The Merit Lakeside Dining & Cocktails

"We have a cabin on Leech Lake and it’s nice to have places like The Merit that you can access from the water. Good food and drinks and friendly service. You can also fuel up your boat from the water at Trappers resort as well!"

"Good food, right in a cabin rental area. Like little town homes, they have a nice deck. That overlooks the Lake. And a game area That has everything from Bag toss to 3 foot high chest pieces and checkers. Not too many places that are right on the Lake. This is definitely one to visit."

"Food was delicious. We actually came here twice during our week-long vacation, and everything we ordered was delicious. The kitchen staff was knowledgeable about food allergies, which is always a nice bonus."

"I moved back up north from Dallas about 2 years ago. In Dallas amazing food is easy to find. Up north it’s a RARITY to say the least. For Father’s Day I decided to take my family to The Merit for the first time and I was blown away! Not only is the view, the atmosphere, and the staff beyond impressive the food is nothing short of spectacular! The special was a wagyu steak with a couple beautiful shrimp that were easily the size of my palm. The food plainly doesn’t come from the same vendors every single other local restaurant orders from. The drinks were also ON POINT - the blood orange margarita come HIGHLY RECOMMENDED (by Me!) it’s worth the trip from any distance. If Jen N is there, ask to be seated with her - she’s THE BOMB!"

"Place is pretty gorgeous, great view, the food is very tasty and lots of quality. Price ir fair but for that type pf price I would expect they provide wifi that works for out of town folks like myself. I also wish they picked up the phone, called 3 times back to back and couldn't get a few questions answered before I drove there. I knocked one star off because of the phone situation, the wifi and 2 of the servers I interacted with. They had like no common sense. Not the bartender, Jen, She was PERFECT. But the other gals were not helpful nor trying to help a customer they are not serving I guess. Maybe teach them some customer service guys. Also the place is about $15 to $25 dollars a person just for 1 meal. I would come back again but now knowing that I can encounter some situations. Also, I would maybe adjust google maps and the menu highlights so people get an accurate menu items list when looking for you."