LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

BARS AND RESTAURANTS

There isn’t much that can beat a delicious drink on a beautiful patio—especially in Michigan! As Summer turns to Fall before our eyes, most of us want to enjoy every last minute of the pleasant weather to the fullest potential. Luckily, in Grand Rapids, we have the small city feel, with big city amenities! Here are some of the town’s best patios, rooftop bars, and outdoor seating areas to check out before Summer ends.

Hancock

This picnic style restaurant specializes in Nashville hot chicken and southern-inspired sides. If you are looking for a casual outside eatery with comfort food and amazing alcoholic slushies, this is the place!

The Søvengård

For outside fun with delicious craft cocktails, Søvengård is the place to go. They have plentiful seating, Boccee Ball, and the bar is in a shipping container!

J Deck at JW Marriot

Overlooking the Grand River, the J Deck at the JW Marriot is a great place for lunch, dinner, or Sunday funday!

IDC

On the second floor of the Amway Grand Plaza, the speakeasy themed rooftop patio is one you won’t want to miss. They offer craft cocktails and a variety of wines and beer. Be sure to get the code before heading in!

Paddock Place

The historic mansion in the East Hills neighborhood features an outdoor dining area unlike any other in Grand Rapids. Whether you are looking to enjoy an intimate and delicious dinner outdoors or just get drinks with friends, the patio and lawn really feels like Summer. Featuring global cuisine, craft cocktails, craft beer, wine, and games on the lawn, Paddock Place is a must visit.

Brewery Vivant

The European-inspired brewery in East Hills is the perfect place to enjoy some local craft beer outdoors! The brewery is located in a renovated historical chapel, and they pride themselves on having a focus on sustainability and the community. Take a seat on their patio and enjoy a cold one.

The Friesan Gastro Pub

The Fresian Gastro Pub boasts both a a 20-person patio and a 50-person rooftop deck where you can enjoy drinks, comfort food, and a view of the Medical Mile.

Rose's on Reeds Lake

Located in East Grand Rapids, this historic restaurant will not disappoint. Their patio is situated overlooking the serene Reed’s Lake, so it’s a perfect place for an outdoor meal. Go on a weekday or during lunch hours to avoid the dinner rush!

Founders Brewing Co.

A Grand Rapids favorite, nothing says Summer quite like a Founders beer on their patio. They offer ample seating, ample beer, and occasional live music, so you’re sure to have a good time!

Sandy Point Beach House

The American cuisine restaurant features a sizeable outdoor eating area. What’s more, they have an outdoor bar called “Gintonica” that was converted from a shipping container! The name is inspired by their collection of 45 different gins.

Rockwell Republic Beer Garden

This Grand Rapids fan-favorite restaurant has a secluded patio where they serve their delicious food and even better martinis! Be sure to stop by the patio during their happy hour special to enjoy $7 martinis and half off sushi rolls.

New Holland Brewing Co.

The outdoor space at the Grand Rapids location of New Holland Brewing is perfect for a fun night with friends. Enjoy their craft beer and cocktails, and play some fun games in their spacious courtyard!

The Green Well

The Green Well always delivers on fresh, exceptional, and unique food. You can enjoy their farm-to-table dishes on their peaceful patio that overlooks a native plant garden.

Watermark Country Club

Just outside of downtown Grand Rapids, Watermark Country Club has an on-site restaurant with sweeping views of the course, plentiful food options, and great drinks. Pair it with a round of golf for a perfect day!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Aperitivo

The wine bar located in the Downtown Market has outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your charcuterie and wine outside!

Vandermill Cider

Located in the Fulton Heights neighborhood, Vandermill Cider gives you the brewery feel without the beer. They offer outdoor seating and free parking!

Graydon’s Crossing

A globally inspired pub with delicious food and tons of beer options, Graydon’s Crossing has a little bit of everything. The outside seating and daily specials will keep you coming back!

Terra GR

The farm-to-table restaurant in Eastown has a quaint patio where you can enjoy their handcrafted cocktails. Stop by for weekend brunch and enjoy the sunshine.

Treadstone Rooftop Patio

Our personal favorite summer spot is the 3rd floor rooftop patio at Treadstone Mortgage. It overlooks Grand Rapids’ Fulton Street and has occasional happy hours and Summer cookouts for employees.