Situated between Lake Michigan and the Galien River, New Buffalo is a popular tourist destination for a plethora of reasons. People come from all over to take in the towering sand dunes against the backdrop of the shimmering beaches of Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy boating and watersports galore, pass the afternoons fishing and golfing, and browse any number of shops and art galleries. But at the end of the day, it’s the food that matters. And New Buffalo has no shortage of fantastic restaurants that are not only local favorites, but which keep vacationers satisfied and coming back for more.
PostBoy
Address: 207 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
The brand new PostBoy is making big waves right off the shores of New Buffalo. Over three years in the making, this restaurant is the collaboration between entrepreneur Ben Holland and partner Chef/Restaurateur James Galbraith, who both dreamed of opening a restaurant in New Buffalo, an area which both hold dear. The relaxed atmosphere of Postboy belies its sophisticated cuisine, so expect excellent food without a lot of pretense.
Since its soft opening in November of 2024, PostBoy has been wowing its customers with a diverse menu, adventurous cocktails, and ambience that can’t be beat. The menu is replete with an array of global flavors, from their battered fries to their smoked chamoy wings, and each dish is a surprising delight for the palette. Reviewers comment on the “absolute vibe” of PostBoy and call the food nothing short of “spectacular”. PostBoy even offers gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options with a couple creative n/a beverages from the bar to boot. Make a reservation, enjoy the excellent service, and don’t be surprised if an Amtrak train sidles up next to you during your entrée.
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Redamak’s
Address: 616 E Buffalo St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
If the big red Redamak’s sign looks familiar, it’s because you saw it featured in Netflix’s animated film The Mitchell’s Vs. The Machines. Turns out this restaurant is famous for a reason. Located in the heart of New Buffalo, Redamak’s is a cash-only burger joint (with an ATM on site) that has been a fan-favorite since 1975. Their legendary burgers keep Redamak’s full of eager customers, some who have driven across multiple states to enjoy their famous fare.
Slide into a red leather booth and relax in the family-friendly environment for lunch or dinner. Redamak’s is all about accommodating its guests, and it has multiple dining rooms, so you can expect little-to-no wait when you visit. It offers special event dining as well, so consider Redamak’s for any kind of large gathering or family reunion. Their ambience and local fare will not disappoint. (Note that Redamak’s is open 8 months a year, between March and October.)
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Brewster’s
Address: 245 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
If upscale dining with a creative flair in a relaxed atmosphere is what you’re after, Brewster’s New Buffalo will deliver. Located in downtown New Buffalo, Brewster’s New Buffalo puts a contemporary spin on traditional Italian fare. From Ny Strip to Tikki Masala, and a wide variety of pizzas, as well as an intoxicating array of cocktails, Brewter’s literally has something for everyone.
And that’s not all. Brewster’s is open for brunch and lunch and offers an eclectic and inviting menu for all, including vegetarians, vegans and the gluten-sensitive. According to one reviewer, “The restaurant is quaint, intimate, and inviting…the food is scrumptious and the service was great.” Another points to Brewster’s “Beautiful and cozy outdoor setting for a dinner with friends.” Brewster’s is kid-friendly and offers catering and event dining in their wine room. Seating is on a reservation basis, so make sure to reserve your spot so that you don’t have to wait.
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Terrace Room
Address: 111 W Water St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
The Terrace Room at Harbor Grand Hotel is a waterfront Italian restaurant in New Buffalo and a local Harbor Country favorite. Known for its rustic Italian fare and charming and serene outdoor patio, this highly touted restaurant dazzles with its warmly lit, intimate interior and its excellent service. The homemade pasta is a win, and guests can delight in a curated wine list and a fireside setting.
When dining at The Terrace Room, you can rest assured that the ingredients are sustainably and locally sourced, as the restaurant prides itself on supporting the local agriculture of southern Michigan. According to The Terrace Room’s website, they “partner with local farms and makers to source regional ingredients including meat, cheese, produce, beer, wine and spirits.” No wonder you have to make a reservation to get a spot at this extraordinary New Buffalo spot.
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The Stray Dog
Address: 245 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
While in New Buffalo, don’t forget to stop at The Stray Dog Bar & Grill on Whittaker St. for a delicious meal in a casual setting. After a day at the beach, you can enjoy the ultimate happy hour food and great cocktails by a fireplace or on the famed rooftop with stunning views. Reviewers love the “great pub food and service, deep fried cheese curds, fish sandwiches and beers!” that The Stray Dog is famous for.
If you’re in the mood for chips and salsa with guacamole, The Stray Dog has got you. Their signature tacos will keep you coming back, along with the warm and inviting atmosphere. They even have a specialty crafted kids menu! This New Buffalo staple is a perfect place for meeting up with family and friends for an unforgettable meal, as it has something for everyone and is reasonably priced to boot.
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Brentwood Tavern
Address: 600 W Water St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
When in Michigan, why not sample the locally crafted beers at Brentwood Tavern, a favorite for waterfront dining in New Buffalo, located dockside in the Marina Grand Resort. This famed restaurant offers locally sourced, elevated tavern food for folks looking for a new take on traditional bar food. Their craft cocktails and proudly poured pints are a highlight, but the menu is what keeps The Brentwood Tavern at the top of the list of places to dine in New Buffalo.
As a starter, guests can savor their Black Truffle Frites, followed by the Wood Fire Drenched Feta or Cider Steamed Mussels small plates. For the traditionalists, you can get your fish & chips as well as a backbar burger as an entrée and have your choice of any number of salacious desserts. Not to mention, The Brentwood Tavern is open for breakfast and lunch, so there is much to enjoy throughout the day.
Like most New Buffalo restaurants, The Brentwood Tavern is kid-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about getting a sitter or ordering in. And the outdoor seating is ample and extremely pleasant. The Brentwood Tavern does take reservations, so consider calling ahead, especially in the high tourist season.
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