Reconstruction of Papa Charlie’s nears completion, slated to open this summer

Nearly two years after a fire destroyed Papa Charlie’s restaurant and music venue, reconstruction of the building is nearing completion.

For decades, Papa Charlie’s served as one of the leading music venues along the North Shore and a welcoming place to grab an après beverage. Throughout its history, well-known artists have graced the stage, including Cobi, Trampled by Turtles, Leftover Salmon, The Big Wu, Dessa, and many more.

With construction expected to finish in early summer, the new 9,300 square-foot space will include many similar elements to the former Papa Charlie’s building.

Audrey Mays-Trimble, the marketing and event manager at Lutsen Mountains, said the new space will include a restaurant, bar, and music stage. However, she said, “Most guests will notice that the stage is slated to be smaller than the previous establishment.”

The intent to have a slightly smaller stage is to create a more relaxed environment and allow for more use of the Lofty Gondola, the newest music stage sitting atop the Scandinavian Chalet at Lutsen Mountains. The Lofty Gondola opened its doors at the end of December 2024 and features live music on an intimate stage multiple times a week.

Barbara Jean & Mike Lewis playing at The Lofty Gondola | Photo by Chuck Olsen

“We are looking for a more laidback energy in this space and leave the upbeat party energy to the Lofty Gondola,” Mays-Trimble said.

Construction of Papa Charlie’s will continue throughout the next few months as Lutsen Mountains finalizes the details and prepares for the reopening.

“There is a ton of work happening there as we speak,” Mays-Trimble said. “But we can’t wait to see the final details come together.”

Papa Charlie’s Construction | Photo by Chuck Olsen

Last year, Lutsen Mountains applied for Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) grant funding to help with infrastructure and site work of the new mixed-use commercial building. In March 2024, Lutsen Mountains was awarded $400,000 in grant funding from the IRRR.

With only a few months until work is complete and the welcoming of guests, Mays-Trimble said, “I think the one thing that people can truly get excited about in this new space is the view.”

“That is something so truly special to Lutsen Mountains, and it’s wonderful to know that this is the prime space to share it,” she said. “I personally can’t wait to see it completed.”

Kalli Hawkins February 17, 2025