If you think Shoreview is all about serene lakes and nature trails, think again—the Wabasso Lake neighborhood is a hidden culinary playground waiting to be explored. Tucked between the shimmering waters of Wabasso Lake and the meandering paths of Turtle Creek, this corner of Shoreview is brimming with a remarkable array of restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a day-tripper searching for your next bite, here’s an inside look at the best places to savor breakfast, lunch, and dinner around Wabasso Lake.
The Main Eatery Strip: County Road E and Lexington Avenue
The heart of the Wabasso Lake dining scene pulses at the intersection of County Road E and Lexington Avenue. Just minutes from the lake, this area boasts an impressive concentration of flavors from across the globe.
- Taste of Bangkok
Nestled on County Road E, Taste of Bangkok is one of Shoreview’s best-kept secrets for authentic Thai cuisine. Beloved for its rich curries and sensational pad thai, this cozy, family-run eatery attracts locals craving fresh basil chicken as much as out-of-towners hunting for a true gem. Prices hover around $12-$18 for entrées—affordable enough to try multiple dishes, especially if you’re sharing with friends.
- Fiesta Mexican Grill
Just across Lexington Avenue, Fiesta Mexican Grill brings vibrant, homey Mexican dishes to the neighborhood. Their sizzling fajitas and homemade guacamole are standouts, but the real insiders know to order the street-style tacos—served with house-made salsas that pack just the right heat. Enchiladas start at $11, and the bustling, brightly-colored interior makes every meal a celebration.
- Wabasso Lake Café
With its unpretentious exterior and sun-drenched indoor seating, this is the kind of place where the servers know your name (and order) by your third visit. Funky art on the walls, locally roasted coffee, and a menu of American classics—think thick-cut French toast, fresh omelets, and triple-decker sandwiches—keep breakfast and lunch crowds coming back. Plates are generous, with most dishes under $10. Don’t miss their homemade pie: it’s a daily highlight.
Hidden Gems for Sweets and Snacks
- Sugar Pine Bakery (along Victoria Street N, a short drive from Wabasso Lake)
For fans of European pastries and decadent cakes, Sugar Pine Bakery is worth the detour. Morning brings almond croissants that rival any Parisian boulangerie, while mid-afternoon means indulgent lemon bars and carrot cake. Everything is crafted in-house, and with most items under $5, it’s easy to sample a few.
- Beans & Dreams Espresso Truck (often parked at Lake Shore Pier during warm months)
This cheerful turquoise food truck rolls in with fair-trade espresso drinks, but their seasonal pastries—especially the gooey cinnamon rolls—have developed a cult following with locals and park-goers alike. It’s a must-stop for a lakeside caffeine boost and a sweet treat before hitting the walking trails.
Local Food Traditions and Neighborhood Staples
- Shoreview Lions Corn Feed and Summer BBQs
While not a brick-and-mortar restaurant, the annual Lions Club Corn Feed at Wabasso Lake Park is a summer tradition for neighborhood residents. Grills smoke with savory brats, and fresh sweet corn draws long lines—it’s a slice of small-town Minnesota magic, complete with picnic tables and live music. Mark your calendar; longtime locals say it’s a “don’t-miss” Shoreview event.
- Wabasso Weekend Farmers Market (Saturday mornings, June through September)
Offering more than just vegetables, this market (near the intersection of Owasso Street and County Road E) is where you’ll find warm cinnamon donuts, small-batch cheeses, and hand-pressed apple cider. It’s a community gathering—and a food lover’s paradise—where food trucks offer rotating international options, from Mediterranean gyros to mouthwatering Korean BBQ.
Family-Friendly Spots and Quick Bites
- Benny’s Pizza & Grill
On Rice Street, just a short hop east of the lake, Benny’s is famous for thin-crust, cheesy pizzas and garlic breadsticks. Perfect for family dinners or a casual lunch, Benny’s menu includes everything from hearty meat lovers’ pies to gluten-free veggie options. Most pizzas range from $13-$22—and the relaxed, inviting atmosphere means you never have to rush your meal.
- Sunny Side Deli
Tucked beside Lexington Avenue, Sunny Side specializes in deli sandwiches piled high with carved meats, fresh veggies, and tangy sauces. The turkey cranberry on sourdough is legendary, and their daily soup selection keeps locals guessing (and returning) week after week. Budget-conscious eaters will find most lunches under $10.
Why Foodies Love Wabasso Lake
What truly sets Wabasso Lake apart isn’t just the variety of cuisine—it’s the sense of community that flavors every dish. Here, owners greet you with a smile, ingredients lean local, and every menu has a story. Whether you’re making a day of bakery-hopping, grabbing a lakeside lunch from a food truck, or gathering with neighbors for a summer BBQ, the dining scene around Wabasso Lake mixes tradition, creativity, and genuine hospitality.
So the next time you’re planning a meal out in Shoreview, set your sights on the Wabasso Lake neighborhood. Bring an appetite, an adventurous spirit, and maybe a few friends—you’ll want to try a little bit of everything.