Distilleries have become some of the best cocktail lounges and restaurants in West Michigan, and that’s no accident.

Every spirit holds the potential to shine — all it needs is the right cocktail. Lucky for us, West Michigan is full of distilleries, cocktail bars, and restaurants with master mixologists at the helm.

If wine is an art, sommeliers are the critics, collectors and aficionados all rolled into one. 

Café Mamo feels like home. With just 32 seats, an open kitchen and endless personal touches, the Creston restaurant is cozy and inviting, but not at all cramped or exclusive. Between the atmosphere and consistently outstanding meals, Mamo has developed a devoted following in less than a year. 

Bartenders see it all, for better or worse. They see sober people, completely drunk people, nice people, rude people, picky people, knowledgeable people, cluess people, and everything in between.

Over the past year, some incredible restaurants and breweries have opened that we hope are here to stay, forever. Sadly, we’ve also lost a few beloved West Michigan establishments due to pandemic struggles and staffing issues.

Michigan is surrounded by lakes, yet seafood is scarce. Sure, you can find freshwater fish at most restaurants in town, but what about the lobster rolls? The Old Bay? The big, messy seafood boils? That’s where Beacon Corner Bar comes in.

Brewery Nyx makes top-notch beer that has a full body, pours a nice head, and tastes delicious — it just happens to have no gluten.

As much as Grand Rapids is known for its beer and craft food scene, it’s also making a name for itself with a number of specialty bakeries and sweet shops.

When the night is young but the body is ready for bed, that’s when caffeine and cocktails collide.