Making the most of a summer getaway starts with setting your sights on scenic Gull Lake, Minnesota. While this destination is filled with fun activities to try out, it’s also a place that’s packed with savory stops to enjoy. The following are just a few of the many Gull Lake restaurants for the best summer outdoor dining experience to make the most of your delicious adventure.
Dock 77
When you’re fortunate enough to find yourself in the Gull Lake area of Minnesota this summer and you’re craving a fantastic meal with a fresh-air view, heading over to Dock 77 is sure to inspire! Situated at 9820 Birch Bay Drive SW in Nisswa, Dock 77 is a weekend hangout that’s open Fridays from noon until 9:00 pm, Saturdays from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm and Sundays from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. Whether you drop by with family or friends, those who enjoy Dock 77 for a summer meal under the sun will be in for a treat. Guests are free to settle into a seat at a patio table or at one of the many bright red picnic tables that adorn the lawn. Each table is topped with a sprawling umbrella to make your outdoor meal as comfortable as possible and service at Dock 77 is notoriously friendly. Much as the name indicates, this outdoor eatery is popular amongst those who arrive by land as well as those who are looking to dock and dine. Begin your outdoor dining journey at Dock 77 by perusing the starter options which include everything from spicy ahi-tuna tartare and Walleyedan’s walleye cakes to chowder, salad, and house-made herb and mozzarella sticks just to name a few. While burgers and sandwich options are always a delight at Dock 77 when it comes to main course selections, it’s hard to go wrong with a mushroom and beef linguini, or a pan-seared halibut while you’re here. If you happen to be dropping by for an alfresco brunch, be sure to try the smoked salmon eggs benedict or go for a sweet treat when you opt for the cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit combo.
Zorbaz
A summer getaway to Gull Lake often revolves around having a plethora of options when it comes to fun and entertainment. The same could be said for the outdoor dining scene, especially when you set your culinary sights on Zorbaz! Located at 8105 Lost Lake Road in Lake Shore, Zorbaz is open to the dining public daily between 11:00 am and 2:00 am. Zorbaz offers up a unique take on options that range from homestyle pizza to Mexican traditional dishes. This means that whether you’re in the mood for pepperoni or savory tacos, you can find exactly what you’re looking for and more here! This lakeside restaurant is a family-friendly stop that’s also known and loved for its tap beer selection and house margaritas that are best enjoyed out on the spacious patio. Service is friendly and outdoor seating options are cozy and comfortable, making it easy to linger here longer than you ever planned. At Zorbaz, it’s easy to pair your lake view with menu options like veggie-stuffed quesadillas and queso as well as a large taco salad bowl. While the spaghetti options at Zorbaz are sure to inspire, it’s hard to go wrong when you order a Thai pizza for the table. No matter what you select at Zorbaz, you’ll have a view to match and your tastebuds will thank you for the experience.
Ernie’s on Gull
Perhaps one of the most iconic outdoor dining stops in all of the Gull Lake region is Ernie’s on Gull! When you’re the type of traveler that’s looking to add as many alfresco meal experiences as possible to your vacation, make sure this locale makes the list. Found at 10424 Squaw Point Road in Brainerd, Ernie’s on Gull offers guests stunning views to enjoy in a space that’s welcoming and comfortable. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 am until 11:00 pm and serves up everything from cast iron baked brie and cheese curds to soft pretzels and mussels to get things started on a savory note. Main course options to enjoy from the outdoor patio at Ernie’s on Gull include burgers and salad selections as well as tacos and pasta. While you’re here, be sure to pair your plate with a beer on tap or one of the restaurant’s many delicious, handcrafted cocktails. Ernie’s on Gull has been a landmark in the area since 1917 and today, continues to be a top outdoor dining destination that travelers will want to make sure to enjoy while they’re in town!
Book Your Getaway Today
When you’re ready for a Gull Lake adventure you won’t soon forget, that the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts has the luxurious accommodations to top off your trip. Reach out today to learn more about our many options and to start planning!
The opportunity to pack your suitcase and travel to Gull Lake is always an exciting one. But for every adventure you have on your itinerary, there’s something exciting about those home-inspired brunch moments that are savory and enjoyable too. When your travel plans bring you to town, the following are three Sunday brunch restaurants in Gull Lake that you just won’t want to miss out on while you’re here!
