Events & GuidesFeature

Dining On Down To Detroit Lakes

Hawley Fill Thy Cup Head over on Tuesdays for $1 off your panini! Ask any local, and they’ll tell you, “Fill Thy Cup” in Hawley is where every cup of coffee comes with a side of community warmth. Try one of their paninis—you’ll be planning your next stop back before you finish it! Hours: Mon-Fri

Illustrated map showing towns near Detroit Lakes MN with wildlife and a retro marquee sign

Hawley

Fill Thy Cup

Four white plates with grilled panini halves and potato chips, one with a pickle spear
Head over on Tuesdays for $1 off your panini!

Ask any local, and they’ll tell you, “Fill Thy Cup” in Hawley is where every cup of coffee comes with a side of community warmth. Try one of their paninis—you’ll be planning your next stop back before you finish it!

Hours:
Mon-Fri 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
fillthycup.co

Three Fingers Pub At Hawley Lanes

Two loaded hot dogs with chili and toppings beside crinkle-cut chips, ketchup and mustard on a bowling alley table

Enjoy some bowling and classic pub food with friends or family, and as the night crawls on, the bar area lights up! With karaoke, trivia, bingo, live music, and more, make this a weekend stop this summer!

Summer Hours:
Tues & Wed 3:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.,
Thurs-Sat 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.

Minnesota Slice

Whole pizza topped with chicken, mushrooms, and herbs on a wooden cutting board

Minnesota Slice might just be one of the top pizza spots around. SIDE: Maybe grab a few pies on your way out to the cabin, you’ll be a hit with the crew!

Hours:
Mon-Thurs 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.,
Fri 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.,
Sat 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.,
Sun 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
minnesotaslice.com

Lake Park

Lake Park Liquors

Liquor store shelves stocked with rows of spirits and bottled alcohol
When there's live music, you're sure to have a blast— check it out!

There’s nothing more midwestern than a half-bar-half-liquor-store on Highway 10, we know they’ve got some of the best atmospheres around!

Hours:
Mon-Saturday 9 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Facebook | /lakepark.liquors

Old Skool Malt Shop

Retro malt shop with yellow signage, vintage brand decals, and a covered entrance

Old Skool Malt Shoppe in Lake Park is the perfect stop on Highway 10 for anyone looking to enjoy a classic, cool treat.

Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m

Audobon

Alsager Meats

Stacks of red meat snack sticks in black trays labeled Alsager Meats
Alsager has an fm location too! Get all your favorites in the cities or the lakes area!

Audobon, the original home of the renowned Alsager Meats! Alsager is a family-owned butcher shop known for its farm-to-fork approach. With high-quality and fresh products sourced from local farms, the shop manages the entire process from raising the cattle to processing the meat.

Hours:
Mon-Fri 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
alsagermeats.com

Pit 611

Fried fish strips in a basket with baked potato, coleslaw, roll, and dipping sauce beside a beer

Pit 611 is one of the local favorites when it comes to bars. This popular bar and grill in Audubon, is known for its delicious home-cooked meals and extensive beverage selection.

Hours:
Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.,
Fri-Sat 11 – 12 a.m.,
Sun 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.
thepit611.com

Detroit Lakes Area

Mi Cartagena Cafe

Bright pink blended drink topped with a strawberry beside a small shot glass and a plate with a fresh strawberry on a wood
Coffee and view—can it get better? Order whatever delicious drink your heart can imagine from the mi cafe cartagena menu and enjoy the lakefacing patio while you take it all in!

Perched on the shore of Detroit Lakes, Mi Cartagena Cafe is serving amazing coffee!

Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.,
Sat 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
micartagenacafe.com

Bucks Mill Brewing

Bucks Mill Brewing Peanut Butter Mill Pond Porter can beside a full pint glass on a wood table

Bucks Mill Brewing was founded on genuine enthusiasm for craft brewing, and it has flourished on its offering of a variety of beers made with locally sourced ingredients!

Hours:
Mon 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.,
Tues 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.,
Wed 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.,
Thurs 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.,
Fri 12 p.m. – 11 p.m.,
Sat 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.,
Sun 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
bucksmillbrewing.com

Main Street Restaurant

Fluffy pancakes with butter, scrambled eggs, and crispy bacon on a white plate
Seat yourself, pay at the counter, and bring cash! This old-school joint does not accept cards, but just in case—you can walk a block east and grab cash from the bank atm!

