If you want something beyond the typical seasonal tourist town fare please come here! I grew up in SH (24 years) and come back for visits 1-3 times a year for the last 17 years. This is the best restaurant in town and the best I can think of in recent memory. Yes, you have to like Mediterranean food to come here--but I think there's still a burger on the menu for the people who are a little timid. It's a dark, cool vibe inside. Service was great. And the food was stellar so please go there, try everything and keep this place busy. Don't ruin this for me. ** only downside is it's +21 for some reason. Maybe for liquor license??? Just Send your under 21s to get pizza while you go here. read more

The lamb chops were really good. The gravy like sauce was really good and so was the broccoli and orzo. My wife got the chicken souvlaki and liked it a lot. Overall a cool place with good food. read more

We had a five star meal - everything was fresh and delicious meal and our server was fantastic! The atmosphere was quiet, decor was tasteful and interesting ... but ... the food was top notch! We can't wait to come back!! read more

Great, intimate spot! I felt a bit underdressed in a sweatshirt. This has a very luxurious feeling interior, with lots of velvet, dark candlelit spots, and curtains/screens for privacy. Not sure what Al Capone has to do with Turkish food, but who cares. Our group was all very happy with our food, although the fish casserole (a special) had bones in it. Great spot that I will definitely revisit read more

This place is horrible! The staff is rude along with the bully owner who doesn't deserve youre hard earned money. Dont wate youre time coming here unless you like to be talked down to and harassed. read more

Good drinks but poorly made food. The chicken and beef were both dry. No AC as well. So a bit hot on a summer night

We were so excited to find this place in West Michigan! We LOVE Turkish food and this place not only had authentic and delicious Turkish food, it had amazing cocktails and the coolest vibe. How can you not love a good speakeasy? Pita served with the appetizer was way too good. Wait staff was helpful and humble! Our only complaint would be that we wanted more veggies with our entrees! read more

The River Bottom - Mixed drink - Mediterranean Near Me - South Haven, Michigan

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Atmosphere : is everything in this place. Other than that, Thier non alcoholic drink: was very good, but they have only one option for non-alcoholic moctails. I didn't like it, one option for non-alcoholic mocktails felt very limiting and forced. Food portions : were awfully small compared to the expensive price. They try to fill your stomach with bread and sauce rather than the actual dish. By the end of the night, it felt more like sampling at Costco than having a real meal. The service : was the worst part!!! While drinks arrived quickly, we waited 50 minutes before our appetizers were finally served. Then 7 minute after the main course arrived at the table. This left no time to enjoy drinks with appetizers. The restaurant wasn't crowded, most seats were empty , so there was no reason for such a delay i am not sure if I want to come here again. read more

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My group first learned about this place as a recommendation from one of our BnB hosts in South Haven. Mediterranean food in a speakeasy environment?? We were immediately intrigued and dropped our original dinner place in favor of trying this place. Parking on a Friday evening can be a bit harder to find compared to weekday evenings, but you should be able to find something within a reasonable walking distance. We found street parking about a 5 minute walk from the restaurant. While the restaurant is located in the heart of downtown South Haven, the place itself is rather unassuming at a distance from the outside. Once close to the door though, there is plenty to tell you that you're arrived at the right place. Inside, the place is dimly lit with a various assortment of arm chairs, stools, and even a loveseat, depending on whether you wanted to sit at the bar or table. Outside of bar seating, it was interesting to see that every other table/seat combination looked unique, almost as though you're at a cozy house party rather than a restaurant - probably to emulate the speakeasy vibe. As an appetizer, I split the Sample Platter with the group, which was five different dips paired with their Za'atar pita. Personally, I enjoyed all of the dips but because I'm particular to spicy foods, both the Atom and Tirokafteri were my favorite because they offered a nice kick. I'm not sure how I would feel if they were the only dips I had, but the combination of the portion sizes and variety of the Sample Platter were a perfect balance to keep things fresh. For my entree, I opted for the Iskender Kebap - a mix of thin slices of tender beef and lamb served with pita cubes, & topped with red sauce and plain yogurt. The meat was tender and paired well with the mix of red sauce and yogurt. The pita cubes were more like pita squares but were delightfully crispy. Usually I like to end on my favorite part of the meal, which typically is the meat, but the pita cubes were right on par and ended up being my last bite. The River Bottom is really a gem in South Haven, especially given the types of cuisine that are generally more popular in the area. All of the food I had was delicious, though I would say that if you have a big appetite or happen to be really hungry, expect to need to order a little extra. That being said, if you are looking for quality over quantity, this is the place for you. read more

