Downtown Wayzata This Fall: New Dining, Local Events, and Lakeside Living
Explore new dining options, seasonal events, and the local lifestyle in downtown Wayzata, Minnesota.
Downtown Wayzata continues to evolve, with new dining options, changes to familiar gathering places, and seasonal events that bring the community together. From the expanded patio at Bar Eloise to new businesses along East Lake Street, there are more ways to enjoy the neighborhood at your own pace.
The fall calendar offers another reason to spend time downtown. The Wayzata Boo Bash Dash + Boo Blast returns October 24, followed by the city’s Light Up the Lake celebration on November 20, a week earlier than its usual timing.
For those who enjoy walkable streets, local restaurants, and the setting along Lake Minnetonka, these updates offer a closer look at what is happening in downtown Wayzata this season.
Dining: Bar Eloise’s expanded patio, Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks, and the planned Parcelle location.
October 24, 2026: Wayzata Boo Bash Dash + Boo Blast.
November 20, 2026: Light Up the Lake, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m.
Bar Eloise: A Larger Patio and a More Casual Experience
At 326 Broadway Ave. S., Bar Eloise has made a significant change to its format, responding to guests who wanted a more relaxed place to stop in without a reservation.
Eloise opened in fall 2024 as an evening restaurant and bar, offering what its owners described as an “elevated, full-service experience.” It operated next to The Grocer’s Table, its sister restaurant that opened in spring 2020.
Less than two years later, Eloise closed from August 31 to September 3 and reopened on September 4 as Bar Eloise. According to Bring Me The News, the decision followed feedback from guests who appreciated the food and atmosphere but wanted something more casual and connected to the neighborhood.
The patio is one of the most visible changes. Wayzata.com reported that the expansion added approximately 468 square feet to the previous 165-square-foot patio, creating space for about 28 outdoor seats. Most of the additional seating was planned for walk-in guests.
The outdoor area is now close to four times its former size, with much of the new space available to people who decide to stop by rather than reserve a table in advance.
Inside, the changes follow the same approach. Bar Eloise offers additional bar seating, televisions for sports, and walk-in dining. Before the reopening, the Star Tribune described the change as a response to neighborhood demand for a more casual option. Its preview included deviled eggs, burgers, lobster rolls, steak frites, classic cocktails, local draft beer, and nonalcoholic drinks. The new menu also draws on The Grocer’s Table next door.
What to Know About the Menu
The restaurant’s published menus illustrate how the new format offers different ways to visit, whether you are stopping in for happy hour or planning a full dinner.
Item | Dinner menu | Happy hour, Tue–Sat, 4–5 p.m. |
|---|---|---|
Cheese curds | $15 | $10 |
Shrimp tacos | Not listed at dinner | $15 |
Pretzel bites | Not listed at dinner | $10 |
Featured glass of wine | Not listed at dinner | $10 |
Cocktail of the moment | Not listed at dinner | $11 |
Burgers | $23–$25 | Not listed |
Lobster roll | $39 | Not listed |
Steak frites | $52 | Not listed |
The menu still includes a $52 steak frites, so Bar Eloise is not a bargain restaurant. The difference is that guests now have more casual ways to enjoy the space. For example, ordering $10 cheese curds at a walk-in bar seat is a different kind of visit from booking a table for a full dinner.
Dinner options also include Parker House rolls at $12, pan-seared salmon at $34, and half chicken at $36.
Sunday brunch is posted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Its menu includes mini cinnamon rolls at $10, waffles at $16, huevos rancheros at $18, and a farm breakfast at $22.
Before the reopening, Wayzata.com reported evening hours of 4–9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4–10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with Mondays closed. That earlier schedule listed brunch ending at 2 p.m., so it should not be treated as the current schedule. Check the restaurant’s own website before planning a visit.
In its September 11 roundup, Mpls.St.Paul Magazine listed Bar Eloise as open and described the new format as more casual, with expanded lakeside dining.
