Quarterdeck Resort is expanding, adding top-of-the-line amenities, modern lodging, and a fresh perspective while staying true to our kicked-back atmosphere.

We are thrilled to announce the addition of local Executive Chef Tom Johnson! Chef Tom grew up in the area and brings extensive experience working at various restaurants and hotels since 1992. He will be responsible for heading up the Quarterdeck Beach Grill, S’more Shack (previously the Sand Bar), and the QD Social Cafe. Chef Tom and the team will be creating new food and beverage options and culinary experiences that guests and locals will love.

Chef’s Story

Tom Johnson’s passion for food started when he was 12 years old, working as a dishwasher at a local supper club. After attending UW-Stout and the Culinary Arts program at Hennepin Tech, he worked at various restaurants and hotels in the Twin Cities. Chef Tom returned home to the Brainerd Lakes Area in 1992 and created American Gourmet Catering. He quickly became well-known for his culinary skills and soon served the entire local area and corporate clientele in the Twin Cities and Duluth.

Chef Tom served as the founding President of the Central Lakes Professional Chef Assn, a chapter of the American Culinary Federation (ACF). This chapter has accomplished many goals, including putting the Brainerd Lakes Area on the culinary map and working with several area non-profits. Still active with the ACF, he also is a member of the Culinary Advisory Board of Central Lakes College. Chef Tom served the community as a volunteer firefighter/EMT for nearly 30 years before recently retiring.

Top Restaurants on Gull Lake, Minnesota

Quarterdeck Beach Grill is a place to gather, eat delicious food, listen to live music, watch your favorite game, laugh, talk, and not take life too seriously. It’s kind of like your favorite dive bar on steroids. C’mon on down, connect, disconnect, and take in the best lake views on Gull Lake. Come by boat, car, bike, or walk!

The S’more Shack (open seasonally) offers big-ass pretzels and naked or boozy slushies. Other menu items include hot dogs, wine, beer, and seltzers. A staff favorite is the Gray Duck Bomba Juice! Relax in our cozy lawn chairs in front of the fire and listen to live music, play bean bag games, or just take in the Gull Lake view.

Coming Summer 2023 – QD Social! While our proximity to the lake is our number one amenity, we are adding extras for S’more Fun on Gull. A YEAR-ROUND outdoor pool, sauna, hot tub, indoor fitness center, comfy lounge with big screen TVs, Cafe, and Retrocade with pinball games, vintage video games, shuffleboard, billiards, and ping-pong.

Be the first to experience the new Quarterdeck Resort – make your summer reservations now.

We can’t wait to see you!