Front Street Café
Finding time to relax and unwind in Gull Lake, Minnesota isn’t hard to do, but having a brunch planned at Front Street Café at least one day of your stay is sure to elevate the experience even further! Situated at 616 Front Street in Brainerd, Front Street Café is just the right place to curb a craving in good company. This inviting and cozy café is well-loved by local and visiting brunch enthusiasts alike. Step inside with the entire family in tow and take a seat in a dining room designed to inspire feelings of home-comfort and welcome at every turn. Tables are cozy and paired with wood paneled walls complete with whiteboards listing daily specials. Overall, the ambiance is one that inspires feelings of nostalgia for an era of simplicity gone by. Front Street Café is a place where it’s simple to settle in next to family and friends or make new acquaintances sitting at the table right beside you. The atmosphere is friendly, the color palette is warm, and the service is top-notch, making it a place people are happy to return to time and again.
The menu at Front Street Café is versatile and vast, offering up something savory for everyone. Those that can’t wait to dig into delicious breakfast fare will find they can easily order up everything from pancakes and waffles to cinnamon rolls, French toast, eggs, bacon and beyond. For the brunch goer who is more inclined to lean towards lunch-inspired fare, the menu features options like sandwiches, burgers, and corn dog baskets too! Pick and choose or order up a platter with a little bit of it all. Either way, your tastebuds are sure to thank you.
Flame Nutrition
Enjoying a delicious brunch near Gull Lake doesn’t have to be an experience in sabotaging your diet. For those who are excited to enjoy a savory, yet equally nutritious brunch while they’re in town, heading over to Flame Nutrition promises to be a great idea! Located at 15175 Edgewood Drive N. Suite 140 in Baxter, Flame Nutrition is a popular health food restaurant that serves up savory and memorable options guests can always feel good about. From shakes and smoothies to teas infused with healthy goodness, guests will find it easy to sip their way through brunch, feeling proud of their healthy choices too! Settle into charming and decidedly green-themed surroundings when you head to Flame Nutrition, and if you’re not sure where to start on the menu, the on-site staff are well-versed and happy to help. The menu here includes options like pomegranate and raspberry teas, or full meal replacement shakes packed with protein and flavor. If you’re headed out for a day filled with outdoor fun, Flame Nutrition is a good place to fuel up so you can sustain well on the trails or slopes. This is definitely not your traditional brunch stop, but it’s bound to be a highlight of your brunch experiences while you’re in town. Fueling up for success is what they do best at Flame Nutrition.
Iron Waffle Coffee Company
When brunch brings that traditional pancake and waffle moment right to mind, there’s no better place to find yourself than the Iron Waffle Coffee Company in Nisswa. Located at 8785 Interlachen Road, the Iron Waffle Coffee Company is open to the public between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm every day of the week! All they ask is that you bring your appetite because the menu here is designed to impress. While the coffee and espresso lineup is sure to delight those who could use a serious caffeine kick, the specialty waffle section of the menu is where the savory moments start. From the waffle ice cream sandwich to the peanut butter cup stack, there’s truly something for every waffle enthusiast out there! If you feel the need to sprinkle a bit of salty in there, try the breakfast sandwich or a fully loaded bagel too.
Reach Out Today
There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Gull Lake, Minnesota and knowing you have accommodations in place that keep you close to the fun makes it all the better. Reach out to Gull Lake Beach Resorts today to learn more about our many rental property options in the area and to begin planning your next trip. We can’t wait to see you in Minnesota soon!
During your visit to the Gull Lake area of Central Minnesota, you’ll likely enjoy countless amenities the area has to offer – the lake, golf, shopping, nature, and of course EATING! Our serene corner of the world is dotted not only by lakes and trees but also some terrific dining spots sure to please any palate.
Sometimes vacationers have a hard time finding good places to eat. After all, the locals tend to want to keep the best spots to themselves. But we’re here to make your visit all that it can be, and that includes sharing this list of our favorite Gull Lake restaurants.
ZORBAZ
Chances are you’ve not seen anything quite like Zorbaz, the local pizza and Mexican joint. The food is the traditional burrito-pizza-nacho fare served up in a backdrop of loud visual design. Zorbaz has a string of lakeside eateries throughout the state, and the one on Gull Lake has a roomy patio for al fresco dining. Inside, two levels separate the families from the later night crowd.
Claiming the lake area’s best beer selection, Zorbaz whips up homemade pizza dough and salsa on the daily. You can arrive by car, boat, snowmobile or float plane, and there’s always games for kids of all ages. Lunches are served fast and hot, and dinners are relaxed and tasty. Zorbaz knows how to please a crowd, as there’s always a special event, including happy hours, dance parties, trivia, and live music.
