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White Bear Yacht Club Dellwood MN | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting

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Nestled along the picturesque shores of White Bear Lake in Dellwood, Minnesota, the White Bear Yacht Club stands as a true gem among the state’s exclusive recreational destinations. This historic and elegant yacht club embodies the essence of lakeside luxury, offering members and guests an unparalleled experience in a serene, natural setting.

With a rich heritage dating back over a century, White Bear Yacht Club is a beloved institution renowned for its pristine waters, world-class amenities, and warm sense of community. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the timeless beauty and hospitality that defines the White Bear Yacht Club in Dellwood, MN.

White Bear Yacht Club History and Founding

The White Bear Yacht Club, located in Dellwood, Minnesota, boasts a rich and storied history that dates back to its founding in 1889. Designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert , who later became famous for his work on iconic structures such as the United States Supreme Court Building and the Woolworth Building in New York City, the club’s architecture reflects the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era.

Founded by a group of enthusiastic sailing and boating enthusiasts, the White Bear Yacht Club quickly established itself as a hub for leisure and social activities along the pristine shores of White Bear Lake. Cass Gilbert’s architectural brilliance is evident in the club’s timeless design, which seamlessly integrates with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Over the years, the club has played host to a myriad of sailing regattas, social events, and gatherings, earning a reputation for its commitment to promoting the sport of sailing and fostering a strong sense of community. Today, the White Bear Yacht Club stands as a testament to its enduring legacy, preserving the historic charm and architectural marvels that have captivated generations of members and guests alike.

White Bear Yacht Club Membership Costs and Dues

Here are the estimated and rumored Membership Costs and Dues for the White Bear Yacht Club in Dellwood MN:

Estimated Costs:

• Initiation Fee: $10,000-$20,000
• Monthly Dues: $400-$600
• Food and Beverage Minimum: $150/month (May-September only)

Rumored Costs:

• Initiation Fee: $20,000-$30,000
• Monthly Dues: $500-$700
• Food and Beverage Minimum: $200/month (May-September only)

It is important to note that these are just estimates and rumors, and the actual Membership Costs and Dues may vary depending on the type of membership you choose and other factors.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the White Bear Yacht Club Membership Costs and Dues:

• There is a non-refundable application fee of $250.
• Initiation fees can be paid in full upfront or over a period of time.
• Monthly dues are charged year-round, regardless of how often you use the club.
• The food and beverage minimum is only applicable during the summer months (May to September).
• There are additional fees for some activities and amenities, such as golf, tennis, and swimming.

White Bear Yacht Club Amenities

The White Bear Yacht Club in Dellwood, Minnesota, offers a range of amenities to its members, catering to a diverse set of interests and recreational activities. While specific offerings may change over time, here are some of the typical amenities you might find at such a yacht club:

• Sailing Facilities: As a yacht club, sailing is often at the forefront of its activities. Members can enjoy access to sailing lessons, sailboat rentals, and various types of sailboat racing and regattas.
• Dining: Many yacht clubs offer fine dining options, providing members with an elegant and comfortable setting to enjoy meals with a scenic view of the lake.
• Tennis and Other Sports: Yacht clubs often feature tennis courts, swimming pools, and other sporting facilities to cater to a variety of athletic interests.
• Social Events: Yacht clubs frequently host social events, including parties, galas, and special gatherings for members and their guests.
• Marina Services: Access to boat slips, docking facilities, and maintenance services for members who own boats.
• Clubhouse: A clubhouse typically provides a central hub for members, offering meeting spaces, lounges, and event facilities.
• Junior Programs: Many yacht clubs have programs for children and young adults, including sailing lessons and other activities.
• Waterfront Access: Direct access to the lake, with facilities for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more.
• Golf: Some yacht clubs may have golf courses or partnerships with nearby golf clubs to offer golfing opportunities to members.
• Fitness and Wellness Facilities: Gyms, fitness centers, and spa facilities to promote health and well-being.
• Social and Networking Opportunities: Membership often includes access to a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for boating and watersports.

