Sawyer is a cute town in Berrien County, MI just east of Red Arrow Highway that is seeing some rapid growth of new businesses. It is a short drive from Union Pier, Lakeside and Harbert. I always make a point to stop while I am in the area as there are new restaurants, shops, coffee shops, galleries and markets being added frequently. My recent finds include:
Infusco Coffee Roasters: Just off of Sawyer Rd is a coffee roaster, featuring single-source coffee, which is a good spot for caffeine before hitting the nearby wine trail. I was back recently on a Sunday morning, and it is still great.
Sawyer Garden Center: A great farmer’s market and specialty food store with craft beers and wine. They also feature plants and flowers, garden products, seasonal decor, paper products, gifts and apparel.
Opened since I was last in town is Susan’s Restaurant near the Garden Center at 5851 Sawyer Rd. It comes highly recommended by my local friends. It is a upscale spot with a creative menu.
Greenbush Brewing Company: The hot spot in town is this microbrewery that features 14 artisanal ales and stouts and a number of seasonal offerings. Be prepared for large crowds. There is a large tap room for tasting and eating one of their soups or sandwiches. I was recently back for lunch with local friends on the way home to Chicago from Ann Arbor, MI. The have a large outdoor patio which is very popular in the warmer months.
Their Annex has moved across the street next to the taproom. It has a small cafe offering beers, cheeses and charcuterie. You can also buy their beer and merchandise.
Another local friend recommends several other spots.
Transforming the former The Peasant’s Pantry space at 12856 Red Arrow Hwy. the owners have opened The Historian Cocktail Lounge. This is a cocktail lounge which also has a menu of small bites, food and desserts. I am excited to try it on my next trip.
Located in an iconic 1920’s Shell service station, Out There is a wine bar and retail shop. Here you can have a glass of wine and oysters on the patio or enjoy a casual meal of seasonal plates. Their store also features beer, wine, food items, flowers, books and records. 12312 Red Arrow Hwy.
Falactics Meat Market for meats, seafood, cheese, sauces, spices and desserts. It has been in the community for over 48 years. 12236 Red Arrow Hwy.
There are also a number of art galleries in town.
Hindley Fine Art: If open, check out the studio and gallery of artist for paintings, drawings, sculpture and furniture by artist Joe Hindley. It is immediately across from the Sawyer Garden Center and behind Go Fish. I have bought several pieces in the past.
Sojourn: At 12908 Red Arrow Highway in Sawyer is Sojourn, a great store featuring vintage finds and designer home accessories.
Fritz Olsen Sculptures: At 6914 West Holloway Drive in Sawyer, this lovely gallery, sculpture garden and studio features fine art and the sculptures of Fritz Olsen.
Catherine Doll Fashion for Green Living: Located in the old Sawyer Fire Station at 5844 Sawyer Rd. The store features unique clothing designs by artist Catherine Doll who creates creative tops, jackets and skirts for women.
