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The Butler

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Historic inn turned family-run eatery offering American fare with breathtaking harbor views. Perfect for romantic dinners or casual meals.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Dining Room

The Butler

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic inn turned family-run eatery offering American fare with breathtaking harbor views. Perfect for romantic dinners or casual meals.

"The views are phenomenal, but the food quality was disappointing."

TIP

Request Balcony Seating

For the best views, try to get a table on the balcony overlooking the harbor.

Ask for Recommendations

Staff are happy to suggest their favorite dishes if you're unsure what to order.

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Quick Facts

Open·Closes 9PM

Cuisine

American

Price

$$$

Phone

(269) 857-3501

Address

40 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Waterfront Views

Stunning Waterfront Views

Dine with a beautiful backdrop of Lake Michigan, perfect for a leisurely meal or special occasion.

Signature Butler Burger

Signature Butler Burger

A local favorite, this burger is renowned for its delicious taste and generous toppings.

Things to Do In Saugatuck Michigan - Where to Eat, Drink, Stay & More!Google Review
Live Music and Lively Atmosphere

Live Music and Lively Atmosphere

Enjoy live performances on the outdoor patio, especially during the summer months.

Saugatuck Blog Archives - Page 2 of 4First-Timer’s Guide To Summer in Saugatuck/DouglasThings to Do In Saugatuck Michigan - Where to Eat, Drink, Stay & More!
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Butler, Saugatuck Michigan #saugatuck #michigan #RestaurantReview #michiganrestaurants #westmichigan #grandrapids #michigancheck #restaurant
@michiganwmarissa
197 likes • 12.2K views

Request Balcony Seating

For the best views, try to get a table on the balcony overlooking the harbor.

Ask for Recommendations

Staff are happy to suggest their favorite dishes if you're unsure what to order.

#ServiceSurprise #Saugatuck #thebutler ##MichiganEats #SupportLocal #WaterfrontDining #HiddenGems #YumYum #TravelAndTaste #FoodieAdventure#fyp #foodreview #foryoupage @foryourpage
@serversurprise
43 likes • 1.4K views
Lunch with a view at The Butler in Saugatuck, MI 🌊⛵️ The perfect mix of good food + gorgeous scenery—definitely worth the visit! #SaugatuckMichigan #PureMichigan #FoodieFinds #TravelVibes #LunchWithAView
@jodies.jems
51 likes • 1.6K views

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

To avoid long waits, consider dining when it's less busy.

Gluten-Free Options Available

The Butler offers gluten-free choices for those with dietary needs.

The Butler left us speechless! Some of the best dinner and dessert we’ve ever had! #MidMichigan #MichiganEats #GoodEats #Saugatuck #FiletMignon
@midmichiganmoments
195 likes • 18.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Request Balcony Seating

For the best views, try to get a table on the balcony overlooking the harbor.

Ask for Recommendations

Staff are happy to suggest their favorite dishes if you're unsure what to order.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

To avoid long waits, consider dining when it's less busy.

Gluten-Free Options Available

The Butler offers gluten-free choices for those with dietary needs.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Butler offers a prime waterfront dining experience with stunning views that are frequently praised. While many patrons enjoy the burgers, seafood, and unique appetizers like street corn bruschetta, some reviews mention inconsistent food quality and disappointing value for certain dishes. Service can also be a point of contention, with some experiencing excellent attention while others report significant issues.

"Excellent experience! Food was great- we had the walleye and the perch (we preferred the walleye), and beer choices were good and beer cold! We sat in the top tier and the view and breeze was fantastic. Server was attentive and friendly."

Laura croson

"The outdoor seating of the restaurant is a treat. You get a nice view of the lake and some of the cool boats and yachts.

The food tastes great as well and even better when paired with the scenery. The pretzel bites appetizers were warm and soft and served with cheese and honey mustard. The fish and chips were nice and hot out of the fryer as well. The pretzel burger was gigantic in size and very tasty and paired with some truffle french fries.

I would visit this place whenever I visited saugatuck because of the nice views of the outdoor seating and great food to enjoy it with."

Frank Chanthala

"We sat at the 2-story outside seating venue and it was awesome. The views are great no matter where you sit. We were on the 2nd story. Walleye was really fishy, had walleye the next day at a different restaurant and it was much better."

Samuel “Sam I Am” Kline

What People Like

Spectacular water and sunset views
Delicious burgers and unique appetizers
Friendly and attentive service (at times)

What People Dislike

Inconsistent food quality and high prices
Poor service experiences
Disappointing drink quality and value

Frequently Asked Questions

Sunset is a particularly popular time to visit for the most spectacular views over the water. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.

Google Review+1

While not explicitly stated, given the popularity for views and potential for crowds, making a reservation or arriving early is advisable.

Yes, The Butler features outdoor seating, including a popular patio and upper deck, which offers fantastic views.

Things to Do In Saugatuck Michigan - Where to Eat, Drink, Stay & More!Google Review

Popular choices include the Butler Burger, crab cake sandwiches, street corn bruschetta, and pizzas like the raspberry goat cheese pizza.

Google Review+1

Yes, gluten-free options are available, and substitutions like veggie burgers are possible.

Google Review

Live entertainment is often featured, especially from Memorial Day through Labor Day on the outdoor patio.

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