That’s right, it’s time to eat and drink in the sun.
After so many frosty months, many of the restaurants and bars in West Michigan are bursting out onto the sidewalk, into back patios, and across wide open decks. And thanks to our trusty lakes Great and small, more than a few of these watering holes are waterfront.
While by no means an exhaustive list, here are 15 top suggestions.
Archival Brewing
6266 W River Dr. NE, Belmont
Known for brews plucked from history, Archival also has no shortage of outdoor space, between its large biergarten and wraparound, covered deck. The wide open space is not only family-friendly but dog-friendly as well, hosting fire pits as well as yard games like corn hole and bocce ball.
Blue Water
5180 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids
Blue Water sits right on the edge of Versluis Lake. The tables here at this Gilmore institution overlook the serene water with a touch of class, complete with a koi pond. The patio is also loaded with flowers and plants, including a garden that contributes to the meals you eat.
Rose’s
550 Lakeside Dr. SE, East Grand Rapids
Another Gilmore establishment, Rose’s is practically famous for its lakeside deck. In the summer, you can enjoy classic dishes and drinks while watching people boat, kayak, fish and more out on lovely Reeds Lake.
Third Nature Brewing & Eastern Kille Distillery
7733 Childsdale Ave. NE, Rockford | 7755 Childsdale Ave. NE, Rockford
Third Nature Brewing and Eastern Kille Distillery are sort of cousins alongside the extensive White Pine Trail, both hosting huge outdoor areas lined by trees. Head here to enjoy great food (Third Nature spotlights handhelds, Eastern Kille focuses on pizza), beer and cocktails, along with fire pits, yard games and play areas for the kids.
Cedar Springs Brewing Company
95 N Main St. NE, Cedar Springs
This Cedar Springs hotspot is known for its German-influenced fare and brews. They have a covered—and heated—patio/bier garden for cooler weather that opens up as warmer days roll in, with casual bier hall-style counter service. Keep an eye out for live music and special events as well.
The Deck
1601 Beach St., Muskegon
The Deck is the ultimate beach patio, with decks that wrap around the restaurant and sprawl out toward the shores of Lake Michigan. The upper deck is full service for food and beverages, while the lower deck is self-serve. There are swings, games, and volleyball, as well as live music at select times.
New Holland Brewing – The Knickerbocker
417 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids
Much like everything else in New Holland’s Grand Rapids location, The Knickerbocker’s semi-enclosed patio is huge, with a large screen for watching sports and loads of seating to spread out.
The Friesian Gastro Pub
720 Michigan St., Grand Rapids
Ever since opening, Friesian has made great use of its rooftop patio. Whether you’re there relaxing in the dusk on a nice weeknight evening or enjoying the morning sun of a Sunday brunch, Friesian’s patio is a step above.
Hancock
1157 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids
Hancock’s turf lawn perfectly fits its retro historic vibes. Eating fried chicken and sides while sipping a slushy cocktail in the sun on perfectly green “grass”? That’s the dream. It’s big enough to fit quite a few tables without sprawling across Wealthy Street. While we’re at it, the nearby Donkey Taqueria and The Winchester have sizeable patios too.
Farmhaus Cider Co.
5025 Stanton St., Hudsonville
Nestled away in the woods, Farmhaus features communal-style picnic tables and pockets of smaller seating all around. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy nature while sipping on craft ciders. They don’t serve food directly, but you’ll find a rotating selection of local food trucks nearly every day.
Bostwick Lake Inn
8521 Belding Rd NE, Rockford
This four-season deck overlooks the 221 acre Bostwick Lake. Sit back and dig into a smoked pork tenderloin as you watch people fish, swim and boat. Want to dip your toes in? Take your cocktail down to the sandy beach.
Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant
216 Van Raalte Ave., Holland
With a patio and bar area that was renovated in 2020, Boatwerks added even more seating for diners to enjoy the views of Lake Macatawa, also making use of big garage doors. You don’t even necessarily need a car to get there—they have spots for boaters to pull in and tie up while dining!
Bell’s Eccentric Café
355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo
This is a magical place. The substantial Bell’s Beer Garden feels natural and intimate thanks to plenty of greenery, creative seating and a variety of spaces. Whether you want to stand around a high-top, bring a group to the many benches, or sit a small table, there are plenty of options.
The Sovengard
1232 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids
The Sovengard’s biergarten at the original location was iconic, with its herb wall, outdoor bar and lively events, and they’ve brought that same lovely energy (and spacious seating) over to the new spot.
Underground Lounge
443 Bridge St. NW #1, Grand Rapids
Speaking of Sovengard’s original spot, it’s now occupied by Broad Leaf’s Underground Lounge, and just as worthy of a visit. They’re serving up creative cocktails, craft beer and tacos from Taqueria Chilango.
