Top 10 Places To Dine & Drink Outside in Grand Rapids
As a self-proclaimed foodie, the mission for every city I visit is to try the best restaurants in the area.
When I moved to Grand Rapids, I immediately started asking people what is their favorite restaurants.
Now that it is summertime, it is a must to find the best restaurant with outdoor seating or 'al fresco.'
So, I am giving Yelp the challenge of finding the best outdoor seating at a restaurant.
10. Nonna's The Trattoria
Can't afford to take a luxury trip to Italy? No worries! This Italian restaurant is your next stop for a summer dining experience. Nonna's also has Nonna's Pantry available for a grab-and-go option across the street.
With 4 and a half stars, Nonna's The Trattoria is a favorite place to have breakfast and brunch on the patio and soak up some sun. Reservations are recommended but they are not required to dine here. However, a reviewer states that you should call to reserve a table for parties larger than two since the restaurant is on the smaller side.
9. The Old Goat
According to the restaurant's Facebook page, the Old Goat is known for, "scratch cooking. Simple honest and seasonal fare with highly seasoned roots. Bold, bright, real, moody, and high quality. You never know what we'll do next!"
The best part of this restaurant is that during brunch, there is usually live music to accompany your dining experience. If you have an event that needs catering, The Old Goat is associated with The Electric Company Food Truck. There is the "Soup Wagon" that offers your choice of 6 soups, 4 grilled cheese sandwiches, and a salad. The next option is "Antonio Ramirez's Famous Taco Wagon," which offers street-style tacos. The last two food truck options are "Cuban Sandwich Wagon," and the "Summer Spectacular Picnic Wagon."
8. Terra GR
Terra GR is "a farm-to-table neighborhood restaurant." If you want Michigan craft draft beer, this is the place to grab a cold drink. According to Yelp, Terra GR also claims to have "one of the best patios in Grand Rapids."
7. One Bourbon
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For all of the bourbon lovers, One Bourbon is calling your name. One Bourbon is where you can take your friend for a simple hangout together. This multi-level restaurant gives guests the option of their whiskey room called the Oak Room or the pub area with access to the bar. 6. The Mitten Brewing
The Mitten Brewing is located in the historic Engine House #9. They are known for their refreshing beers and hand-tossed pizzas. This is the perfect location to grab a beer and cheer on the Detroit Tigers.
5. Sandy Point Beach House - Grand Rapids
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Sandy Point Beach House is best known for its prime burgers, steaks, and seafood. One of the top reasons to visit, besides the food, is the large outdoor patio area with a full bar. The restaurant also offers food trucks at Street Eats GR!
4. Roam by San Chez
We love a global experience! Roam by San Chez is best known for its Asian fusion food options and its cocktails. Two of the popular food dishes are the Singapore Curry and Kati Roll.
3. Tupelo Honey
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This was the first restaurant that I visited when I moved to Grand Rapids. I completely understand why there is always a long wait time because the food is delicious. According to Yelp, Tupelo Honey is the "revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains." Also, Tupelo Honey is all for helping its employees. For every order of its two "Biscuits for a Cause," the proceeds go to their Tupelo Honey Relief & Development Funds. These funds help their employees who need extra assistance.
2. The Søvengård
Yelp describes The Søvengård as "an urban biergarten and kitchen specializing in seasonal, local, and sustainably sourced food and beverage" that is heavily influenced by Nordic and Midwest cultures.
1. One Twenty Three Tavern
The number one spot for the best outdoor dining experience in Grand Rapids goes to One Twenty Three Tavern. This tavern has the best selection of American comfort food.
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