their schedule if you’d like to stay for a gig. **See Related:** [Top Restaurants in Duluth, Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/restaurants-in-duluth/) ### 5. Hazelwood Food and Drink Tonka Bay ![Hazelwood Food and Drink Tonka Bay interior](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Hazelwood-Food-and-Drink-Tonka-Bay-Minnesota.jpg)Hazelwood Food and Drink Tonka Bay / [Hazelwood Food and Drink Tonka Bay](https://hazelwoodfoodanddrink.com/tonka-bay-hours-location/) The Hazelwood Food and Drink in Tonka Bay is one of the best restaurants in Minnetonka if you would like breakfast or traditional brunch served with a great view of the lake. Older patrons can enjoy the daily happy hour and extensive drinks menu. A grill and traditional dinner menu options (like pasta and burgers) complete the home feel. Hazelwood doesn’t offer delivery but offers take-out options if you’d like to take your meal home. **See Related**: [Best Herschel Travel Bags](https://viatravelers.com/herschel-travel-bags/) ### 6. The Narrows Saloon ![The Narrows Saloon interior and customers](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/The-Narrows-Saloon-Minnesota.jpg)The Narrows Saloon / [The Narrows](https://www.facebook.com/thenarrowssaloon) The Narrows Saloon is located in Wayzata, Minnesota. Its main focus is a local drinking arm where the locals get together – and anyone can pass through and feel welcomed. Wayzata is the anchor town on the north shore, and there is more there than dinner. Our guide to [things to do in Wayzata](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-wayzata/) covers the Chilly Open, the Panoway Lakewalk and the beach. Want to feel like a local for your time on [Lake Minnetonka](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-lake-minnetonka/)? Stop by The Narrows Saloon, and you’ll never forget your experience. It’s another venue great for music focusing on rock, country, rockabilly, and blues bands. **See Related**: [Top Sites for Booking Tours](https://viatravelers.com/top-sites-for-booking-tours/) ### 7. Joey Nova’s Pizzeria ![Mouthwatering Pizza](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Mouthwatering-Pizza.jpg) Joey Nova’s Pizzeria is an [excellent stop if you love traditional-style pizzas](https://viatravelers.com/best-pizza-in-minnesota/) made with only the best local ingredients. Located in Excelsior, Nova’s is built on quality New York-style pizza dishes – although that’s not where their menu ends. Joey Nova’s Pizzeria is one of the best restaurants in Excelsior for the pizza experience. Joey Nova’s opens from 11 AM, with either pick-up or dine-in options. Unfortunately and strange for a pizza restaurant, there are no delivery options yet. **See Related**: [Best Things to Do in Southern Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-southern-minnesota/) ### 8. Maynards ![Maynards Restaurant in Excelsior, Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/maynards.jpeg) Maynards is a great place located right on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, and it’s [one of the greatest restaurants](https://viatravelers.com/mexican-restaurants-in-minnesota/) if you would like a dine-in, fine-food experience without eating into your budget. They are particularly well known for their fantastic salads and sandwiches. Other Favorites include the grilled salmon and the Mr. Jimmy Burger. A fully gluten-free menu is available, though they are well-known for their selection of beers on tap. Need a drink? Go to Maynards for it! **See Related**: [Best Beaches in Minneapolis](https://viatravelers.com/best-beaches-in-minneapolis/) ### 9. Coalition ![Coalition Restaurant in Excelsior, Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/coalition-excelsior.jpg) Coalition is another great fancy restaurant located in downtown Excelsior. It is one of the best restaurants near Lake Minnetonka if you want to experience a selection of fine dining options, snacks, and cocktails in the same place. Delivery and pick-up options are available. Coalition opens at 11:30 a.m. **See Related**: [An Authentic Hewing Hotel Review](https://viatravelers.com/hotels/hewing-hotel/) ### 10. Cast & Cru Restaurant ![Cast & Cru Restaurant table and seats](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Cast-Cru-Restaurant-Mineesota.jpg)Cast & Cru Restaurant / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/castandcru/) Cast & Cru Restaurant is a great restaurant located near the shores of Lake Minnetonka with a fine view of the surroundings from most places you can choose to sit. Their whole vibe is advertised as “upscale and chic”, and that’s exactly what you get when you walk in. It’s meant for Lake Minnetonka nightlife and opens from 4 PM, offering good food and lakeside dining. **See Related**: [Reasons to See Duluth Fall Colors in Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/duluth-fall-colors/) ### 11. Scotty B’s Restaurant ![Scotty B](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Scotty-Bs-Restaurant-Minnesota.jpg)Scotty B’s Restaurant / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ScottyBsRestaurant) Scotty B’s Restaurant is located in Mound, not too far from Lake Minnetonka. It opens at 8:30 AM and is one of the best early dining options if you want to stop for a fine breakfast or casual bites. Their menu is mostly traditional and American, with a homemade, comfort food feel. **See Related**: [Best Travel Gift Ideas](https://viatravelers.com/travel-gifts/) ### 12. Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar Excelsior ![Olive](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Olives-Fresh-Pizza-Bar-Excelsior-Minnesota.jpg)Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar Excelsior / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/OlivesExcelsior/) Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar is located in Excelsior near Lake Minnetonka. Open from 4 PM, this is one of the best places to eat near Lake Minnetonka if you want an afternoon pizza. Olive’s guarantees they will use only the best local ingredients to create their menu. Every pizza comes out great! It’s best as a dine-in option, though the collection can be arranged. Love pizza? Check out these [best pizzerias in Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/best-pizza-in-minnesota/). **See Related**: [Best Travel Purses](https://viatravelers.com/best-travel-purses/) ### 13. Red Sauce Rebellion ![Different Pasta Dishes](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Different-Pasta-Dishes.jpg) Red Sauce Rebellion is located in Excelsior and makes for one of the best Italian-style restaurants near the banks of Lake Minnetonka. Classic is the keyword, and most of their menu includes the hearty comfort food you would want from an Italian restaurant. Great for later dining, they open from 3 PM. Unlike some [Italian restaurants](https://viatravelers.com/best-restaurants-in-italy/), delivery is an option too. **See Related**: [Best Travel Backpacks](https://viatravelers.com/best-travel-backpacks/) ### 14. Haskell’s Port of Excelsior ![Haskell](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/haskells-excelsior.jpg) Haskell’s Port of Excelsior is a combination [store/restaurant](https://viatravelers.com/restaurants-in-victoria/)worth visiting. It offers extensive options of great food and wine that you won’t find anywhere else. They’ve been a name in town since the mid-30s. Open from 11 AM until you have to leave. **See Related**: [Best Way to Earn Delta SkyMiles](https://viatravelers.com/delta-skymiles/) ### 15. Lago Tacos ![Lago Tacos outdoor table and seats](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Lago-Tacos-Minnesota.jpg)Lago Tacos / [Lago Tacos](https://www.lagotacos.com/) Lago Tacos offers the one thing on its menu you won’t see at most other restaurants near Lake Minnetonka: tacos. Their taco menu is extensive and includes great meat-inclusive and vegetarian options. Their monster burrito is legendary, and they are the only place that offers it. The restaurant opens at 11 AM and can arrange delivery or curbside pickup. Love Mexican food? Check out our full list of the [best Mexican restaurants in Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/mexican-restaurants-in-minnesota/). **See Related**: [How to Book a Flight Without a Credit Card](https://viatravelers.com/book-a-flight-without-a-credit-card/) ### 16. Tequila Butcher at the Caribbean (Excelsior) ![Tequila Butcher at the Caribbean Outdoor table and seats](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Tequila-Butcher-at-the-Caribbean-Minnesota.jpg)Tequila Butcher at the Caribbean / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TequilaButcherCaribbean/) The Tequila Butcher at the [Caribbean](https://viatravelers.com/hidden-gems-caribbean-sea/) has been one of the favorite restaurants in Excelsior for years. It’s still pretty much the same place, but it’s been renamed the Caribbean Restaurant. It opens at 11 AM, and its selection of drinks and fine steaks helps sell the menu. Delivery and pickup are also available options. **See Related**: [Best Tumi Travel Kits](https://viatravelers.com/best-tumi-travel-kits/) ### 17. Surfside Bar & Grill ![Meatloaf with smash potato meal at Surfside Bar & Grill](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Surfside-Bar-Grill-Minnesota-800x533.jpg)Surfside Bar & Grill / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Surfsidebarandgrill/) Surfside Bar & Grill is one of the best restaurants in Mound for the traditional surf and turf experience. It offers one of the best views of Lake Minnetonka and has a huge menu that it is very well known for locally. Delivery, dine-in, and