
Sonny D's Bar & Grill
A welcoming bar & grill known for generous portions, a cozy fireplace atmosphere, and a lively speakeasy downstairs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Sonny D's Bar & Grill

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A welcoming bar & grill known for generous portions, a cozy fireplace atmosphere, and a lively speakeasy downstairs.
Visit in Warmer Months
The restaurant tends to be lively and bustling during warmer periods.
Sunroom Seating
Opt for the front sunroom for an experience that feels like dining outdoors.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Generous Portions
Hearty, large portions ensure you'll have delicious leftovers to savor later.

Cozy Atmosphere
A warm and inviting space, perfect for a laid-back dining experience with a fireplace.

Speakeasy Vibes
Explore a hidden speakeasy downstairs with live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit in Warmer Months
The restaurant tends to be lively and bustling during warmer periods.
Sunroom Seating
Opt for the front sunroom for an experience that feels like dining outdoors.
Bar Drink Prices
Be aware that downtown Chicago drink prices apply at the bar.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit in Warmer Months
The restaurant tends to be lively and bustling during warmer periods.
Sunroom Seating
Opt for the front sunroom for an experience that feels like dining outdoors.
Bar Drink Prices
Be aware that downtown Chicago drink prices apply at the bar.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sonny D's Bar & Grill offers a generally positive dining experience with delicious, generously portioned food and a cozy atmosphere. While many praise the friendly service and inviting ambiance, some reviews point to inconsistent service quality and surprisingly high drink prices at the bar. The speakeasy downstairs is a unique draw, adding to the restaurant's appeal.
"We were there in a drizzly Friday night and well taken care of by Pat. Very friendly and good conversation. Did a couple Italian plates for dinner. The Chicken Parmigiana and a shrimp pasta with a little kick. So good, nice sized portion! I can see this place hopping during the warmer months! Also a speak easy downstairs with music and cocktails!"
T Podg
"Went on a Saturday evening in summer. Was busy, but no wait. Service was good and fast. Potato cakes for appetizers were a favorite. Creamy pesto pasta was a favorite entree for the table. Burgers were a solid choice as well. Spaghetti and meatballs was a good kid option. Large portions for everything."
Ron Folkens
"I'm really torn here. The food was good. Sonny looked to be a really happy chap. The atmosphere is nice. The seating in the Speakeasy is comfy. The service upstairs and down stairs was bad to really bad. We gave up on table service downstairs and just went to the bar. Upstairs I think we just drew an uninterested server. The food was good. A lot of potential. I hope we just were unlucky."
Kevin Werner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers rave about the Chicken Parmigiana, creamy pesto pasta, Bavarian pretzels, and burgers. The chicken giardiniera sandwich is also highly recommended.
The restaurant has a warm and cozy atmosphere, with a sunroom and a unique speakeasy downstairs that sometimes features live music and offers a more intimate setting.
Yes, many reviewers mention that the portion sizes are generous, often leading to leftovers.
While food prices are considered reasonable for the portion size, some guests have noted that drink prices at the bar can be surprisingly high, comparable to downtown Chicago prices.
The downstairs speakeasy is described as an incredibly large space, perfect for large parties, graduation parties, or rehearsal dinners.
While not explicitly detailed in the provided information, one review suggested adding gluten-free/dietary symbols to the menu.
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15 Best Restaurants in New Buffalo, MI | Blog
Sonny D’s is a no-frills, family-owned bar and grill serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for its friendly service and hearty portions, it’s especially popular for breakfast classics, burgers, and homemade soups. It’s a favorite among year-round residents and offers consistent quality.
Destination New Buffalo, Michigan
In downtown New Buffalo you will find Casey’s Bar and Grill and The Stray Dog Bar & Grill near the water with rooftop dining. David’s Delicatessen & Coffee is a good spot for coffee and sandwiches at 30 N.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit