Coming soon to Lake Elmo’s old fire station in the Old Village: Tap & Ladder, a self-pour taphouse and casual-dining restaurant with approximately 150 seats.
But that’s not all.
Lake Elmo’s former parks building, also in the Old Village, will become the second location of Machete Cocina Mexicana, “a bold, chef-driven concept already thriving on Woodbury’s southwest side,” city officials announced last week. “Known for its vibrant flavors, handcrafted tortillas, and signature ‘Quesadillota,’ Machete will bring authentic Mexican cuisine and a curated beverage program to the Old Village. A patio overlooking Lions Park will establish a lively connection between the restaurant and the surrounding public spaces.”
The Lake Elmo City Council last week approved proposals for the two restaurants. The developers are Brian Heidt and Amanda Urban, in partnership with Julian Ocampo.
City officials issued requests for proposals for the buildings in June and received nine proposals. Three finalists were selected and presented to the city’s Economic Development Authority RFP Committee, which voted 10-0 to recommend Tap & Ladder / Machete to the City Council.
Heidt and Urban, in partnership with Ocampo, are proposing to “transform these two historic properties into welcoming, locally-owned destinations that preserve their historic character while adding modern amenities,” city officials said.
The Old Fire Station in Lake Elmo on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The station was built in 1957 and has been added onto twice, the most recent time in 1979 when the ladder truck bay and kitchen were added to the west side. City officials have approved a plan for a new restaurant at the site. (Kathie Smith / City of Lake Elmo)
Tap & Ladder’s menu will “feature burgers, brats, fish fry, and unique signature dishes — alongside a 28-tap self-pour wall, craft sodas, and locally inspired cocktails,” city officials said. “Indoor areas will include flexible seating, a dedicated children’s play zone, and heritage displays honoring Lake Elmo’s fire service and local veterans. Full-view garage doors and a spacious patio will foster a seamless indoor-outdoor atmosphere, hosting seasonal events and community programs year-round.”
The site will be acquired in one joint plan, but will be divided proportionally (about 70 percent for the fire station and about 30 percent for the parks building) based on final project square footage and coordination with city officials.
The project includes off-street parking with an estimated 30 to 50 spaces, which may change upon full application, city officials said.
For more information, go to lakeelmo.gov.
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