Best Restaurants in Saugatuck & Douglas
You’d be hard-pressed to find another small town with as many top-tier, locally owned restaurants packed into such a charming waterfront area. In Saugatuck and neighboring Douglas and Fennville, every chef takes pride in serving seasonal, locally sourced food — often with a creative twist.
Whether you’re craving casual waterfront dining, a romantic dinner, a craft beer and burger, or a fine-dining experience worth dressing up for, you’ll find it all here. Best of all, there are no chains — just authentic West Michigan flavor, warm hospitality, and the kind of charm that makes every meal memorable.
(Restaurant hours may vary seasonally; check online or ask Forest Inn staff for current hours and reservations.)
Fine Dining Restaurants & Romantic Spots Near Saugatuck
Coast 236
Located in downtown Saugatuck, Coast 236 offers a modern, coastal-inspired fine-dining experience where local land and lake ingredients take center stage. Reviewers repeatedly praise dishes like the seared scallops, Michigan corn risotto, tuna crudo and pan-seared halibut—described as “the most perfectly cooked halibut I’ve ever had.”
With a stylish interior, garden patio seating, and a full craft cocktail & wine program, the ambiance strikes a balance between upscale and approachable.
Ambiance: Modern coastal décor with a relaxed, upscale vibe.
Menu Style: Contemporary American with lake-inspired dishes and seasonal ingredients.
Best For: Foodies and couples looking for creative plates and exceptional service.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: A standout for inventive flavor combinations and perfectly plated entrées.
📍 236 Culver St, Saugatuck | ☎ (269) 455-5112 | Website
🥗 Vegan Options | 🍸 Full Bar | 🌅 Patio Dining | 🕔 Reservations Recommended
Bowdie’s Chophouse
Bowdie’s offers premium steakhouse comfort with upscale touches: dark wood interiors, plush seating, and a menu of USDA Prime cuts, fresh seafood, and chef-driven side dishes. Guests highlight the 16-oz rib-eye and the truffle-mac side as stand-outs. Targeted at steak lovers and business dinners, Bowdie’s pairs well with date nights or formal gatherings.
Ambiance: Intimate and energetic with classic steakhouse warmth.
Menu Style: Premium cuts, seafood, and top-shelf cocktails.
Best For: Date nights or business dinners.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Exceptional steaks, polished service, and a cozy downtown setting.
📍 230 Culver St, Saugatuck | ☎ (269) 455-5481 | Website
🥩 Steakhouse | 🍸 Craft Cocktails | 👩❤️👨 Romantic | 🕔 Reservations Suggested
J. Paul’s Dining Room at The Kirby
Elegant yet approachable, J. Paul’s Dining Room occupies a boutique-hotel setting in Douglas and crafts contemporary fine dining with Midwestern ingredients. Popular dishes include locally foraged mushroom risotto, herb-crusted walleye, and seasonal desserts. Ideal for couples, anniversary dinners, or “food-while-on-vacation” moments. Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Offers elevated cuisine without pretense, combining hotel comfort with chef-led dining.
Ambiance: Romantic and intimate in a restored 1890s Victorian hotel.
Menu Style: Contemporary fine dining with seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients.
Best For: Couples and gourmet travelers.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Understated elegance and seasonal creativity.
📍 294 W Center St, Douglas | ☎ (269) 857-5472 | Website
🥂 Fine Dining | 🌿 Farm-to-Table | 🕔 Reservations Recommended
Borrowed Time (Douglas)
With an artsy, Austin-inspired vibe in historic downtown Douglas, Borrowed Time serves up shared plates, inventive cocktails, and seasonal produce. Reviewers praise dishes like smoked-cheddar brisket tacos and citrus- glazed pork belly, with vegan and vegetarian options earning strong mentions. Families and groups seeking inventive fare in a casual, upbeat space will feel at home here. Why Forest Inn Recommends It: A fun, flavorful break from standard fare, especially good if you’re exploring galleries on Center Street beforehand.
Ambiance: Eclectic and artsy with an Austin-inspired vibe.
Menu Style: Shared plates and creative cocktails.
Best For: Small groups and adventurous diners.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Fun, funky, and full of flavor — every dish feels inspired.
📍 22 Center St, Douglas | ☎ (269) 455-5256 | Website
🍸 Full Bar | 🌿 Local Ingredients | 👨👩👧👦 Groups Welcome
Casual Favorites & Local Hangouts in Saugatuck
Don’t want to get dressed up to go out? No problem, Saugatuck has plenty of fabulous casual dining options and local hot spots.
