Saugatuck’s appeal attracts Florida families to open new restaurant

Saugatuck’s charm has long attracted artists to its picturesque shores and now it’s attracting restaurateurs as well. Three Florida families will exchange the balmy climes for the opportunity to create a year-round eatery.

According to excerpts from the story:

Saugatuck’s Boat House restaurant will have a new name and “vibe” when it reopens this spring, said new general manager/executive chef Bill Murphy.

Murphy, part of a family that has purchased the 449 Water St. eatery, discussed plans for it Monday while seeking a liquor license transfer from old owners T&D Water St. Co. City council approved the transfer.

“We’ll be calling it Wicks Park Bar and Grille,” said Murphy. The lakefront park is across the street. “We will feature American cuisine—steaks, pasta, homemade desserts ...—that competes with anything downtown price-wise.”

He has worked in the restaurant business in Chicago, San Diego and Florida, from which he and the Pierces will move to operate their new Wicks Park Bar and Grille.

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