Tavern on the River sets grand opening date

ST. JOSEPH, Mich.—The restaurant at 600 Fishermans Road, right on the St. Joseph River, will open for business under new ownership and with a new look on April 12.

Co-owner Jordan Gottlieb took over the business, formerly known as On the River Tavern, in February and restored the restaurant in preparation for the April grand opening.

“We look forward to treating the community like family,” Gottlieb, who owns the restaurant with his wife, Amanda, said.

Gottlieb said the restaurant’s former owners shut down the business in late 2019 due to flooding and intended to reopen. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the owners kept the restaurant doors closed throughout all of 2020.  

In February, Gottlieb took over the business, renamed it Tavern on the River and gave the restaurant a whole new look.

With 122 seats outside, the restaurant is a prime spot for taking in the marina’s views.

The boater-friendly restaurant will be open year-round and offer both indoor and outdoor dining options.

Menu items include fresh seafood specials, smashburgers, pizzas and more. The restaurant also boasts a full bar that will feature rotating options from local breweries and wineries.  

On Wednesdays from 5:30 to 8 p.m., starting May 12, Dave Van Dyke will perform live music on the deck.

Gottlieb said that COVID-19 safety precautions will be in place, including the use of face masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing.

The Tavern on the River will be open starting April 12, Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The restaurant will be closed Sundays for the time being but it will eventually be open seven days per week.