pickup options are available. The Surfside Bar & Grill is open from 3 PM until late for a great nighttime lake view. **See Related**: [Best Things to Do in Lake City](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-lake-city-mn/) ### 18. Dakota Junction ![Dakota Junction restaurant building](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Dakota-Junction-Minnesota.jpg)Dakota Junction / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/DakotaJunctionMound/) Dakota Junction is a small restaurant that describes itself as “cozy” and makes a perfect casual dine-in option if you want peace. Opens at 11 AM, the Dakota Junction has American-style food like burgers and ribs served in their style. The Dakota Junction doesn’t offer delivery but has a great view from its dining room that you’ll want to dine in. **See Related**: [Family Travel Hacks](https://viatravelers.com/family-travel-hacks/) ### 19. Ike’s Minnetonka ![Ike](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Ikes-Minnetonka-Minnesota.jpg)Ike’s Minnetonka / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/IkesMinnetonka) Ike’s Minnetonka is one of the ideal restaurants if you’re a lover of meat made well. Ike’s opens at 11 a.m. and is known as one of the best local steakhouses in Lake Minnetonka. They have a wide menu that covers everything from t-bones to steaks. Meat lovers will be happy here, and vegetarians and vegans can also find suitable options. While in town, check out these other [things to do in Minnetonka](https://viatravelers.com/things-to-do-in-minnetonka-mn/). **See Related**: [Best Travel Safes](https://viatravelers.com/best-travel-safes/) ### 20. Birch’s On The Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub ![Birch](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/birchs.jpg)Birch’s Craft Beer Birch’s on the Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub is the best restaurant if you would like to stop and have some relaxed drinks on the shores of Long Lake. Open from 11 AM, they advertise as a brewhouse specializing in serving great, high-quality seafood at an affordable price. Their grilled artichokes are out of this world. Birch’s affords a great view of Long Lake and excellent food. **See Related**: [Best Skiing Resorts in Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/skiing-resorts-in-minnesota/) ### 21. COV Wayzata ![Front of Cov Wayzata](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/cov-wayzata.jpg) COV Wayzata is open from 11 AM and has an atmosphere styled around nautical aspects. Being near Lake Minnetonka, this feels appropriate for the view from most seats in the restaurant. Seafood is on the menu, but you’ll also find traditional options like steak. ### 22. The Original Pancake House Minnetonka ![Aerial View of Downtown Wayzata, Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/wayzata-downtown.jpeg) A local favorite, The Original Pancake House is located in Minnetonka and mixes a perfect pancake with other breakfast classics you would associate with any pancake house. Open from 7 AM. It’s one of the best restaurants to stop at if you’re having an early morning in town. **See Related**: [Why Expedia is Trustworthy to Use?](https://viatravelers.com/is-expedia-trustworthy/) ### 23. 6Smith ![Salad at 6Smith in Wayzata, MN](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/salad.jpg)Salad from 6Smith in Wayzata 6Smith opens for lunch at 11 AM and brings your dining experience right up to the lakefront of Lake Minnetonka. Their whole vibe is meant to be relaxed, and they serve what you would consider traditional American burgers and fries – but with their local take. A selection of their craft cocktails helps to make 6Smith one of the best local Lake Minnetonka stops. **See Related**: [Best Travel Photography Books to Inspire You](https://viatravelers.com/travel-photography-books/) ### 24. Gianni’s Steakhouse ![Front of Gianni](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/giannis-wayzata.jpg) Gianni’s Steakhouse opens later at 4 p.m. for dinner, and it’s the ideal local option if you love excellent steak. Their menu offers meat in every variety you can imagine, but it also includes vegan options. Their menu even includes options like escargot or smaller meals for the kids. **See Related**: [Best Credit Cards for Overseas Travel](https://viatravelers.com/credit-cards-for-overseas-travel/) ### 25. Maggie’s Restaurant ![Maggie](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Maggies-Restaurant-Minnesota.jpg)Maggie’s Restaurant / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048470155906) Maggie’s Restaurant is located in Wayzata, near Lake Minnetonka. It’s one of our favorite Wayzata restaurants. This fun restaurant opens at 8 a.m., which is great for early risers. Breakfast is an all-day option, and their menu includes