Located at a walking distance from Dove's Nest Bed and Breakfast, Mark III Restaurant & Lounge is the perfect place to grab some dinner, especially if you are craving some Mexican food. Although mostly made in the Tex-Mex style, the food here is delicious and ranges from steaks and burgers to salads and seafood. You can try out a selection of Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, enchiladas and more and sip on some craft beers or their famous margaritas to go along. All in all, this is a great stop, both for the local regular and the weary traveller.
If you are busy sightseeing in St Joseph, Buck Burgers & Brew, located close to the Amtrak as well as museums, galleries and churches is a great place to drop in for a quick bite to eat. The bar is well known for its variety of local craft beers and micro-brews which is a novelty in Michigan. There are more than 50 beers on draft and even more can be found in bottles. If you are unsure as to which beer you want, you can always ask to sample some before you pick. The burgers here are also famous and made from fresh, local ingredients. You can build your own burger or go with one of the favorites on the menu which is then served with a side of homemade potato or sweet-potato fries. If you're not feeling much like having a burger, there are sandwich and salad options. If you are in too much of a hurry to stop in, you can always get some take-out.
While on the Main Street, the exposed-brick exterior of this bar and grill is hard to miss, this is 221 Main also known as the Players Bar & Grille. Delighting locals and travelers alike, this restaurant is known for their delectable spread of American dishes which are rightly served with a twist. At 221 Main, the ambiance is always lively with patrons cheering their favorite teams while some challenging their pals to a friendly game of pool. In the company of all the vigor, your palate deserves to have conversations with dishes like Seared Scallops, Crab Cakes, chicken wings, caesar salad, the Players Burger, Blackened Chicken and their Reuben. Quench your thirst by making your own Bloody Mary, or ask for a their popular drafts beers.
Your visit to St. Joseph is incomplete without a meal at this favorite local eatery called Clementine’s Too. The restaurant overlooks a gorgeous marina and its outdoor seating gives picturesque view of the waterside. The interior of the place is very well furnished thereby making it ideal for a family gathering or for a meal with many friends. Their menu dictates American delights with options like chicken and steak salads, Fiesta Taco salad, then sandwiches like The Drawbridge which comes infused with ham, the Brewmaster burger, and many more options. Their stack of onion rings deserves a special mention because it's a house specialty. Clementine’s Too has a limited but robust wine list on offer, and patrons can rely on waiters for suggestions over pairing.
With a view of the beautiful Lake Michigan from their rooftop, Ryebelle’s serves up a mix of traditional American and sea-food. Dine on scallops, dips, cheeseburgers, shrimp baskets, chips and salsa and more while you sip on a beer and enjoy the stunning blues of the lake. Live music concerts are also often held here. Since there is plenty of space, you can come in with a big group of friends or family or bring a date to see the spectacular vistas of the lake.
With a rustic, warm ambiance, Schu's Grill & Bar resembles a country home with its wood and stone walls, leather chairs and cozy fireplace. While indoors is warm and toasty in the winter months, outdoor seating is especially pleasant during the summer months where visitors can relax over a tasty meal and a cold beer. The menu features classic southern and mid-western dishes like the slow roasted baby back ribs, Shu's jumbo perch fresh from the lakes, Michigan cherry salad, baked potato soup and crab cakes. Kids can enjoy comfort classics like grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken strips. The wine list features a nice selection of local wines from Michigan like the Red Demi-Sec from Tabor Hill winery and the Pinot Noir from Domaine Berrien Cellars. Local brews and craft beers are also featured like offerings from the Darkhorse Brewing Company and Founder's Brewing Company.
The charming breakfast cafe, The Mason Jar Cafe is located on Water Street, is a gem of Benton Harbor Arts District. The smallish place has a nice, homey vibe, that puts you at ease at once. The indoor dining space is cozy affair, with mismatched dining table sets that add to its small-town charm. There's also a pretty patio arrangement where you can retire to if weather permits. On offer here are hearty preparations for breakfast and brunch, that have been handcrafted with the best available local produce and ingredients (organic whenever possible). Their creations such as the homemade granola, quiches, omelets and French toast and such prove to be great for breakfasting. They also have a selection of salads, sandwiches, waffles and lots more for brunches. The Mason Jar also serve gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Serving an extensive menu comprising succulent appetizers, BBQ, and snacks along with a remarkable range of beers and drinks, Sister Lakes Brewing Company is the favorite hangout spot of the locals. In a relaxed atmosphere, choose from multiple options to grub and drink. The brewery features two aesthetic patios and hosts live music sessions, and events to keep guests entertained. They also offer a kid's special menu which makes them a great preference for families.
The popular microbrewery, The Livery is hidden away in Benton Harbor. The brewery features an associated gastropub which makes for a great hang with a bunch of buddies. Housed within the a bare-brick-walled building, on the 5th Street, this popular dining destination includes comfortable furniture and a nice, friendly vibe makes you feel right at home. On offer here is a great variety of its own creations such as hard cider, The Blue Steel, The Livery Bourbon Cask Aged Wheat Trippelbock, some 16 of which are available on tap. You should call for the sampler tray which will give you an idea about their products. Apart from an amazing vibe and awesome craft beers, The Livery also offers a brilliant live music calendar that showcases the best of local talent.
Right at the riverfront with beautiful views of the St. Joseph River, Bread + Bar has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that beckons yo to come in and try the food. The food itself is all homemade and made from scratch with handmade artisan bread coming from the Bit of Swiss pasty shop which is located nearby. The fresh, flavorful meals can be accompanied by a range of fresh-made, zippy craft cocktails and micro-brew beers. With specials each night, the restaurant keeps the menu fresh and updated.
The Greenbush Brewing Co. is the most popular restaurant in Sawyer. Known for its above 6% ABV beers and the confounding names given to them, they come in mainstays, seasonal, specialty and experimental lab varieties. The beers are all home-brewed and range from sweet malts to bitter stouts. Guests would not be disappointed with the food; favorites being sandwich, pulled pork, smoked turkey, mac and cheese and the beer flight, which consists of different beers.
Dating back to 1835 BCE, the Old Tavern Inn is the oldest continuing business in the entire state of Michigan. The old world feel is supplemented by good, hearty food and cool beer to soothe your throat. You can fish in the nearby Dowagiac River, then come grab a table at this quaint, rustic place in the middle of nowhere. This out-of-the-way, cozy place is the perfect halt for the weary backpacker looking for a place to rest and refuel.