Waterfront dining is one of the things I look most forward to when the weather starts getting nicer. Are you looking for the perfect restaurants on a lake in Minnesota? Being the Land of 10,000 Lakes, there are many options. On just about every major lake in the state - and even a few smaller ones - there is a great kitchen serving up a menu full of delicious food. They are great for date night ideas in Minnesota as well as musts to add to your outdoor dining bucket list. Here are some of the best lakeside restaurants in Minnesota.

1. Maynard's - Excelsior

Located on the banks of Lake Minnetonka, this beautiful restaurant is well worth the visit. Flavorful, fresh food is the name of the game here, but you'll find plenty of other reasons to stop by. One of the best restaurants on a lake, the view from the patio will make your meal taste even better. Read more about dining at Maynard's.

2. Sandcastle - Minneapolis

Editor's note: Unfortunately, this site is permanently closed. 

Get ready for a day at the beach! One of the best lakeside restaurants in MN, Sandcastle is right on the sandy beach of Lake Nokomis. Outdoor seating will help you enjoy your meal at this tasty restaurant. Everything is made from scratch, and all of it is delicious. Head to the website for Sandcastle for the most up-to-date information about dining here.

3. Bar Harbor Supper Club - Nisswa

You can boat right up to this gorgeous northern Minnesota restaurant as there are plenty of spots to tie up along the shore. But if you prefer to arrive by land, you still won't miss out on a great waterfront view. With great food, excellent service, and amazing views, a stop at one of rthe best lakeside restaurants in Minnesota is a no-brainer. Learn more about why you should dine at the Bar Harbor Supper Club.

4. Bluefin Grille - Tofte

What better lake to dine on than Superior? The greatest of all the Great Lakes, its choppy waters create a spectacular show for any visitor to the North Shore. If you're looking to take in the view from the comfort of a restaurant, look no further than Bluefin Grille. Incredible food awaits at this delicious spot, and you'll have a 360-degree view of Superior to go along with it. It is really some of the best lakeside dining near me in Minnesota. Visit the website for Bluefin Grille to learn more about this restaurant.

5. Angry Trout Cafe - Grand Marais

Amazing food awaits you at this North Shore restaurant. In fact, it may be the tastiest spot you can visit north of Duluth. Whatever you order, you'll get a plate of bright, fresh, and delicious food that will have you planning your next trip to this lakeside dining near me in MN mid-bite! Sit out on the patio during warm weather for excellent views of Lake Superior. Get more details on dining at Angry Trout Cafe.

6. Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge - Spring Park

One of the very best restaurants on a lake, this one has a huge variety of menu items. From gourmet burgers to salads to walleye wraps, you'll find it all here. The flavorful food is best enjoyed outside, where you can look out over Lake Minnetonka. Try it out on a summer evening. You will not be sorry. Read more about dining at Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge.

7. Fisher's Club - Avon

Fisher's Club is a historic Minnesota restaurant that is not to be missed. But its history is not the only draw. For one thing, this little spot in small-town Minnesota has great food. And for another, it overlooks a sandy beach on the shores of Middle Spunk Lake. Go swimming or fishing, then sit down at this gorgeous lakeside restaurant. It'll be the best day of your entire summer! Here are some more details on dining at Fisher's Club.

8. Lola's Lakehouse - Waconia

Lola's Lakehouse is a little-known gem that you should definitely add to the top of your lakeside restaurants in Minnesota dining bucket list. The menu for this spot is full of classics like lobster bisque and filet mignon. But there are plenty of inventive dishes as well! And the view over Lake Waconia is the perfect backdrop to your meal. Check out the website for Lola's Lakehouse to get more information on its menu and hours.

What is your favorite place for lakeside dining near me in Minnesota? What do you think are the best Minneapolis restaurants?Tell us in the comments!

Don't worry if you overindulge at some of these restaurants on a lake. Work off some calories with a hike! Check out what AllTrails has to offer!

Try not to go too overboard with your meal and make sure you leave at least a little bit of room for dessert! For your after-dinner treat, check out these unique desserts in Minnesota.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/minnesota/unique-desserts-mn/