One Of The Best Restaurants In Michigan Is Hiding In This Small Michigan Town

The worst thing about summers in Michigan has to be that they only last a few months. Michiganders love to enjoy every minute of the warm months, and that includes meals. One of the best small-town restaurants in Michigan takes advantage of its outdoor seating and proximity to Lake Michigan. You won’t find The Stray Dog in any big cities, but you will find it where the cool blue waters crash along the shoreline in New Buffalo.

Google Maps

You can find the Stray Dog Bar and Grill in the most southwestern town in all of Michigan, roughly seven minutes from the Indiana border. This is one of the few places in the state where you can truly see the Chicago skyline across the water. The shoreline seems endless from this spot on the lake, and so do the good times at the Stray Dog.

Di Schutte/Google Reviews

Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like any freshly caught fish from Lake Michigan make its way into any of these tortillas, but the quality is still unmatched for a restaurant this far north. They offer three seafood options to go along with the great views of the water in tilapia, shrimp, and mahi mahi. They also offer short rib, chicken, and veggie options.

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M P/Google Reviews

There’s another iconic burger joint in New Buffalo that we’ve visited in the past, but these burgers can hold their own with the big boys. All of their burgers start with a half-pound angus patty, but guests can get adventurous by ordering some of their variations that add, tropical, BBQ, or steakhouse flavors.

Carolyn Flynn/Google Reviews

I don’t have enough fingers to count how many fantastic Michigan breweries I’ve been to. Thankfully, they have more than ten taps at the Stray Dog, featuring some of the finest brews the state has to offer. If you’re looking for something a little more beechy, they’ll be happy to whip up a mixed drink to your liking.

Nicolette Tech (Nikita)/Google Reviews

Food just tastes better with a great backdrop and that’s exactly what you’ll get if you head up to their rooftop area. The rooftop is only open during the summer months, which is the best time to enjoy it. It’s also 21+ for any parents who want a night away from the kids.

The Stray Dog Bar and Grill

I recognized the Stray Dog brand before I ever went to the restaurant. This place earned a loyal following, and it shows in the people who wear the restaurant’s apparel sold at The Gear Store. This is the only place you can get Stray Dog gear, as it’s not sold online. So, if you see a Stray Dog logo while you’re out and about, you know that person’s made a visit.