East Lake Street: More Casual Dining Options
Bar Eloise is one of the most visible recent changes in downtown Wayzata, but other businesses are also adding to the dining options along Lake Street.
Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks
Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks opened on May 29 at 810 Lake St. E., in the former D’Amico & Sons space.
The Star Tribune identified it as the locally founded chain’s 12th location in seven years and highlighted its individual brick-oven pizzas and Philly sandwiches.
Wayzata.com described the restaurant as another casual option for the eastern Lake Street business district, within walking distance of downtown shops.
Parcelle: A Planned Lake Street Location
Parcelle is planned for 641 Lake St. E. The company describes itself as an organic café serving breakfast, smoothies, paninis and wraps, bowls, salads, pastries, and grab-and-go items. Its breads, pastries, sauces, and spreads are made in-house.
The original Parcelle is located at 233 E. Hennepin Ave. in Northeast Minneapolis. A second Minneapolis café opened at LaSalle Plaza, 800 LaSalle Ave., on July 6, and a North Loop location at 208 N. 1st St. is planned.
As of October 5, the Star Tribune’s restaurant openings tracker described the Wayzata location as a small grab-and-go lakefront café planned for this year. Parcelle’s website still listed the Wayzata location as “Coming Soon,” and no opening day had been announced.
Taken together, these businesses reflect different ways to enjoy downtown: brick-oven pizza and cheesesteaks at Tono, a planned grab-and-go café at Parcelle, and a more casual dining experience with expanded patio seating at Bar Eloise. For residents and visitors alike, these additions contribute to the range of dining options available along Lake Street.
Wayzata Boo Bash Dash + Boo Blast: October 24
Wayzata’s fall calendar includes two major community events, beginning with the Wayzata Boo Bash Dash + Boo Blast on Saturday, October 24, from 7 a.m. to noon.
Organized by the Wayzata West Metro Chamber, the event includes timed 10K and 5K races, a one-mile run, and a fun run through downtown. Costumes are encouraged.
Before and after the races, the Pumpkin Derby and other festivities take place on The Great Lawn at The Promenade. Downtown trick-or-treating runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Chamber’s event listing tells families to “Start/Stop wherever you’d like.” Rather than following one fixed route with a single start line, families can walk through downtown blocks during the three-hour trick-or-treating period.
For anyone planning to attend, check the Chamber’s event listing for the latest details before heading out.
Light Up the Lake: November 20, 2026
The City of Wayzata has scheduled Light Up the Lake for Friday, November 20, from 5 to 7 p.m. along Lake Street and at Panoway.
The city notes that this year’s celebration takes place one week earlier than its usual date, on the Friday before Thanksgiving.
According to the city’s event page, activities are spread across several downtown locations.
Event Schedule
5–7 p.m. — Activities throughout the evening
- Free glow wands will be distributed on Lake Street before the parade.
- Llama photos will be available at Depot Park.
- The Historic Wayzata Depot will offer hot cider, treats, and a reindeer-food activity for children.
- Letters to Santa and Muni refreshments will be available at Panoway Plaza.
- Horse-drawn wagon rides and strolling carolers will move along Lake Street throughout the evening.
5 p.m. — Children’s candy hunt
The candy hunt takes place at Depot Park and is limited to children ages five and under.
5:45 p.m. — Wayzata Firefighter’s Parade of Lights
The parade travels down Lake Street from Broadway to Barry Avenue.
Immediately after the parade — Town Lighting Ceremony
Mayor Mullin will take part in the ceremony at Panoway Plaza.
The evening also includes opportunities to support local community efforts. IOCP will hold a food drive at Panoway Plaza, while the Toys for Tots collection will be located at the Wayzata Police Department parade float. Attendees are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item and a toy.
Because glow wands are distributed only before the parade, plan to arrive early if you want one.
What the Earlier Lighting Date Means for Fall in Wayzata
With Boo Bash on October 24 and Light Up the Lake on November 20, the two major fall events are 27 days apart.