If you fall in love with the place and want to check out all 11 locations, be sure to grab your Zorbaz Tour Passport for a sweet prize once you’ve completed the quest. Don’t miss Zorbaz – pizza, Mexican, Minnezotan!
COWBOY’S
Cowboy’s calls itself a family restaurant and watering hole. Since 2011, they’ve been serving customers fantastic food and beverage choices in a friendly, inviting atmosphere. If you like something a bit different and not on the main drag, Cowboy’s is a great choice – all three meals a day.
Named by Expedia as one of Minnesota’s best places to escape, Cowboy’s is not far from Brainerd, and the drive to Lakeshore on Hwy 371 provides an amazing view of Gull Lake. Past diners have highly recommended Cowboy’s apple fritter French toast, fish sandwich (any of them!), and hamburger with egg. Cowboy’s offers a kids menu, weekly specials, and menu items that cater to special dietary needs.
BAR HARBOR SUPPER CLUB
Bar Harbor is committed to providing the best customer service experience possible. Whether you enjoy one of their Certified Angus Beef products such as the filet mignon, or if you are just stopping in for a drink or two at happy hour, the staff is focused on doing everything possible to ensure you have the best experience.
With legendary beginnings as a casino in 1938, Bar Harbor has a long and sorted history that includes a winter-storm roof collapse in the 1940s and an arson fire in the 1960s. It evolved over the years from a hot spot for Minnesota minors to a dinner and dancing destination for locals. Then in 2012, the restaurant underwent a full makeover with a new focus on high-quality food and service. Though the facility itself has undergone many changes, the commitment to the residents of the Brainerd area has continued for decades.
With steady year-round business, Bar Harbor is perched on the shore of Gull Lake, and the “charcoal fine dining” makes it a popular summer resident hangout. There’s usually entertainment on summer weekends, and wine aficionados can enjoy their own bottles or sample from the onsite wine cellar selection.
GANLEY’S
If you’re looking for a family restaurant with excellent food as well as great service, then Ganley’s Restaurant is the place. Offering a wide assortment of tasty foods, including various dinner specials, hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, ice cream cones, floats, and malts, Ganley’s also features an assortment of candies, fresh baked pies, caramel rolls and muffins.
Located on the corner of Main St. and Hwy 371 in the heart of Nisswa, Ganley’s is close to all the town’s wonderful shops and attractions. Come for breakfast and shop for the rest of the day. Ganley’s serves breakfast all day for those late risers. Enjoy sidewalk dining on Gull Lake’s beautiful warm summer days. And if you want some physical exercise, the restaurant is only a few steps from the famous Paul Bunyan Trail with its scenic beauty suitable for hiking, biking, and (in winter) snowmobiling.
MAIN STREET ALE HOUSE
Also located in historic downtown Nisswa, Main Street Ale House is a spot to enjoy authentic dining, 30 tap beers, wine, spirits and much more! This unique dining experience can be followed by a stroll up and down the boardwalk to visit the boutique shops Nisswa is known for. Open beginning at 11 a.m. (or 10 a.m. for Sunday brunch), Main Street boasts gourmet creations designed by renowned local chef Paul Fitzpatrick, who grew up in the Gull Lake area and attended the Art Institute International in culinary studies.
Start with a signature cocktail (cheers to the Main Street Mule and Cucumber Breeze!) and delicious appetizer like the Chicken Curry Meatballs or Grilled Octopus. Then move to one of the scrumptious burgers, sandwiches, tacos or salads. Main Street entrée highlights include the Jambalaya, Walleye, and Roasted Confit Duck. And be sure to save room for the famous Cast Iron Cookie!
ERNIE’S ON GULL
A visit to Gull Lake just wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Ernie’s on Gull located on the southeast side of Gull Lake. Offering lunch and dinner in a perfect lakeside setting, Ernie’s has patio seating that is almost on top of the lake, with 10-mile views across the water.
Started by Finnish immigrant and carpenter Ernie Ritari in the early 1900s, the property was founded in a long tradition of family hospitality. Formerly known as Ron’s Steak House, Ron’s on Squaw Point, and the Butcher Block, Ernie’s came back to its roots under the management of Brainerd locals, Chris and Mike Foy. The Foy brothers spent their childhood around East Gull Lake, frequenting the restaurant, which now strives to provide a fun, personalized dining experience.
