- Attraction: Ernie’s on Gull
- Location: 10424 Gull Point Road, East Gull Lake, MN 56401
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://erniesongull.com/
Picture yourself gliding across pristine waters in your boat, pulling up to a dock just steps from your dinner table, with nothing but shimmering Gull Lake stretching endlessly before you.
At Ernie’s on Gull, this isn’t just a fantasy—it’s Tuesday night.
What started as Finnish immigrant Ernie Ritari’s humble fishing resort in 1917 has evolved into Minnesota’s most beloved lakeside dining destination, where the views are as spectacular as the food and every sunset feels like it was painted just for you.
You’ll discover that Ernie’s offers something magical that most restaurants simply can’t replicate: an authentic northwoods experience where you can dock your boat mere feet from your table, savor fresh walleye caught from the very waters you’re overlooking, and watch the day melt into evening with a craft cocktail in hand.
The restaurant sits directly on the shoreline of Gull Lake, making it feel less like dining out and more like being welcomed into Minnesota’s most scenic backyard.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights & Local Favorites
The Famous Walleye: This is what brings people back year after year. You’ll taste why locals rave about Ernie’s walleye preparation—whether you choose the perfectly seasoned walleye sandwich or the hand-breaded walleye fingers with house-made tartar sauce.
The fish is flaky, fresh, and cooked to golden perfection, embodying everything great about Minnesota lake dining.
Wisconsin Cheese Curds: These aren’t your average cheese curds. Made from authentic Ellsworth Wisconsin cheese and served with marinara sauce, they’re the perfect appetizer to share while you watch boats glide across the water. The exterior has that satisfying crunch while the inside stays perfectly gooey.
Signature Burgers: The 14-ounce burger patty topped with pepper jack, bacon, ghost pepper cheese curds, jalapeños, and chipotle aioli on a pretzel bun is absolutely massive and packed with bold flavors. You’ll find yourself strategizing the best way to tackle this behemoth while enjoying every indulgent bite.
Seasonal Specialties: The Thai-peanut salmon with coconut curry has earned legendary status among regulars, featuring perfectly seared fish with an exotic sauce that somehow feels right at home in this lakeside setting.
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Discover MoreThe crawfish guacamole offers a unique twist that pairs beautifully with the restaurant’s extensive craft beer selection.
Craft Cocktails & Greenies: You’ll want to try Ernie’s famous “Greenies”—their signature drink that has become as much a part of the Ernie’s experience as the lake views themselves.
The bar features an impressive selection of seasonal craft beers, wines from around the globe, and handcrafted cocktails that perfectly complement the relaxed atmosphere.
Fresh Seafood Options: Beyond walleye, you’ll discover excellent choices like the sesame-encrusted seared tuna tataki served with wakame, wasabi, and pickled ginger, plus seafood buckets perfect for sharing with your group while you soak up the lakeside ambiance.
Atmosphere & Lakeside Magic
Unbeatable Lake Views: Every seat offers stunning vistas of Gull Lake, but the expansive outdoor deck and patio provide the ultimate dining experience.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll feel like you’re floating on the water itself, with panoramic views that stretch across the entire lake and create the perfect backdrop for memorable meals.
Authentic Northwoods Charm: The log exterior and rustic interior design capture that genuine “Up North” feeling that made Gull Lake vacations special for generations.
You’ll appreciate the simple yet comfortable furnishings that let the natural beauty of the lake take center stage without unnecessary distractions.
Dock & Dine Convenience: One of Ernie’s most beloved features is the ability to pull your boat right up to the restaurant’s dock and walk directly to your table. You’ll love this seamless transition from water to dinner, especially during busy summer evenings when the marina buzzes with activity.
Live Entertainment: Summer weekends come alive with live music performances on the outdoor patio. You’ll enjoy local and regional acts while the sun sets over the water, creating an atmosphere that feels both lively and relaxed—perfect for ending a day on the lake.
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Discover MoreFamily-Friendly Fun: The property includes a children’s playground and sand volleyball court, ensuring younger guests stay entertained while adults savor their meals. You’ll find this thoughtful touch makes Ernie’s ideal for multi-generational gatherings.
Other Considerations
Pricing Expectations: You’ll find that Ernie’s falls into the higher-end casual dining category, with entrees typically ranging from $20-35.
While it’s not inexpensive, the combination of prime lakefront location, quality ingredients, and generous portions makes the pricing feel justified for the overall experience you’re receiving.
Seasonal Crowds & Timing: Summer evenings, especially weekends, can bring waits of an hour or more for outdoor seating—a testament to the restaurant’s popularity.
You’ll want to arrive early or be prepared to enjoy drinks at the outdoor bar while you wait. The restaurant operates year-round, offering a completely different but equally charming experience during Minnesota’s snowy months.
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Keep Exploring →Getting There: Ernie’s sits somewhat off the beaten path, requiring a scenic drive from Highway 371 through winding lakeside roads.
You’ll find this journey part of the adventure, as it builds anticipation and truly makes you feel like you’re escaping to a special destination rather than just another restaurant.
Boat Access & Marina: The on-site marina with gas pumps makes Ernie’s a convenient stop during lake outings. You’ll appreciate being able to fuel up your boat while grabbing lunch, making it a practical as well as scenic dining choice.
Parking & Accessibility: Ample parking across the street ensures you’ll have no trouble finding a spot, even during peak times. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options to accommodate weather preferences and group sizes.
Ernie’s on Gull
📍 10424 Gull Point Road, East Gull Lake, MN 56401
