If you’ve been to Michigan but haven’t dined al fresco style by one of its shimmering lakes, you’re missing out on a quintessential part of the experience. The Great Lakes State boasts some of the finest restaurants serving breathtaking views while you dig into zesty cherry BBQ ribs and sip on hoppy craft beer. The best part? Most of these picturesque eateries offer accessible features with lowered tables and wide aisles so everyone can enjoy a hearty meal under the expansive skies.
Al Fresco Eateries and Lakeside Restaurants in Michigan
Whether you prefer cool rooftop vibes overlooking the city skyline or a lakeside table with twinkling lights, the following al fresco restaurants in Michigan have something for everyone’s taste:
Legs Inn, Harbor Springs
Located over a bluff overlooking the majestic Lake Michigan, Legs Inn has a wildly eclectic interior with rustic elements and a scenic outdoor garden decorated with string lights that enhance the overall ambiance.
When dining at Legs Inn, make sure to order the smoked Whitefish spread, Polish-style dumplings, Goulash, or their spicy yet sweet buffalo wings. If you plan on extending your stay and exploring the surroundings, consider booking Leg’s Inn comfortable cottages that provide access to sandy beaches and crystal-clear lakes.
Hop Lot Brewing Company, Suttons Bay
If you’re cruising along the scenic M22 route in Suttons Bay and your stomach starts rumbling, pull over at Hop Lot Brewing Company. This beer garden features igloo-shaped tents for cozy winter dining and umbrella-covered tables for summer grubs.
As for the food, it’s nothing but delicious. From juicy BBQ ribs to crisp, fresh salads, every dish is crafted with care and bursting with flavor. They also have an amazing beer selection, from hoppy IPAs to smooth, easy-drinking lagers, to satisfy every beer lover.
Beyond the brewery, Suttons Bay offers plenty of attractions to keep the adventure going. After your meal, you can take a leisurely stroll through the quaint downtown area dotted with charming shops and boutiques.
Or, if you’re in the mood for a bit of exploration, consider hitting the nearby hiking trails. These paths will not only lead you through beautiful forests and along the stunning shoreline but also help you burn off those delicious BBQ calories.
The Belt, Detroit
Located between Broadway and Library Street in Detroit, The Belt is an alleyway bursting with vibrant energy and creative flair. This artistic alley features different eateries, so you can indulge in different flavors while admiring the colorful murals shining brightly under fairy lights.
If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, stop by The Skip, where creative drinks are served in a lively, laid-back setting. Craving pizza? The Mootz Pizzeria + Bar serves up old-fashioned pies that are to die for, along with a wide variety of appetizers, salads, and desserts. Don’t miss their garlic knots that’ll melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more. The restaurant also ensures easy access for all diners.
And if you’re in the mood for something different, Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine is another gem located on The Belt. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this eatery allows you to enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine while soaking up summer sunshine or winter flurries.
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5 Knifes Cafe, Grand Rapids
If you’re short on time but hunger strikes, 5 Knives Cafe is your gourmet life-saver. This restaurant has an impressive selection of grab-and-go meals such as expertly rolled sushi, hearty sandwiches, and breakfast burritos that promise to kick start your day faster than double-shot espresso.
This restaurant boasts a large atrium with skylight windows that shower your meal with sunshine even on the cloudiest days. You can even take your grub to the outdoor seating area near the waterfront deck where the gentle breeze complements your dining experience.
Knot Just a Bar, Petoskey
Located just minutes from downtown Petoskey, Knot Just a Bar is a casual walk-in restaurant on the Bay Harbor Marina, providing unrivaled views of Lake Michigan and memorable sunset.
Here, mornings become an adventure with options like the decadent cranberry-walnut French toast or the classic eggs benedict for breakfast. If you find yourself wandering in during happy hour, the Knot Famous Bloody Mary or Cherry Capital Coke are must-tries that’ll have you questioning your standard drink choices.
The restaurant also boasts a varied lunch and dinner menu featuring mouthwatering dishes like slow-roasted prime rib, pesto pasta that’ll make you forget all about the store-bought stuff, fried chicken that’s crisp on the outside and wonderfully juicy within, or the Knot famous fish kones that you won’t find just anywhere.
Tips to Make the Most of Accessible Al Fresco Dining Experience
While eating outside is fun, not all outdoor dining spots are easy to get around. Here are some tips to help you fully enjoy your meal under the open sky:
- Before dining at your chosen eatery, explore its accessibility features via its website or a quick phone call. Inquire about table arrangement and height, restroom accessibility, entrance ramps, and handicap parking.
- After confirming your accessibility needs, reserve the best table with a view—preferably one where the sunset hits differently.
- Since you’ll be dining outdoors, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Bring a jacket for colder evenings or a hat for sunny days. Don’t forget to pack the essentials — sunscreen and sunglasses for the sun’s glare, an umbrella for the uninvited rain, and warm layers for unexpected winds.
- Consider dining during less busy times to enjoy more prompt service and capture those Insta-perfect scenes without a photo bomber in sight.
- When dining, don’t settle for the same old pasta or the usual Caesar salad. Instead, ask for recommendations on signature dishes or local specialties. Your server might introduce you to a spicy ramen bowl, a savory mushroom risotto, or a vibrant berry mocktail that tastes like Michigan’s summer.
- Share your experience with the restaurant staff and online. Feedback can help improve accessibility features not just for you but for future guests as well.
Dine Al Fresco with Clock Mobility
Whether you’re a foodie at heart or just someone who loves to explore new dining experiences with a beautiful view, Michigan offers an array of exceptional restaurants and eateries to satisfy your palate.
At Clock Mobility, we want to make your gastronomic adventures more comfortable and accessible. As such, we have a wide range of wheelchair-accessible vehicles, both new and used, that can be conveniently rented or bought to fit your unique needs. We also offer rental vans for short and long-term rentals to suit your needs.
For more details about our vehicles or services, call us at (866) 380-3326 or swing by one of our locations in Michigan. Let us help you savor every moment!