Itty Bitty Bar *Five Star Dive Bar* in Holland

The Itty-Bitty Bar in Holland describes itself as “Your 5 Star Dive Bar.”  As it proclaims, “We are a great place to meet up with friends or to make some new ones.  Grab a pint, a bite to eat, some conversation, whatever you’re up for.”

The Divas decided to hit Itty-Bitty on a Tuesday in April. And my oh my, were we ever surprised when we pulled into the parking lot at 6:30 p.m. – it was absolutely jam-packed!  The Itty-Bitty Bar is located at 1136 Ottawa Beach Road.  For Tri-Cities residents who are driving to Itty-Bitty on US-31, Ottawa Beach Road is the same as Lakewood Boulevard (an exit from US-31), which turns into Douglas Avenue, which then becomes Ottawa Beach Road as you travel west.  So it’s an easy drive… and less than 30 minutes.  Divas Nancy and Kelle took the US-31 route.  Or, if you prefer the scenic route, Divas Bari and Sharon drove on Lakeshore Drive to 152nd Avenue, to Ottawa Beach Road.

The Itty-Bitty Bar has two different atmospheres; one (the main entrance) has wood-paneled walls, long tables, and a large wooden bar.  The other is an open-air patio.  (We opted for the indoor, “woody” room at a high-top table.)

For starters, we shared one order of Brie Sticks.  The Brie Sticks are described as “Brie cheese and fig spread on roasted naan bread, topped with prosciutto and Brussel sprouts, finished with Michigan Maple Bourbon Sauce.”  The Brie Sticks were gooey and scrumptious, though as Bari and Sharon felt, perhaps a bit too sweet as an appetizer. Nevertheless, Nancy loved the subtle fig taste… reminiscent of her travels (with Kelle) to Dubai.

We also shared one order of Mussels.  Yes, we already know what you're thinking... we always order mussels!  

No desserts for any of the Divas… we were stuffed!  But for those readers who like sweet treats, you drive right past Captain Sundae on your way to/from Itty-Bitty.  Captain Sundae is Holland’s version of our Miss Lisa’s – it’s home of the “Tommy Turtle” (turtle sundae).  And its claim to fame is being visited by former President George W. Bush.

Bari Johnson and Sharon Bedford pictured with Curry, our server, who told us it was his first night working at the Itty Bitty!

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  Brie Sticks - $12

  Brie cheese and fig spread on roasted naan bread topped with prosciutto and Brussel sprouts.  Finished with Michigan maple bourbon sauce. 
  
  "Drop dead delicious!" 

Fresh Mussels - $11

Fresh sautéed mussels in a white wine butter broth, served with crostinis.  

Fish & Chips - $17

Beer battered grouper filets fried golden, sided with fresh cut fries & veggie slaw, with homemade tartar.  

Nancy:  "Kelle and I shared one order of fish and chips, which was plenty for two (especially after our terrific appetizers).  What a pleasant surprise that the fish is actually battered grouper (rather than your usual cod), and it’s served with French fries and Itty-Bitty’s own veggie slaw, which is a smoky tasting cole slaw."



Kelle:  "I had dinner at the Itty Bitty one other time a few years ago and can't remember what I ordered, except that I was really impressed and knew that I wanted to go back.  

The appetizers were incredibly yummy, so needless to say, it was a bit of a letdown that I didn't have much room left for an entree.  I was more than happy to split the fish and chips with Nancy.  I LOVED the Brie Sticks and could easily make that my main meal!

We had a really nice evening.  I couldn't believe how packed it was on a Tuesday night.  Good energy.  Great service."  

Canyonera - $16

Steak and Root Vegetable pot pie, sided with wedge salad topped with bacon, tomato and maytag blue cheese dressing. 

Sharon:  "The mussels were some of the tastiest I have eaten over the years!  The broth was outstanding, a white wine and butter combination with just a hint of a bite!  It was perfect for dunking crostini slices to sop up the luscious liquid!

The Beef Pot Pie on the menu fascinated me and prompted me to order it.  While the crust was tasty and golden, the filling was just too meaty and had very few vegetables in it. I would like to see a thinner gravy, less meat (although I must say that it was tender and very tasty!) and more carrots, onions, mushrooms, and maybe some peas!  It has a nice flavor, but wasn’t quite what I expected.

We heard guests at the next table raving about Itty-Bitty's onion rings, so I would love to return for those as well as for the many other interesting items they offer on their great menu!  I’ll definitely return soon!"  

Chicken Ceasar - $13

Grilled chicken on a garlic oil base with mozzarella, red onion, tomatoes & banana peppers, topped with chopped mixed greens and tossed in a creamy gorgonzola caesar dressing. 

Bari:  "I loved the Itty Bitty and have told many about it! More than a few people already knew about it and were already fans. 

Our server--brand new to that location--was fun making our experience very enjoyable. (We learned he came from the Black Sheep--same owner--located on the south side of Lake Macatawa in the former Parkway restaurant). While we were looking at the menu, an added bonus was chatting with our "table neighbors" about their choices. In fact, they let me chat with them about their selection: perch (huge plate) and two different pasta dishes. They enjoyed their food and were happy they'd ventured there for dinner; they were in town on business from the east side of the state.

By the time I finished with my beer and my share of the appetizers, I wasn't too hungry. My choice was a chicken caesar salad. The dressing wasn't quite a traditional caesar dressing; it did have a bit of a bite to it that I liked. The salad was ok. However, with all the interesting other things on the menu, I wouldn't order it again. And, going back to the Itty Bity is a priority!"

DIVA = Diverse, Interesting, Vivacious, Adventurous

The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual dining experience we encounter.  Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ.  Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment.  

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