Acqua Restaurant and Wine Bar is owned and operated by two friends, Daron Close and Chris Whalen. As longtime students of the hospitality industy, we have each dedicated our careers to constant growth and learning in hopes of someday fulfilling our dreams of opening a restaurant of our own. Our paths conveniently crossed at the right moment and Acqua is now becoming a reality. We are excited to showcase our passion in such a beautiful location and warm community. 

Daron Close (General Manager) is a graduate of Roseville High School and has a degree in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Since 1997, Daron has worked in over 20 restaurants, most recently as General Manager of MASA and Campiello in Uptown.   

Chris Whalen (Executive Chef) is a graduate of O'Gorman High School in Sioux Falls, SD and has a culinary degree from the Culinary Institute of America. He has worked in many kitchens including Brown Palace Hotel in Denver, the Inn of the Anisazi in Sante Fe, Chez Daniel, Fhima's and most recently Campiello in Uptown. 

We invite you to come and experience our passion.

Acqua Restaurant and Wine Bar
4453 Lake Avenue South
White Bear Lake, MN 55110

651-407-7317
651-762-2964 fax
daron@acquawbl.com