Morning lattes roll into afternoon martinis, the kitchen bakes its own sourdough and makes it all from scratch, and the boutique and salon turn a coffee run into an afternoon. Coffee gets you in the door — the everything keeps you.
Under one roof
Espresso in the morning, cocktails come afternoon — and in between, a kitchen that bakes its own sourdough and makes everything from scratch. Dark Horse is where Crosslake gathers, all day, every day.
A true scratch kitchen — sourdough baked in-house, egg bakes, and flatbreads — plus specialty espresso and dirty sodas.
Step inside
Signature drinks, espresso martinis, and Northwoods-inspired pours from noon on.
The cocktail list
Curated apparel, gifts, and finds — a piece of the Dark Horse to carry home with you.
Take a peek
A little pampering in the Town Square. Come for the coffee, stay for the whole experience.
Request a consultation
Drinks of the Month
Apple Cider Donut — 20oz iced apple cider with cinnamon and caramel drizzle, topped with a donut.
Caramel Apple Red Bull — caramel drizzle, green apple syrup and Red Bull.
Old Fashion Maple — maple bourbon on the rocks with maple syrup, garnished with a cherry and an orange wheel.
Crowd Favorites
The Space
Velvet in the corners, lamplight in the nook, and the espresso machine humming under it all. Dark Horse turned a Town Square storefront into the kind of room that makes you cancel your next stop — equal parts morning coffee shop and afternoon cocktail bar.
Post up at the bar, or claim the speakeasy nook if it's open — regulars know. Browse the boutique while your latte's poured, or make a whole afternoon of it with a little pampering at the salon. However long you meant to stay, plan on longer.
Mark the Calendar
Friday of Crosslake Days, 1–3pm. A husband-and-wife duo who travel between Minnesota and South Texas, playing a mix of cover songs — mostly folk, country and a bit of rock, with story-telling ballads and great vocal harmonies.
Stop by the Dark Horse during Crosslake Days, September 25–26, for the chili contest.
Friday evening of Crosslake Days, 5:30pm in the Town Square pavilion. $20 per person — you must register at the Dark Horse, call 218-692-6900. Bring a mat, blanket and pillow, and wear something comfortable.
75 minutes of crystal singing bowls at 6:30pm — relax, reset, and unwind. $20 per person, limited to 20. Bring a blanket, pillow, and yoga mat. Call 218-851-4234 to reserve your spot.
Paint, sip, shop, and enjoy an evening out with your friends. Pick your paint-by-number canvas and join us Tuesdays 6–8pm on November 10, 17, 24 and December 1. One sign-up of $115 covers all four nights and includes your canvas, plus a personal charcuterie board and a drink of your choice each week. Limited to 20 painters — sign up here.
Brunch 11am–1pm — sign-up required, call 218-692-6900. Then stay and paint your own Christmas postcards from 1–3pm. Class size is limited to 10, kids are welcome, and you can add a second set of cards if you'd like to paint more.
Do your Christmas shopping in the boutique and we'll wrap it for you — on the house.
Big news for the guys — 7Diamonds men's clothing is now in the boutique. Come check out the new racks.
We'll be closed December 30 through January 20 to rest up after the holidays. See you in late January!
The Dark Horse is available after hours for ladies' work parties, bridal and baby showers, and family celebrations — a family event we are here to help you celebrate. Call 218-692-6900 to plan yours.
Dates shift with the season — catch the latest on Instagram and Facebook.
Word of Mouth
Amazing find! Delicious, fresh food and craft cocktails in a warm, welcoming environment. I loved the relaxing vibe and well curated boutique. We’ll be back!
Theresa N. · GooglePlace was incredible. To the coffee to the smoked salmon bagel. Staff was very friendly! All while being very busy!
Toby R. · GoogleLovely little bistro! The flatbread was amazing as well as the coffee! Highly recommend! There was also a cute boutique inside with lots of cute clothing items!
Angela H. · GoogleRead more or leave your own on Google.
Crosslake Town Square
35734 Allen Ave
Crosslake Town Square
Crosslake, MN 56442