Enjoy a weekend of flavor-filled cuisine from Grand View Lodge's Restaurants
The Smokin' Blues Food and Cocktail Event at Grand View Lodge is a vibrant weekend celebration of gourmet cuisine, craft cocktails, and live blues music, featuring Kevin Burt Band set against the scenic backdrop of Gull Lake. Scheduled for May 16-17, 2025, this event offers a series of engaging culinary experiences and crowd-pleasing events.
What to Expect at the Smokin' Blues Weekend at Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, Minnesota
The Grand View Lodge Smokin' Blues Weekend unfolds with a thoughtfully curated lineup of food and blues music, beginning with two premier tasting dinner opportunities on Friday evening, followed by a vibrant Grand Tasting on Saturday afternoon. Throughout the weekend, guests will be treated to a variety of flavor-packed journeys, where the bold combinations of fresh ingredients and cocktail pairings will take center stage. Executive Chef Justin Grecco and his talented culinary team will showcase a multitude of signature dishes, created using their seasoned cooking techniques.
Smokin' Blues Cocktail Dinners Friday May 16th, $90pp | Reservations required. 218-963-8756
Step into an evening where fire, spirit, and soul come together with two distinct options for unforgettable dining experiences. The Smokin' Blues Cocktail Dinners are more than meals, they are culinary adventures, where each course is crafted with intention and paired with expertly curated spirits to elevate every bite.
The 5-course Vikre Tasting Dinner begins with a perfectly crisp bacon and Brussels Sprouts Salad, enhanced by feta, toasted pecans, and honey rye vinaigrette. Next, enjoy hand-crafted ravioli filled with melt-in-your-mouth Vikre whiskey-braised bison, drizzled with Swedish sauce and fresh herb oil. A showstopping king salmon glazed in Sugarbush whisky follows, paired with saffron risotto and honey bourbon beurre blanc. Then, savor gin and stout-braised short ribs atop cream pesto mashed potatoes, finished with a lemon gremolata. The evening concludes with a warm bourbon and honey bread pudding, dotted with toasted pecans, cinnamon, and a velvety bourbon caramel sauce—a sweet, soulful finale to a truly unforgettable meal. Vikre Distillery's handcrafted spirits captivate, with each cocktail carefully paired to enhance the evening's five-course culinary journey. Vikre's locally inspired spirits featured in the meal include Boreal Gin, Hay & Sunshine Whiskey, and Aquavit.
The 5-course Michter's Tasting Dinner at Grand View Lodge is a rich celebration of bourbon and bold flavor. The evening begins with bourbon-marinated grilled peaches and smoked blue cheese, followed by smoked paprika scallops with roasted corn purée and bourbon pickled vegetables. Rich Muscovy duck with a cherry-bourbon reduction leads into a decadent honey bourbon filet topped with lump crab and truffle potato gratin. The meal ends on a sweet note with a honey bourbon mini pecan pie, bourbon and cherry ice cream, and pecan crumble. The culinary team thoughtfully paired each dish with Michter's infused creations, from a smoky Peach Old Fashioned to a bright Whiskey Sour and a classic Manhattan, making this a true bourbon lover's dream.
Smokin' Blues Grand Tasting Event Saturday May 17th, $75/person. Live blues music and food stations, cash bar with cocktails
Join us for a culinary showcase, featuring signature flavors from the Grand View Lodge restaurants. From The Preserve Smokehouse, savor the deep, smoky richness of whole hog, slow-roasted for hours in our on-site smoker, and crafted into inventive, nose-to-tail dishes that highlight the bold essence of true smokehouse cuisine. Northwoods Pub offers a local favorite with Minnesota Sush, a crispy, craveable roll of smoked walleye, rice, cream cheese, and avocado, deep-fried in tempura and topped with eel sauce, sriracha mayo, and seaweed salad. From Tanque Verde Cantina, experience authentic Mexican flavors with seasoned beef tacos topped with Spanish cheese, sour cream, and fresh pico de gallo, alongside grilled Mexican street corn coated in chili-lime spice, cotija cheese, and cilantro. Italian Gardens highlights rustic Italian comfort with wood-fired pizzas and hearty beef sandwiches layered with provolone, caramelized onions, and crispy parmesan chips. For a grand finish, indulge in decadent mini cakes and pies from Brew & Brownies, the perfect sweet note to close out a night of unforgettable flavors.
Saturday night: Guests can enjoy a Bonfire Jam Session on the Beach starting at 7 PM, providing an entertaining atmosphere to unwind and enjoy more live music.
The Smokin' Blues Weekend at Grand View Lodge is a must-visit event. It offers a unique blend of music, food, and relaxation. With an array of activities, there is something for everyone. The lodge provides a perfect backdrop, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Book your experience now