City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Savory, Sweet, Spicy Summer Sensations

Get inspired by new summer sensations at local restaurants

In Minnesota we have to make the most of the summer while it’s here. As we take in all the Vitamin D possible, we’re more than ready for refreshing drinks lakeside with friends or a savory bite followed by a quick stop for a sweet scoop.

You can’t go wrong with a gin and tonic or classic mojito, but for a real taste of summer try Iron Tap’s Spicy Cucumber martini. Served in a classy cosmopolitan martini glass, enjoy this unique concoction with just enough zing. Remember as a kid when you helped your Mom pick cucumbers from the garden and you ate one right off the vine? Picture that feeling of nostalgia paired with a punchy, spicy kick. You’ll have to swing into the restaurant to enjoy this drink. Rumor has it their secret ingredient is homemade jalapeno infused vodka that you can’t get anywhere else!

If you’re looking for sweet over spicy, take a trip to Lola’s Lakehouse where you’ll meet the creative minds behind the Sister Saturday inspired, Cotton Candy martini. This fluffy, elevated cocktail is an experience that is definitely Instagram worthy. To keep it local, Lola’s partnered with cotton candy queen, Candie Clouds, who provides the freshest, lightest, most flavorful cotton candy this side of the Twin Cities!

Iron Tap has also introduced a crisp and vibrant new summer menu with highlights such as Watermelon Feta Salad, topped with blood orange vinaigrette and Greek feta. Or give the Halibut Gnocchi a try. It’s served with lobster cream, fresh summer squash & king oyster mushrooms. Savor these long summer days and tempt your taste buds with these new additions.

Keep on walking and visit The Main Scoop where you can try their creative concoctions like Iced Latte-Da or Mint Avalanche. Or opt for the tried-and-true Old-Fashioned Vanilla or every kid in Waconia’s favorite, Superman. One of their newer sweet treats is the delectable edible cookie dough. This year’s hit, Unicorn. The magic in this creation is the tasty colorful bits, or if you have the hankering to branch out, try ice cream’s egg-less stepsister, Italian Ice. This summer’s added flavor to the list is Electric Watermelon. Stain your lips pink with this bright, iconic fruit of summer flavor with a little punch of sour.

Look no further than Waconia to bring a pop of summer to your sunny days and balmy nights.

Businesses featured in this article