Harrington's By The Bay

Nestled along the picturesque shores of West Bay in Traverse City, Harrington's By The Bay is a family-friendly restaurant, bar, and grill that flawlessly marries inviting ambiance with a tantalizing menu inspired by fresh, local flavors. This beloved dining destination has rightfully earned its reputation for delivering exceptional dishes that satisfy both classic tastes and adventurous palates alike.

Whether you're seating yourself indoors with views of the shimmering bay or soaking in the tranquil atmosphere from the spacious patio, Harrington's offers a warm, welcoming setting perfect for family dinners, casual meals with friends, or special celebrations. The service consistently receives high marks for attentiveness and genuine hospitality, adding a comforting personal touch to every visit.

The cuisine leans heavily on fresh seafood and hearty American favorites, delightfully prepared with a hint of coastal flair. Standout dishes like the Whitefish Sandwich, lightly battered and paired with house-made tartar sauce alongside a side of golden truffle fries, create a perfect balance of crispy texture and rich flavor that lingers on the palate. For those seeking bold appetizers, the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp and the Bang Bang Shrimp offer a mouthwatering mix of spice and smokiness, perfectly complemented by smooth Gorgonzola chive vinaigrette or sweet chili aioli.

Soups and salads provide lighter yet deeply satisfying options, with the Butternut Squash Bisque earning praise for its velvety texture and the subtle crunch of candied pecans, while the Baby Romaine Wedge salad bursts with vibrant, fresh ingredients like house bacon and crumbled bleu cheese. Heartier mains like the Parmesan Crusted Whitefish and the succulent Ribeye Steak create memorable dining moments, expertly cooked and richly seasoned to please even the most discerning guests.

For those with a sweet tooth, desserts such as the Flourless Chocolate Cake Slice and the indulgent Peanut Butter Chocolate Pie are the perfect final flourish, embodying decadent, richly layered flavors with every bite. The beverage menu complements the culinary offerings beautifully, with signature cocktails like the Power Island Martini and a robust House Bloody Mary rounding out the experience.

What truly sets Harrington's By The Bay apart is its ability to craft a comprehensive menu where every item—from the crispy Beer Battered Lake Perch to the comforting French Onion Soup—feels thoughtfully prepared and brimming with flavor. Customers consistently highlight the genuine quality and attention to detail; many share fond memories of anniversary dinners, lively family evenings, or simply unwinding with friends while savoring fresh, expertly made dishes.

In the words of delighted patrons: the food is “absolutely fabulous… cooked to perfection,” and the atmosphere provides “beautiful views from the patio” with staff who are “awesome” and “super attentive.” It’s this harmony of scenic beauty, carefully crafted cuisine, and standout service that makes Harrington’s By The Bay a must-visit dining hotspot in Traverse City.