There's something about enjoying a meal with a water view that really elevates an evening out. It doesn't hurt when the restaurant is also serving up delicious food and one-of-a-kind vibes!

👇BELOW: LOCALS SAY THESE ARE TEN MUST-VISIT WATERFRONT RESTAURANTS IN THE GRAND RAPIDS AREA👇

Where's your favorite waterfront dining destination in the Grand Rapids area? One of my favorites will always be Rose's on Reeds Lake.

Roses on Reeds Lake via Facebook
Roses on Reeds Lake via Facebook
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It's become a must-visit when my family is in town, not just for its picturesque spot on Reed's Lake, but for its menu. My brother and sister-in-law are vegetarian and absolutely love the meat free options there, plus my nieces can be picky, but even they find something they like! And the root chips appetizer with those yummy dips are a big hit with everyone at the table!

READ MORE: Michigan Hotspot Scores No. 1 Summer Destination in America 4 Years Running

Of course, a night out in downtown Grand Rapids is always a good time! I've been meaning to go to MDRD since it opened. The Spanish-inspired eatery sits high atop the Amway Grand Plaza, offering scenic views of the City and of the Grand River.

Want to really feel like you're on vacation? At The Score, a sandy beach with palm trees, live music, tons of craft beer options and good eats await!

The Score via Facebook
The Score via Facebook
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If you'd love your next meal out to be on the water, great news: I've found ten restaurants around Grand Rapids that locals love.

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Experience Grand Rapids posted to Facebook, asking which waterfront eateries are residents' favorites. I sifted through them and found the restaurants with multiple mentions. Here are the top picks and what’s on their menus! Some are a little outside Grand Rapids proper, but just short drive away.

Looking for more great local places to grab a bite?

👇Keep reading to discover all the new restaurants that have opened in West Michigan so far this year 👇

Grand Rapids' Waterfront Dining Guide: 10 Local Favorites You Need to Try

Like to do your dining lakeside (or riverside)? A waterfront view can take a meal from great to exceptional.

Here are ten waterfront restaurants in the Grand Rapids area that residents told Experience Grand Rapids are their favorites.

Gallery Credit: Janna

The Ultimate List of New West Michigan Restaurants in 2026

Looking for new restaurants to try in West Michigan in 2026?

From Grand Rapids to Holland, Cascade, Grandville, and East Grand Rapids, a variety of restaurants have opened so far this year, and this gallery keeps track of them all.

You’ll find fresh sandwiches, Caribbean and Indian cuisine, Cajun and seafood boils, late-night bites, comfort food, pizza, and more.

Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a family-friendly dinner, a salad bar, or a late-night snack, there is something new for every taste. This gallery will be updated throughout the year as more restaurants open, so check back often to see what is new and worth trying!

Gallery Credit: Janna

What’s New to Eat? 45+ West Michigan Restaurants That Opened in 2025

Looking to explore West Michigan’s booming restaurant scene? More than 40 new dining destinations opened in 2025 across Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Wyoming, Hudsonville, and Holland—and the list keeps growing!

From fresh bakeries and authentic Mexican restaurants to Cajun eateries, burger joints, Vietnamese spots, vegan places, a footlong hot dog establishment, and even a beloved Grand Rapids breakfast and lunch favorite brought back to life, there’s something for every taste. Don’t miss the new bars and food trucks shaking things up too!

Gallery Credit: Janna

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