Vannelli's By The Lake

Mallards Forest Lake

➤ 220 Lake Street North, Forest Lake, United States

Menu • Pubs • Salad • Seafood • Mexican

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"We are big fans of dining out, so we decided to sample some of their most popular dishes: the Blackened Fish Tacos, Barramundi Rodrigo, and Surf Turf. The portion of steak in the Surf Turf is small, but it’s still quite satisfying. Our wonderful server, Sara, was incredibly helpful as we navigated the menu and learned about the specials. (Mallards, these ladies deserve a raise!) If you visit this restaurant, it’s definitely worth it. It’s located near the lake, making it a great spot for some fun afterwards. I hope you enjoy the seafood experience as much as my husband and I did!"

Fireside Getaway

➤ 131 Lake Street N., Forest Lake, MN 55025, United States

Menu • Pizza • Cafés • Seafood • American

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"I arrived at 3:15 PM on a Wednesday, and noticed the sign on the door advertised food and drink specials from Tuesday to Thursday, 3-6 PM. This will be relevant later. It was a pleasant 71 degrees and sunny outside. It was just me and my baby, and since all the patio tables were still set up, I asked if we could sit outside. My waitress didn't seem too excited about it, but she reluctantly agreed. Honestly, I was trying to be considerate since I had a baby who can be a bit noisy and messy, so I figured being outside would be easier for everyone. Before placing my order, I inquired about the food and drink specials and was told, "Sorry, there are no specials today," even though the sign clearly advertised them. Okay... Before ordering anything for myself, I requested some buns with cinnamon butter for my baby, thinking that would keep her occupied and be a quick and easy option. When my waitress returned with water, I ordered a drink and my meal. Since my dish included the same type of buns, I asked if I could just have the ones that came with my meal instead of ordering an extra serving. Both the side order and meal description stated "buns," not "bun." I received my drink, a jalapeño margarita, which was excellent—10/10! However, I still hadn't gotten the buns that I had requested 10 minutes ago. My food and the buns finally arrived about 5 minutes later. The waitress told me the kitchen made both orders of buns because they hadn't received the message, but there were only three buns?! I found that odd, as two orders should yield more than three. Now, on to the food: I had the loaded mac and cheese, which was delicious—9/10. It was creamy and flavorful, with nice sundried tomatoes, though the sauce could’ve been a bit thicker. I also noticed that in pictures of the pasta dishes, there was usually a grilled croissant or bread served alongside. Mine did not come with any. Additionally, the buns were disappointing—hard and barely warmed. Neither my baby nor I could eat them. Just then, it started to rain—such bad timing! I swear there was no rain in the forecast when I chose to sit outside. What began as a light sprinkle quickly turned into heavy raindrops. I attempted to open the canopy, but there was no pin to hold it up, so I was left standing there, holding the awning out to cover both my baby and the food for about three minutes before someone finally came to help me; a different waitress who helped us move inside. I apologized profusely, as I have worked in the restaurant industry and do my best not to create rude situations like that. Before I could fully settle in, my original waitress came over with my bill and informed me I was her last table. That was fine, so I paid quickly to allow her to leave. I did notice I was charged for the buns, but it was only $2, so I didn't raise an issue. Then I spotted a large sign by the bar showcasing the day's specials that my waitress clearly didn't know about. I definitely would have ordered the pumpkin martini! Considering the issues with the buns and the lack of awareness about the specials, I would rate my experience at about 3.5 stars. However, the food and drinks were good enough to warrant four stars overall. The staff was generally friendly, and while the food was enjoyable, I'm not sure I'd return given the overall experience. Service: Dine-in Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $10-20 Food: 5 Service: 4 Atmosphere: 5"

Stella's On 97

➤ 7050 Scandia Trail N, Forest Lake, MN 55025, United States, Lino Lakes

Menu • Steak • American • Fast Food • North American

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"Up until recently, I refused to visit Stella’s based on previous experiences. But I have found that a new owner and chef have made this place… Absolutely wonderful! First visit back we ordered the Ruben… If you like Ruben, you absolutely must try theirs!! It’s tender and HUGE. Then the Salmon plate.. so good! Just look… And most recently the Chateau Briand Oscar minus the lump crab as I have allergies OMG! I am very picky when it comes to filet mignon… this was prepared perfectly and spoon tender. So impressed! Service is also MUCH better… All of the staff are exceptional people who genuinely care if you enjoy your visit. Thank you!"

Don Julio Mexican

➤ Ace Hardware, 814 Lake St S, Forest Lake, MN 55025, United States

Menu • Sushi • Kebab • Cafés • Mexican

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"Staff was excellent and very prompt with getting us drinks, chips, and salsa. We received our orders quickly afterwards. The food was as expected for price and style. The biggest plus was an excellent chalupa (crispy outside and great filling) and tacos al pastor (strongly seasoned, which I liked, and with fresh pico de Gallo). The only negative was an over-breaded Chile relleno. Splitting three entrees was more than enough for a family of five, making it good value. We witnessed a birthday party with a song and a fun hat. Music and vibes were exciting for the kids but not too loud. Service: Dine in Meal type: Lunch Price per person: $1–10 Food: 3 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 4"

Keys Cafe

➤ 1960 W Broadway Ave Forest Lake, MN 55025-1381, United States

Menu • Cafés • Kebab • Seafood • Fast Food

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"Have been going to this location for years. We had a party of 5 for a birthday lunch. Most ordered sandwiches and they did not look as hearty as they used to. This could be a sign of the times. I had the wild rice salad and it was fabulous and huge! Greeter was a bit curt with us but after that everyone was wonderful! Our server was very attentive and brought the birthday person a gigantic cupcake, on the house. Will go again."