Dine Around

Gabriel Rose | October 27, 2025 | Articles | No Comments

Where Fennville Gathers: Jazz, Burgers and a Half-Century of Comfort

On the quiet rural stretch of M-89 in Fennville sits a place you might miss if you weren’t looking for it. But for those in the know, The What-Not Inn is more than just a restaurant—it’s a hometown fixture. Locals call it simply “The What Not,” and for decades it’s been where community and comfort food come together.

The Origins of a Local Legend

The What-Not Inn opened its doors in 1973 as a true all-in-one stop: a gas station, restaurant, and ice cream shop catering to both Fennville residents and travelers en route to nearby campsites and Lake Michigan. That multipurpose beginning is how it earned the name “What-Not.” It was a bit of everything. Over time, the pumps disappeared, but the charm stayed. What remained was a restaurant so dependable, many make it a tradition to stop in on their way to or from Saugatuck.

Jazz stage at the What Not Inn — Jazz Goes Here. *Photo By: Lisa Enos*

Undergoing several changes in ownership over the years, the What-Not transitioned into a full-time eatery and music venue. Today, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a side of live music three nights a week—Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The consistency and welcoming atmosphere have turned it into a go-to spot for both regulars and newcomers.

Inside the Inn

Walking into The What-Not Inn feels like stepping into someone’s well-worn living room. The walls are a patchwork of rustic wood paneling, and there’s a second dining room that glows with the warmth of a fireplace. The open kitchen means you can see your food being prepared by a team that runs on good vibes and shared laughs.

The place draws a mostly older, local crowd with deep roots in the area, many of whom come specifically for the music. Monday night jazz sessions with the house trio—Wally, Jack, and Rick—are a staple, and other live performances round out the weekend lineup. And in a detail that locals chuckle about, the restrooms have curtains instead of doors. It’s quirky, sure, but it’s also part of the Inn’s unfiltered charm.

Lake Perch Fish Fry — Lake Perch Fry Photo *By: Lisa Enos*

Food That Delivers

This isn’t fine dining, and that’s the point. The What-Not Inn serves classic comfort food done right.

The burgers are thick, still pink inside, and charred for maximum flavor. The lake perch fry—available as a basket or entree—is flaky, golden, and clearly hand-battered. And if you’re staying for dessert, the signature lava cake, served warm with two scoops of vanilla ice cream, will leave a lasting impression.