Indulge your sweet tooth in Chisago Lakes! From some of Minnesota’s best donuts to homemade pies and hand-scooped ice cream, our charming communities offer something for every dessert lover. If you’re looking for the best sweet treats in Chisago Lakes, start in Taylors Falls, where you can enjoy tasty drive-in classics like rootbeer floats and chocolate malts. Then, in Lindström, grab a slice of homemade apple pie or cheesecake. In the mood for a croissant or scone with your morning coffee? We have those too. Then, if you’re craving seasonal flavors like strawberry, pumpkin, or apple, we have great spots that are sure to satisfy! Whether you’re a local looking to discover a new favorite hangout or a traveler planning a trip to explore our area, this list is chockful of tasty morsels just for you! Without further ado, here are the best desserts and ice cream spots in Chisago Lakes.
~Malts + Ice Cream + Treats~
Looking for the best ice cream, malts, or treats in Chisago Lakes? We’ve got you covered! If you’re wondering where to find top-notch desserts or sweet treats from Chicago City to Taylors Falls, there are many tasty spots to choose from! Whether you’re in the mood for pie, ice cream, or cookies, here’s where to go for some of the best desserts in Chisago Lakes!
Gustaf’s on Main Eatery
Starting off on our list of the best dessert spots in Chisago Lakes is Gustaf’s On Main Eatery! Satisfy your sweet cravings in one of the most historic homes in Lindström. Step into this charming spot, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, where friendly service and an array of sweet treats await! Local favorites here include homemade apple pie, ice cream floats and sundaes, and ice cream by the scoop – making it one of the best places to get ice cream in Chisago Lakes! Plus, there is a rotating menu of seasonal pies, scones, cheesecakes, and other baked goods. If you’re hungry for more, you can also enjoy Scandinavian-inspired delights, like their must-try Swedish pancakes. Or, locally-inspired sandwiches and salads featuring seasonal ingredients. Gustaf’s On Main Eatery is not just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in history and delicious flavors that will leave you smiling!
Lindström Bakery
Sweet treats in every style and flavor can be found across Chisago Lakes, but Lindström Bakery ranks as one of our best spots (even according to Food & Wine!). Located along Lake Boulevard in Lindström, this bakery has been serving up scrumptious desserts and baked goods for nearly 50 years. Inspired by our community’s Scandinavian roots, Lindström Bakery’s donuts are often hailed as one of the best in Minnesota. From fruit-filled bismarks to kid-friendly picks with sprinkles or powdered sugar, there are tons of fun and delicious options to choose from! While they are renowned for their donuts, Lindström Bakery also offers an array of cookies, pies, breads, and other treats. With so many yummy desserts and treats, this is a must-stop in Chisago Lakes to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Anderson’s Ice Cream Shoppe
One of the best places for ice cream in Chisago Lakes, Anderson’s Ice Cream Shoppe, is located in Lindström. Family-owned and operated, they offer tons of tasty ice cream flavors and other treats, like popcorn and fun candies! Whether you’re in the mood for chocolate chip, coffee, bubble gum, black cherry, chocolate, or a seasonal feature, they’ve got a scoop or two waiting just for you. Rotating dairy-free options are also available. Then, be sure to grab a Pop Shoppe Craft Soda for the road. Anderson’s is open year-round, and offers indoor and outdoor seating (with a great view of the famous Lindström Coffee Pot Water Tower).
Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria
Kids and adults alike will delight in grabbing a tasty treat at Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria. Nestled in the charming downtown area of Taylors Falls, it’s the perfect spot to end a day of hiking at Interstate State Park. Schoony’s offers about 30 ice cream flavors. This includes traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and rocky road, and kid-friendly options like cotton candy. Not to mention other delicious options to please even the pickiest of palates. Or, if you prefer, enjoy one of their yummy root beer floats or malts! Hungry for more? Grab pizza by the slice. Once you have your treats and eats, explore the nostalgic pinball and other games throughout the restaurant. Afterward, scan the quirky decor to see which pop culture references you recognize from the 80s and 90s. If you’re looking for the best ice cream and desserts in Chisago Lakes, add Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria to your list!
