20 Best American Restaurants near Lake Shore

“We went to Sunshine’s for supper Wednesday night and had the pizza. It was the best ever. I usually don’t eat the crust but this crust was tender and good. Looking forward to our next visit.“

“Was looking for a quick place to catch a beer and some "bar food' after a day on the lake, so we stopped in. Turns out we were wrong, this place served cold beer from a long menu, had the most courteous staff (were more than happy to deal with food allergies, with a smile) and then served us food that should have been in a top tier restaurant. To say the least we were more than happy and will always come back when in the area.“

“We were there yesterday and I left my denim shirt. The bartender Derek saw it right away and put away for safe keeping! Thank you! The whole staff is great!“

“I don’t typically write reviews, but I went to this restaurant 1.5 months ago and had their chicken salad sandwich and a bloody mary. I became a part of the clean plate club that day. This is the best sandwich I’ve ever had in my entire life. The buns, the perfect temperature of the chicken salad, love and kisses in every bite. The fries were also amazing as well as the Bloody Mary. I live like 3 hours away but have thought of driving that far just for this sandwich. I think about it so much I had to come and write a review because it crosses my mind more than it should. The waitress was also super nice! One day I will be reunited with this sandwich again!“

“1st time visiting here, had omelet and wife had a breakfast as well. All great! Hash browns were actually brown and just the way I like them. Omelet had very good amount of ham et al. Shout out to waitress Lilli, very attentive, helpful and a very pleasant personality! Though we live elsewhere, our experience was very good! if opportunity arises, will return“

“The service and food are always amazing! It's our favorite place to go out as a family!“

“We called around to resorts in the area mostly to ask about winter lake access. Other resorts basically pushed us off and hung up if we were not currently booked with them. Ernie's however was so helpful, friendly and informative when we called, they really stood out from the other locations. This will be our go to place on Gull Lake from here on out.“

“Why is it when we order a single Butterburger, they decide to sell us a double Butterburger and charge us for that? How convenient that they don’t give you a receipt and don’t know it until you open the wrapper. Done in or drive thru is the same. All The Time!“

“we went up for the last weekend if golf, though it was cold we had a great time. everybody we encountered there was so nice and professional. live music at the pub was great! we watched the Bagpiper walk the Pine East Green to close put the season, very cool. definitely recommend purchasing any of the packages they have to offer!“

“Great food and service! We had the shrimp tacos and a Reuben. Both were excellent. Very good tap list and drinks as well.“

“Great eggs Benedict ( and I’ve worked for years in the restaurant industry). My favorite breakfast place in the Brainerd Lakes area. Plus, they are family owned and run. Love it!“

“Jacob at Applebee's is a rockstar! Seriously, he made our whole meal fantastic. He was super friendly, incredibly fast, and somehow knew exactly what we needed before we even asked. He was attentive without hovering, and his great attitude made our visit awesome. Give this man a raise—he deserves it“

“Breakfast Skillet! Ordered milk & it came in a chilled glass, super nice“

“Absolutely best restaurant I’ve been to in Minnesota. I wish they had the classic grill in the cities, but it’s always a special treat coming to our lake home and getting the experience of eating here. The food is phenomenal, the staff is amazing and the atmosphere is unmatched. Every time I visit, I can count on trying one of the new menu items and being in awe of the flavors and presentation. The favorite orders of our group were the Indonesian chicken satay appetizer, the chef’s risotto, and the truffle citrus scallops. My attached picture won’t do it justice, but the presentation of the meals is so unique. If they had Michelin star restaurants in Minnesota, this would for sure be the running. Maddens resort is truly the best location in the brainerd area.“

“We were so happy to find this new restaurant. The food was amazing ( especially the butternut squash). There are unique menu options and the service was fabulous. I highly recommend this restaurant and, next time we are in the Brainerd area we will be going there again !“

“Great place to take the family or for a date night! Lots of different options food and drink wise. Friendly staff and welcoming locals!“

“Cole at the bar was awesome! Always on his toes. Appetizers were yummy! We will be back“

“got the grizzlies bloody Mary. for only $13 it was a 28 oz glass with their homemade bloody Mary mix 1/4 of a chicken. The thigh and leg rotisserie style, fabulous, celery cheese olives lemon and bacon. All for $13. then I had an appetizer of firecracker shrimp with blue cheese dressing. It was absolutely delicious!“

“Our server was Mindy S.“

“Very impressed with the burger I just had. Pretty much perfect. I’ll be back“