White Bear Yacht Club Event Information and Dining Options

The White Bear Yacht Club in Dellwood, Minnesota, offers a variety of events and occasions for members to celebrate and enjoy. While specific events may vary from year to year, common events and celebrations at yacht clubs like White Bear Yacht Club may include:

• Sailing Regattas: Yacht clubs often host a series of sailing regattas throughout the season, where members can compete in various boat classes and racing formats.
• Opening Day and Closing Day Celebrations: Many yacht clubs mark the beginning and end of the sailing season with special ceremonies and social gatherings.
• Themed Parties: Clubs may organize themed parties throughout the year, such as costume parties, tropical luau nights, and holiday-themed events.
• Concerts and Entertainment: Enjoy live music performances, outdoor concerts, and other entertainment options that the club may host.
• Junior Sailing and Youth Programs: Clubs typically offer programs and events specifically designed for young sailors and their families, including junior regattas and summer camps.
• Social Mixers: Casual gatherings where members can socialize and network with fellow boating enthusiasts.
• Weddings and Private Events: Yacht clubs often provide event spaces for weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations with stunning lakeside settings.
• Educational Seminars: Some country clubs host workshops and educational events related to sailing, boat maintenance, and other nautical topics.
• Holiday Celebrations: Special events for holidays such as Independence Day, Labor Day, and other relevant occasions.
• Annual Awards Banquet: A formal event where the club recognizes and honors outstanding achievements in sailing and contributions from members.
• Regatta Parties: Celebrations held in conjunction with major sailing races and regattas, featuring award ceremonies and social gatherings.
• Member’s Birthday Celebrations: Some clubs organize birthday parties for members, to celebrate their special days.

The dining options at the White Bear Yacht Club in Dellwood, Minnesota, may vary, but typical options you might find at a yacht club include:

• Fine Dining: Many yacht clubs offer upscale dining options in an elegant and formal setting. These restaurants often feature gourmet cuisine and a carefully curated wine list. Members can enjoy a refined dining experience with lakefront views.
• Casual Dining: Yacht clubs may provide more relaxed dining options, such as a grill, bistro, or pub-style restaurant. Casual dining areas are perfect for members seeking a more laid-back atmosphere and a variety of comfort foods.
• Outdoor Dining: Enjoy the beautiful lakeside scenery with outdoor dining on patios or decks. Outdoor dining areas often offer a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing members to soak in the natural beauty while enjoying their meals.
• Member’s Bar: Many yacht clubs have a dedicated bar area where members can socialize, relax, and enjoy drinks and light fare. It’s a popular spot for post-sailing gatherings and casual meetups.
• Private Dining Rooms: For special occasions and private events, yacht clubs may have private dining rooms available for members to reserve. These spaces provide an intimate setting for celebrations or business meetings.

White Bear Yacht Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

The dress code and guest policy at the White Bear Yacht Club, like those at many private clubs, are typically designed to maintain a certain level of decorum, uphold the club’s traditions, and create a pleasant and respectful atmosphere for all members and guests.

Here are some general guidelines that are often found at private clubs:

Dress Code: The dress code at the White Bear Yacht Club may include the following:

• Appropriate Attire: Members and guests are generally expected to wear attire that is neat, clean, and in good condition.
• Formal Dress: Some areas of the club may require more formal attire, such as collared shirts, slacks, dresses, and appropriate footwear.
• Casual Dress: Other areas, like outdoor dining or casual dining spaces, may permit more relaxed attire, such as shorts and casual shirts.
• Swimwear: Swimwear is typically restricted to pool and beach areas, and cover-ups may be required in indoor areas.
• Hats and Headgear: Some clubs have policies regarding hats and headgear, often requiring the removal of hats when indoors.
• Denim: Some clubs may restrict the use of denim in certain areas, while others allow it as long as it is clean and presentable.