Juneberry Cafe
Indulge your sweet tooth at Juneberry Cafe in Taylors Falls! The menu is filled with fresh-made, seasonally-inspired desserts (and other eats!) that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you choose to dine inside or take your treats to a nearby park (like Interstate State Park or Heritage Park), Juneberry Cafe sets the stage for a delicious experience. Starting with dessert, consider one of their large cookies or nut bars. Then, Minneapolis visitors can rejoice over the selection of beloved Sebastian Joe’s ice cream! Need a little pick-me-up? Try an affogato (espresso over ice cream). The lunch menu boasts delightful sandwiches, farm-fresh salads, and convenient grab-and-go options for those craving more than just sweets. Undoubtedly, Juneberry Cafe promises a feast of flavors to sweeten your day in Chisago Lakes!
~Morning Coffee Treats~
Who doesn’t love a great scone or muffin with their coffee? If you’re in Chisago Lakes looking for the best morning treats to go with your coffee or kick-start your morning routine, we have two great options for you! Here are our top picks for the best desserts (for breakfast!) in Chisago Lakes.
Coffee Talk
Located in Taylors Falls, Coffee Talk is a great place to start your day. In fact, they are renowned for their delectable morning buns, featuring enticing rotating flavors like raspberry or almond. Be sure to go early, because once they’re gone, they are gone! Pair your morning bun with a steaming cup of coffee or one of their signature drinks, setting the tone for a great day ahead! With ample seating inside, an inviting upstairs area, and an intimate front porch for alfresco coffee moments, it’s the perfect spot to savor a sweet treat and great company.
Northwoods Roasterie
Begin your day with a delightful morning treat and a cup of java at Northwoods Roasterie. Nestled in downtown Lindström, this charming spot offers a plethora of cozy seating, including a spacious upstairs and outdoor deck. Here, you can sip on a variety of coffee options, from specialty drinks to freshly roasted brews. Or, opt for non-espresso alternatives like tea and hot chocolate. Then, pair your drink of choice with sweet treats like scones, coffee cakes, muffins, and more. Flavors vary depending on the day and season, but recent options have included almond, blueberry, and cinnamon. Need a pick-me-up confection for later? Check the bakery case for small-batch chocolates, chocolate pretzels, and other fun options. No wonder this is one of the best places in Chisago Lakes for a sweet treat!
~Seasonal Treats~
During harvest months, two local farms treat our community with extra unique flavors to mark the season! Plus, we have a dynamite summer drive-in tempting you to visit with their malts and ice cream floats. If you want to spice up your routine, here’s where to go for some of the best seasonal sweet treats and desserts in Chisago Lakes during the summer and autumn months.
Pleasant Valley Orchard
Celebrate seasonal farm flavors at Pleasant Valley Orchard, a gem among Chisago Lakes’ best seasonal dessert spots! Jim and Judy, the dynamic duo behind the orchard, cultivate joy across their picturesque 71-acre farm in Shafer. From juicy strawberries in mid-June to the reign of apples and pumpkins in the fall, there’s a season for everyone. And, of course, specially made baked goods like cookies, hand pies, and candies to match each season! In the fall, you can also delight your taste buds with cider slushies and donuts, while listening to live music. After you grab your selection of treats, take a leisurely stroll through the orchard or fields (depending on the season), and greet the friendly goats, chickens, and Pip the farm cat.
