Michigan’s endless shorelines create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable dining experiences. With two Great Lakes hugging its borders and countless inland waterways, the state offers some truly spectacular spots to enjoy a meal with a view.
From casual lakeside grills to upscale dining destinations, these waterfront eateries combine mouthwatering cuisine with breathtaking scenery that showcases Michigan’s natural beauty.
1. Harbor Haus Restaurant, Copper Harbor
Perched at the northernmost tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Harbor Haus offers an authentic German-American dining experience with panoramic views of Lake Superior. The restaurant’s massive windows frame the harbor perfectly, allowing guests to watch for the Isle Royale ferry while enjoying schnitzel and fresh-caught fish.
The staff famously runs outside to wave at passing ships – a charming tradition that delights first-time visitors. During summer evenings, the sunset transforms the water into a canvas of orange and pink hues.
Their locally-sourced whitefish is legendary among locals, served with seasonal vegetables from nearby farms. The Bavarian pretzel appetizers pair wonderfully with their curated selection of German beers.
2. The Cove, Leland
Nestled in historic Fishtown, The Cove serves up maritime charm alongside fresh catches in a century-old fishing shanty. Weathered wood beams and nautical decor create an atmosphere that honors Leland’s fishing heritage while floor-to-ceiling windows showcase stunning views of the Leland River meeting Lake Michigan.
Famous for their whitefish dip and Chubby Mary – a Bloody Mary garnished with a smoked chub fish – this local institution attracts both tourists and locals. Boats glide past while diners enjoy their meals on the sprawling deck.
Their fish and chips remain a must-try classic, made with locally caught whitefish in a light, crispy batter.
3. Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant, Holland
Situated on the scenic shores of Lake Macatawa, Boatwerks combines contemporary dining with a relaxed waterfront atmosphere. The spacious patio offers unobstructed views where diners can watch sailboats glide across the water while enjoying creative American cuisine with a Michigan twist.
During warmer months, the outdoor fire pits create cozy gathering spots for enjoying evening cocktails as the sun sets. The restaurant’s architecture features soaring ceilings and walls of windows that maintain the waterfront connection even when dining indoors.
Their perch tacos have gained a devoted following, featuring locally sourced fish with housemade slaw and chipotle aioli.
4. The Lake House Waterfront Grille, Muskegon
Overlooking Muskegon Lake with sweeping views of the water, The Lake House Waterfront Grille offers an upscale yet approachable dining experience.
The restaurant’s sleek, modern design features a wall of windows that bathes the dining room in natural light and provides every table with a spectacular view. Their menu showcases seasonal ingredients with an emphasis on fresh seafood and locally-sourced produce. The outdoor seating area becomes especially magical at sunset when the sky transforms into brilliant colors reflected on the lake’s surface.
Signature cocktails like their Michigan cherry mojito pair perfectly with small plates meant for sharing. Located near the Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve, many guests combine their meal with a pre-dinner walk along the shoreline trails that wind through native wetlands.
5. The Windjammer Bar & Grill, Lexington
Family-owned since the 1970s, The Windjammer sits right on Lake Huron in the charming village of Lexington. The casual, nautical-themed interior creates a welcoming vibe, but the real star is the expansive deck that seems to float right over the water’s edge.
Sailboat races during summer weekends provide free entertainment as colorful spinnakers dot the horizon. The menu features unpretentious comfort food with an emphasis on fresh fish sandwiches and hand-pattied burgers that have remained unchanged for decades. Their famous “Bucket of Perch” is a must-try – lightly breaded lake perch served with hand-cut fries and homemade tartar sauce.
6. The Boathouse on the Bay, Caseville
Situated where the Pigeon River meets Saginaw Bay, The Boathouse delivers a quintessential Michigan summer experience. Picnic tables planted in the sand and colorful Adirondack chairs create a laid-back atmosphere where flip-flops are always appropriate footwear.
The open-air tiki bar becomes the center of activity during Caseville’s famous Cheeseburger Festival, serving tropical drinks with paper umbrellas. Children build sandcastles at the water’s edge while parents enjoy the restaurant’s famous Lake Huron yellow perch.
