A hidden-away-from-the-main-road gem. Food is absolutely delicious. And the service was wonderful.

Stopped by for dessert tonight. Soooo good. Always great service. Thank you to the bartender for a great mocktail! read more

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I don't usually give 5 stars but I have been to The Local 218 a number of times and the quality of food is very consistent and delicious. We started tonight with a delicious calamari with two dipping sauces, a tangy lemon aioli and a sweet and spicy sauce. We then had Caesar's salads which had a perfect amount of dressing which was evenly balanced with plenty of garlic and anchovy paste! Emily our awesome server then brought our main courses, carbonara and beef stroganoff. The beef carbonara is prepared a bit differently with the steak cooked to order and place on top off the pasta. The steak was perfectly prepared but the sauce was lacking the required cream cheese to really be yummy. The carbonara on the other hand was delightful. The sauce was perfect, the seasoning was precise and the soft topped off this dish. Did I mention the Manhattan was perfect! I don't care for sweet Manhattans and this one was not at all. read more

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Great drinks, good food. Service was slow, but I wasn't in any rush. Kind people. I had the French onion soup which was very good. The Caesar salad and Ruben sandwich. read more

Service 55 minutes later still haven't seen our food. It took 25 minutes and me going directly to the bar to get my glass of wine. Did not get anything but "just the facts " about food from our so called server. Come with lots of time on your hands. read more

This was a great place to eat. Loved the Walley Sandwich and the tower of onion rings. Also, the ambiance of the place was great. Pricing wasn't bad either. read more

Really disappointed by how mid this place was, especially for the price. We aren't local and weren't sure what to expect, so we made a reservation, but then walked in to a half-empty place with a sign saying to seat yourself, an ATM out on the restaurant floor, and an enormous projection TV dominating a wall of the dining area. Calamari was rubbery, the walleye was full of pin bones, pasta totally unremarkable, and the tab was as expensive as some of the nicer restaurants in the Twin Cities. Seems like they aren't sure what kind of restaurant they're trying to be. The drinks were strong though! read more

Excellent service and the food was amazing. A little surf and turf with oysters, scallops and a perfectly cooked steak. Don't skip dessert. read more

Great stop! Love how roomy the space is. Food was good. Great menu. Took a star for two reasons: 1. We both ordered carbonara. Server asked if we wanted to add chicken, steak, or scallops. We both added scallops. Had we known it was going to add $15 to each pasta entree, we would have never done that. I feel the server should have said that scallops pretty much doubled our price. 2. I am an admitted wuss when it comes to spicy. My $35 carbonara had cracked pepper on it and in it. Tried picking it out, but there was too much. So while I admit this is a me problem, I still left starving because I couldn't eat anything but my scallops. read more

Excellent food and exceptional service! The 1st time we stopped in we had a less than stellar experience as our food was a little cold, but the owner comp'd our entire meal and asked us to give them another chance. 2nd experience was fantastic! Great food, fresh salads, piping hot entrees, great top shelf drinks, and truly wonderful service. Love the owners and the menu. We'll definitely be back and encourage others to go. read more

The Local 218 - Menu and martini - Seafood Near Me - Brainerd, Minnesota

Food was good but a little spendy for a restaurant not on the water. Lots of parking around the building. read more

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We had the carbonara and the fettuccine Alfredo and they were some of the best pasta we've had in a while. We'll definitely be back!

Stopped by for lunch and had a great experience. The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. Very accommodating for families, which made the visit even better. read more

