You’ve probably driven past it a hundred times heading north on Highway 61. It sits tucked inside the Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn, looking a bit like a standard hotel eatery from the outside. But here is the thing: locals know better. It isn’t just a "hotel restaurant."
Rudy's Redeye Grill White Bear Lake is basically the heartbeat of the local dining scene, especially when the weather turns nice and the rooftop opens up. Honestly, if you haven't sat up there with a mojito in July, you haven't really done White Bear Lake right.
But there is a weird thing that happens with the name. People call it "Rudy’s Red Wagon" or "Rudy’s Red Grill" all the time. Maybe they're thinking of the pizza joint in Minneapolis or just getting the "Redeye" part mixed up with something else. Let's set it straight. It’s Rudy’s Redeye Grill. And it’s been a staple since Bill Foussard opened the doors back in 2003.
The Bull Bites Obsession
If you walk into Rudy’s and don’t see a plate of Bull Bites on at least every third table, you might be in an alternate dimension. They’re the signature. These aren't just steak tips; they are 8 ounces of beef tenderloin tips, blackened in a cast-iron skillet with a heavy dusting of Cajun spice.
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They serve them with bearnaise and a spicy horseradish sauce. It’s the kind of appetizer that people come in for specifically, then realize they accidentally ate the whole plate before the entrees arrived. Sorta classic, sorta spicy, and totally addictive.
Why the Rooftop is a Different Beast
Most restaurants have a "patio." Rudy’s has a destination. In 2011, they added the rooftop, and it changed the vibe of downtown White Bear Lake completely. From May to September, this place is packed. Like, standing-room-only packed.
- The Vibe: It feels less like a suburban Minnesota town and more like a vacation spot.
- The Drinks: You have to try the "Rudytini." It’s raspberry vodka, cranberry, pineapple, and lime, served with a little sidecar of champagne. On Tuesdays, they're usually on special.
- The Rule: They don’t take reservations for the rooftop. It’s first-come, first-served. If you show up at 6:00 PM on a Friday, be prepared to wait. It’s worth it.
The "Old School" Supper Club Feel
Downstairs is a different world. It’s dark wood, understated lighting, and big booths. It feels like a refined version of those old-school supper clubs your grandparents loved, but without the dusty wallpaper.
Bill Foussard, the owner, is almost always there. He’s the guy shaking hands and making sure everyone feels like family. He actually gutted the old Spinnakers Restaurant to build this place, wanting to reflect the 130-year history of the lake. You can feel that weight when you’re sitting by the fireplace in the winter.
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What to Actually Order
You can’t go wrong with the Pan-Fried Walleye. They use Ritz cracker crumbs for the breading. Think about that for a second. The buttery crunch of a Ritz cracker on fresh Minnesota fish? It’s genius. They top it with "fish butter"—a mix of shallots, chives, bacon bits, and almonds.
Then there are the Drunk ’n Dirty Pork Chops. They’re marinated in a mix of soy, garlic, ginger, and bourbon before hitting the charcoal grill. It’s a deep, smoky flavor that most places just can’t replicate.
More Than Just a Grill
Since it’s attached to the hotel, there’s a weirdly charming community vibe. You’ll see groups of women playing cards in the courtyard by the pool after lunch. You’ll see wedding receptions in the ballroom. It’s a weird mix of travelers, locals who have lived there for 40 years, and young couples on a date.
One thing people often overlook is their breakfast. Because it's a hotel, they do a serious morning spread. The "Rudy’s Skillet" with diced ham and peppers is a solid way to start a Saturday if you’re planning on hitting the lake later.
Making the Most of Your Visit
If you’re heading to Rudy's Redeye Grill White Bear Lake, keep a few things in mind to avoid the "tourist" mistakes.
- Check the specials. Walleye Wednesday is a real thing. You can get the dinner for a discount after 4:00 PM.
- Rooftop strategy. If the sun is out, go early. Like, 4:30 PM early.
- The "Secret" Sauce. Ask for the seasoned sour cream with the jumbo onion rings. It’s a game changer.
- Gluten-Free. They actually have a pretty extensive gluten-free menu, which is surprising for a place known for breaded walleye and crackers.
Honestly, the place succeeds because it doesn't try to be "trendy." It’s just good food, strong drinks, and a massive patio. It’s comfortable. In a world of minimalist cafes with hard plastic chairs, Rudy’s is a reminder that sometimes you just want a big booth and a plate of blackened steak tips.
Next time you’re in White Bear Lake, skip the fast food on the strip and pull into the Best Western parking lot. Look for the red awnings. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you smell the charcoal grill and hear the ice shaking in a martini tin.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit:
- Plan your visit for a Tuesday to take advantage of the $5 off "Rudytini" specials.
- If visiting during the summer, aim for a weekday lunch on the rooftop to enjoy the views without the massive weekend crowds.
- Sign up for their email list if you’re a local; they often send out birthday rewards and seasonal announcements that aren't posted on social media.