Guest Policy: The guest policy at the White Bear Yacht Club will outline the rules and limitations for inviting non-member guests to the club. Common elements may include:

• Guest Limits: Clubs usually have restrictions on how often and for how many guests a member can extend an invitation.
• Registration: Guests may need to be registered with the club in advance, and there could be a fee associated with hosting guests.
• Sponsorship: A sponsoring member may be required to accompany their guest during the visit.
• Compliance: Guests are typically expected to adhere to the club’s dress code and behavioral expectations.

White Bear Yacht Club in Dellwood, Minnesota, represents a cherished haven for those seeking a unique blend of lakeside luxury, nautical adventure, and a strong sense of community. With a rich history dating back to the late 19th century and an enduring commitment to preserving its traditions, this esteemed yacht club offers a wide range of amenities and opportunities for members to enjoy.

From world-class sailing facilities to fine dining and social events, the White Bear Yacht Club continues to be a beacon of leisure and camaraderie on the shores of White Bear Lake. Its timeless appeal and dedication to fostering a close-knit community make it a special place where members can create lasting memories and celebrate the beauty of lake life.

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White Bear Yacht Club

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56 Dellwood Ave

Saint Paul, MN 55110

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About the business.

Nestled on the shores of picturesque White Bear Lake lies one of Minnesota's premier, lakeside country clubs. Renowned for its storied history, sailing heritage, legendary Donald Ross golf course, lakeside clay tennis courts and euphoric spirit of hospitality, the White Bear Yacht Club has much to offer its members and the community it has cultivated. We invite you to look inside and experience the intangible, revered distinction that we have enjoyed for over a hundred years. …

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Very pretty venue for a wedding. It looks like a nice Club to belong to... we went there for a wedding and the passed snacks were very good the service was very good and the atmosphere was great.

What an amazing golf and country club! Not only is it beautiful, but the classic golf course and amazing programs for kids make it perfect for our whole family.

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White Bear Yacht Club

White Bear Lake, MN , United States • Private

• Best In State

David A Parker Photography

Before he moved to California where he laid the foundation of many of that state's best courses from the pre-Depression era, William Watson was a pioneer of golf in Minnesota. He arranged the first nine holes at White Bear Yacht Club in 1912 near the shore of White Bear Lake on some of the most roly-poly land imaginable. Several years later, Donald Ross, it is believed, added nine holes and remodeled the course. That rumpled, unmodified land is the heart and soul of White Bear Yacht Club. Modern architects would likely have leveled and softened the slopes and ravines, but here they bring the golf to life visually and psychologically, offering nary a level stance and asking the player to hit approaches with extreme control. Over the last two decades under the guidance of Jim Urbina the surrounding canopy of forest has been pared back to better reveal the massive, enthralling undulations of the course.

100 Greatest: The course was part of Golf Digest's original 200 Toughest Courses list from 1967-'68.

Second 100 Greatest: Ranked 191st, 2017-'18.

Best in State: Ranked fourth, 2023-'24. Ranked fifth, 2011-'22. Ranked inside the top 5, 1991-2003. Ranked inside the top 10, 2005-'09. 2023-'24 ranking: 4th.

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100 GREATEST/BEST IN STATE SCORES

Shot options, layout variety, conditioning.

“Great layout, with a lot of Donald Ross influence throughout. You'll need to enjoy blind shots to like this course, but if you do, the abundance of undulation across the course makes this place standout."

“Amazing land movement hole to hole and w/in each shot throughout the round. Quirky in that one tees off over Dellwood Road twice on holes 5 & 12. Standout holes were the short par 3 third hole w/ the wooden bridge to the left and a large slope to the right feeding from right to left, the short par 5 ninth hole w/ the roller coaster of land movement from tee to green, and the short par 4 fourteenth that boomerangs from left to right."

“very enjoyable walk with some very interesting holes that you will see anywhere near MN. Can tell this course was built before earthmoving eqp, great to see that history."

“Wild ride of land movement and elevation change... lots of side hill lies and fantastic design variety. Hole #14 short par 4 is one of the best I've every played... can hit anything from 7 iron to Driver with double plateau green. Green complexes are very challenging."