Now with two venues on Ernie’s property – the beloved Ernie’s on Gull and the new On Point Burger Company – Executive Chef Tower Kruse and his expert culinary team have put together menus that cater to the tastes and trends of today while embracing the items that have been staples here for many years. Ernie’s takes pride in using only top-quality food and the freshest ingredients – from hand-cut Walleye to house made Lobster Bisque, you’ll find a new favorite every time you visit!
ALL FOODIES WELCOME AT GULL LAKE BEACH RESORTS
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly place to escape from reality and soak in the great outdoors, Central Minnesota can’t be beat. Located right on Gull Lake’s best beaches, and in the heart of the best adventures nature has to offer, Gull Lake Beach Resorts is ready to host your next exciting vacation getaway. Great dining options won’t be far away!
Don’t forget that many establishments in the area operate on a seasonal schedule, so be sure to confirm the days, hours, and reservation policies before you go. You can call directly or pick up a local “shopper” or weekly newspaper in the area for the latest updates. Contact us today to book your lakeside cabin and begin planning all your fun-filled vacation and dining activities in lakes country.
Getting out of your daily routine and setting aside dedicated time to enjoy a great getaway is always a good idea! When you’re the type of traveler who’s on the hunt for a scenic destination that pairs outdoor adventure with in-town options for fun, there’s no better place to set your travel sights than gorgeous Gull Lake, Minnesota. This vibrant and inviting locale is loved by visitors from near and far for its on-the-water adventure, tantalizing hiking trails, and of course, savory stops to enjoy along the way. When you’re putting the finishing touches on your itinerary and need to add a few bar stops with friends, the following are three bars on Gull Lake you won’t want to miss!
Ernie’s on Gull
Situated at 10424 Squaw Point Road in bustling Brainerd, Ernie’s on Gull has long been a favorite waterfront stop for visitors and locals alike. Open 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Ernie’s on Gull is a casual and welcoming destination that features fantastic fare and the views made to match. While some come for the savory steak selections, many more find their way here in the name of pursuing well-earned moments settled in at the scenic patio bar. The fresh-air lakeside deck is sure to delight while you sip a Gull Lake evening away with a cocktail, wine, or beer in hand. Ernie’s on Gull is known for their live musical performances, particularly in the summer months, only adding to the overall welcoming vibe and fun appeal. If you drop by and happen to have a passion for locally brewed beverages, Ernie’s on Gull is proud to provide 22 taps right on site!
Zorbaz
For an enticing twist on the traditional bar experience, head over to Zorbaz at 8105 Lost Lake Road in Lake Shore. Zorbaz offers guests a hybrid culinary experience paired with fantastic cocktail selections that are sure to inspire the tastebuds! Here, guests can enjoy everything from pizza piled high with customized topping to traditional Mexican dishes that come with plenty of spice and bold flavors included. While Zorbaz offers up an extensive selection of beer and wine that can be enjoyed on an open-air patio complete with colorful lighting schemes, it’s perhaps the house margarita that you just won’t want to overlook. Whether you pair your perfect evening beverage with a burrito or a slice, Zorbaz is a one-stop shop for a good time for all!
Dock 77
If you find yourself in the Nisswa area of Gull Lake, a drink or perhaps even a dinner enjoyed at Dock 77 is a must. This bar and grill located at 9820 Birch Bay Drive SW is a fun, casual, and inviting place to roll up or sail up for a savory treat any time of day between 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Much as the name of this bar indicates, Dock 77 enjoys a waterside locale that’s perfect for those arriving for the fun by land or sea. This bar and grill is a great place to enjoy a round of ribs, smoked meats, or a savory catch of the day. No plate is complete without pairing it with beer, wine, or a handcrafted cocktail made to inspire the fun in everyone! From martinis and margaritas to spritzers and mojitos, it’s easy to fall into a lakeside state of mind at Dock 77. Beer is available on tap or by the bottle and the ciders in stock are just as enjoyable. This bar and grill are glad to open its doors to the public year-round, making it a great place to be no matter what brings you to Gull Lake or when you happen to arrive in town.
