Best lakeside dining - Sandcastle - 2014 Best of MN

Lake Nokomis doesn't bask in the spotlight that soaks its Chain of Lakes siblings. Then again, Isles, Calhoun and Harriet don't have Sandcastle. Piccolo chef Doug Flicker's crowd-pleasing concession stand delights beachgoers with a witty, creative and affordable menu. Try the kimchi- and fried egg-topped hot dogs, the brightly acidic gazpacho or the thirst-quenching aguas frescas. Coming in 2014: Soft serve ice cream, Flicker-style. Vanilla with olive oil and sea salt, anyone? 4955 W. Lake Nokomis Pkwy., Mpls.; sandcastlempls.com