Tucked away on the shores of White Bear Lake just north of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Tally’s Dockside (featuring C.G. Hooks Eatery and the Surfboard Bar) delivers an unmatched slice of island paradise right to the Twin Cities metro. Operating as a vibrant seasonal hub from May through September, this lively destination seamlessly combines a full-service marina, boat and watercraft rentals, an energetic tiki-style bar, and some of the finest slow-smoked barbecue in Minnesota.
At the heart of Tally’s culinary appeal is C.G. Hooks Eatery, specializing in authentic, old-timey Memphis-style barbecue. Led by expert pitmasters who refuse to take shortcuts, the kitchen slow-smokes high-quality meats in-house using dry rubs to lock in natural juices. Guests can dive into mouthwatering pulled pork, tender beef brisket, chicken, and signature BBQ ribs, paired with a selection of house-made regional sauces. Complementing the food is the Surfboard Bar, serving up iconic tropical concoctions like the Tally’s Hurricane, craft beers on draft, refreshing seltzers, wine, and specialty cocktails that make every afternoon feel like a tropical vacation.
Tally’s Dockside is much more than a restaurant; it is a complete recreational destination. As White Bear Lake’s largest fleet operator, the full-service marina allows visitors to transition effortlessly from land to water. Renters can captain deluxe pontoon boats, fishing boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to spend a sunny afternoon exploring the expansive lake. Boaters utilizing the lake for the day can also take advantage of convenient slips, marine-grade fuel services, and dockside food ordering.
When the sun begins to set, the energy at Tally’s shifts into high gear. The destination is famous for its buzzing social calendar, featuring regular live music performances, weekend tiki tunes, craft brewery nights, and themed events under the open-air decks. Diners can kick back on the lakeside patio, soak in panoramic views of the water, and enjoy a boisterous, friendly atmosphere shared by boaters, families, and locals alike. Whether you arrive by car, bike, or boat, Tally’s Dockside offers an essential Minnesota summer experience that turns an ordinary day into an unforgettable getaway.
