Having a swimming time at Lakefront Restaurant

This summer we checked out a bunch of local beachfront eateries , worried we'd find pricey tourist grub, but instead snagged some delicious affordable meals just steps from the beach (as vacation home ads like to say).

The latest: Some have slowed service for the season but The Lakefront Restaurant in the old Theater on the Lake building stays open year-round with a gorgeous patio and Hamptons vibe.

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Dig in: Skip the overcooked shrimp in the Old Bay Ceviche ($16) and go for the gorgeous Fresno pepper deviled eggs ($9).

• We loved the smoky tender chicken tinga tacos ($14), fresh guajillo chicken salad ($15) and giant brisket dip sandwich topped with gruyere and arugula ($17).

Guajillo chicken salad at The Lakefront Restaurant. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios

Drink up: Lakefront offers a wide selection of regular and craft beers ($6-8) and cocktails ($14) on the patio and in the large indoor bar and dining room.

Steps to the beach: Taking a dip from the ledge was just 103 steps from my table. I swam and returned before my dining companions even missed me.

Old Bay ceviche and deviled eggs at The Lakefront Restaurant. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios