Our adventure started on a sunny day in September when, after a day of biking on the west side of the state, my friend and I found ourselves walking along the pier in Saugatuck; sitting on a tucked away bar patio was a vivacious local...sipping an Aperol spritz (that perfectly matched her hair) and when asked for a restaurant recommendation she gushed: Coast 236! We were able to get a seat inside because it was 6 p.m. but noticed the restaurant very shortly filled so think reservations would be a good idea.
Mindy, one of the owners, enveloped us in a warm welcome and smile that one could see and feel despite the mask. There were moodily lit booths but we opted for the simple and naturally light filled room en route to the beautiful and lush patio. The acoustics allowed for ambient, non intrusive conversation from other tables and the exceptional handmade stoneware and perfect glasses seemed designed with our delight in mind....the perfect backdrop for the main attraction - the food. We chose a deliciously juicy bottle of Elk Cove Pinot Rose from the Willamette Valley to go with the burrata/tomato jam and the tuna crudo. These appetizers were perfectly balanced, incredibly delicious and visually appealing - in truth, it took control for us not to lick out plates. We shared the halibut, caesar salad and a sweetcorn risotto that was divine. The dessert was admittedly unnecessary but we were determined to have a full sampling of the menu and were not disappointed with the local peaches and goat cheese! in the bread pudding. Chef Rick Bower came out to greet us, at Mindy's request, and his passion for fresh, local food (and his farm and family) was obvious as was his pleasure in our enjoyment. The concept of this restaurant seems to be providing a whole body experience of warmth, pleasure and nourishment and, in my opinion, they thoroughly succeeded. It was, truly, a thoroughly enjoyable evening!More
