Inside Scoop on where to Dine in Saugatuck
My oh my does Saugatuck nail it when it comes to FOOD! Narrowing this down is going to be rather difficult but here we go! Having been to just about every restaurant in Saugatuck, below is a list of a few absolute must tries.
Bowdie’s Chophouse is numero uno in my book. This restaurant has been slaying the steak game in Saugatuck since 2014 and serves up some of the best steaks I have had the pleasure of enjoying. Not only are their wet aged steaks melt in your mouth tasty, their other offerings are equally as delish! The Shrimp Bisque is literally to die for, the wedge salad is divine, and their beverage program is fabulous. The service here is stellar! Knowledgeable, seasoned staff that make you feel incredibly welcomed. The restaurant itself is darling; A quaint little house with separate rooms, an intimate bar, and a beautiful patio with giant umbrellas so you can sit out there rain or shine and watch the summer crowds wiz by. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance, this one books up fast!
The Southerner can not go unmentioned. Just off busy Butler Street this unassuming restaurant serves up a wicked lunch and casual fried chicken dinners. Pull into the large gravel parking lot and you’re like “hold up, where did Art Coast send me?”. Fear not! There will undoubtedly be a wait so put your name in and take a seat on their small waiting patio where they have a full service bar. Grab a drink and feel the vibes before entering this cozy spot that’ll remind you of a southern grandmas house. There are a few different dining rooms and each have their merits but the patio is where its at! Overlooking the Kalamazoo River you can chow down on your dill pickle dip while watching the boats come in and out from lake Michigan, whata treat!
Grow Cafe + Bistro/The TRAP is situated right across from Coghlin Park and overlooks Kalamazoo Lake. With its beautiful wrap around patio this could easily be one of the best people watching spots in Saugatuck. Grow is the brunch/lunch spot open from 9am-3pm and serves up delicious Spanish inspired brunch fare with a couple reinvented classics on the menu as well. Great selection of Michigan made beers, house crafted cocktails, and locally roasted coffee make this spot a must for weekend brunching! The TRAP is open 5pm-9pm and has some pretty incredible Mediterranean inspired dishes. A fabulous bread service with a house-made toum(garlic dip) is a great way to start your meal. Careful, this garlicky dip will stick with ya! The Carrot and Lentil Salad is super flavorful and compliments the Braised Pork Pita wonderfully. Opt in for the 4-Course Prix Fixe Menu and add the Wine Pairings to take in the full experience.
“Food is our common ground, a universal experience”
-James Beard