Red Dock Café
If it’s between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and you’re in the mood for a cold drink (literally) on the water and the funkiest vibe this side of Key West, head to Red Dock. You have to Google map it because there’s no sign by the road. (Hint: It’s a 3-minute drive from Forest Inn.) You’ll be glad you found it.
Locals describe it as “Key West meets Lake Michigan.” Expect a simple, satisfying menu of burgers, wraps, and cold drinks — plus one of the most relaxed vibes in town. It’s cash-only, dog-friendly, and a must for anyone craving a laid-back waterfront experience.
Ambiance: Funky, colorful, and completely open-air — casual Key West energy.
Menu Style: Burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and ice-cold drinks.
Best For: Sunset seekers, groups, and anyone who loves a carefree lakeside atmosphere.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: The ultimate Saugatuck summer hangout — where the view, music, and drinks are unbeatable.
219 N Union St (end of Water Street dock) | 
(269) 857-2185 | Website
Outdoor Only | 
Waterfront | 
Dog Friendly | 
Cash Only | 
Live Music
Phil’s Bar & Grille
Classic and reliable, Phil’s is a Saugatuck staple where locals and visitors converge over elevated comfort fare, burgers, fresh fish baskets (try the perch), and a friendly bar atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the warm staff and walk-in ease. Families, groups, and solo diners will feel at ease.
Ambiance: Classic downtown Saugatuck charm with friendly energy.
Menu Style: Elevated comfort food and local favorites.
Best For: Couples, groups, and solo travelers.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: The heart of Saugatuck’s social scene — warm, reliable, and delicious.
📍 215 Butler St | ☎ (269) 857-1555 | Website
🍺 Casual Dining | 👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly | 🌅 Walkable Downtown
Everyday People Café (Douglas)
Bright, comfortable, and energetic, Everyday People Café is a local favorite for creative all-day dining with indoor seating, a tiki-bar patio, and front sidewalk tables. Reviewers single out its rotating specials—like sweet-corn cakes and sparked herb-salmon—and guest service consistently receives high marks. Reservations aren’t required, but letting the Forest Inn team know ahead helps.
Ambiance: Upscale-casual with local art and indoor/outdoor seating.
Menu Style: Global-inspired American with rotating specials.
Best For: Couples and foodies who love creative dishes.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: A consistent guest favorite — the tiki patio is especially charming in summer.
📍 11 Center St, Douglas | ☎ (269) 857-4240 | Website
🥗 Vegan-Friendly | 🌿 Locally Sourced | 🍸 Patio Bar
Wild Dog Grille (Douglas)
Wild Dog marries a modern interior with hearty Italian-American dishes—stone-oven pizzas, house-made pastas, and fresh seafood. Reviewers highlight the roasted-vegetable lasagna and wood-fired margherita pizza. With a full bar and plenty of seating, it fits families, teens, and food groups alike.
Ambiance: Hip but welcoming with cozy booths and modern accents.
Menu Style: Italian-American fusion with stone-oven pizzas and fresh seafood.
Best For: Families and groups.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Versatile menu and great service make it a crowd-pleaser.
📍 24 Center St, Douglas | ☎ (269) 857-2519 | Website
🍕 Pizzeria | 🍸 Full Bar | 👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
The BARge
Perched directly on the Kalamazoo River, The BARge offers casual waterfront dining with unbeatable sunset views. Known for its fish tacos, blackened mahi sandwich, and local craft beer selection, it’s the ideal open-air hangout from spring through early fall.
Guests rave about the laid-back service, boat-watching, and live-music weekends that transform it into Saugatuck’s quintessential summer spot. Seating is primarily outdoors, so it’s best enjoyed in warm weather.
Ambiance: Classic dockside hangout with boat views and live music.
Menu Style: Casual American with burgers, tacos, and seafood.
Best For: Afternoon drinks or sunset dinners.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Nothing says Saugatuck summer like food on the water.
528 Water St, Saugatuck | (269) 857-7277 | Website
Waterfront | 
Full Bar | 
Casual
The Butler
The Butler has been a Saugatuck landmark since the 1960s, offering lake views and a family-friendly menu heavy on American classics. Guests rave about the Butler Burger, perch sandwich, and generous salads. The marina-side patio is one of the most photographed dining spots downtown.
Ambiance: Casual waterfront dining with panoramic harbor views.
Menu Style: American classics — burgers, salads, seafood.
Best For: Families, groups, and sunset seekers.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Live summer music and the best spot to watch boats go by.