The Drive-In Restaurant
After mini-golfing on the nearby course, take a sweet victory lap at The Drive-In (open seasonally from mid-April to mid-October)! Since 1956, this locally-owned joint has been serving up nostalgia in poodle skirts with homemade root beer and classic American delights. Think dessert first and indulge in their top-notch root beer floats, milkshakes, malts, or colossal ice cream cones. Plus, they also offer cookies and lemonade mixers. And, who can resist ordering the World’s Smallest Sundae? Then, the outdoor tables are perfect for those ready to dive into dinner, featuring tasty items like hand-packed burgers and golden fries. Without a doubt, The Drive-In is the ideal place to beat the heat this summer, and enjoy some of the best desserts in Chisago Lakes!
Slattengren Farms
Indulge in the sweet traditions of Slattengren Farms, where the magic of pure maple syrup has been perfected over four generations! Open year-round, their inviting gift shop boasts a delightful array of artisanal, infused maple syrups. Plus, you can treat yourself to the warmth of fall with their cozy counter featuring seasonal baked goods and ice creams. They feature fun flavors like pumpkin, vanilla, apple, and more. After grabbing your sweet treat, check out the gift shop offering local crafts, including candles and kitchen treasures. Then, for those seeking autumn excitement in Chisago Lakes, this farm is home to one of Minnesota’s best corn mazes, spanning 15 acres. Finally, you can also play lawn games, grab lunch, and enjoy beautiful seasonal views. A warm welcome awaits you at Slattengren Farms in Shafer!
~Adult Treats~
If you’re looking for adult treats in Chisago Lakes, like Minnesota-grown and crafted wines or local brews, we have those too! Across our lovely communities, there are three great options for sipping adult drinks.
WineHaven Winery
Nestled in Chisago City, Winehaven Winery is a delightful family-owned vineyard, offering the perfect escape for a sun-soaked day! Set against a picturesque hillside with a lake view, this winery provides a scenic backdrop for every season. Whether you opt for a cozy indoor table or choose to bask in the sun at one of the outdoor tables, Winehaven Winery ensures a lovely setting for some of the best desserts and sweet treats in Chisago Lakes. In fact, you will find an array of sweet treats at your fingertips!
From wine flights and slushies to seasonal desserts like flourless chocolate cakes, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Plus, they also offer non-alcoholic slushies and other options for kids or non-drinkers. You can also grab flavorful pizzas or a charcuterie board if you need something more substantial to accompany your dessert. After enjoying some of the best desserts in Chisago Lakes, explore the vineyard with a leisurely stroll afterward.
Uncommon Loon Brewing Company
Make Uncommon Loon Brewing Company in Chisago City your next night out for adult beverages. This family-friendly and dog-friendly brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere with ample indoor seating and a sunny outdoor patio in the summer. When you’re ready to order, select from uncommonly fun-named drinks in the lively tap room, like the Speckled Loon, Tropical Riff, or the Sunrise River Hefeweizen. Although they don’t serve prepared food, you can choose from a selection of yummy packaged snacks. Or, bring your treats. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy quality time with your favorite sweeties.
Wild Mountain Winery
Experience Wild Mountain Winery and Pizza in Taylors Falls, a charming family-owned spot with panoramic views of the valley below. It is even one of the highest points in Chisago Lakes! The rustic indoor tasting room and inviting outdoor patio create the perfect landscape for a great day out. Treat your taste buds to wine flights presented on wooden frames, offering specially curated options for reds, whites, or sweet wines (the port even comes with a chocolate kiss!). When you’re ready to eat, grab a wood-fired pizza (available on summer Saturdays), cheese plate, or tempting packaged snacks. Alongside enjoying your goodies, you can listen to live music and plan fun games (available in the tasting room, or bring your own!). Finally, feel free to bring your own picnic or sweet treats for a personalized experience.
Chisago Lakes is Such a Treat!
It is such a treat to share our communities with you! We hope you found this article on the best dessert spots and sweet treats in Chisago Lakes helpful in planning your next day out. Whether you are looking for the best ice cream spots in town or require a morning pick-me-up, this list undoubtedly features a wide selection of fantastic options to please your palate.