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Honestly a hidden food gem in this foodie drought of a town. This place serves delicious Mediterranean food! However, the branding of the restaurant doesn't really indicate that. What a refreshing feeling besides your oversaturated town filled with mid American Fare. The staff are really nice and care a lot about the food that they serve you. Although it does seem like they are a bit short staffed. The vibes give dark, moody, and speakeasy. There was a drink special on the blackberry margarita, but honestly it just tasted overly sweet and not like a margarita. The bartending can use some help. It also took forever to get the drinks. We were already halfway done with our meal before we go them! The food was so good!! Sample platter: this came with flavourful zatar pota breast and 5 different dips: carrot tararor, Atom, Tirokafteri, Babaganoush and Hummus. Omg the babaganoush was so creamy and flavorful! Best dip of the 5. Cypriot Salata: what a great summer salad! The tomato, with the grilled peaches & halloumi pleasantly went with the fresh greens and sweet dressing. The beet cream made the salad pop and gave it some color. I really appreciated this fresh salad with the other entrees. Adana Kebap: wow. Succlulent lamb kebap that went so well with pickled veggies, schug, and crispy pitas! I loved this dish. read more

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This unassuming speakeasy is home to some very delicious Mediterranean food! Do note this establishment only allows guests who are 21 years and older. River Bottom leans heavily into the speakeasy vibe with dim lighting and a small stage for live music. Service was a bit slow, but acceptable, and our food came out quickly after we ordered. I shared the sample platter with some friends and all five of the dips were on point. I felt like I could have just kept eating pita and dip! My favorite two dips were the babaganoush and the atom (which is a bit spicy). For my main I had the Adana kebap. It was seasoned well and I had fun assembling the perfect bite with all its accompaniments. I would definitely like to come here again to try some of their other menu items. read more

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I am so glad that our bed and breakfast host recommended this place to us! This speakeasy style restaurant is located underneath Black River Tavern, and you have to be 21 years of age or older to enter. The opening hours are limited to Thursday to Saturday evenings. The decor is dark and moody, and there was a stage in the corner for live music. The food is Mediterranean style (Turkish, I believe). We tried the sample appetizer platter, the Cypriot salata, and the Iskender kebap. All were so fresh and flavorful! The sample platter came with 5 dips and za'atar pita and was reasonably priced at $17. The atom and tirokafteri dips were definitely spicy, and they were enjoyed by the spice fiends in our group. My personal favorites were the babaghanoush and the carrot tarator. The salad had bright flavors with pomegranate blueberry vinaigrette, beet cream, and mint. Finally, the Iskender kebap is a must try! All the flavors together worked really well. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting South Haven if they're looking for an adventurous bite! read more

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We should have known to lower our expectations when we could be seated immediately on a busy Friday night when other restaurants had waitlists. The ambiance is interesting and we enjoyed the overall vibe. We love Mediterranean food and looked forward to a delicious meal. I ordered the Horiatiki salad with falafel since I'm a vegetarian. I didn't know I'd need to inquire if the salad actually had any greens in addition to the tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, and feta listed on the menu. But no, I was served a bowl of large chucks of said vegetables with a brick of feta on top. Very little dressing or seasoning. The falafel was meh. That's not a salad. I would have liked to tell our server what I thought but she didn't ask why I didn't eat more than a quarter of my meal. Do not recommend. read more

While looking for something a little different in South Haven, we ran across The River Bottom. A basement door off the side of Phoenix road leads to what feels like a speak easy from years past. Friendly service and comfortable, informal seating set the background for one of the best meals I've had in the area recently. The food is Turkish-based, but even my picky, burger eating friend enjoyed his kabob, while I truly loved my mushroom dish. Flavors were rich and hearty, and the entrees were filling. I highly recommend if you're in the area. read more

The food was fantastic! We sat at the bar, and after asking the bartender he recommended some delicious plates. We tried something new, Anatolian kibbeh, and it was so good. Ambience was great, and I just loved our bartender, Nariman. read more

We (2 business colleagues and myself) came across this place accidently as our plan A restaurant had a 2 hour wait. It was on a Friday evening. As we were on our way to our plan B spot, we saw the sidewalk sign for the specials at the River Bottom. It is a bar with small plates food options. Its not your typical bar/ tavern food. We drcided to try it out. The place has a dark setting with lights at each table, very cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Service was prompt and polite. The best part was the food! The sampler plate with pita and Canape de filet and Sultan's (Choice?) Entree were excellent! Flavorful! Perfect blend of spices. It really was a treat to our tastebuds! I recommend trying it. It really is a South Haven hidden gem! Prices were reasonable! read more

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The concept combines the dim lighting and underground feel of a prohibition era speakeasy with the menu from a Mediterranean restaurant. You even climb downstairs to enter. Only you don't need a password to go in. Cocktails are unique and tasty, but pricey. Food menu is ample and the flavors were good. We arrived shortly after opening and service was prompt and regular. To really make the most of it, visit on a night when there's live music, expect to splurge on some craft cocktails, don your fedoras and flapper dresses, and enjoy yourself. You never know--maybe Al Capone's spirit will be at the next table over. read more