📍 40 Butler St | ☎ (269) 857-3501 | Website
🌅 Waterfront | 🍸 Live Music | 👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Pumpernickel’s
Pumpernickel’s, in the heart of downtown, is Saugatuck’s go-to breakfast and brunch hub - combining cozy charm with a menu that satisfies every kind of morning appetite - as well as the perfect spot for lunch and dinner.
The café’s casual vibe—with exposed brick, local artwork, and frequent live music—makes it a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Service is warm and efficient, and portions are generous without feeling heavy.
Ambiance: Eclectic café with a lively, all-day energy.
Menu Style: Breakfast to dinner — comfort food with flair.
Best For: Groups, brunch lovers, foodies.
📍 202 Butler St | ☎ (269) 857-4455 | Website
🥞 Breakfast | 🍹 Cocktails | 👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
The Southerner
Overlooking the Kalamazoo River, The Southerner delivers warm, comfort-food hospitality with a Southern twist. Expect fried chicken so crisp it’s often called “the best north of Nashville,” plus shrimp & grits, biscuits with sorghum butter, and bourbon-based cocktails. "Catfish Robert" might be the best meal in town (trust us). The riverside porch offers casual, scenic dining ideal for families and groups.
Ambiance: Cozy, rustic-chic Southern comfort.
Menu Style: Southern classics — fried chicken, biscuits, bourbon cocktails.
Best For: Comfort food lovers and bourbon fans.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: A true local favorite — Catfish Robert and honey butter biscuits are legendary.
880 Holland St | (269) 857-3555 | Website
Southern Cuisine | Full Bar | 
Kid Friendly
Marro’s Italian Restaurant
A beloved downtown landmark since the 1970s, Marro’s delivers old-school Italian comfort with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests love its traditional spaghetti and meatballs, chicken piccata, and hand-tossed pizzas served alongside cocktails and live piano music on weekends.
The vintage décor and bustling dining room create a sense of nostalgia, while the service keeps things energetic and approachable. It’s one of the few places that pleases couples, kids, and groups alike.
Ambiance: Classic Italian-American family restaurant.
Menu Style: Pasta, pizza, and hearty entrées.
Best For: Families and groups.
147 Water St | (269) 857-4248 | Website
Italian | Full Bar | Family Friendly
Coffee, Breakfast & Sweet Treats in Saugatuck
Looking for that perfect cup of coffee to start your day or a deliciously sweet and savory treat for a fabulous breakfast? We recommend the following spots.
Ida Red’s Cottage
- Specialties: Fresh-squeezed juices, scratch-made breakfasts
- Best known for:
Breakfast
Uncommon Coffee Roasters
- Specialties: Artisanal coffee, pastries, and light fare
- Best known for:
Coffee
Respite Coffee (Douglas)
- Specialties: Breakfast sandwiches, espresso drinks
- Best known for: Coffee
Blue Star Café
- Specialties: Classic diner, homemade ice cream
- Best known for:
Diner fair
Breweries, Wineries & Cider Houses
Saugatuck Brewing Co.
- Location: Douglas
- Highlights: Huge tap list, exceptional pub fare (best smash burger in town), live music nights
The Mitten Brewing Co.
- Location: Saugatuck
- Highlights: Award-winning craft beer, wood-fired pizza in a casual setting & outdoor patio
Three Blondes Brewing
- Location: South Haven
- Highlights: Beach-town vibe, family-owned, great beer & tasty pub fare
Virtue Cider
- Location: Fennville
- Highlights: Wide array of farmhouse ciders and outdoor seating
Fenn Valley Vineyards
- Location: Fennville
- Highlights: Established local winery with tastings
Modales Wines
- Location: Fennville
- Highlights: Modern tasting room, artisan charcuterie boards, gorgeous setting, occasional live music
Day Trip Dining in Fennville
If you’re up for a short road trip, we definitely recommend a drive to Fennville as it has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to food.
Salt of the Earth
Salt of the Earth in downtown Fennville is a must-dine for food-minded visitors near Saugatuck. Expect locally sourced, scratch-cooked fare in a relaxed yet stylish setting, with solid vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free support and a well-crafted local beer/wine/cocktail list. It’s ideal for an elevated dinner that still feels rooted in West Michigan farm-and-food culture.
Ambiance: Warm, rustic-chic with a lively open kitchen.
Menu Style: Farm-to-table dining with wood-fired dishes and housemade bread.
Best For: Foodies and couples.
Why Forest Inn Recommends It: Foodies come from far and wide to experience this great place.