I was in the Brainerd area for work and was told to come here. I was excited and they actually had Yelp reservations. That worked out very nice. The restaurant was extremely slow on a Saturday afternoon and I was somewhat surprised. They had a pretty fancy menu and the prices were high for what I would guess the locals would want to pay for lunch. The scallop appetizer was $18. It sounded really good so I ordered it as well as another person with me. This was a mistake. We got our food and I noticed the scallop didn't have the sear that is desired on it, but I wasn't going to complain. The portion was also small for the area and the price. I was going to just eat it and hopefully fall in love. It was plated nicely though! Upon one bite, I knew there was something off about the taste. The risotto tasted sour and the scallop tasted like bait. I never send food back, but there was something wrong about this dish. Waitress took both of the scallop dishes away and I ordered a Cesar salad and she ordered a bowl of clam chowder instead since we were running out of time. While waiting for our replacement lunch, both of our stomachs started turning. We ordered sprites and continued working. It got worse... the server came over and said "Thank you for saying something... we found out what it was." My eyes were the size of watermelons and my stomach was churning even more. I was thinking "good thing I went with my gut, because if I would have eaten one more of this... how would I be feeling." The Caesar salad was basic, but it was safer than the scallops. The server brought over our bill and I was shocked that she didn't comp the salad and soup due to whatever she found out that wasn't safe about the scallop meal. (I still have no clue what was really wrong with it!). I had to go work an event after and drive home and my stomach continued churning. I took Pepto and that controlled it a little, but ended up in the bathroom 3x within an hour and a half after my scallop bite. I have never experienced anything like this before and never want to again. I was willing to pay $18 for a scallop meal that wouldn't get me sick, but maybe it should be pulled from the menu if most people don't order it and they go bad. Also, from being a server, I would have comped the salad and soup for a table if something was extremely wrong with the food. I will not go here again and also will urge people to stay away. I guarantee it's not just the scallops you will get sick from. read more

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Poor service,awful food, extreme prices for food and drinks, can't believe this place is still operating.

Great food, friendly service. I had the shrimp Poboy and orzo Mediterranean pasta salad. Was very, very good. Unbelievable french fries. Will definitely be back. read more

Every time we come here we are impressed. Such great food, and the classics, but also original items that you don't see on any other menu in the area. We've been coming for years including in COVID world...they follow the rules and make it very safe when you are there in person. Everyone wearing masks, socially distanced, and the place is well sanitized. We are going out when we can but only to places that are taking precautions - and this place is doing it right. During the shut down, now (12/05/2020), we got takeout and had: the chicken pot pie curbside special, Reuben, and tiramisu.... let me just say that I've never been a huge fan of chicken pot pie, I like it but don't love it. Well that changed tonight. The puff pastry is ah-maz-ing, and the gravy is more creamy than traditional gravy making it soooo savory. The Reuben was a stack of delicious meat, a perfectly made sandwich packing tons of flavors- even down to the crispy seasoned bread. And the tiramisu.. I mean what can I say, look at the f-ing thing....it's massive and it was sweet, chocolate, deliciousness! read more

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We visited this location on a Saturday evening. Although we made reservations, there weren't really needed; at least on the evening we went. FOOD: We ordered a few different dishes - calamari, shrimp tacos, wings, spinach dip, stroganoff, kid's grilled cheese, walleye sandwich, and the special of the day (shrimp pasta). The calamari was a hit, and I think my son ate almost half of it. The shrimp tacos were good, but they could have used a bit more flavor. The wings were great and come with celery. The spinach dip comes with pita bread, and it was good. The walleye sandwich was devoured. The stroganoff comes with the steak on top of the pasta, but I was advised it was cooked and tasted well. SERVICE: Our server was friendly and attentive. We got refills when needed, and she checked on us a few times during the meal to see if we needed anything. AMBIANCE: The restaurant is quite spacious, and there is a bar in the center. read more

Pew! This restaurant smells, very very bad. I couldn't even concentrate on the food because the smell is overwhelming awful!

Their poutine is great. We love this spot for a date night and higher end fare. They have a fun bar and the food is always good. The staff are always friendly and full of great recommendations. I go with groups for apps and drinks and we always enjoy. One of the best spots in Brainerd! read more

This was the best food we've had in Brainerd! We went at an off time with our two little ones so it was very quiet but that meant the service was very attentive and on top of it! We had poutine, Cordon Bleu with the mushroom risotto, mashed potatoes, chicken tenders and Carbonara with Caesar salads. You can tell things are homemade and the extra touches of flavor really show. I personally loved the thin cut fries on the poutine and the gravy is amazing. My chicken cordon bleu was very tender and juice but perfectly crispy and the cream sauce was fantastic. The mushroom risotto was a bit boring but perfect pairing with the bold flavors of the chicken. My daughter's chicken strips tasted like they had a ranch seasoning in the breading and they were like filets--HUGE and so tasty! My husband has been searching for really delicious carbonara and he was so pleased with The Local 218. We will definitely be going back! read more

