Get ready to sink your teeth into the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan — where every bite tells a story of local pride, lakeside charm, and sizzling flavor. From New Buffalo’s iconic Redamak’s to hidden gems like Sonny D’s, Harbor Country serves up a burger scene that rivals anywhere in the Midwest. Whether you crave classic diner nostalgia or gourmet seaside flair, this guide to the best burgers near New Buffalo will take you on a delicious road trip through Michigan’s tastiest corner.
🥇 Redamak’s – The Icon📍 New Buffalo | redamaks.com You can’t talk about the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan without Redamak’s. Since 1946, they’ve served fresh-ground patties dripping with melted Velveeta in a retro, family-friendly setting. Pro tip: Cash only and seasonal (typically March–October) — plan your best burgers near New Buffalo crawl accordingly. |
🥈 The Stray Dog Bar & Grill – The Crowd Favorite📍 New Buffalo Waterfront | thestraydog.com Rooftop harbor views and memory-making burgers. The Stray Dog Burger and Mushroom Swiss anchor any Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan tour — especially at sunset with a local craft beer. |
🥉 Sonny D’s Bar & Grill – The Local Legend📍 Downtown New Buffalo | sonnyds.com No frills, just flavor. Big, juicy, two-hand burgers locals love. Try the Bacon Cheddar BBQ Burger or build your own — a staple among the best burgers near New Buffalo and a solid entry in the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan. |
🍔 Bentwood Tavern – The Gourmet Contender📍 Marina Grand Resort, New Buffalo | bentwoodtavern.com The Bentwood Burger layers high-quality beef, melted cheese, and fresh produce on a toasted brioche bun. A refined pick in the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan lineup — perfect for date night by the water. |
🍟 Schoop’s Hamburgers – The Classic Road-Trip Stop📍 Michigan City, IN (15 minutes south) | schoophamburgers.com Retro diner, crispy-edged smash burgers, old-school fountain drinks. A quick hop for burger purists chasing the best burgers near New Buffalo — and a must on any Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan list. |
🏁 Final Verdict
Harbor Country’s burger scene hits every note — from the melty nostalgia of Redamak’s to the chef-driven polish of Bentwood Tavern. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat guest staying at Copper Top Ridge, planning a little “Battle of the Burgers” crawl is one of the best ways to taste the region.
Each stop brings something unique: lakeside ambiance at The Stray Dog, local camaraderie at Sonny D’s, gourmet refinement at Bentwood, and old-school authenticity at Schoop’s. Together, they prove why this corner of Michigan easily earns its reputation for the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan.
🍔 What Makes a Great Harbor Country Burger?
The secret to a standout burger along Lake Michigan is more than the beef — it’s the balance between nostalgia and creativity. Most of these kitchens use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, simple seasoning, and classic cooking methods like flat-top searing.
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Fresh-ground patties: Almost every restaurant on this list grinds its own beef or works with a local butcher.
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Real cheese & buns that matter: From Velveeta at Redamak’s to brioche at Bentwood, cheese and bread choices define each experience.
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Personality: Every spot reflects a little of Harbor Country’s charm — casual, unpretentious, and quietly obsessed with flavor.
🌅 Make It a Weekend
Turn your Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan quest into a full getaway. Stay nearby at Copper Top Ridge, just minutes from downtown New Buffalo and the beach. Pair your burger adventure with local brews, wineries, or a sunset over the marina.
If you’re visiting in summer, arrive early — lines can wrap around the block at Redamak’s and The Stray Dog — but every bite will be worth it.
🏡 Where to Stay Near the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan
After you’ve tackled your Harbor Country burger tour, unwind in comfort at Copper Top Ridge —
a modern cottage retreat just minutes from New Buffalo’s top restaurants and beaches.
Enjoy a private hot tub, firepit, and forest views — everything you need for the perfect weekend getaway.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan
Q: Where can I find the best burgers in Southwest Michigan?
A: Harbor Country is home to some of the Best Burgers in Southwest Michigan, with top contenders like Redamak’s and The Stray Dog in New Buffalo, Sonny D’s Bar & Grill downtown, Bentwood Tavern at Marina Grand Resort, and Schoop’s Hamburgers just over the Indiana line.
Q: What is the most famous burger in New Buffalo, Michigan?
A: Without a doubt, the Redamak’s Burger — made fresh since 1946 and known as “The Hamburger That Made New Buffalo Famous.” It’s a must-stop for any foodie road trip through Southwest Michigan.
Q: Are any of these burger spots open year-round?
A: Most New Buffalo restaurants, like The Stray Dog, operate seasonally from spring through fall, but Sonny D’s Bar & Grill and Schoop’s Hamburgers are typically open all year, offering locals and visitors a warm burger fix even in the winter months.
Q: Can I get vegetarian or vegan burgers in Harbor Country?
A: Yes! While classic beef dominates the region’s burger fame, several spots like Bentwood Tavern and The Stray Dog Bar & Grill offer veggie or plant-based options, often featuring Beyond or house-made patties.
Q: What pairs best with a Southwest Michigan burger?
A: You can’t go wrong with a local craft beer or a Michigan-made cider. If you’re making a weekend of it, explore nearby wineries and breweries — or plan breakfast the next day with our Best Breakfast in New Buffalo guide.