“Classic Donald Ross course. Ross moved very little earth to build this course. It fits the terrain perfectly."

“Awesome rolling topography. Great conditions. This is such a fun course to play on these hills. The 18th hole is a little bit of a let down. Truly think they would benefit from switching the 9s."

“While still highly rated, it is the most underrated top course in the state. The variety on the course, conditions, and the unique multi-clubhouse vibe is top on the state."

“Old Donald Ross design built on undulating ground. Beautiful set of Par 3's are the highlight here. Here's a course where you will hit every club in your bag. This is a fun course to play. Jump at the chance to play here if ever invited."

“Delightful private club on a small site with considerable elevation changes. What I lacks in length is made up in variety, uniqueness/quirk, and challenging green complexes. Very soft when played, which is probably more often the rule than the exception (though reportedly, they do strive for firm conditions)"

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Dellwood ave dellwood, mn 55110 phone: 651-429-5002.

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Description.

White Bear Yacht Club members enjoy a beautiful, Donald Ross-designed golf course ranked 5th in the state by Golf Digest and 61st in Classic Courses in the United States by Golf Week. The course features variations in lie, undulating greens and raw beauty in layout, offering a challenging, yet enjoyable course members never tire of playing. Seasoned members are continuously impressed by the superb course conditions, ability to access the course at their leisure and the exemplary pace of play making the game both enjoyable and convenient.

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Golf Course Info

• Course: 18 Holes
• Course Type: Private
• Architect: Donald Ross
• Opened: 1915
• Head Pro: Tom Skoglund

Golf Course Stats

• Back Tees: 6471 Yards
• Back Slope: 135

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6550 York Avenue South, Suite 411 • Edina, MN 55435 • (952) 927-4643 • (800) 642-4405 • Fax: (952) 927-9642 © 2024 Minnesota Golf Association. All Rights Reserved

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White bear brings the best golf, dining, and wellness experience northeast of twin cities.

For the golfing family our Proprietary Membership is the best fit for you. 

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History of the White Bear Yacht Club, Dellwood, White Bear Lake, Minnesota History of the White Bear Yacht Club, Dellwood, White Bear Lake, Minnesota

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• The White Bear Yacht Club, Its History

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• White Bear Yacht Club (White Bear Lake, Minn.)
• St. Paul, Minn. : Bruce Pub. Co., 1961.

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Service is our mission at White Bear Boat Works

White bear boat works will be closed july 4th – july 14th for our summer break.

MARINA IS OPEN FOR 2024!

The marina is full., e-mail [email protected] to be added to the waitlist., have fun with your “new” boat carol.

Learn to Sail

Sailing Lessons are a great way to get started or to improve your boat handling skills. This is a fantastic family sport that you can participate in your whole life.

Sail Away Sailing School offers basic Keelboat – a 12-hour learn-to-sail course that will give you the skills and confidence to start sailing right! Aboard a Catalina 25 or Capri 26, you’ll learn how to get underway, tack, jibe, perform a crew-overboard recovery. You will also learn outboard motor operation, points of sail, knots, and how to reef your sail. Private lessons also available. Courses listed on their website. For more information, please contact Captain Joan Gilmore at (612) 871-8101.

Racing Corner

Interested in racing your sailboat? We have two great sailing organizations on White Bear Lake that offer racing and social activity throughout the summer months. Club races for various types of boats are held every Saturday and Sunday as well as Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Check them out on the web:

White Bear Yacht Club

Black Bear Yacht Racing Assn .

Eat & Drink

Our picks to eat and drink your way through a perfect day in White Bear Lake

There are tiki drinks, stacked scoops, fine dining and more around every charming corner of this lakeside town.

By Joy Summers

While it’s understandable why city dwellers would love to claim White Bear Lake as a part of the larger metro area, it’s best not to call it a suburb.

With deep roots as a home to the area’s Dakota and Ojibwe peoples and early pioneers, White Bear Lake has long been a destination for its scenic landscape and tranquil setting. In its early days, it was a flourishing resort town newly reachable by railway, lined with theaters and hotels, before segueing to an industrial hub. Today, it’s a charming small town packed with shops, restaurants and ways to enjoy the lush beauty that reaches its zenith on late summer days.

