One of my favorite restaurants in Grand Rapids is part of the Gilmore Collection, called the Blue Water Grill. It’s in a lovely setting, on Versluis Lake on North Beltline.

The building is  Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired, with the straight lines and plethora of windows you’d expect. You make your entrance over a small gushing waterfall – even in winter, the koi are hardy!

Once you enter, you will be warmed by the fireplace and entranced by the décor – both artistic (including the enormous, floor to ceiling chimney for said fireplace) and natural – those huge windows provide oh, such a view. In the winter, the air seems crisp outside, and you’re grateful for the warmth inside. In the summer, enjoy the deck (make a reservation!) and the lake-in-the-city ambience. Don't miss the rest rooms, which are decorated mermaid-style - LOVE!

Winter view
 

Once you’re in, you can turn right and sit in the bar area, or left to the dining area. This is a very popular restaurant, so be sure to make a reservation. If loud restaurants bother you, dine early – the clean lines, wooden and glass walls, and high ceilings really don’t do anything to muffle the noise. There’s often a large crowd waiting for a table, so you don’t feel like you can sit back and relax.

The waitstaff is always friendly, and very helpful. The food is well-prepared and thoughtfully plated. Be sure to note their various specials, as they can be an excellent deal. We dined there recently and tried several of the $10 spring specials – the prime rib was perfect (although a steak knife would have been handy), and the walleye fingers were the best walleye I’ve had in this state. The sides are always yummy; try their root chips, or their onion slivers, both are delicious. We’ve also had sandwiches – our daughter loved the 5 cheese grilled cheese so much that she has been inspired to perfect the recipe at home. If you’re in the mood for wood-fired pizza, well, it’s amazing here. I can honestly say that everything I’ve eaten here, for many years, has been delicious.

Walleye Fingers

Shrimp Salad

Prime Rib

5 Cheese Grilled Cheese
 

Great food, friendly service, and an unbeatable view: Blue Water Grill.

Menu:

Blue Water Grill
5180 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Phone: (616) 363-5900
www.thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater.php

All photos courtesy and copyright Jessie Voigts