The earlier lighting date also means the town will already be illuminated before Thanksgiving week begins, giving residents and holiday visitors an opportunity to enjoy the seasonal display ahead of the holiday.
The timing may also be useful for anyone planning an evening downtown. Bar Eloise is located on Broadway, where the parade begins. Its published happy-hour hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 5 p.m., which ends as the evening activities begin at 5 p.m. The restaurant’s homepage states that reservations are available and walk-ins are welcome.
As with any event or restaurant visit, check the official event and business websites for current details before making plans.
Getting to Know Downtown Wayzata
One of the things that makes a community distinctive is how its everyday places evolve. In downtown Wayzata, that can mean a restaurant adapting to guest feedback, a new dining option opening along East Lake Street, or a seasonal event bringing neighbors together near the waterfront.
For homebuyers exploring the western Twin Cities, these details can help build a clearer picture of daily life beyond the property itself. Walkability, nearby restaurants, community events, and access to Lake Minnetonka may all be part of the lifestyle someone is looking for.
Of course, the right fit depends on individual priorities, including location, budget, commute, and the type of home and neighborhood that best suit everyday needs.
When exploring a community, look beyond the home itself.
Consider how you want to spend your everyday time. Nearby restaurants, walkable destinations, community events, and access to outdoor spaces can all help you evaluate whether a neighborhood fits your priorities. Visit at different times of day and verify current business and event details before making plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Downtown Wayzata
What is happening in downtown Wayzata this fall?
The fall calendar includes new and updated dining options, the Wayzata Boo Bash Dash + Boo Blast on October 24, and Light Up the Lake on November 20, 2026.
Where is Bar Eloise located?
Bar Eloise is located at 326 Broadway Ave. S. in downtown Wayzata. It reopened on September 4 following a change from Eloise to a more casual restaurant and bar format.
When is Wayzata’s Light Up the Lake celebration in 2026?
The city has scheduled the event for Friday, November 20, from 5 to 7 p.m. along Lake Street and at Panoway. The date is one week earlier than the usual timing.
Is Parcelle open in Wayzata?
The information in the original article listed the Wayzata location at 641 Lake St. E. as “Coming Soon,” with no opening day announced. Check Parcelle’s website for the latest status before visiting.
Where can I find updated event details?
Consult the Wayzata West Metro Chamber’s event listing for Boo Bash and the City of Wayzata’s official event page for Light Up the Lake.
Finding the right home also means finding the community that feels right for you.
Whether you are exploring downtown Wayzata for the first time or considering a move to the Lake Minnetonka area, getting to know the community can help you decide what matters most in your next home.
At Connaker Group, we believe understanding the community is an important part of making an informed real estate decision. We help buyers and sellers navigate real estate across Wayzata and the Twin Cities western suburbs with local knowledge and personalized guidance.
Find the Right Fit for Your Next Chapter
If you are considering a move and would like to discuss the neighborhoods, lifestyle, and property options that align with your goals, we would be glad to help.
Schedule a Private Consultation
Holly Connaker | Compass | Connaker Group
Sources & Further Information
The following sources were referenced in preparing this local guide. Please confirm time-sensitive details with the official business or event organizer before visiting.
- Bring Me The News: Bar Eloise’s change in format
- Wayzata.com: Bar Eloise patio expansion
- Star Tribune: Bar Eloise preview
- Mpls.St.Paul Magazine: Bar Eloise reopening coverage
- Star Tribune: Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks
- Wayzata.com: Tono grand opening
- Star Tribune: Twin Cities restaurant openings tracker
- Wayzata West Metro Chamber: Boo Bash Dash + Boo Blast
- City of Wayzata: Light Up the Lake
About Holly Connaker
Holly Connaker is a Minnesota REALTOR® with Compass and principal of Connaker Group, serving buyers and sellers across the Twin Cities western suburbs and the Brainerd Lakes Area. Her work includes residential homes, luxury properties, waterfront real estate, equestrian properties, new construction, and land.
Visit HollyConnaker.com to learn more about Holly and her real estate services.
