An idyllic town situated between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan, with nearly 26 miles of trails—most of them paved for walking, biking and other activities—Charlevoix boasts some of the best outdoor activities both on and off the water. Charlevoix also has some of the best Northern Michigan restaurants with beautiful views of both lakes and the downtown bustle. After your day in the woods and on the water, head to these Charlevoix restaurants with outdoor dining.
1. Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant
106 Pine River Ln. | 231.547.4311
Ranging from elegant adult classics like escargot to a kid’s menu with creamy mac and cheese and juicy burgers, Weathervane offers up options for everyone. Situated right on the Round Lake Channel, the restaurant has incredible views of passing boats.
2. The Landing
10231 Ferry Rd. | 231.547.9036
Situated on Lake Charlevoix’s Ironton Cove, The Landing offers lakeside views and deliciously fresh salad bowls, sharable appetizers, sandwiches, wraps and seafood. Dock your boat and head inside for lunch or dinner.
3. Bridge Street Taproom
202 Bridge St. | 231.437.3466
For “flavor with a view,” Bridge Street Taproom sits on the edge of Round Lake offering 32 beer taps and an American bistro-style menu with comfort food classics like cheesy smoked brisket nachos along with fresh wraps, grilled sandwiches and pizza.
4. Pigs Eatin’ Ribs
1418 Bridge St. | 231.547.7447
A favorite of many Charlevoix residents, award-winning chef Adam Kline makes barbeque dreams come true with his brisket and pulled pork sandwiches and hearty meat platters. The restaurant’s streetside patio is the perfect place to enjoy something slow-roasted and savory.
5. Grey Gables Restaurant & Catering
308 Belvedere Ave. | 231.547.9261
With views of Round Lake to compliment an expensive menu that includes everything from pizza and salads to sushi and burgers, there’s something for everyone.
6. Esperance
12853 US-31 N. | 231.237.9300
A purveyor of specialty foods and wines, Esperance has your perfect pairing. Gourmands will adore empanadas with chimichurri and sirloin with bacon gastrique. Deli case filled with a variety of picnic items.
7. The Cantina – Tacos & Tequila
101 Van Pelt Place | 231.437.3612
Putting delicious spins on classic Mexican cuisine, these taco and tequila experts will give you a taste of Mexico with their fresh ingredients packed into your choice of soft or hard shell. Pair with a refreshing handcrafted cocktail.
Olivia Fellows was a 2020 intern at MyNorth Media. She will graduate from Grand Valley State University in 2021 with a Communications and Multi-Media Journalism degree, and serves as the News Editor for GVSU’s The Lanthorn.