Food is always good. Service is horrible. They are always understaffed. The last time I was there people were walking out Because nobody even greeted them. The poor bar girl was doing everything by herself, making cocktails, taking orders, Bussing dishes. read more

This was by far one of the best meals I've had in a long time, and definitely the best I've ever had in Brainerd/Baxter area! My husband had a the NY Ribeye and I had the Balsamic spinach salad, both were perfect! The drinks were so smooth and yummy... i had the "he's driving " and the "French 75". The turtle Cheesecake was fantastic! Kelly our server was sweet, kind and knowledgeable. The environment was warm, welcoming and relaxing. I would 100% recommend this place and WILL return. read more

The calamari was great, and good breading. The walleye sandwich was excellent. The fish and chips were ok, could have used a minute or two less in the fryer. We would definitely go back. Nice clean place and a friendly server. read more

The Local 218 - Calamari. - Seafood Near Me - Brainerd, Minnesota

The chicken cordon bleu over top of mushroom risotto was delicious. Can't wait to go back and try more items from their new menu! read more

The Local 218 - Chicken Cordon Bleu - Seafood Near Me - Brainerd, Minnesota

We stopped in for some snacks and everything was wonderful.. the food, the service and the atmosphere. We will definitely be back!

Great food and very good customer service. My wife has some unique food allergies and the team accommodated us without missing a step. Great clean and open setting. read more

The Mr and I found this gem on Yelp and decided to make a detour on our way to the cabin. As we drove near, we were surprised to see the location - it's so tucked away and clearly off the beaten path - nowhere near #lakelife which also means nowhere near #vacationcrowds! I ordered a pinot grigio and the gyro, the Mr a beer and the philly steak sandwich. I was hesitant to order a gyro, as the Minny options are some stiff competition and I was worried about getting some stale bagged pita and dried out gyro meat. HOLY BUCKETS. The gyro was so good, I accidentally ate some of the silver wrap paper and didn't notice until the Mr pointed it out. I ATE FOIL PAPER. And don't get me started on the pasta salad. Not a mayo coated pasta mess, but rather orzo with Greek goodness: sun dried tomatoes, artichokes, asparagus?, capers?, and basically all that is magical. For him, the sign of a good meal is silence. Not a word was uttered; that was a dang good philly. The atmosphere is so relaxed and the decor was eclectic and very put together. I am so sad we won't be able to come back until next cabin season. Keep up the good work! read more

Great new spot in Baudette. Best place to eat in Baudette proper. We have had the pretzel and the deep fried pickle appetizer -- both really tasty. For main courses, the Cajun chicken ceasar wrap, prime rib and the burgers are all outstanding. read more

Prices surpassed food quality. Nice decor however too many flies indoors and use of their floor space was awkward. All and all don't act like a "trender" when your not! read more

Food is good and is a local hangout. Would suggest for anyone in the area not looking for a tourist spot. Plenty of space and servers were timely. read more

Lazy Thursday afternoon so we stopped by early afternoon for eats. Love the layout and supper friendly service

We were in the area and decided on trying this well reviewed place. Parking is in front and around the side. The seating is ample. I imagine a group would do fine here. The atmosphere is open and reminded me of a classic style bar and grill. Our attendant was welcoming and friendly. We ordered the Spinach and artichoke dip as an appetizer and it was good. The pita was warm, soft, and had a light crust on the bottom. The dip had a nice creamy texture and savory flavor. We shared the walleye sandwich for our main dish. The batter on the fish was okay but there was too much of it. I think it's why the batter was crisp on the outside but a bit soggy inside. The fish itself was flakey and good. The bun, lettuce, and tomato were fresh. The tartar sauce was not what I like. It had a strong lemon flavor and sweet/sour taste that puts me off. Tartar sauce can be a strong selling point when ordering fried fish. The tartar sauce here was not good in my opinion. But everything else was just fine. They have lots of different and uncommon dishes to choose from. If you're in the area and in the mood for a bar and grill restaurant, check this place out. read more

