Best Fun Restaurants in White Bear Lake

My wife and I did the Champagner Brunch at Baldamar on Nov. 23. It was fantastic; everything we hoped it would be. The wait staff was very well informed about the food and drink offerings, and provided us with valuable insight. The food was very good, though somewhat hit and miss. The Scallop and pasta dish was fantastic; we ordered it twice. The crab cake was more cake than crab. The calamari was very good, as was the lamb curry. The cocktails, and limitless champagne and wine, were great. They did not go cheap on their alcohol offerings. Bottom line, it was a memorable experience for our anniversary celebration, and well worth the expense.

Another brunch before a Gopher football game. Once again, a terrific meal. Bloody Mary, one with vodka, one with gin, with just the right amount of spicy tomato mix. I had the eggs Benedict with short ribs and a generous amount of hash browns; my friend had a traditional breakfast with breakfast potatoes and Nueske bacon. Requested bar seats in order to watch the IU/OSU game and the Manny’s host delivered. Met a group of PSU fans who enjoyed pre game cocktails in the main dining room. worth the $$$$.

Great steakhouse in the West End. Prices are low end of typical steakhouse prices but worth it. Flavor wise their chimichurri was phenomenal, better than Porzana's. The ribeye was perfectly prepared and delicious with or without the chimichurri. The asparagus was delicious as well, perfectly prepared and deliciously seasoned. Our server, Jada, was wonderful. Attentive but not overbearing.

I met 3 friends for lunch. We shared 2 meatballs as an appetizer. They were fantastic and 2 meatballs were plenty for an appetizer. Our meal orders were all over the menu. All were delicious but the winner was the "Minute Chicken". We shared the Banana Pudding for dessert. There was plenty to share and was the best banana pudding that I have ever had. The place was packed on this Tuesday for lunch, but our server, Jessie, treated us as if we were the only table in the house. I can't wait to go back.

When you win a big award (James Beard) expectations are high. Young Joni lives up to the expectations. The food is delicious, the service warm and friendly, the photo booth a plus that says ‘you’re part of this place’ and the atmosphere easy and relaxing. I’ll be back.