114 E Main St, Fennville | (269) 561-7258 | Website
Farm-to-Table | 
Wine Pairings | 
Reservations Advised
Top Picks by Category
Don’t have time to read every detailed review? No worries. We’ve put together a list of our favorite local Saugatuck restaurants by occasion to help you quickly put together your itinerary!
Fine Dining & Special Occasion
Travelers often look for romantic or upscale experiences—ideal for anniversaries, date nights, or celebrations.
| Restaurant | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coast 236 | Coastal-inspired fine dining with seasonal local ingredients, creative plating, and wine pairings. | Elegant yet approachable, ideal for romantic dinners or wine lovers. |
| Bowdie’s Chophouse | Premium steaks and seafood with white-tablecloth service and a strong bourbon menu. | Classic fine-dining vibe, reservations essential. |
| Salt of the Earth (Fennville) | Farm-to-table restaurant famous for wood-fired entrees and seasonal Midwestern cuisine. | Destination-worthy; best for foodies and special nights out. |
Casual Waterfront Dining
Saugatuck’s lakeside setting makes water-view dining one of its top draws.
| Restaurant | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The BARge | Laid-back riverside spot serving burgers, fish tacos, and cocktails. | Fun, social atmosphere; outdoor only (summer season). |
| The Butler | Classic American grill with marina views and live music. | Great for lunch or early dinner; family-friendly. |
| Red Dock Café | Funky, open-air bar on the water, known for its Key West-style vibe. | Perfect for sunset drinks; open Memorial Day–Labor Day only. |
Breakfast & Brunch Favorites
Morning dining is a major Saugatuck pastime—especially for beachgoers and weekend visitors.
| Restaurant | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ida Red’s Cottage | Locally famous for homemade pancakes, cinnamon rolls, and fresh juices. | Cozy, cash-only, worth the wait. |
| Pumpernickel’s Eatery | Creative breakfast and brunch with stuffed French toast and crab cake Benedict. | Trendy yet relaxed; full espresso bar. |
| Uncommon Coffee Roasters | Craft coffeehouse with artisan pastries and grab-and-go breakfast wraps. | Best for early risers; great patio. |
Family-Friendly & All-Ages Dining
Visitors often travel with kids or groups—comfort food and casual service are key priorities here.
| Restaurant | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Saugatuck Brewing Co. | Wide beer selection, menu goes far beyond bar food, and the Barrel Room with arcade games and big screen TVs. | 100% kid-friendly. |
| Wild Dog Grille (Douglas) | Eclectic menu with pizzas, pasta, and family-approved entrees. | Inviting atmosphere; moderate pricing. |
| Wicks Park Bar & Grille | Riverfront pub-style dining with live music and a versatile menu. | Great for casual evenings and families. |
| Restaurant | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday People Café (Douglas) | Globally inspired, chef-driven small plates and cocktails. | Casual fine dining; local favorite. |
| Phil’s Bar & Grille | Elevated comfort food, well known for their burgers and fried perch. | Friendly local vibes for all comers. |
| Farmhouse Deli & Pantry | Organic sandwiches, soups, and bakery goods using local produce. | Ideal for light lunch or picnic takeout. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best restaurants for a romantic dinner?
Bowdie’s Chophouse, and Coast 236 offer elegant dining perfect for special occasions.
Where can I find family-friendly restaurants in Saugatuck?
Phil’s Bar & Grille, Wild Dog Grille, and The Butler are great for families with kids.
Which restaurants have waterfront dining?
The Butler, The BARge, and Red Dock are top picks for lake views and outdoor seating.
Where can I get vegan or vegetarian food near Douglas?
Coast 236, Everyday People Café, and Pennyroyal Café all have excellent plant-based options.
Do restaurants close in winter?
Yes, some — like Red Dock and The BARge — operate seasonally. Ask the Forest Inn staff for updated recommendations.
Forest Inn is Your Home Base!
If you're planning a culinary adventure to the Saugatuck area, Forest Inn is the perfect place to stay. Centrally located from all the eateries listed above, our location is convenient and our accommodations are extraordinary! Click below to select your dates and get your foodie festivities underway!
Book Your Adventure
Whether your idea of a perfect adventure includes peaceful solitude; exploring the trails, dunes, water, and beaches of spectacular Lake Michigan; fine dining, live music, world-class art, craft beer, renowned vineyards, or all of the above...
Forest Inn is an extraordinary setting for you to make memories and take full advantage of all that Michigan’s Art Coast offers. We look forward to welcoming you!