Spectacular sunsets provide a nightly show as the sky erupts in color over the water. Their signature dish combines Michigan traditions – a whitefish sandwich topped with Michigan cherry salsa – representing the perfect marriage of the state’s agricultural and fishing heritage.
7. Watermark Bar & Grille, St. Clair Shores
Set along the Nautical Mile in St. Clair Shores, Watermark Bar & Grille offers front-row seats to the boat parade that is Lake St. Clair during summer months. The restaurant’s modern industrial design creates a stylish contrast to the natural beauty visible through its expansive windows.
Multi-level outdoor seating areas allow guests to feel practically on top of the water. Weekends bring a vibrant atmosphere as boaters dock at the restaurant’s slips for lunch or dinner, creating a scene reminiscent of coastal hot spots. Their seafood-focused menu features creative preparations of Great Lakes fish alongside global inspirations.
The restaurant’s proximity to Detroit makes it a favorite escape for city dwellers seeking waterfront relaxation without a long drive, especially during their popular Sunday brunch service.
8. Plank’s Tavern on the Water, St. Joseph
Named after the city’s founder, Plank’s Tavern occupies a prime spot within the Inn at Harbor Shores, overlooking the St. Joseph River where it meets Lake Michigan.
The restaurant’s sophisticated yet comfortable design features warm wood tones and nautical touches that complement the spectacular water views. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the marina where sailboats and yachts create a constantly changing scenery. The menu emphasizes farm-to-table cuisine with ingredients sourced from southwest Michigan’s abundant agricultural region.
Their outdoor patio becomes especially magical at sunset when twinkling lights reflect on the water. Located near downtown St. Joseph’s shops and beaches, Plank’s offers the perfect combination of excellent food and prime location for exploring this charming lakeside town known as the “Riviera of the Midwest.”
9. Tosi’s Restaurant, Stevensville
Hidden among lush gardens just minutes from Lake Michigan, Tosi’s has been a southwestern Michigan institution since 1938. While not directly on the water, its beautiful garden setting and proximity to the lake earn it a spot among the region’s finest waterfront dining experiences.
The historic building exudes Old World charm with exposed beams and stone fireplaces. Italian-inspired cuisine pays homage to founder Emil Tosi’s heritage, with homemade pasta and fresh seafood taking center stage. Their garden dining area transforms into a magical space during summer evenings, with twinkling lights hanging from mature trees.
Many diners combine their meal with a pre-dinner walk on nearby Grand Mere State Park beaches, working up an appetite while watching Lake Michigan sunsets before enjoying Tosi’s famous minestrone soup and freshly baked bread.
10. Pier Restaurant, Harbor Springs
Extending over Little Traverse Bay on an actual pier, this aptly-named restaurant offers a dining experience that feels like being aboard a permanently docked ship. The 180-degree water views showcase the picturesque Harbor Springs yacht basin and the colorful hillside homes that rise above the shoreline.
The restaurant’s nautical theme includes porthole windows and weathered wood that could tell tales of Great Lakes storms. Their menu celebrates Michigan’s bounty with locally-caught fish and seasonal produce from nearby farms. Morning visitors enjoy watching the harbor come alive while savoring breakfast on the deck.
The restaurant’s location at the heart of Harbor Springs’ waterfront makes it perfect for people-watching, as vacationers stroll the docks and sailors prepare their vessels for day trips to nearby Mackinac Island.
11. Fitzgerald’s Restaurant, Eagle River
Perched dramatically on the rocky shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s remote Keweenaw Peninsula, Fitzgerald’s combines rugged Upper Peninsula charm with sophisticated barbecue and an impressive whiskey selection. The restaurant’s rustic timber frame construction complements its wilderness setting while large windows frame the endless horizon of the world’s largest freshwater lake.
During winter storms, waves crash spectacularly against the rocks below the dining room. The menu features slow-smoked meats with creative sides that elevate traditional barbecue fare. Located in historic Eagle River, the restaurant occupies a building dating to the copper mining era.
Summer visitors often combine their meal with beach walks collecting Lake Superior’s famous smooth stones, while winter guests marvel at massive ice formations that build along the shoreline just steps from their table.
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