2155 Ottawa Beach Rd
Holland
Why it’s a rising star
As one of the newest entries to the waterfront dining scene, Reservoir blends chic lakeside aesthetics with a laid-back feel. It’s conveniently located on the road to Holland State Park, so make sure to stop by on your way home from a long day in the sun. It’s great for sunset dinners! While still growing in reputation, its stylish setting and crafted menu hint at its potential.
Menu highlights
Check out the seafood, burgers, and even vegetarian options.
Locals rave
“This restaurant is a gem and I'm glad we found it! When we visited there was a lovely breeze off the water. Although it sits back a bit, across the road from a beach, the view is lovely.”
1862 Ottawa Beach Rd
Holland
Why it’s a must-visit
Nestled right along the water at Yacht Basin Marina, Lolo’s offers casual vibes and an unbeatable patio atmosphere. Popular with boaters, locals, and anyone chasing a laid-back lakeside afternoon, it’s known for fresh seafood and creative cocktails.
Menu highlights
Take a look at the stellar sandwich, wraps, tacos, and shareable bites from Lolo's tropical-like menu. The frozen cocktails are definitely something worth a try!
Locals rave
“This place makes you feel like you're somewhere tropical, relaxed, and warm! How awesome that that's right here in Holland during our summer months."
“The atmosphere here is great being right on the marina.”
40 Butler St
Saugatuck
Why it’s up top
Located in Saugatuck and known for unbeatable views, The Butler has been a lakeshore staple since 1961. Grab a seat on the spacious deck overlooking the Kalamazoo River and watch boats cruise in and out of the marina. It’s a must-stop for laid-back dining with a side of scenery. And its famous Butler Burger and fresh Lake Perch keep locals and visitors coming back year after year.
Menu highlights
Indulge in an assortment of shareables from crab-stuffed mushroom caps to creamy whitefish dip served with pita chips, or even zesty pickle fries paired with a bacon ranch dipping sauce. Or, go for the main dishes which include Butler's famous burgers, lake perch, walleye platters, and caribbean salmon.
Locals rave
“This is definitely the place you want to go to enjoy the atmosphere with a view of the water. We sat outside and what a treat.”
“We visited Holland, Michigan for my birthday weekend. Many people told us we needed to drive a few miles to Saugatuck and try The Butler, a classic restaurant for many years right on the water!"
"Amazing from start to finish! Beautiful area and restaurant, great decorations along with amazing food and cocktails, I had the Butler Burger and my wife enjoyed the Perch platter!”
216 Van Raalte Ave
Holland
Why it’s a top pick
This happens to be one of the closest restaurants in town that offers a true on-the-water dining experience. Boatwerks sits directly on Lake Macatawa and offers a vast panoramic view from its expansive outdoor patio. With a marina-side bar, frequent live music, and a menu featuring local seafood, steaks, and craft cocktails, it’s obviously a summer staple—and one that delivers on both atmosphere and flavor.
Menu highlights
Boatwerks' menu features some classic maritime dishes—from lake perch, calamari, lobster rolls, and crab cakes. Other options include New American plates such as smash burgers, farmhouse pizzas, and fresh salads.
Locals rave
“The ambiance was perfect! We sat outside off the lake and the views are peacefully amazing! The food was extremely delicious!”
“This venue is beyond beautiful, especially being on the water. I love that most if not all rooms have wonderful views of the water. It adds so much natural light to the rooms as well.”
“This place is absolutely beautiful! The atmosphere is so charming and relaxing. The food was delicious—fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. A lovely spot to enjoy a good meal!”
528 Water St
Saugatuck
(Behind Ship N Shore Hotel)
Why it floats to the top
This floating restaurant-bar hybrid delivers a one-of-a-kind experience—quite literally on the water. It sits right atop the Kalamazoo river. So many locals choose to dock their boats and grab a seat on this multi-level patio for a sunset dinner. With frequent live music, and a fun, casual menu of shareables and drinks, it’s definitely the kind of place that defines summer on the lakeshore—and it earns its spot at the top for this reason. Check out The BARge's Facebook page for more details.
Menu highlights
This restaurant serves up lakeside favorites like truffle burgers, spicy margaritas, blackened fish tacos, and most popular, ahi tuna poke. Choose from an assortment of frozen drinks and local brews. With its laid-back, waterfront vibe, The BARge is the perfect place for dockside bites and drinks. Don’t skip out on a giant pretzel with beer cheese or the locally-known favorite frosé.
Locals rave
“Great food, perfectly strong drinks, and servers working their tails off.”
“Despite a bit of a wait to be seated during the busy summer season, the experience is well worth it. The food is superb, perfectly complemented by the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. The staff are exceptionally friendly and attentive, adding to the overall excellent dining experience.”
Sierra Ozolins is a West Michigan native, currently a student at Hope College. As an athlete, she is passionate about fitness—from running to weightlifting. With a interest for politics and lifestyle, she is intrigued how local culture, community, and everyday events shape the world around her—often with an iced coffee in hand and her dog by her side.
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