Aurora on the Lake menu with prices offers a glimpse into fine dining with a waterfront view. This restaurant, located right on the shores of Lake Aurora, is known for its seasonal dishes and elegant atmosphere. Many visitors want to know what they can expect to pay before they book a table. Below, you will find a full breakdown of the menu items, their costs, and tips for getting the best value.
The menu changes slightly with the seasons, but the core offerings remain consistent. You can expect fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat, and creative vegetarian options. Prices reflect the high quality of ingredients and the stunning lake setting. Let’s walk through each section of the menu so you can plan your meal.
Appetizers And Small Plates
Start your meal with a light bite or a shareable plate. The appetizer section features both cold and warm options. Portions are generous enough for two people to share.
- Lake Smoked Trout Dip – $14. Served with house-made crackers and pickled vegetables.
- Roasted Beet Salad – $12. Includes goat cheese, candied walnuts, and a balsamic reduction.
- Crispy Calamari – $13. Lightly battered with a side of marinara and lemon aioli.
- French Onion Soup – $10. Classic recipe with melted Gruyère on top.
- Shrimp Cocktail – $16. Four large shrimp with cocktail sauce and lemon.
These prices are standard for a restaurant of this caliber. The trout dip is a local favorite because the fish comes from nearby lakes. If you want something warm, the calamari is a solid choice.
Main Courses
The main course section is where you will find the biggest variety. Prices range from $24 for pasta dishes to $48 for premium steaks. Every entrée comes with a side of seasonal vegetables or a starch.
Seafood Options
Seafood is a highlight here, given the lake location. The kitchen sources fish daily from regional suppliers.
- Pan-Seared Lake Perch – $28. Served with lemon butter sauce and wild rice.
- Grilled Salmon – $32. Topped with a dill cream sauce and roasted asparagus.
- Lobster Tail – $42. One tail with drawn butter and garlic mashed potatoes.
- Shrimp And Grits – $26. Cajun-style shrimp over creamy stone-ground grits.
The lake perch is a must-try for first-time visitors. It is light and flaky, with a subtle sweetness. The salmon is also popular, though the price is a bit higher than some competitors.
Meat And Poultry
For those who prefer land-based proteins, the menu includes several hearty options.
- Filet Mignon (8 oz) – $48. Served with a red wine reduction and roasted potatoes.
- Herb-Roasted Chicken – $26. Half chicken with garlic jus and sautéed greens.
- Pork Chop – $30. Thick-cut, brined chop with apple chutney and mashed sweet potatoes.
- Lamb Rack – $44. Four bones with mint pesto and gratin dauphinois.
The filet mignon is the most expensive item on the menu, but it is worth it for a special occasion. The chicken is a more budget-friendly option that does not skimp on flavor.
Pasta And Vegetarian
Vegetarians and pasta lovers have several choices. These dishes are filling and well-balanced.
- Mushroom Risotto – $24. Arborio rice with wild mushrooms and Parmesan.
- Lobster Linguine – $34. Linguine with lobster meat in a creamy tomato sauce.
- Butternut Squash Ravioli – $26. Sage butter sauce with toasted pine nuts.
- Veggie Stir-Fry – $22. Seasonal vegetables over jasmine rice with a soy-ginger glaze.
The mushroom risotto is a crowd-pleaser, though it is a bit heavy for summer. The veggie stir-fry is lighter and works well for a warm evening.
Desserts
Save room for dessert. The pastry chef changes the selection weekly, but a few staples remain year-round.
- Lake Berry Cobbler – $10. Warm mixed berries with a biscuit topping and vanilla ice cream.
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $12. Rich chocolate cake with a molten center and raspberry sauce.
- Cheesecake Of The Day – $10. Ask your server for the current flavor.
- Ice Cream Trio – $8. Three scoops of house-made flavors like honey lavender or salted caramel.
The berry cobbler uses fruit from local farms when available. It is a refreshing end to a heavy meal. The lava cake is more decadent and pairs well with coffee.
Beverages
The drink menu includes a full bar, wine list, and non-alcoholic options. Prices are typical for a upscale restaurant.
Cocktails
- Lake Breeze – $14. Vodka, elderflower, lemon, and soda water.
- Old Fashioned – $15. Bourbon, bitters, and a sugar cube.
