In nice weather, all I want out of a restaurant is a landscaped patio (hello, Leed’s, Brewster’s and Shady Creek). In winter, I look for cozy and warm, and that means a fireplace. Here are a few of my area favorites, whether gas, log or ethanol.

Brewster’s. This longtime New Buffalo mainstay ticks all the boxes: A light-filled atrium for those craving some natural vitamin D, a fireplace, and great Italian food.

Brewery Lodge. This edge-of-Michigan City-restaurant owned by the Zorn people has solid food and service, though I’ve never heard raves, exactly. The fireplace and dark woods in the dining room make it an excellent winter choice, however.

Dablon Winery. This tasting room in Buchanan has windows that overlook rolling vineyards and some award-winning dry wine. A massive stone fireplace brings the cozy. Note that food is limited to packaged cheese plates.

Shady Creek. The back room of this Michigan City winery, looking out over beautifully landscaped grounds, features a fireplace. I can’t say I love the wines here, but the food (flatbreads, salads) is pretty good and I can always find at least one dry wine to drink. This is a spot if you like lots of natural light, as opposed to a dark-wood-lodge setting.

The Living Room Café at the Marina Grand Resort in New Buffalo.
Even without the fireplace, this is a terrific spot for a business chat or catch-up with a friend. You know when you’re meeting someone at, say, 3 p.m. and don’t know whether you want a coffee or a glass of wine? Problem solved here, as both are available.

Alan Ray’s at Commune Marketplace in Three Oaks. A small outpost of the popular Galien sandwich spot Ray & Al’s features coffee, pastries and breakfast sandwiches, along with comfy leather couches and a fireplace.

Barn Dogg. This rustic Union Pier bar has a nice fireplace and comfy leather furniture and serves up wine, draft beer and cocktails. A coffee lounge adjoining the bar serves up breakfast foods that can also be eaten in the bar. But Barn Dogg is on winter break til mid-February, so call ahead before making a trip later this winter.

Want to see a list of winter closures? They’re here.