Dustin Racen may be a 21st century businessman, but his Lake House 13 restaurant and bar is a (tasty) trip down Memory Lane.
Lake House 13 is located in Wideford Cove (also known at Chimney Cove) at the 13 Mile Marker or 98 Oasis Circle in Sunrise Beach, by land. Inside are Old-School arcade games, vintage neon glowing for Miller High Life or PBR, and wood skis like those worn by professionals when ski shows were part of the Lake’s summer fun. A few pair of antique skis have been donated and autographed by the donors. They’ve approved the new restaurant and bar with their own “stamp,” it seems.
Racen and Bartender Ron Westgate brought a gutted shell back to vibrant life. The wood paneled walls gleam. Sturdy tables and bar stools, painted in a subdued array of natural colors, were constructed and finished by the two in the months preceding a May 3rd opening.
Lake House 13 has a classic lake home design. Pine trees, not palm trees, are prominently featured. Walls in colors rich as autumn leaves, inside and out, enhance the feel of a cozy lake home where family and friends gather after a day on the water fishing, swimming, and skiing. Artist Thomas Richmond, known as Sabertooth Thomas, created murals for the new restaurant and bar. The overall effect invites diners and drinkers to relax as if they were in their own homes.
photo by Al Griffin
A Tiki bar from the previous business model remains and there, Westgate pours and stirs while chatting with customers. His enthusiasm for Lake House 13 and for Lake of the Ozarks is unmistakable. One of Westgate’s cocktails is this season’s …
Signature Drink for Lake House 13: Vodka Cucumber Lemonade
A Vodka Cucumber Lemonade is a “wonderful, refreshing summer drink,” says Westgate. The shaken blend of vodka, peeled cucumber chunks, and sweetened lemonade create a tart taste treat, just right for cooling sweaty brows or frayed senses. Click here for the recipe!
photo by Al Griffin
photo by Al Griffin
Radiating from the Tiki Bar overseen by Westgate is an array of games sure to entertain couples and families. Two large Connect Four and two oversized Jenga sets help guests relax while drinking or waiting on their food orders. Bean-bag targets entertain all ages, but will surely keep young children occupied while adults sip. A bandstand promises to amp up the fun on weekends.
The menu at Lake House 13 is growing with the new restaurant. It currently consists of Lake classics such as onion rings, sweet potato fries, and chicken tenders from the Appetizer list, but hummus and fried green tomatoes make that list, too. Burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and pizza round out the array of foods.
In mid-June, Lake House 13 debuted Monday night barbecues. Chef Chance Hurst, hailing from Kansas City, has been smoking meat and competing as his dad’s partner for 14 years. Together, they are the barbecue team "Hall of Flame."
Signature Dish at Lake House 13: Barbecued Ribs and Buffalo Wings
photo by Al Griffin
Slow-cooked pork ribs at Lake House 13 are brought to zesty life with a smoky sauce that nicely balances sweet notes under smoky overtones. The result surely complements the meat. Plans are underway to add pulled pork, brisket, and burnt ends.
photo by Al Griffin
Wednesdays at Lake House 13 will showcase wings. The buffalo-style will not take away anyone’s breath or cause the diner to break out in tears. The spice has just enough fire to please though, and it doesn’t detract from the tender chicken.
Chef Hurst now has 14 years’ experience and technical training from his Overland Park high school as well as the College of Culinary Arts at Johnson and Wales, Denver, Colorado. His years in kitchens and his confidence built through training have convinced him the best foods are the foods made with the freshest possible ingredients.
One Lake House 13 burger is the Goat Cheese and Peppers Burger, made from fresh Angus patties and topped with goat’s milk cheese, pickled banana peppers, and roasted red peppers. The combination promises to be tangy and delicious.
The hearty potato salad, just one side served with the Signature barbecue ribs and wings, begins with whole roasted potatoes. When diced, they are blended with blackening spices, mayonnaise, and green onions for a savory side.
Click here for Lake House 13's potato salad recipe!
Chef Hurst and Bartender Westgate will continue to develop the Lake House 13 brand. More important, owner and renovator Racen will continue to shape property above Pointe Oasis as a walk down Memory Lane to a lake house destination. Offering old-school games, good drinks, favorite foods, and a vintage vibe, Lake House 13 is open for business in 2017.
photo by Al Griffin