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This is my first visit here, and here's what I think about this restaurant: Pros: - The atmosphere is cozy and relaxing. - The mocktail is really good, especially after a long swim in the lake. - The prices are reasonable. Cons: - The tap water tasted like pool water--truly awful and undrinkable. I can't believe they serve this to customers! - The service was very slow; it took about 45 minutes just to get the appetizers. That's the kind of wait I'd expect for entrées, not appetizers. - While the food prices are reasonable, the portions are too small for the price. I left the restaurant still hungry after paying almost $70 for two people. - Their food menu is limited, and not everything shown in the online pictures is available to order. Overall Opinion: If you want to come here for drinks, it's fine. But definitely don't dine here! read more

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The River Bottom is located on the lower level of the Black River Tavern. It opened the summer of 2023. They have completely renovated the dining room, creating an intimate dining experience featuring Mediterranean food and a beautiful bar area offering creative craft cocktails. The menu has appetizers, charcuterie, salads, sandwiches/wraps, and entrees. We really enjoyed the Halloumi cheese and Atom spicy dip with pita apps, Quinoa salad, and a Kavurma (beef tenderloin with pilaf rice). Service is very professional and knowledgeable as customers likely have questions about the choices available. Baklava and Cannoli are the desserts. The rest rooms are clean and modern. Unique seating arrangements include dining tables along with easy chairs to chat while enjoying a drink. The River Bottom is an exciting change in South Haven dining! read more

On vacation, and the Mrs and I just wanted a quick burger. After waiting nearly 20 minutes on water/beer, we finally got our undercooked kebabs. I wasn't expecting to be blown away, but I was hoping for a fully-cooked kebab. Poor service, bad food. Glad we won't have to worry about stopping here again.. read more

The food is amazing, many items are not commonly seen at restaurants in west michigan so I appreciate trying new dishes. The restaurant is gorgeous with dim lighting and a romantic vibe. The service is good and all staff is very kind. read more

The River Bottom - Caraott Taraot, Adana Gyro - Mediterranean Near Me - South Haven, Michigan

Terrible drinks. $18 for an old fashioned and it tastes like vodka. Just terrible. Service was ok since we were almost the only ones here. Wanted $35 for BT old fashioned. read more

Food was excellent and was served in very much a good time. Service was extremely good. The atmosphere is very cozy and warming. Appears like your local neighborhood bar read more

The sampler plater was delicious. My favourite was the Atom. Had the tequila ember not to spicy, not overpowering. Service was excellent. Nice setting. Dark and cozy. Will be back. read more

The River Bottom - Menu - Mediterranean Near Me - South Haven, Michigan

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The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. The food is top notch! Will definitely come back!

Drinks are expensive. Food and service are subpar. Ambience is okay. The bottom line for the River Bottom is that there are better places nearby. I'm sorry but I can't recommend it. read more

From the service, drinks,apps, dinner, and desert, everything was top notch. What an amazing restaurant in the heart of South Haven.

Our bed and breakfast owner recommended this spot and we are so glad she did! Service staff was attentive and kind on a busy Friday night. Loved the restaurant vibe, but the food was the star of the show. We are still talking about the halloumi cheese appetizer and lamb kabob. Don't miss this unexpected gem. read more

Not the ambiance I expected from a place billed as a speakeasy. Decent food, overpriced cocktails, inattentive service. read more

The River Bottom - Drink menu - Mediterranean Near Me - South Haven, Michigan

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Great food! A pleasant surprise, world class creative Mediterranean food in a beach town. We took guests not well versed in Mediterranean cuisine and after a little consternation on their faces they were in love with the food. Best pita I ever had and the white bean salad with buratta was epic. The speak easy atmosphere and great service from Lexi rounded out the experience. Highly recommended! read more

The food is incredible and so welcoming even if you're new to Turkish food! There's a few kinks to work out in terms of service but the visit is worth the added patience. read more

The River Bottom - Chicken Souvlaki - Mediterranean Near Me - South Haven, Michigan

Sample platter was great. Spicy and cool hummus like samples. Pita bread is excellent. Ask for extra pita bread. Service is really slow. Our server never followed up. We waited for a long time to order a second drink. They also forgot our order for extra pita bread. If you are not in a hurry, then give it a try. Had the baklava for dessert and it was very good. Will give it another try. read more

Loved it! If you're looking for a unique dining experience in a city known for catering to families on summer vacation, then you have to visit The River Bottom. It is a classy speakeasy- enough light to see once your eyes adjust (which takes a minute) but still dim and inviting. The dining area is filled with a variety of cozy seating areas. The service was friendly, attentive and quite helpful when it came to describing the Mediterranean dishes. The food was incredibly fresh and filled with bright flavors, and we loved everything we ordered. This is a must-visit if you appreciate a place committed to an overall excellent dining experience. read more