Finding a great place to eat that’s not a tourist trap can be a difficult task on vacation. Lucky for you, we compiled some of our favorite West Michigan restaurants for you to enjoy on your trip along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. Whether you want classic Italian food or contemporary American cuisine, you’ll find it here!
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8 of the Best West Michigan Restaurants
The Stray Dog Bar & Grill – New Buffalo
If you want to enjoy New American fare at a well-lit, waterfront dining room, you’ll want to add The Stray Dog Bar & Grill to your list of West Michigan restaurants. Their menu is full of gourmet burgers, tacos, sandwiches, and pizzas along with an extensive selection of local craft brews. If you visit during the spring or summer seasons, you can even eat on their rooftop dining deck!
Red Arrow Roadhouse – Union Pier
Red Arrow Roadhouse is less than 10 minutes north of The Stray Dog Bar & Grill and features traditional American food in a rustic setting. Barbeque, steaks, and chicken highlight the menu. If you want to enjoy a taste of local seafood, we recommend trying the Whitefish if it’s available.
The Paisley Pig II – Holland
Stop by The Paisley Pig II in Holland if you’re craving gourmet pub grub on your drive along the Lake Michigan coastline. Their menu is full of ribs, pizza, and sandwiches in a casual atmosphere. You won’t want to miss out on one of the tastiest West Michigan restaurants in the area.
Grove – Grand Rapids
Farm-to-table eats are the highlight at this slightly upscale restaurant on the outskirts of downtown Grand Rapids. Savor duck confit, salmon, T-Bone steaks, gnocchi, and other pasta dishes in this quaint establishment. Grove is one of the better West Michigan restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic date night with your special someone.
Salt of the Earth – Fennville
The charming block of downtown Fennville is home to this rustic-chic eatery. Salt of the Earth offers a delicious selection of seasonally inspired dishes like pan-seared walleye, stuffed chicken, and a variety of wood-fired pizzas. Fresh, local ingredients are one of the not-so-secret recipes to this West Michigan restaurant.
San Chez A Tapas Bistro – Grand Rapids
European, Mediterranean, and Latin American flavors join forces at San Chez A Tapas Bistro. A fun and exciting interior provides a fantastic atmosphere to indulge in a variety of delicious fare, ranging from bacon and shrimp fritters to lobster bisque.
Sandy Point Beach House – West Olive
New American cuisine dominates the menu at Sandy Point Beach House. A large outdoor patio is an excellent place to enjoy brunch on a sunny summer afternoon along the Michigan coast. The contemporary interior also offers a great atmosphere once it gets colder.
La Cantina – Paw Paw
La Cantina is one of the oldest running restaurants in West Michigan. This Italian eatery serves up authentic dishes of baked lasagna, chicken marsala, and spaghetti and meatballs. They also have an extensive wine list and a large outdoor patio.
Plan Your Michigan Experience
If you’re planning your getaway to West Michigan, you need to browse through our collection of West Michigan vacation rentals! Freshwater Vacation Rentals offers an extensive list of properties with incredible locations. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the many hiking trails in the Wolverine State, we have the perfect rental that suits your adventure! While you’re at it, take a look at our West Michigan Things to Do page.
Start planning your getaway today by booking one of our rentals. We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater Vacation Rentals family!