great pizza, burgers, and milkshakes. **See Related**: [Best Travel Size Cologne](https://viatravelers.com/travel-size-cologne/) ### 26. McCormick’s Pub & Restaurant ![McCormick](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/mccormicks-pub-wayzata-768x1024.jpg) McCormick’s Pub & Restaurant is located in Wayzata, Minnesota, and has the unusual atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub where you would least expect it. Their selection of [delicious beer to taste in Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/st-paul-breweries/) is what makes them famous, but their food includes traditional Irish cuisine that will make you want to try everything on the menu. **See Related**: [Day Trips from Rochester](https://viatravelers.com/day-trips-from-rochester-mn/) ### 27. Baja Haus ![Baja Haus restaurant interior](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Baja-Haus-Minnesota.jpg)Baja Haus / [Baja Haus](https://bajahaus.com/) The Baja Haus is a [local restaurant](https://viatravelers.com/best-st-paul-restaurants/) in downtown Wayzata, MN, with a perfect view of Lake Minnetonka. It’s great if you want a traditional beach-themed experience with a high-quality menu to match. Some incredible cocktails are available if you want to drink while admiring the lake. **See Related**: [Best Gadgets for Long Flights](https://viatravelers.com/best-gadgets-for-long-flights/) ### 28. Tommy’s Tonka Trolley ![Front of Tommy](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Tommys-Tonka-Trolley-Minnesota-800x600.jpg)Tommy’s Tonka Trolley / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TommysTonkaTrollley/) Tommy’s Tonka Trolley isn’t a traditional sit-down restaurant but a simple ice cream trolley that’s famous across the whole state. Their menu comprises shakes, ice creams, and traditional-style hot dogs. You’ll find Tommy’s Tonka Trolley open from 3:30 PM. **See Related**: [Reasons to Visit Franconia Sculpture Park](https://viatravelers.com/franconia-sculpture-park/) ### 29. Yumi Japanese Restaurant & Bar (Excelsior) ![Japanese Rolls](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Japanese-Rolls.jpg) Yumi Japanese Restaurant & Bar in Excelsior is proof that you can find anything near the shores of Lake Minnetonka. It’s one of the best traditional Japanese restaurants serving delicious [traditional Japanese cuisine in the area](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_cuisine), with high-quality food and an excellent atmosphere. **See Related**: [Best Travel Security Products](https://viatravelers.com/travel-security-products/) ### 30. Benedict’s (Wayzata) ![Benedict](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Benedicts-Wayzata-Minnesota.jpg)Benedict’s / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/BenedictsWayzata/) Benedict’s is located in Wayzata and is best known as a traditional American restaurant with a great atmosphere and marvelous sit-in dining. Their menu includes traditional options like burgers, but they are also known for their great selection of craft cocktails. **See Related**: [Minimalist Travel Accessories for Traveling Light](https://viatravelers.com/minimalist-travel-accessories/) ### 31. Nautical Bowls (Minnetonka) ![Nautical Bowls, Minnetonka, Minnesota](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/nauticul-bowls.jpg) Nautical Bowls is located right on the shores of Lake Minnetonka and is one of the best places to go if you are looking for healthy local food. Nautical Bowls doesn’t overdo the nautical theme but takes full advantage of the surroundings to bring visitors a great experience with wonderful food. **See Related**: [Simple Ways to Sustainable Travel](https://viatravelers.com/sustainable-travel/) ### 32. Sushi Fix (Wayzata) ![Sushi Fix restaurant entrance](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Sushi-Fix-Wayzata-Minnesota-800x800.jpg)Sushi Fix / [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SushiFixWayzata/) Sushi Fix is one of the best restaurants in Wayzata to visit if you want to experience sushi made from only the best ingredients. Their expansive menu includes sushi and some of their original cocktail creations. It’s all you could want in a sushi bar with a great view. Try their specialty rolls – you won’t regret it! Open from 4:30 PM. It’s a great late afternoon or night stop for getting together with friends. **Related Resources** - [Cheap Places to Travel](https://viatravelers.com/cheap-places-to-travel/) - [Epic Tips for Stress-Free Travel](https://viatravelers.com/stress-free-travel/) - [Vacations With Minimal Walking](https://viatravelers.com/vacations-with-minimal-walking/) - [Best Restaurants in the Twin Cities](https://viatravelers.com/best-restaurants-in-minneapolis/) - [Best Restaurants in Rochester](https://viatravelers.com/restaurants-in-rochester-mn/)