With an all-day breakfast menu, unlimited coffee pours, and a case filled with fresh pies for sale every day—this is your typical, reliable small-town diner in the best possible way!

Hours:
Mon-Sat 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.,
Sun 8 a.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Zorbaz At The Beach

Whole pizza topped with pepperoni, sliced jalapeños, ham, and melted cheese on parchment
Looking for some weekend, evening tunes? Zorbaz at the beach does live music! Check out their website for details on upcoming shows.

Lakezide fun never looked zo good! Zorbaz at the Beach, a restaurant loved for its exciting summery atmosphere and scenic views of Detroit Lake, has the complete package for summertime dining— indoor and outdoor seating options, renowned pizzas, tacos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes, and a selection of drinks including their famous “Zorbaz Margaritas.”

Hours
Every day 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.
zorbaz.com/detroit-lakez

The Ice Cream Truck

Fluffy golden dog resting beside a pink-and-white ice cream truck on a sunny day
Did you know? You can book the ice cream truck for your next event. How sweet!

Sometimes, simplicity wins, and local favorite, The Ice Cream Truck, knows it best. You can find this white and pink van cruising around lakes country during the summertime, serving up sweet treats that you and your inner child will love. The best thing about this truck? You can track it—head to theicecreamtruck.com/findus to see a live view of the truck when it’s in operation!

theicecreamtruck.com

Sapphire Sushi, Hibachi & American Cuisine

Sushi rolls and fried items on a black tray with a purple orchid, beside a cup of fried rice
Craving sushi Or a hearty American Meal? Sapphire has You covered.

Sapphire Sushi brings a fusion of Japanese and American flavors to Detroit Lakes. From fresh nigiri and sashimi to hibachi-grilled dishes and American classics, there’s something for everyone.

Hours:
Mon–Tue: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.,
Wed–Sat: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.,
Sun: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m
sapphiredl.com

The Fireside

Bowl of noodles topped with glazed pork belly, broccoli, soft-boiled egg, and pink microgreens
Perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening out.

Enjoy hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and inventive dishes in a chic setting overlooking Lake Detroit

Hours:
Open daily 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
firesidedl.com

Hotel Shoreham

Shrimp pasta in a white oval dish topped with shredded parmesan and fresh herbs
Experience a slice of history with your meal at this 1910 establishment.

Operating from early April to late October, it’s a favorite summer spot for both locals and visitors.

Hours:
Wed-Mon: Open at 4 p.m.
hotelshoreham.com

Spanky’s Stone Hearth

Platter of fried bites drizzled with creamy sauce, centered with a stuffed pepper garnish
Don't miss their signature "Trust me" menu item for a chef-curated surprise.

Known for its prime-grade steaks, fresh seafood, and house-made desserts, Spanky’s offers a cozy atmosphere with stone fireplaces and lakeside views.

Hours:
Tue–Sun: Open at 4 p.m.
spankysstonehearth.com

Long Bridge Bar, Grill & Marina

Two salads and a basket of fried appetizers on a granite counter
Come for the food, stay for the vibes, and live entertainment.

Enjoy a diverse menu featuring wings, sandwiches, and burgers, complemented by a selection of beers, cocktails, and wines. Live music and scenic views make it a must-visit.

Hours:
Sun–Thu: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.,
Fri–Sat: 11 a.m. – 12 a.m.
longbridgedl.com

El Loro Mexican Restaurant

Three street tacos topped with cilantro and diced onion on a checkered wrapper with a lime wedge
Come for the food, stay for the vibes, and live entertainment.

Burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and more!

Hours:
Mon–Sat: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.,
Sun: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
elloromn.com

Perham

Bongards Premium Cheese

Bongards branded cheese blocks, shredded Italian blend bag, and logo mug with pencils on cow-print surface
Bongards has a convenient mail-order service!

Calling all cheeseheads! Bongards Cheese Store in Perham offers a rich (and creamy, and sharp, and tangy) variety of premium cheeses and local delicacies like honey and maple syrup, alongside unique gift items.

Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.,
Sat 9a.m. – 5 p.m.,
Sun 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
bongards.com

1894

Square-cut flatbread pizza in parchment-lined tray with a decorative gothic-style altar piece in background
It might be obvious, but this restaurant is inside of a remodeled church built in, you guessed it—1894. The chicken wings are highly recommended!

The menu at 1894 features comfort foods, like smoked chicken wings and an array of burgers. Patrons make sure to try something out from the beer and cocktails selection and enjoy the lively atmosphere accompanied by live music and sports viewing.

