About
Welcome to Cru Restaurant & Wine Bar, a hidden gem located at 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN. Nestled in the basement of a charming building, this restaurant embodies a cozy, intimate atmosphere that makes it perfect for gatherings, whether it's a romantic dinner or a lively bachelorette party.
As you descend into Cru, you are immediately enveloped by its warm ambiance, accentuated by a stunning wine cellar that adds an enchanting visual element to your dining experience. The extensive wine list ensures that every patron can find the perfect pairing for their meal, transforming each dish into a delightful journey for the palate.
From the moment you are greeted, the service is prompt and attentive. Patrons have noted the impressive hospitality, often mentioning dedicated servers who go above and beyond to enhance the dining experience. With recommendations flowing freely, you'll feel both cared for and well-informed about the menu. Diners rave about the culinary craftsmanship here. Highlights include the Filet Mignon cooked to a perfect medium rare, the rich lobster gnocchi, and the aromatic coconut curry beef filet. Each dish is not just a meal but an exploration of flavors that keeps food lovers returning to Cru time and time again.
Moreover, Cru offers a unique tasting experience paired with wine where each course is thoughtfully curated and explained, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of flavors and pairings. This monthly event, popular among locals, adds an educational flair to your dining, making it not just about the food but about appreciating the artistry behind it.
Whether you're coming for a special occasion or a casual meal, Cru Restaurant & Wine Bar promises an outstanding fine dining experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. From its carefully curated menu to its extensive beverage selections, Cru transcends the ordinary—offering an exceptional culinary adventure in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area.
Plan your visit today by calling +1 218-963-8756 and prepare to indulge in a harmonious blend of flavors, warmth, and a welcoming atmosphere at Cru.
“ We ate at this restaurant for dinner with a bachelorette party. Our party was 11 people, and they were able to accommodate us all on one table. Our group was assigned two servers for the evening. The restaurant is in the basement and has a very cozy and intimate feel. It was really cool to see the wine cellar along the back wall. The wine list is very large, everyone was able to find something they liked. There is a full bar on site as well. We had a great time and I really enjoyed my chicken Milanese. ”
“ We had the filet, gnocchi, and venison tenderloin as a group of 4. All were phenomenal and the service was excellent. In the past few years, we've never been disappointed with our food and look forward to each visit! ”
“ Went for the tasting, paired with wine. Great presetation and pairings, explanation of each meal and serve wine pairing was very informative. Understand that this will be a monthly occurence thru the winter months! ”
“ An excellent fine dining experience! The service was impeccable and the food was outstanding. The Filet Mignon was a perfect medium rare. The carefully crafted cocktails were exquisite! I heartily recommend dining at Cru! ”
“ Have always enjoyed Cru but now with their new chef the food was absolutely amazing. Honestly, best food we have ever had in Brainerd Lakes Area. Dave is the best server, he always goes above and beyond!!! The lobster gnocchi and coconut curry beef filet to die for. FABULOUS! ”
“ We truly don’t have words to describe how incredible our experience with Cru was for our intimate wedding at Grand View Lodge. From start to finish, they exceeded every expectation, delivering the best food we have ever eaten. Every dish was crafted with such care and attention to detail, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients that took classic flavors to an entirely new level. The cocktails were just as impressive—thoughtfully curated, perfectly balanced, and absolutely unforgettable. The entire experience felt like a dream, from the cozy, elegant ambiance to the impeccable service that made us feel so taken care of. Cru made our wedding feel truly special, and we are beyond grateful. If you’re looking for an exceptional dining experience, whether for a special occasion or just an unforgettable meal, look no further. ”
“ Great service, food and drinks were excellent. The atmosphere is warm and intimate. There were a couple large groups when we visited, so we were offered a more quiet corner table, which was greatly appreciated. ”
“ Outstanding service. The food was amazing. Excellent atmosphere and menu. Highly recommend. ”