Book Your Gull Lake Stay Today
There’s never been a better time to put work and daily responsibilities aside and focus on planning a fantastic and fun getaway to beautiful Gull Lake, Minnesota! Some well-earned rest and relaxation have a way of renewing the mind and body, and knowing you’re booked into accommodations that keep you close to the fun adds inspiration! When you’re ready to turn travel plans into a reality, Gull Lake Beach Resorts is here to help. Our rentals are comfortable, luxurious, and provide waterfront views that guests can enjoy every day of their stay. Reach out today to learn more about our versatile property options in the area and to start planning your next Minnesota-bound adventure!
Winter is a time of year that brings exciting snowfall, dropping temperatures, and for the outdoor enthusiast, plenty of options for recreation too! While the ice and cold have plenty of travelers heading for warm destinations as soon as possible, those that are inspired by the fresh powder and can’t wait to make the most of the fun head to places like Gull Lake, Minnesota instead! Here, winter is a season of celebration and recreational opportunities that are unsurpassed. Enjoying significant snowfall totals this time of year, Gull Lake swaps out summertime fun in the way of boating, swimming, and savoring the shorelines for winter-focused activities that are just as intriguing.
Gull Lake, Minnesota is known for wintertime activity options that range from snow biking and skiing to snowboarding, ice fishing, skating, ice hockey, and more! Even those that aren’t so much about the cold, but love the wintery view will find that time snuggled up in a space that frames the great outdoors is an ideal situation. No matter what your winter itinerary entails when you head to Gull Lake, making the most of the savory stops and Gull Lake restaurants is a must when a hot winter meal would hit the spot. The following are just a few of many options to consider the next time you’re in the area.
Sidetrack Bar and Grill
When mouthwatering comfort food selections and dishes that remind you of a savory home-cooked meal are what you’re craving, ordering up something sensational at Sidetrack Bar and Grill is bound to delight. Located at 18071 MN-371 in Brainerd, Sidetrack Bar and Grill is open to the dining public daily between 10:30 amand8:00 pm making it a fantastic all-day destination to curb a craving. This fan-favorite meal destination is ideal in winter thanks to its grilled selections that are paired with just the right beverage choices too. Currently, Sidetrack Bar and Grill offers up many options on its menu for taking away all day long, providing for convenient dining that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your winter vacation rental.
The menu at Sidetrack Bar and Grill is designed to cater to visitors of all types of culinary preferences. Juicy, piled-high burgers paired with oversized fries are a staple at Sidetrack Bar and Grill and leave no appetite unattended to. While the main course selections are sure to please, the appetizer listing are just as appealing. Guests can pick and choose between savory options like cheesy fried pickles and shrimp shooters or sweet potato fries and sidetrack poutine. Salads and soups are readily available for those that are looking to dine lean while the pasta and fish selections make for a mouthwatering event. When you’re up for a more robust main course, be sure to try the ribeye, shrimp dinner, BBQ ribs, or Backtrack chicken. If you’re ordering up dinner for the entire family, the little ones might love the hot chocolate provided by Sidetrack Bar and Grill for savoring during a cold, wintery evening.
Visit Amazing Gull Lake Restaurants – 371 Diner
Sensational American meal favorites are yours for enjoying when you plan for a winter meal to be enjoyed at 371 Diner. Situated at 14901 Edgewood Drive in Baxter, this eatery is a favorite amongst those craving all American traditional dishes enjoyed with a side of dining nostalgia.
Leaning on drive-through diners of the past, 371 Diner is simple to spot thanks to the sleek silver façade and red trim that offers up a retro aesthetic and tons of fun!
371 Diner is currently open for take-away but provides guests with all of its mouthwatering menu options to choose from. The diner is open daily from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm and conveniently caters to crowds that appreciate curbside pickup in these unprecedented times. The menu is a delight whether you drop by in the morning or for dinner. Country breakfast selections included loaded hash browns, piled-high pancakes, and omelets are served up until 11:00 am. After that time, the lunch and dinner menu takes center stage! Soups, salads, and sandwiches are readily available upon request at 371 Diner while wraps, burgers, and finger foods make it easy to satisfy everyone in the family. When your tastes lean towards a particularly hearty dinner, you can’t go wrong with choice sirloin, walleye filet, or steak and shrimp.
Make the Most of the Gull Lake Adventure
No matter what season you find yourself in Gull Lake, taking time to unwind in a luxurious vacation rental provided through Gull Lake Beach Resorts is a must. Elevate your experience from the moment you arrive and indulge in the comfort, convenience, and proximity to fun that you deserve! Contact our team today to learn more about our many area rental options and to start planning your next adventure to Minnesota!