New Restaurants in Muskegon, Michigan

Despite the dismal reports about Michigan's economic status, Muskegon has managed to welcome three new restaurants into the community. All of these restaurants are independently owned with their own unique flair and personality.

Bonfire (on Henry Street in the former space of the Sardine Room)

Bonfire gets top ratings from me for food, service and overall ambiance. It is a very small facility, so it can get crowded at times. Nevertheless, the extremely comfortable environment and great food makes it well worth the wait. Bonfire specializes in sandwiches, gourmet hot dogs and pasta. They are possibly most known for their spicy cole slaw, frips (a cross between chips and fries) and their creative barbecue sandwiches such as the Big Lebowski - my favorite (made of pulled barbecue chicken, coleslaw, provolone cheese and thousand island dressing). The Bonfire is a good choice for date night, a special celebration or a guys/girls night out. Their prices are extremely reasonable with most entrees being under $15. Guests dining at Bonfire can sit in the bar section (where there are a couple of televisions) or one of their dining sections (one with a cozy fireplace). The Bonfire does not require reservations, nonetheless, reservations are recommended for larger parties.

The 4-1-1 Bistro/Lounge (in the lower level of the Frauenthal Theater)

One of the newest restaurants to the area, the 4-1-1 is known for food, fun and entertainment. Nearly every night of the week, diners at the 4-1-1 can enjoy some sort of entertainment. Presently, the restaurant features ballroom dancing on Wednesdays, poetry/open mic on Thursday and live performances on both Friday and Saturday. The 4-1-1 repertoire includes a number of southern menu items and recipes such as fried chicken, rice dressing and gumbo. In addition to their southern dishes, the 4-1-1 serves a variety of salads and sandwiches along with steak, salmon and pasta entrees (all for under $15). No matter the menu choice, the 4-1-1 serves hefty portions with lots of homemade taste and flavor. With a cascading waterfall and romantic lighting, the 4-1-1 is a good place to take a date or significant other. It is also a fun place for groups, clubs or friends to gather.

The Lake House Waterfront Grille (next to the Shoreline Inn in the former Rafferty's building)

Offering beautiful views of Muskegon Lake, the Lake House Waterfront Grille is an ideal locale for birthday, anniversary or other special celebrations. This fine dining establishment serves an array of tasty dishes including salads, burgers, pastas, steak and fish entrees. Finish the evening with one of their specialty desserts such as a chocolate truffle torte or slice of red velvet cake. The Lake House Waterfront Grille is conveniently located next door to the Shoreline Inn and a short walk from the Holiday Inn downtown.

References/Resources:

Bonfire - Muskegon
The 4-1-1 Bistro/Lounge
Lake House Grille