Restaurants
A Chef’s Guide to South Haven Area Dining
As passionate advocates for farm-to-table cuisine, we are delighted that the talented chefs of Southwest Michigan utilize the region's incredible produce and local products to create unique dining experiences.
Whether your evening calls for refined small plates or comforting dishes enjoyed with a view of the charming harbor, our curated list below includes our personal recommendations. To enhance your planning, we have highlighted those restaurants that wisely accept reservations during the busy summer months.
Tello’s Italian Bistro
Our go-to spot for date night! Tello's serves authentic Italian cuisine and boasts an impressive Italian wine list—it's the only place in town where you will find a Barolo. We love their comforting meatballs, focaccia with olive oil, and fresh salads. They are open year-round, but hours change seasonally. We suggest checking their website and calling ahead to confirm wait times.
(269) 639-9898
524 Phoenix Street
South Haven, MI 49090
The River Bottom
Nestled beneath the Black River Tavern, The River Bottom offers a cool, speakeasy vibe with occasional live music. The menu features excellent craft cocktails and inventive Mediterranean cuisine led by a Turkish Chef. Dishes are ideally suited for sharing and snacking, and the extensive offerings include many delightful vegetarian options. This intimate spot is perfect for a lively night out or a celebratory girls' weekend.
(269) 397-2991
267 Kalamazoo Street
South Haven, MI 49090
Salt of the Earth
A regional treasure located a scenic 15-20 minute drive away in Fennville, this restaurant is deeply committed to locally sourced food. Their menu boasts high-quality, inventive vegetarian and vegan options (even for dessert!). We highly recommend the signature Roasted Cauliflower entrée. Reservations are accepted and encouraged.
(269) 561-7258
114 East Main Street
Fennville, MI 49408
HawksHead Restaurant
A beautiful, traditional supper club located within a historic building on the tranquil Hawkshead Golf Course. The dining rooms provide a peaceful setting with quiet views of the surrounding wooded ravines. HawksHead is renowned for its perfectly executed menu, featuring their famous Lobster Bisque. This is the quintessential spot for a serene, refined dinner away from the bustle of town. Reservations are highly recommended, and they can accommodate larger groups with sufficient notice.
(269) 639-2121 ext. 1
523 Hawks Nest Drive
South Haven, MI 49090
Taste
Chef Joel brilliantly combines creativity and imagination to reinvent traditional dishes with a delightful culinary twist, offering an unparalleled dining experience in the area. Everything is made from scratch and prepared with the utmost freshness. They also specialize in highly creative seasonal martinis! Reservations are strongly recommended and should be made well in advance due to limited availability. Without a reservation, the wait can be long; however, they wisely reserve the bar area for walk-in business. We suggest putting your name in early, then enjoying a stroll downtown or down to the iconic South Haven lighthouse.
(269) 637-0010
402 Phoenix Street
South Haven, MI 4909
Root Cafe - Fennville
Root features an eclectic menu with a fusion of global ethnic influences, alongside many appealing vegetarian and vegan dishes. Beyond the cuisine, the cafe offers creative coffee drinks, cocktails, wines, and an art gallery featuring pottery, jewelry, and visual art. It is nearly impossible to leave with only a full stomach; we often bring home an irresistible piece of art! Generally open for lunch and dinner. Check their website for the most current hours and menus.
(269) 512-1171
120 East Main Street
Fennville, MI 49408
