11 Waterfront Restaurants in Michigan That Wow With Food and Scenery
Michigan’s stunning coastline offers more than just breathtaking views – it’s home to incredible restaurants where delicious food meets spectacular scenery. From Lake Huron’s rocky shores to Lake Michigan’s sandy beaches, these waterfront dining spots serve up fresh catches alongside unforgettable sunset views. Whether you’re craving fresh whitefish or a juicy steak, these restaurants prove that great food tastes even better with water as your backdrop.
1. Watermark Bar & Grille, St. Clair Shores
Perched along Lake St. Clair’s shimmering waters, this beloved restaurant transforms ordinary dining into extraordinary experiences. The outdoor deck practically floats above the lake, making every meal feel like a mini vacation.
Fresh walleye and perch steal the show here, prepared with local ingredients that highlight Michigan’s natural bounty. The sunset views create the perfect backdrop for romantic dinners or family celebrations.
Boaters love tying up at the restaurant’s dock for lunch, while landlubbers appreciate the ample parking and welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals coming back season after season.
2. Harbor Haus Restaurant, Copper Harbor
Way up in Michigan’s remote Keweenaw Peninsula, this rustic gem sits where Lake Superior’s wild beauty meets hearty comfort food. The log cabin atmosphere perfectly matches the rugged landscape surrounding this northernmost dining destination.
German-inspired dishes dominate the menu, with bratwurst and schnitzel sharing space alongside fresh Lake Superior trout. The portions are generous enough to fuel hikers exploring nearby trails.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame dramatic lake views that change with Superior’s moods – from calm blue mornings to storm-tossed afternoons that remind diners of nature’s incredible power.
3. The Boathouse on the Bay, Caseville
This charming spot captures the essence of Michigan’s Thumb region, where Saginaw Bay’s gentle waters create the perfect setting for relaxed waterfront dining. The nautical-themed interior feels authentically coastal without being overdone.
Local perch and walleye are menu stars, often caught by area fishermen and served the same day. The fish and chips here rival any coastal destination you’ll find.
Summer evenings bring live music to the deck, where diners watch boats cruise by while enjoying cold drinks and fresh catches. The laid-back vibe makes everyone feel like they’re on vacation, even locals stopping by for dinner.
4. The Windjammer Bar & Grill, Lexington
Sailors and landlubbers alike gravitate toward this Lake Huron hideaway, where the marina location puts boats and blue water front and center. The nautical decor feels genuine rather than forced, reflecting the area’s true maritime heritage.
Whitefish prepared multiple ways showcases the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing local catches. Their famous fish tacos bring a modern twist to traditional Great Lakes dining.
The wraparound deck offers 180-degree water views that make every seat feel premium. Watching sailboats navigate the harbor while enjoying dinner creates memories that last long after the meal ends.
5. The Cove, Leland
Tucked into historic Fishtown, this intimate restaurant celebrates Leland’s commercial fishing heritage while serving modern cuisine that honors tradition. The weathered docks and working boats create an authentic backdrop that can’t be replicated.
Lake trout and salmon feature prominently, often smoked using traditional methods that fishermen have used for generations. The cherry-inspired dishes pay tribute to the region’s famous fruit farms.
Reservations are essential during peak season, as word has spread about this hidden gem. The small dining room means every table enjoys water views and the chance to watch fishing boats return with their daily catch.
6. The Lake House Waterfront Grille, Muskegon
Muskegon Lake provides the stunning backdrop for this upscale establishment, where contemporary cuisine meets classic lakeside elegance. The floor-to-ceiling windows ensure every diner enjoys water views, regardless of seating.
The menu balances fresh seafood with land-based options, satisfying diverse tastes while maintaining high quality standards. Their signature surf and turf combinations are particularly popular with special occasion diners.
The multi-level deck accommodates different dining moods, from intimate dinners on the upper level to casual drinks on the lower deck. Sunset reservations book quickly, as the western exposure creates spectacular evening light shows across the water.
7. Plank’s Tavern on the Water, St. Joseph
Since 1952, this St. Joseph institution has been serving hungry diners alongside the St. Joseph River, just steps from where it meets Lake Michigan. The vintage charm and family recipes create a timeless dining experience.
Their famous whitefish dinners have fed generations of families, prepared using recipes that haven’t changed in decades. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from beach-goers to business diners.
The riverside patio buzzes with activity during summer months, as diners watch boats navigate between the lake and river. The proximity to Silver Beach makes it perfect for combining dining with beach activities for a full day of lakeside fun.
8. Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant, Holland
Positioned on Lake Macatawa with views extending toward Lake Michigan, this modern restaurant combines Dutch hospitality with contemporary waterfront dining. The sleek design complements rather than competes with the natural beauty outside.
Fresh catches share menu space with innovative preparations that reflect Holland’s diverse culinary influences. The weekend brunch features unique dishes that draw crowds from across West Michigan.
The expansive deck accommodates large groups while maintaining intimate dining spaces for couples. Boat slips allow water-based diners to arrive in style, making summer evenings feel like exclusive yacht club gatherings open to everyone.
9. Pier Restaurant, Harbor Springs
Overlooking Little Traverse Bay, this Harbor Springs favorite captures the essence of northern Michigan’s sophisticated resort culture. The elegant atmosphere matches the upscale community while remaining welcoming to all visitors.
Lake Michigan whitefish receives gourmet treatment here, often paired with locally foraged ingredients that showcase the region’s natural abundance. The wine list features selections that complement both the food and the scenic setting.
The waterfront location provides front-row seats to Harbor Springs’ busy marina, where million-dollar yachts share space with family fishing boats. Evening dining offers spectacular sunsets that paint the bay in brilliant colors, creating perfect endings to northern Michigan days.
10. Tosi’s Restaurant, Stevensville
Family-owned for over four decades, this Lake Michigan gem has perfected the art of combining excellent food with unbeatable water views. The consistent quality and warm service keep multiple generations of families returning year after year.
Italian-American specialties dominate the menu, with fresh lake fish prepared using traditional family recipes. The portions are generous, and the prices remain reasonable despite the prime lakefront location.
The covered deck extends the dining season, allowing guests to enjoy lake breezes and water views even during cooler months. The casual elegance makes it equally suitable for romantic dinners and family celebrations, cementing its reputation as a true local treasure.
11. Fitzgerald’s Restaurant, Eagle River
Far up in the Keweenaw Peninsula, this remote restaurant rewards adventurous diners with stunning Lake Superior views and hearty meals that satisfy outdoor enthusiasts. The journey to reach it makes the dining experience feel like a true discovery.
Comfort food classics dominate the menu, with generous portions designed to fuel hiking, fishing, and exploring activities. The homestyle cooking and reasonable prices reflect the area’s working-class roots.
The rustic atmosphere perfectly matches the rugged landscape, where Lake Superior’s untamed beauty creates a dramatic backdrop for every meal. Winter diners brave snowy roads for the cozy interior and warming dishes that make the cold journey worthwhile.
