If you’ve lived around the Twin Cities for more than a minute, you know the drill. You want a place that feels nice but doesn’t require a suit, somewhere with a menu that doesn't look like a science experiment. Honestly, Rudy’s Redeye Grill White Bear Lake MN is basically the final boss of that "upscale-casual" vibe. It’s tucked inside the Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn, which sounds a bit odd if you haven't been there, but the second you walk in, the dark wood and that massive cherry wood bar make you feel like you’ve stepped into a classic Minnesota supper club.
It’s cozy. It’s loud in the right way. And it’s been a staple since 2003 because the owner, Bill Foussard, is pretty much the unofficial mayor of White Bear Lake.
The Legendary Bull Bites and Beyond
You can’t talk about this place without mentioning the Bull Bites. It’s the law. These things are 8 ounces of Cajun-rubbed Angus steak tips, blackened in a cast-iron skillet until they've got that perfect crust. They serve them with a side of bearnaise and "horsey" sauce. People drive from all over the metro just for these.
But look, there’s more to the menu than just beef tips.
The pan-fried walleye is a sleeper hit. They bread it in Ritz cracker crumbs—which is a genius move, really—and top it with a specific "fish butter" that has shallots, chives, bacon bits, and toasted almonds. It’s a very "Minnesota on a plate" kind of meal. If you’re not feeling the fish, the Drunk & Dirty Pork Chop is another heavy hitter. It’s marinated in a mix of soy, garlic, ginger, and bourbon, then grilled over charcoal. It’s smoky and salty and definitely not light.
A Quick Look at the Fan Favorites
- The Redeye Sirloin: Their signature 8-ounce cut, often marinated in a house hoisin sauce that gives it a sweet-savory kick.
- Rudy’s Famous Chopped Salad: It’s actually huge. It has corn, dates, bleu cheese, avocado, and wontons. The basil vinaigrette is what ties it together.
- The White Bear Burger: This is their take on a classic double-patty burger with 1000 island dressing. It’s simple, messy, and perfect for lunch.
Why the Rooftop is a Summer Requirement
In the winter, the indoor dining room with the fireplace is great. But come May, the Rudy’s Rooftop patio is the only place people want to be. It was added back in 2011 and it’s become one of the most popular outdoor spots in the north metro.
It gets packed. Fast.
Since they don’t take reservations for the rooftop, it’s first-come, first-served. If you show up on a Friday night in July at 7:00 PM, you’re probably going to be waiting at the bar for a while. The vibe up there is a bit more high-energy than the dining room downstairs. They’ve got their own menu for the roof, featuring things like the Bacon Onion Jam Burger (Gruyere cheese and balsamic onion jam) and a solid selection of martinis.
If you’re a cocktail person, you have to try the Rudy’s Flirtini. It comes with a little champagne shooter on the side. It’s a bit of a local tradition at this point.
More Than Just a Restaurant
One thing people often miss is that Rudy’s Redeye Grill White Bear Lake MN is actually a massive event hub. Because it’s attached to the hotel, they have this 300-capacity ballroom. I’ve seen everything there from chaotic wedding receptions to super buttoned-up corporate fundraisers.
Bill Foussard and his team, including coordinators like April, have a reputation for being incredibly hands-on. It’s not that corporate, "here is your package A or B" kind of service. It feels more like a local family business where they actually care if your aunt’s gluten-free meal shows up on time.
The Logistics You Actually Need
The restaurant is located at 4940 Hwy 61 N, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
Parking can be a bit of a nightmare during peak dinner hours or when there’s a big wedding in the ballroom. There’s a lot, but it fills up. If you’re coming for dinner, making a reservation for the main dining room is a smart move, especially on weekends.
Standard Hours (though they sometimes shift for holidays):
- Monday - Thursday: 11:00 AM – Midnight (Kitchen closes at 11 PM)
- Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM (Kitchen closes at Midnight)
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – Midnight (They do a solid breakfast/brunch spread)
What Most People Get Wrong
People often assume that because it's in a hotel, it's just "hotel food." That’s a mistake. Most hotel restaurants are an afterthought, but here, the restaurant is the main draw. It’s an upscale supper club that happens to have rooms attached.
Also, don't sleep on the sides. The Rudy’s Green Beans and the creamy hashbrowns are legit. Sometimes the simplest things are the best indicators of a kitchen that actually knows what it's doing.
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic date, aim for a weeknight in one of the booths near the fireplace. If you want a party, hit the rooftop on a Saturday afternoon. Just make sure you order the Bull Bites regardless of what time you show up.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Call ahead for a booth: If you're heading there on a weekend, call (651) 653-6718 to snag a reservation in the main dining room.
- Check the weather: If the sun is out, head to the rooftop early—by 4:30 PM if you want to avoid a long wait for a table.
- Order the "Favorite" Platter: If you’re with a group, get the platter that has Bull Bites, Coconut Shrimp, and Spinach Dip to see what all the fuss is about.
- Sign up for the loyalty program: They often have specials or rewards for regulars that aren't always posted on the front page of the site.