Our story

Carlson’s Orchard Bakery and Restaurant has been providing great food and family entertainment since 1992 when Joe and Colleen Carlson decided to take the best of their experiences around the Northwest apple industry and transplant them to the local family farm in Winsted Minnesota.

Soon word leaked out that the value and quality offered at the Orchard was worth the trip.

After nearly 30 years of running the Orchard, Joe made the difficult decision to significantly scale back operations in 2021 after the devastating loss of Colleen. Joe took time to figure out what the next chapter of the Orchard’s story might be.

After much consideration, it was obvious this orchard had too much to offer our family and the community to let it go. Going forward, Carlson’s Orchard Bakery and Restaurant will be owned and operated by Joe’s son, Noah, and his wife, Ariana. Joe will still be here, helping with the transition, but is looking forward to a more relaxed fall and jumping into his role as grandfather and restaurant host. 

With new ownership, there will undoubtedly be change, but we are committed to preserving everything that made Carlson’s Orchard Bakery and Restaurant special. While we are excited to bring new, fresh ideas into the business, there won’t be change for the sake of change. We look forward to meeting you all this fall!