It’s also best enjoyed on foot. Park the car and wander through the mural-adorned alleyways, down twisty brick paths and up to rooftop patios. There are boats to rent, a public beach to stake out and tons of home, vintage and gift shops to explore. Stop by for a Friday farmers market and stay through a late-night cocktail or scoop of something sweet. These are our picks for the best ways to savor downtown White Bear Lake.

White Bear Lake Farmers Market

In the summer and early fall, Friday mornings are the best time to roam and wander through downtown White Bear Lake. Hit the farmers market from 8 a.m. to noon, when vendors line up with fresh produce, stacks of colorful eggs, glittering jars of honey and a few ready-to-eat goods. Janna’s Gluten Free Bakery is a cottage maker who brings a variety of gluten-free/celiac-safe goods, like this incredible cinnamon roll, to the party. Elouise Suoja of 350 Degrees Bakery brings artful sweets, cookies and cupcakes that would be perfect for a fairy princess party or enjoying solo in the car with the windows rolled down — whatever occasion best suits the moment.

Downtown between 2nd and 3rd streets, White Bear Lake; whitebearlake.org

Cajeta Coffee

Inside Avalon Mall is a coffee shop that feels like a hidden-gem discovery. Cajeta Coffee opened a little more than a year ago with fabulous Mexican treats and beverages. There are house specialty lattes flavored with its signature caramel sauce and one made with crushed up mazapan candy that tastes like the best kind of peanut butter-coffee combo. On the savory side, there are made-to-order breakfast burritos, conchas and more.

2179 4th St., White Bear Lake; cajetacoffeemn.square.site

Bopping around downtown, you’ll find all kinds of businesses waiting to be discovered behind buildings and through alleys. PLNT BSD is a small smoothie bowl stand that can be found between the parking lot and the back of Anchor Coffee House. There are picnic tables and a little playhouse for small visitors, plus the bright and refreshing fruit-filled bowls that are blended on the spot. Part of the adventure is figuring out when they’re open; hours change weekly and are posted on Instagram .

4742 Washington Square, White Bear Lake; plntbsdbowls.com

GoodThings Café

When downtown’s beloved Grandma’s Bakery closed, it seemed like the end of morning meetups over doughnuts. But the owners of the gift shop next door stepped in to continue the tradition. GoodThings has made a business out of peddling clothes, gifts and trinkets that make people smile. That tradition aligns perfectly with spinning cake cases and wholesome baked goods. GoodThings Cafe is stocked with doughnuts, cookies and bars; savory options include soup and sandwiches. There’s a grab-and-go case, too.

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2184 4th St., White Bear Lake; shopgoodthings.com/cafe

Manitou Bar & Kitchen

This is the expansive ivy-covered patio that beckons from the edge of Hwy. 61. The inside is just as lovely, with an open first floor, fireplace for cozy days and a large bar well stocked with top-shelf bottles. Food is classic American fare turned up a few notches, like a blackened tuna sandwich, a bacon-adorned patty melt with black pepper aioli, or fettuccine with pesto, seasonal veggies and chicken. Flip-flops are welcome, but it also works for a night out with someone special, dressed in your fancy jeans.

2171 4th St., White Bear Lake; manitougrill.com

Margaux’s Table

Perhaps downtown’s most exclusive dining opportunity, Margaux’s Table serves what’s in season and what owner Margaret Doran is cooking for the month. To get a jump on menus, hours and reservations, subscribe to her monthly newsletter or follow the restaurant on social media. Past meals have included dishes like grilled prosciutto-wrapped figs over salad and pan-seared scallops with oven-crisped potatoes. Staying intentionally small gives Margaux’s Table the freedom to make every meal an occasion, but because of its size and exclusivity, there isn’t a liquor license; diners are encouraged to BYOB to pair with the meal. Note that it’s cash or check only.