Hours:
Mon 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.,
Thurs 4 – 9 p.m.,
Fri-Sun 11 a.m. – 9 a.m.
Facebook | /1894Perham

Brew Ales & Eats

Grilled panini halves with chicken and jam on toasted bread, served with thin-cut fries on a metal tray
Grab reservations if you plan on dining during busy hours, and make sure you try the gouda pickles! Editor geneva certified.

Brew Ales & Eats is a favorite local spot known for great food with a look to match!

Hours:
Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.,
Fri 11 – 12 a.m.,
Sat 10 – 12 a.m.,
Sun 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
brewperham.com

Nest

Iced mocha topped with whipped cream in front of a teal corrugated metal building with COFFEE sign

A cozy coffee shop-slash-gift store in Perhman, Nest is chock-full of just about everything you’d want to find in a sweet store in the lakes area.

Hours:
Mon-Sat 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.,
Sun 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
nestofperham.com

Disgruntled Brewing

Four Disgruntled Brewing pint glasses ranging from golden to dark amber on a wooden bar
Kiddos and furry friends welcome!

If you’re one for finding a unique craft beer experience, head to Disgruntled Brewing!

Hours:
Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.,
Fri-Sat 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.,
Sun 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
disgruntledbeer.com

Ottertail

The Williams Company Store & Deli

Overhead view of a grain bowl with diced vegetables and drizzled orange sauce in a white bowl on marble

The Williams Company Store & Deli is the spot for a sweet treat, food, coffee, and more!

Hours:
Mon-Sun 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
thewilliamscompanystore.com

The Shack Bbq Eats & Cool Treats

Smoked ribs on wax paper with coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, and dipping sauce on a red checkered tablecloth

BBQ and ice cream, how could you go wrong?

Hours:
Thur-Sun 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Pelican Rapids

Maple Beach Resort And Grill

Cheeseburger with melted cheese and caramelized onions on a brioche bun, served with crispy fries in a red checkered basket

Maple Beach Resort and Grill in Pelican Rapids is known for sizable, tasty burgers and scenic lakeside setting.

Hours:
Tues-Sun 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Facebook | Search “Maple Beach Resort”

Big John’s Pelican Pizza

Pizza topped with shredded lettuce, pickle slices, diced tomatoes, onions, and cheese
You can dine-in, carryout, delivery, and a unique "Take n bake" option for at-home cooking— everything you need for some good 'za at the lake!

Big John’s Pelican Pizza is a family-run pizzeria known for exceptional pizzas and broaster chicken.

Hours:
Mon & Sun 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.,
Wed-Sat 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
bigjohnspelicanpizza.net

Vergas

Blackboard

Baked cheese dip with roasted tomatoes and pumpkin seeds in a cast-iron dish, served with toasted bread and green salad
Experience a slice of history with your meal at this 1910 establishment.

A highly recommended lake dining spot located in a former schoolhouse!

Hours:
Wed-Sun 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
blackboardmn.com

Ditterich Mercantile And Family Farm

Golden fried onion rings arranged on a wire cooling rack and paper-lined tray

Ditterich Mercantile and Family Farm transitioned from a farm to a town-based store, expanding its inventory to include not only their homegrown beef but also a selection of groceries, hot meals, snacks, and locally made goods.

Hours:
Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.,
Sat 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.,
Sun 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
ditterichmercantile.com

MW Pastry

Cheesecake topped with chocolate drizzle and chopped nuts, one slice removed, on a glass cake stand
Pastry also offers catering services and specializes in allergen-free options!

In 2020, a new chef emerged on the scene, and she decided to plant her roots in Vergas to serve up some tasty, sweet delicacies under the name of MW Pastry—and it has become a popular bakery at that!

Hours:
Wed-Fri 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.,
Sat 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.,
Sun 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
mwpastrymn.com

Otter Coffee And Ice Cream

A metal scoop lifting a blue ice cream ball with cookie crumbles from a tray
Don't stress, my fellow lactose-free diet-teers, otter has some dairy-free scoops to try!

What’s better than a spot that combines a cozy coffee shop atmosphere with a delightful ice cream menu? Located on Main Street, Otter Coffee and Ice Cream is well-loved for that combo, making it a favorite for locals and a top recommendation for visitors. Grab a quick cup of caffeine or indulge in a sweet treat!

Hours:
Mon-Sat 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.,
Sun 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Facebook | Search “Otter Coffee And Ice Cream”

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Published July 21, 2025

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Brady Drake
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