- Sunset Spritz – $13. Aperol, prosecco, and orange.
- Mojito – $12. Rum, mint, lime, and soda.
Wine
Wines by the glass range from $10 to $18. Bottles start at $35 and go up to $120 for premium vintages. The list focuses on California and Italian labels.
Non-Alcoholic
- Fresh Lemonade – $5.
- Iced Tea – $4.
- Sparkling Water – $6 for a large bottle.
- House-Made Soda – $6. Flavors like ginger or blackberry.
The house-made soda is a nice alternative if you want something special without alcohol. The lemonade is freshly squeezed and not too sweet.
Aurora On The Lake Menu With Prices
Now let’s look at the full picture. The complete menu, including all sections, averages about $40 to $60 per person for a three-course meal without drinks. If you add a cocktail or wine, expect to spend $60 to $80 per person. This is reasonable for a waterfront fine dining experience.
Here is a quick summary of price ranges:
- Appetizers: $10 to $16
- Main Courses: $22 to $48
- Desserts: $8 to $12
- Beverages: $4 to $18
Keep in mind that the menu changes seasonally. Some items may be slightly more or less expensive depending on ingredient availability. The restaurant also offers a prix fixe menu for special occasions, which costs $65 per person for three courses.
Tips For Saving Money
You can enjoy Aurora on the Lake without breaking the bank. Here are a few strategies:
- Visit during happy hour. The bar offers discounted appetizers and drinks from 4 PM to 6 PM on weekdays.
- Share a main course. Portions are large enough for two people to split.
- Skip the appetizer and go straight to dessert. The desserts are filling and affordable.
- Order water instead of a cocktail. The tap water is filtered and free.
- Check for online coupons or loyalty programs. The restaurant sometimes offers a free dessert with a main course purchase.
These tips can reduce your total bill by 15% to 20%. The happy hour is especially good if you want to try several small plates.
What To Expect On Busy Nights
The restaurant is popular, especially on weekends and holidays. Reservations are recommended at least a week in advance. If you walk in without a booking, you might wait 30 to 60 minutes for a table.
Service is attentive but not rushed. The staff knows the menu well and can recommend wine pairings. If you have dietary restrictions, inform your server when ordering. The kitchen can modify most dishes to be gluten-free or dairy-free.
The view from the dining room is the main attraction. Large windows face the lake, and outdoor seating is available when weather permits. Tables near the window are in high demand, so request one when you make your reservation.
Seasonal Menu Changes
The menu shifts with the seasons to highlight fresh ingredients. In spring, you will see more asparagus and peas. Summer brings tomatoes and berries. Fall features squash and root vegetables. Winter offers hearty stews and braised meats.
Prices may fluctuate slightly based on ingredient costs. For example, lobster tail might increase to $46 during winter when supply is lower. The restaurant updates its online menu regularly, so check before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the restaurant offer a kids menu?
Yes, there is a kids menu for children under 12. Options include chicken tenders ($10), mac and cheese ($9), and grilled cheese ($9). Each comes with a side of fruit or fries.
Can I order takeout from Aurora on the Lake?
Yes, takeout is available. You can call ahead or order online. Prices are the same as dining in, but there is a $3 packaging fee for large orders.
Is there a dress code?
The restaurant recommends smart casual attire. No swimwear or athletic wear is allowed. Most diners wear collared shirts or blouses.
Are there gluten-free options on the menu?
Yes, several items are gluten-free or can be modified. The grilled salmon, filet mignon, and veggie stir-fry are all gluten-free. Ask your server for details.
What is the average wait time for a table?
Without a reservation, expect a 20- to 40-minute wait on weeknights and up to 60 minutes on weekends. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Final Thoughts On The Menu
Aurora on the Lake menu with prices gives you a clear idea of what to expect. The food is high-quality, the service is professional, and the setting is beautiful. While it is not cheap, the experience is worth the cost for a special night out.
Plan ahead, make a reservation, and consider the happy hour if you want to save. Whether you choose the lake perch or the filet mignon, you will leave satisfied. The menu offers something for everyone, from seafood lovers to vegetarians.
If you have any questions about specific dishes or dietary needs, call the restaurant directly. The staff is happy to help you plan your meal. Enjoy your visit to Aurora on the Lake.