Gustaf’s on Main Eatery – One of the crown jewels of the area, and a delicious place to grab breakfast all day or lunch. This house was built in 1879 for Gustaf and Helena Anderson. Several generations of the Anderson family have lived in the house prior to its conversion to non-residential use in 1971. Since then, it has hosted a real estate agency, law offices, gift shop, and currently an eatery. This property was graciously donated to the historical society by Marlene Smith and purchased from them in 2017 by the current owners of Gustaf’s Eatery. It was restored in 2017/2018. The home is distinctive among those in the Chisago Lakes area for its Italianate brick exterior and Victorian high-style interior.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, the Anderson house is located on the south side of Highway 8, within short walking distance of an art gallery and quaint and unique shops. The building stands as a tribute to the “rags to riches” status achieved by the hard work of early immigrants and it continues to tell their stories. Gustaf’s on Main Eatery hosts several special events throughout the year at this location. Today, many love to enjoy “Where History and Wholesome Food Find Good Company”.
