Back Channel Brewing Co Spring Park, MN
- 4 Paws Marketing
- Oct 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 20
FAST FACTS:
Address: 4787 Shoreline Drive, Spring Park, MN, 55384
Hours:
Mon-Thur 12 pm - 9 pm
Fri 12 pm - 10 pm
Sat 11 am - 10 pm
Sun 11 am - 8 pm
Phone: (952) 855-9315
Dog-friendly: Everywhere!
Parking: Free parking lot and boat slips
Last visited: 10/17/2025
There’s something very Minnesotan about Back Channel Brewing Collective. The location for one - tucked along a quiet channel on Lake Minnetonka - but also the cool story behind it. You can really feel the thought they’ve put effort into everything, from the beer names to their merch and just the overall vibe.
The name “Back Channel” has a double meaning. First, it points to their spot on one of the channels of Lake Minnetonka that is farthest from the city, but it also stands for “backchanneling,” which I learned is "a low-key, behind-the-scenes conversation that connects people." Every beer on their menu follows that whole idea, with fun references to Minnesotans who’ve made their mark on the state. You’ll find little hints about them hidden in the names and descriptions, which adds a little extra coolness for locals.
Even their logo was well thought out and helps tie everything together. It's an arrow shaped like a compass needle pointing “the direction to BCB.” It’s a reminder that no matter how you get there, by boat, bike, snowmobile, or Subaru Outback, all roads (and channels) lead to this hangout.
What's On Tap?
Two sours were on the menu, and they were both good! I did think they were a bit too similar in flavor for me, I would’ve liked to have had 2 completely different flavor profiles to sip on, but they were still tasty.
First up was the LPM - a 5% ABV fruited Berliner made from peach, mango, orange and passionfruit. It had a very juicy flavor and well-balanced sweet, sour, tartness. Love that you can actually taste all 4 fruits.
Next was Lightfoot - a 6.75% ABV Fruited Berliner, a more smoothie-type sour, that combines Tangerine, Strawberry, and Guava. This one was a joint effort between Back Channel and New Origin Brewing from North Carolina. Though it doesn’t look the most appealing in the glass, it was still worthy of a second round. A great balance of tart and sweet I would definitely recommend this one to someone who enjoys the thicker, smoothie-type sours.
Drink Score: 3.5/5
Food Finds
A great selection of food trucks throuhgout the season. Something different daily so you’re bound to find something you like - just be sure to check out the calendar to plan ahead! The Brick Oven Bus was parked out front during our visit, tasty quick fired pizza, that had a perfectly chewy crust and fresh ingredients. Super good.
Food Score: 3.5/5
The Vibe Inside & Out
Back Channel has a fun, dog-friendly vibe. Lots of space inside to belly up to the bar, grab a high top, or chill at a regular table. The old wood accents make it feel warm and friendly. It does get loud inside, so if you can’t hear well or get triggered by noise, might want to make this stop on a quiet afternoon.
I love the big TV and nice huge patio. If you’re one who has kids and brings them with you, to my dismay, they have a nice area out front where they can sit and play on some fake turf.
Back Channel hosts fun events in a great atmosphere, a few of my favorites include: :
Ultimate Vikings Game Day Experience to watch the big game on a huge outdoor screen
Community Tuesdays
Trivia Wednesdays
Seasonal events
Such a perfect location, just off the lake, a great place to stop before or after a day on the water.
Vibe Score: 4/5
Dog Friendly Details:
Yes! And dogs galore were everywhere. Small dogs, big dogs, old dogs, puppies. I was in doggie heaven.
Score: 5/5
Insider Info
Best time to visit: There are plenty of places to sit, but if you’re not into loud, busy atmosphere, I would recommend visiting during the day or at least on a weeknight. I was there on a Friday evening, lots of kids, loud inside, etc.
Parking: Free lot and a few public slips for boats.
Merch: One of the best selections of merch available here, loved the Viking themed options
Tapped In Takeaway
Back Channel Brewing is the kind of place you make a special trip for - the beer, the vibe, the lake, all of it. It’s got a relaxed, local energy that makes you feel like you’ve been coming here for years, even if it’s your first visit. Between the lively crowd, lots of dog patrons, and a great beer lineup, it’s easy to lose track of time. Whether you pull up by boat, truck, or just wander in for a pint, this is one stop on Lake Minnetonka that’s worth checking out.
Final Score: 4/5
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