4742 Washington Square, White Bear Lake; follow Margaux’s Table on Facebook.

Brickhouse Food & Drink

There are so many reasons to choose the Brickhouse, a sleek family-owned restaurant in the heart of Washington Square: breakfast through dinner; cocktails and casual beers; rooftop patio and intimate corners for quiet conversation. And there are pork ribs that are worth planning an entire day around. Offered as an appetizer, lunch and dinner entree, these sticky, crunchy tender ribs are all things at once — just like the restaurant. The crunchy almost molasses-candy exterior gives way to the tender, lush meat beneath. The restaurant gives big fine-dining energy, with thoughtful architecture befitting the historic space that mixes raw brick with good lighting. At its heart, this is a neighborhood hang for any moment of the day with a modern American menu. But don’t miss out on those ribs.

4746 Washington Square, White Bear Lake; brickhousemn.com

Washington Square Bar & Grill

Here’s another all-day neighborhood spot right in the middle of all the action. The expansive menu is Mexican-ish — it bills itself as “truly eclectic” — but there’s no arguing that a plate of taquitos and a pint glass dripping with condensation from the cold beverage it’s holding makes a person feel like they’re living inside a Kenny Chesney summer banger. Wait times can require patience during busy nights, but the seats are perfect for stretching out and basking in the good times that can only come from long days by the lake. There’s a dog menu on the patio, daily specials, happy hour and occasional live music, too.

4736 Washington Square, White Bear Lake; washingtonsquareonline.net

The Alchemist

Even the most perfect lake day can reach a point where a break from the sun is a nice respite. The Alchemist offers a dark and moody space for cooling off by way of a chilled cocktail glass. This den of fine drinkery opened in 2015 with a steampunk vibe that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Grab a seat at the bar to talk mixology with the staff, or dip deeper into the room and find a cool corner lit by flickering faux candlelight for a quiet moment and creative (and stiff) drinks. There’s beer, wine, ciders and a menu of shareables and flatbreads, too.

2222 4th St., White Bear Lake, thealchemistwbl.com

Orso Bianco Gelato

Born from a deep love of Italy’s favorite frozen treat, this small shop offers several flavors of gelato. It’s a perfect excuse for a cup of affogato : espresso poured over a scoop of gelato for a sweet pick-me-up while wandering through downtown. They also sell pints of gelato to go, and ready-made s’mores kits for late summer and early fall evening campfires. Watch their social media for special hours; they open a little bit early on some market days.

2216 3rd St., White Bear Lake; orsobiancogelato.square.site

SweetLife Lane

Sprinkle in a little imagination and the twisty brick path to get to this shop feels like a real-life stroll through Candy Land. The store is filled with every kind of candy and treat that a kid-at-heart could want. There are dark chocolate-covered potato chips, dill pickle-flavored fudge, gum drops, candy buttons and so much more. Load up on sugary treats for now, later and way later — for that sneaky spot in the house the kids don’t know about.

2180 3rd St., White Bear Lake; sweetlifelane.com

Sweets by Brickhouse

With all the exuberance of a cannonball off the back of the boat, Sweets by Brickhouse opened this year behind and below the Brickhouse restaurant. It’s an ice cream scoop shop that makes waffle cones on site, plus there’s a daily selection of treats made by the Brickhouse’s pastry chef. There are sundaes, milkshakes and other showstopping dishes. Order up the Unicorn Sundae, a little kid’s sugar dream come to life: scoops of dairy-free sorbets are topped with a twisty lollipop, cotton candy and a candy necklace. On a recent visit, there were mochi cakes, chocolate chip cookies and a super-friendly and engaging staff at the ready with samples.

4748 Washington Square, White Bear Lake; sweetsbybrickhouse.com

Cup and Cone

These frosty treats are best enjoyed with a little sand stuck between your toes and skin that’s spent the day absorbing the summer sun. Everyone has their favorite, from the soft serve flavor of the day to ice cream sandwiches to hoagies, at this stand that’s been open since 1973. For the uninitiated, start with a cone that’s absolutely covered in sprinkles. Because the best summer days deserve a 1-to-1 ice cream-sprinkles ratio.