Driving through the area, looking for lunch, when we see a sharp looking restaurant with a parking lot full of vehicles. We give it a try. Clean interior and pleasant waitress. A limited menu and some fairly high prices have me reconsidering our choice. The pleasant waitress is helpful and guides us toward her favorite items. We end up with the Maytag burger (handmade patty), two chicken sandwiches and a roast beef dip. French fries with each order. The meal comes pretty quickly. Everything was hot and made correctly. Each of us were satisfied with the taste of our menu item and portion size. I'd say my overall score would be 3.7 stars. Prices scared away at least one couple who came in after us and were probably about $2.50/$3 per item too high. I'd pass on a return trip due to the prices; not the food or service. read more

The Local 218 - Chicken sandwich and fries. - Seafood Near Me - Brainerd, Minnesota

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I was passing through town and on Yelp it looked good. I had the pork tenderloin sandwich. It was all bread without any meat. The fries were not that good either. I had some of my friend's fish and it was disgusting. Everything tasted like the lower end of Sysco food products. Nothing seemed homemade. I don't get how this place gets 5 Stars? Maybe they have never had real good food, but frozen garbage. read more

Just came from Sunday brunch at the Local 218 which is the only place in town where you can get a lox omelette. I could go on and on about how much I love everything about this restaurant, but I'm just gonna say that the omelette I had was the finest omelette I've ever had anywhere. You just can't miss with this place. All the stars. read more

Drove a half hour with my mom and nephew to come eat here on a Saturday during what I expected to be a busy time, but actually was pretty quiet. Was seated and given menus. It went down hill from here. During the course of the meal we had a total of 5 servers so idk which one was actually our server. Between the five of them they managed to forget? About filling waters and instead chatted the entire time. We order our food And app which was calamari and even my nephew said it was so bland. No flavor. When two of the five waitresses brought out our meals I instantly noticed my moms pork tenderloin sandwich was charcoaled and shriveled. And my nephews chicken strips were dry and charcoaled. I instantly asked the server to return the food to the kitchen staff cause it was unacceptable. Like, my number one rule is I'll never serve food I wouldn't eat myself to anyone!! This... this was horrendous... my shrimp po' boy looked alright accept for the price I got 5 of the tiniest driest shrimp I have ever seen. I started eating and my water glass was sitting empty for at least 20 minutes while our 5 servers sat and chatted.. by the time I got it filled the food came back and looked better. The waitress said the burnt food was gonna be taken care of.. upon receiving the check it definitely was NOT taken care of... I was completely mad at this point.. still left a tip but not what I normally would have, and left. Get home half hour later and my stomach is in knots and I'm nauseous and throwing up!!!! Unbelievable!!! Food poisoning!!! I literally WILL NEVER EVER EVER RECOMMEND OR GO BACK TO THIS PLACE EVER!!! So unprofessional for the price I paid for the burnt meals and complete disregard for customer service! I HIGHLY DO NOT RECOMMEND!!! read more

We visited as a result of great Yelp ratings and reviews. Let's just say it did NOT disappoint. In fact, both my husband and I changed our entree choice based on the quality of our appetizer. We started with beef tips....and they were excellent! He then decided to have the Creole mac and cheese and I went with pasta carbonara (because of other reviews). Both were fantastic!!! Service was also great! Next time we are in the area, we will certainly be back. read more

The Local 218 - Creole mac and cheese - Seafood Near Me - Brainerd, Minnesota

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It was really hard to find soup in this town. Most places only offer, chicken wild rice , broccoli cheese and beer cheese soup. I finally found some tomato bisque soup and it was delicious . I will definitely be coming back tomorrow. read more

The Local 218 - Avocado Turkey Bacon Melt with onion rings - Seafood Near Me - Brainerd, Minnesota

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Charge a service fee without disclosing it in writing or verbally. Illegal to do so. No desire to go back. Food was good but not going to support a business with illegal practices. read more