Where to Eat and Why

Welcome to the N3 Nibbler, our collaborative collection of the epicurean adventures to be had in our region. While not meant to be a comprehensive list of all area restaurants, nor intended to serve as reviews, we will endeavor to capture the flavor of  food options available to folks seeking sustenance.
Contributors to this gastronomical guide include N3 regulars Marianne Boerigter (MB), Charles Chandler (CC), Alexis Mercer (AM), Mollie Jo Swendrowski (MJ), Megan Wirts (MW),  Ken DeLaat (KD), and Mike Gesler (MG) along with  occasional guest appearances by friends who favor fine food.

NEWAYGO

Newaygo Brewing Co.

If you're looking for a fun brewery environment, but don't want to make the trip to Beer City USA, check out Newaygo Brewing Co. One of Newaygo County's newest residents, Newaygo Brewing pumps out delicious and unique brews that rival their equally delicious and unique artisan pizzas. Fear not, non-beer lovers! Their drink menu also includes hard cider and wine as well as root beer that is dangerously good with vanilla ice cream. MJ

GRANT

The Grant Depot

The Grant Depot is located in the historical train depot that served the area beginning in 1891 and was turned into the popular dining destination it is now in 1979. Stop in for breakfast and fill up on classics like the Train Wreck, a mix of eggs, hash browns and veggies, or a plate of fluffy pancakes. Lunch and dinner options abound as well, with giant homemade sandwiches and daily dinner specials, and don't forget about the deep fried pickles that are to die for! You will find something for the entire family. With a quaint, warm and family-friendly atmosphere decorated with train memorabilia and historical photographs, you can learn about the history of The Grant Depot and get a wonderful home cooked meal. Don't forget to grab a homemade pie or giant cookie on the way out! MW

WHITE CLOUD

Shamrock Bar and Grill

​Under new ownership and supported by a great kitchen and wait staff is the byword at the Shamrock Pub and Grill located at 1300 E 8th St. White Cloud. Modern new furnishings, large screen TVs and new carpet complete the makeover for this large, bright Michigan style roadhouse. The Shamrock has an attractive, well-stocked back bar, a good selection of beers on tap or by the bottle and new menu of your favorite pub grub. Try the pot of tots for a trip down memory lane. For a special dinner you can choose from a nice selection of interesting entrees or the daily special. A great place to turn off M37 as you are going to and from your up North weekend retreat or to while away those cold winter evenings arguing over your favorite Michigan team or discussing the political plot du jour. The Shamrock has a bandstand and nice size dance floor so check for the next booking. CC

FREMONT

Koffee Kuppe

Decorated inside with Newaygo County memorabilia and curios, Koffee Kuppe is a great stop for a caffeine fix, ice cream craving, or casual lunch or dinner in downtown Fremont. A friendly spot with specialty drinks and coffees, soups, salads, wraps, sandwiches and best of all....serving Hudsonville Ice Cream, a West Michigan finely crafted ice cream! MB

Lakes 23 Restaurant and Pub

Located between 2nd and 3rd Lakes (hence the name) at Waters Edge Golf Course in Fremont, Lakes 23 Restaurant and Pub has a full menu for dining, as well as tasty appetizers and drinks for a fun happy hour or get-together with friends. Enjoy a  stunning view of the lake and luscious green golf course while dining on steaks, salmon, perch, shrimp tacos, artisan burgers and sandwiches such as my favorite "Walleye Sammie"...a fun dining adventure! MB

Moondance Cafe

An area favorite for their breakfast items being served all day, Moondance Cafe also offers appetizers, soups, salads, stuffed hash browns, paninis, burgers, Mexican cuisine and unique dinner entrees. Outdoor seating is available for those nice weather days! Located on the west side of Fremont. MB

CROTON

Hit the Road Joe

Try the stuffed French toast. It really is unlike anything else you'll ever eat. There are other things on the menu, of course. For breakfast you could enjoy a sandwich, Eggs Benedict or old fashioned oatmeal to name a few. For lunch you could choose from paninis, Rubens, and wraps, all with fresh garden ingredients. Drinks are just as fun, with Italian sodas, lattes and juices to round out your meal or to be enjoyed alone while you soak in the homemade jewelry and artisan goods that adorn the walls. You can sit for hours enjoying the relaxing views and local feeling. But don’t forget your checkbook or cash as they do not accept credit cards. AM

Northern Trails

One of the most popular bar and restaurant combinations in Newaygo County, Northern Trails offers a wide variety of food and beverages. The menu offers everything from burgers to fish and shrimp as well as salads and pasta dishes. Karaoke starts at 9:00 every Friday and Saturday evening, providing entertainment for those who come from far and wide. When a fire destroyed the original building years ago, it was rebuilt to provide plenty of room in the new, larger building, making for quick seating with friendly and efficient wait staff. AM