LOCATION: NORTHERN INDIANA COUNTY: KOSCIUSKO
WEBSITE: VISITKOSCIUSKOCOUNTY.ORG ABOUT: ENJOY PLENTY OF DINING OPTIONS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES BY THE LAKE.
Kosciusko County is home to more than 100 lakes, so it’s no wonder people travel to the area to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities, especially on the water. There are plenty of options, including rentals, for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle- boarding, and so much more.
But one of our favorite past times—dining—can be enjoyed the same way: outside and on the water.
The county calls these restaurants their “fresh air flavor” and although they’re open year- round, their warm weather seating options are noteworthy. Some will have you viewing spectacular lakes, including Indiana’s largest natural lake. Some will have you people- watching, coming in after a day on the water. But no matter your choice, the food itself is rivaled only by the view.
Located right on Lake Wawasee, at the Oakwood Resort, is the Pier & Back Porch. Their outdoor dining space overlooks the marina and it’s a favorite spot to watch the sunset. Also on Wawasee is The Frog Tavern, offering lunch, dinner, and some of the best late-night entertainment in the area. Visitors can arrive by car, foot, or boat.
Sitting literally on the channel between Lake Wawasee and Syracuse Lake is another favorite— The Channel Marker—that serves up family-friendly sandwiches and hand-helds, along with an extensive offering of steak and seafood. Their outdoor tiki bar is a great place to listen to live music.
In North Webster, the Lakeview Restaurant offers a casual dining experience on Webster Lake, home of the Dixie Sternwheeler.
The Village of Winona Lake has three great options, including the signature BoatHouse Restaurant. Considered “upscale casual,” this eatery boasts some of the best views of Winona Lake; in fact, sitting at a window seat puts you just above the water, and many patrons feel like they’re literally eating on a boat. Also in the Village is the Garden at Cerulean, an Asian- inspired restaurant with outdoor cooking area and entertainment, and Light Rail Café & Roaster, a quaint café with open air deck seating and screened-in porch.
While not actually “on the water,” Spike’s Beach Grill offers a total beach vibe, including a sand volleyball court. They are self- proclaimed to be “One of the Best Beach Bars in Indiana.”
For more information, go to www.visitkosciuskocounty.org
