BENTWOOD

MEET ME AT THE TAVERN

With a fresh redesign in 2023, Bentwood evokes all the cozy, low-light vibes of your favorite neighborhood watering hole—with a couple exceptions. One, it’s kinda gorgeous. And two, the food is delicious.

Okay, yes, you can get a burger and fries here. Bacon onion jam, pickled onion, fontina, and a tangy housemade sauce make it next level. And of course, there’s fish & chips. Generous cuts of cod dipped in the tavern’s signature beer batter (shout out to local brewer Seedz) served with pickled ramp tartar sauce and thick handcut fries. But explore beyond that, and the menu is a savory offering of elevated comfort foods designed to be shared. The kind of stuff you eat slowly, over long conversations and a couple of drinks.

As most of us expect at this point, everything is fresh and locally sourced. Among requisite savory roast chicken and flat-iron steak dishes, vegetables are embraced, and seafood is celebrated. Like mussels steamed in a signature cider and oyster butter broth served with thick slices of crusty sourdough for dipping. Or a surprisingly crave-worthy oat groat risotto rich with foraged mushrooms, lemon sofrito, and hazelnut butter. Come for a bite or multi-course supper. In true tavern spirit, Bentwood’s a friendly stop that tempts a lengthier hang. And that’s cool with them.

Given its marina-front setting, there’s a fun alter-ego situation at Bentwood. As you emerge from tavern to patio, you’re suddenly confronted with quintessential Lake Michigan shore summer. Boats, boardwalk, and the sandy, on-holiday energy of folks fresh off the beach. Same menu and service, but truly a choose-your-own-adventure.

Local Tip: Don’t sleep on brunch! Served on weekends in the chilly season and every day in summer, it’s an off-the-beaten-path favorite among locals.

words Collette DiJohn Kemper
images Daniel Kelleghan, Justes Kemper
updated Sept 18, 2024