Situated about 35-40 minutes from Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast, you’ll find the popular lakeside towns of Douglas and Saugatuck, known as the “Art Coast of Michigan.” Stroll along the sidewalks lined with impressive art galleries and unique boutiques. Shop for that one-of-a-kind gift or vacation treasure. Admire the boats as they head out to and return from mighty Lake Michigan. And, enjoy delectable food at our top outdoor dining spots in Saugatuck, MI.
Saugatuck, which is nestled between Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo Lake, boasts a bustling harbor, award-winning beaches, grassy dunes, a thriving art scene, unique shops, breweries, wine tasting, and wonderful restaurants with outdoor seating, many with stunning waterfront views.
Nearby, the quaint village of Douglas offers visitors a glimpse of great art and lake views in a quieter setting. Here, you’ll also discover 1.5 miles of coastline along Lake Michigan, and over 2 miles of frontage along the Kalamazoo River.
Blue Star Cafe & Ice Cream Treats (Douglas)
As you walk up to Blue Star Cafe to place your lunch order, you’ll fall in love with the overflowing, hanging flower baskets and charming sunset-inspired paint colors. Choose from a menu of soup, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pitas and, of course, ice cream. There are several outdoor tables with umbrellas to enjoy your midday meal.
Location: 141 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas, MI 49406
Tel: 269-857-1030
Boardwalk Deli & Ice Cream (Saugatuck)
Offering a variety of fresh, delicious deli foods and ice cream, Boardwalk Deli is a wonderful place to dine for lunch, smoothies, and dessert. They strive to include vegetarian ingredients and organic foods whenever possible.
Location: 311 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-354-9123
Bowdies Chophouse (Saugatuck)
Bowdies Chophouse is one of our favorite Saugatuck, MI outdoor dining spots. They specialize in Chicago-style dining which you can enjoy this summer on a charming patio. Savor quality food, savory steaks, and wines sourced from the best vineyards in the world.
Location: 230 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: (269) 455-5481
The Butler (Saugatuck)
The Butler has maintained a popular presence in Saugatuck for over 60 years. They offer casual waterfront and outdoor dining, fresh seafood, and classic American fare. You will truly enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner. Be sure to try their signature Butler Burger. Closed Wednesdays.
Location: 40 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-857-3501
Coast 236 Restaurant & Bar (Saugatuck)
Coast 236 is passionate about responsible food sourcing, and thus have been recognized as a James Beard Foundation Smart Catch Leader. Their many 5-star reviews are a testament to their efforts and philosophy. Choose from a menu of small and shared plates, entrées, desserts, extensive wines by the bottle or glass, cocktails, beer and more.
Location: 236 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-455-5112
Coastal Society™ Craft Cocktail Bar, Boutique & Eatery (Douglas)
Open all year and accepting reservations, this one-of-a-kind artisan eatery includes patio dining during the summer months, and fireside or igloo dining during the colder months. Enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner with a unique menu of craft pizzas, snack bar food, quiches, and more. Wash it down with your choice of cocktails, wines, and craft beers.
Location: 35 Center St, Douglas, MI 49406
Tel: 616-953-0663
Douglas Root Beer Barrel (Douglas)
This cute root beer barrel shaped restaurant offers picnic tables with umbrellas for relaxing with a basket of 100% angus beef hot dogs and an ice cold root beer. Their menu includes a variety of fun and unique hot dog and brat combinations, such as BLT Dog and Beyond Meat Veggie Brat, as well as your favorites, such as Chicago Dog, Chili Dog, and New Yorker. Finish off your nostalgic meal with a hot fudge sundae.
Location: 501 W Center St, Douglas, MI 49406
Everyday People Cafe (Douglas)
Everyday People Cafe dishes up creative fare and outdoor dining on the back patio full of warm lighting for a romantic experience. Enjoy wine, tapas and jazz.