2126 4th St., White Bear Lake; cupandconewbl.com

By the lake

Alleycat’s Gourmet Sandwiches

An expertly built sandwich is a titan of food beauty, and those who dedicate their lives to its construction really ought to be celebrated. Alleycat’s Gourmet Sandwiches puts thought and care into every ingredient stacked on great bread in a quick-serve, no-fuss setting. There are variations on standards like the club and a truly spicy Nashville chicken, but to really feel like sandwich royalty order up the 3 Million Dollar Sandwich (that’s actually only $12.80). It stacks up beef brisket, melted cheddar, thinly sliced red onion and the housemade 3 million Dollar Sauce. Eat at one of the few seats inside, picnic tables by the parking lot, or make it a lakeside picnic at nearby Lions Park.

1971 Whitaker St., White Bear Lake; alleycatsgourmetsandwiches.com

Even after more than a decade in White Bear Lake , Acqua remains one of the hottest dinner reservations in town. The cozy two-story house has seats inside, but the coveted spots are on the front deck and the shoreline patio. Situated around a giant old tree, it’s an ideal setting for summer nights as the sun dips and fresh Italian fare is served. With an exceptional wine list and attentive service, it’s no wonder why people can’t get enough. Plus, for those with gluten sensitivities, the menu is almost entirely gluten-free — or can be made that way. (One of the owners has celiac disease, and they take that seriously.) The menu is stacked with fresh seafood fare and a few dishes for those who prefer land-harvested foodstuffs. Blue crabcakes are almost entirely hunks of crab, and the nightly specials are a fun way to sample the seasonal creativity of the kitchen.

4453 Lake Av. S., White Bear Lake; acqua-restaurants.com

Fresh seafood and water views go hand in hand. On warm evenings, the outdoor deck at Mizu is lined with diners enjoying sashimi and sushi while eyeing the lake’s horizon and the occasional hot air balloon rising above the distant shoreline. Mizu is a sister restaurant to nearby Acqua, but the cuisine is dedicated to a different part of the world. This is the spot to visit for yakisoba, ramen, classic rolls and other Japanese bar snacks. Speaking of bar, there’s also a selection of sake and cool cocktails. The setting pairs nicely with a yuzu whiskey sour.

4475 Lake Av. S., White Bear Lake; mizuwbl.com

Tally’s Dockside

Even if you can’t live the big-boat-on-the-lake life, you can rent it at Tally’s, a landmark that’s been around since the city’s resort heyday. If that’s not in the cards, just order up some barbecue and boat drinks at its C.G. Hooks Eatery and Surfboard Bar. This open-air venue right on the water very much gives off Jimmy Buffett-approved vibes, with thick ropes and bar tops fashioned to look like boats. Order at the bar for quickly mixed tiki classics like mai tais, bourbon-forward lowballs, mojitos or just an ice-cold local beer. Even if you’re staying on land, it’s easy to close your eyes and lean into the lake winds and imagine there’s a pontoon slow-sloshing beneath your feet.

4441 Lake Av. S., White Bear Lake; cghooks.com

Admiral D’s

There’s a singular joy of ferrying cheese curds from basket to waiting mouth while sitting right on top of the water. Admiral D’s deck is a summer rite of passage with a simple menu of snacks, salads, sandwiches and tacos alongside a bar that boasts slushies, mojitos, margaritas and more — like an appealing aperol spritz. There are late-night drink specials, and music nights include live bands and DJs dedicated to yacht rock. If the surroundings leave you yearning for a pontoon ride, there are rentals here, too.

4424 Lake Av. S., White Bear Lake; admiraldswbl.com

What are the elements of your perfect White Bear Lake day? Leave your recommendations in the comments.

about the writer

Joy summers.

Joy Summers is a St. Paul-based food reporter who has been covering Twin Cities restaurants since 2010. She joined the Star Tribune in 2021. 

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