The Best Outdoor Dining In Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is a great place to explore in the summertime. With events going on throughout the season and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, the city thrives this time of year. If you’re out enjoying the city and looking for a place to eat, see if any of these outdoor dining options pique your interest!
1. The Friesian
Location: 720 Michigan St NE Grand Rapids, MI
Website: friesiangr.com
The Friesian is a Gastro Pub located right by Medical Mile. Open for Brunch on the weekends and dinner throughout the week, the Friesian is a perfect spot for your next outing! Choose between the patio or rooftop deck as you dine under the soft glow of string lights. With vegetarian and vegan options on the menu, it’s truly a place to be enjoyed by all.
2. Hancock
Location: 1157 Wealthy St SE Grand Rapids, MI
Website: https://www.hancockgr.com
Sitting on the corner of Fuller Ave and the red-bricks of Wealthy St, Hancock serves up some of the best fried chicken in Grand Rapids. With two garage doors that stay open throughout summer, it’s easy to order inside and then find a spot at one of their many picnic tables. Make sure to enjoy a game of ping pong or cornhole while you’re there!
3. Rose’s
Location: 550 Lakeside Dr SE East Grand Rapids, MI
Website: https://www.thegilmorecollection.com/roses/
Found in the only remaining building from the Romona Park era and overlooking Reed’s Lake, Rose’s is a gem in East Grand Rapids serving a fusion of Mediterranean, Italian, and American cuisine. Whether it’s a lunch or dinner, this popular summer destination is a must for your summer bucket lists!
4. Rockwell Republic
Location: 45 South Division Ave Grand Rapids, MI
Website: https://rockwellrepublic.com
Rockwell Republic is a gastro pub in the heart of downtown that serves a unique combination of cocktails with American & Asian cuisine. The two-story restaurant is perfect for a night out, especially if you choose to sit out in their beer garden! Next time you’re downtown, make sure to stop by.
5. Blue Water Grill
Location: 5180 Northland Dr NE Grand Rapids, MI
Website: https://www.thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater/
Right on the edge of Versluis Lake, Blue Water Grill boasts what they like to call “Down to Earth dining”. Part of the established Gilmore Collection of restaurants, the menu ranges from wood-fire pizza to fish entrees. Many dishes even incorporate produce from their lakeside garden, so every aspect of your meal will feel fresh!
6. Graydon’s Crossing
Location: 1223 Plainfield Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI
Website: www.graydonscrossing.com
Graydon’s Crossing brings the atmosphere of a traditional English pub to West Michigan. Take advantage of the 46 beers that they have on tap, including an extensive collection of imported beers. If you’re not into the beer scene, switch it up and go for their globally inspired brunch on the weekend. Whichever you do, enjoy your time on the courtyard patio!
7. Founders Brewing Co.
Location: 235 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI
Website: foundersbrewing.com
If you’re in Grand Rapids, then it’s always a good time to visit one of the city’s largest breweries! Nationally known as one of the best craft breweries, Founders is a great place to stop by for a pint. Pair that with any of their Deli sandwiches and you’re set for a delightful experience. Founders has a large patio/beer garden with it’s own bar, expansive seating, and firepits. There’s no better place to hang out and drink some amazing beer!
Regardless of where you go, summer is a season anyone can enjoy here in Grand Rapids! If you want suggestions on other things you can do in the warm weather, check out our article on improving your home’s curb appeal this summer.