Location: 11 W Center St, Douglas, MI 49406
Tel: 269-857-4240
GROW Cafe & Bistro (Saugatuck)
This unique dining establishment offers two options: contemporary American brunch by day at the GROW Cafe & Bistro, and Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine at The TRAP, in an adjacent building. Enjoy outdoor patio dining as you savor your favorite from the brunch menu, which includes sweet and savory brunch entrees, snacks and salads, and many beverages, including non-alcoholic, craft beers, canned beers and ciders, and wine.
Location: 302 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-857-1242
Mermaid Bar & Grill (Saugatuck)
Mermaid Bar & Grill is a family-owned dockside eatery offering fresh fish and other American favorites. Situated on the Kalamazoo River, you’ll appreciate watching the boats drift by as you dine on the dock under umbrellas. They only offer outdoor seating, and so will close in case of inclement weather.
Location: 340 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-455-5949
Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions (Saugatuck)
Boasting culinary, pastry, and horticultural backgrounds, Pennyroyal features food that has been carefully prepared the old-fashioned way, using fresh, local ingredients from West Michigan farms. Try their seasonal dishes and house favorites for lunch or dinner! Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays.
Location: 3319 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-455-5133
Phil’s Bar & Grille (Saugatuck)
Phil’s Bar & Grille is open 7 days/week for dinner and serves lunch on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Check out their menu of appetizers, soups and salads, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts. Gluten-free items are available. No reservations.
Location: 215 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-857-1555
Pumpernickels (Saugatuck)
Pumpernickels is a modern, all-inclusive restaurant and bar located in downtown Saugatuck. In fact, they pride themselves on serving great food and libations in a welcoming setting. Enjoy lunch, brunch, dinner and craft cocktails, as well as live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Location: 202 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-455-5299
Saugatuck Brewing Company (Douglas)
Open 7 days a week, Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a hot spot for craft beer, from mainstays and seasonal brews to barrel-aged and limited releases. Their creative food menu includes appetizers like Bavarian Jumbo Pretzels and Asian Cauliflower, soups and salads, burgers and handhelds like Beer Cheese & Bacon Burger and Turkey Reuben Panini, as well as entrees, sides, and desserts.
Location: 2948 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas, MI 49406
Tel: 269-857-7222
The Southerner (Saugatuck)
Inspired by traditional Southern Fare with roots in Appalachia, The Southerner is a haven for comfort food. Their seasonal menu includes starters, like Blue Crab Calas, sandwiches and sides, good ol’ fried chicken, and house specialties, like Shrimp and Grits, and Mac and Cheese. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Location: 880 Holland St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Wicks Park Bar & Grille (Saugatuck)
Wicks Park Bar & Grille, located at the corner of Water Street and Mary Street in beautiful downtown Saugatuck, is a haven for fresh lake perch, homemade burgers, fish tacos, and New Orleans-style Gumbo. Start your meal with a delicious appetizer and glass of wine or craft beer, and finish it off with a mouthwatering dessert. The outdoor dining space is great and you’ll love watching the boats pass by on the Kalamazoo River.
Location: 449 Water St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Tel: 269-857-2888
Wild Dog Grille (Douglas)
Located downtown Douglas in a casual setting, this chic pub features creative, American artisan cuisine. Their menu includes small plates, salads, sandwiches, stone oven pizzas, and dessert.
Location: 24 Center St, Douglas, MI 49406
Tel: 269-857-2519
More Outdoor Dining Options in Southwest Michigan
We’ve put together more lists of our favorite dining spots in surrounding Southwest Michigan towns.
- Top Outdoor Dining Spots in South Haven, MI
- Top Outdoor Dining Spots in Plainwell and Allegan, MI
- Top Outdoor Dining Spots in Holland, MI
Are you planning an overnight stay in Southwest Michigan? If so, book one of our luxurious guest rooms for a truly special getaway. Here at Castle in the Country, our innkeepers and staff are always on hand to share the best places to go in Southwest, Michigan, especially restaurants. These best Douglas and Saugatuck MI outdoor dining spots are tried and true places to enjoy a lovely lunch or romantic dinner for two. What’s more, we specialize in romance! Therefore, don’t delay. Book a couple’s getaway at The Castle where you will escape to the extraordinary!