When it is dark by 5:30 and snowing outside, I want warm food, a good drink and a room that feels like a hug.
These are the places I send guests on a winter night, from Holland down to South Haven and up to Grand Haven. Some are good for a date, some for a big group, and one or two are casual enough for kids.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: 5 Date Night Spots for Two on the Lakeshore
My Favorite Winter Night Restaurants
1) Beechwood Grill
A lodge style grill in Holland with wood fired steaks, burgers and a salad bar.
This is an easy pick for a group or a family, and the lodge feel fits a snowy night.
My advice is to go hungry. Between the grill and the salad bar, you will not leave wanting more. It is an easy choice when everyone in your group wants something different.
2) Bowdie's Chophouse
Steaks for date night in Saugatuck. Reservations recommended, so book before you head out.
Bowdie's is the place I would pick for a special night in Saugatuck in winter. Dress up a little, take your time, and make it the main event of the evening. It is a small splurge that makes a winter weekend feel like an occasion.
3) Salt of the Earth
Farm to table cooking and live music in Fennville.
If I were planning one special winter dinner, this would be near the top of my list.
Salt of the Earth is a great reason to head out to Fennville on a winter night. Farm to table food and live music make for a warm, easy evening. Check the music schedule if you want to plan around it.
READ: 6 Lakeshore Breweries Worth the Drive
4) The Black River Tavern
A cozy spot in downtown South Haven. Good for a casual dinner after a cold walk by the lake.
South Haven gets quiet in winter, which is part of the charm. A cozy tavern downtown is just the right size for that kind of night.
5) The Unicorn Tavern
A Belgian style pub in Grand Haven, with a tiki patio in summer.
In winter, stay inside and settle in.
The Unicorn has the kind of feel that works in any season, but it is especially good when it is cold outside. Belgian style beers and pub food are made for a long winter night with friends.
Winter is when these places feel the most like themselves. Fewer tourists, more locals, and nobody in a hurry. Bundle up, make a reservation where you can, and give yourself a slow evening.
Or stay in. A winter night at the house with dinner on the stove is pretty great, too. Holland Home Retreat, Saugatuck Cabin, Fennville River View and South Haven Cottage are all close to the spots on this list.