About This Spot

Walking into Whitlow's Forerunner feels like stepping into a cherished corner of small-town Muskegon, where moments slow down just enough to savor familiar flavors and friendly smiles. The atmosphere hums with a quiet warmth, the kind that comes from decades of welcoming locals and visitors alike. There’s a steady, gentle pace here—no rush, just the comfortable rhythm of people settling in for a good meal and easy conversation.

This family-style American restaurant offers more than just food; it offers a connection to the simple joys of a neighborhood gathering spot. The eclectic menu reflects this spirit with an inviting array of homestyle favorites—from crispy perch dinners that evoke lakeside memories to generously stacked cheeseburgers that feel crafted for sharing. The fresh salad bar adds a light, lively touch amidst the heartier fare, inviting diners to build their plates just as they like. It’s the kind of place where your meal arrives piping hot but never hurried, each bite carrying the honest taste of comfort and care.

The genuine hospitality extends beyond the table. Servers here know how to blend attentiveness with warmth, creating a space where guests feel at ease—whether they’re regulars dropping by after a day’s work or first-timers drawn by word of mouth. Whitlow’s Forerunner isn’t about fancy trappings or flashy hype; its charm lies in the unpretentious quality of its food and the enduring spirit of community reflected in every encounter.

For those who appreciate a spot where the simple act of sharing a meal becomes a quiet celebration of local flavor and friendly faces, Whitlow’s Forerunner offers a slice of Muskegon’s heart and history wrapped in everyday goodness.

What’s Available Here

  • IconDelivery
  • IconOn-site services
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconFast service
  • IconGreat beer selection
  • IconGreat cocktails
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat dessert
  • IconServes local specialty
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconAll you can eat
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconCoffee
  • IconComfort food
  • IconHappy-hour drinks
  • IconHappy-hour food
  • IconHealthy options
  • IconLate-night food
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSalad bar
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconSpirits
  • IconWine
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconBrunch
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconBar on site
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconQuiet
  • IconFamily friendly
  • IconGroups
  • IconTourists
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconKids' menu
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday 07:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 07:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 07:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 07:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Guest Reviews

Nick DeWitt 29 Dec 2025

Whitlow's is a time capsule. If you like Russ' you will enjoy this place. The servers took great care of us and the food came out pretty quick for Sunday at dinner time. My wife got a cheeseburger which tasted like a cheeseburger, no complaints. I got fried perch, and this is what I'd come back for. I don't know that I've had better perch in the area and I really enjoy fried fish. If you're looking for some good fried food in an old school environment, you can't go wrong here. Also, they still have a salad bar. How many places still have a salad bar? Not many. Your grandpa probably loves this place. Family friendly. Don't bring somebody here if they would be offended by taxidermy because they will be very offended.

Jodi Eaves 18 Dec 2025

Not fancy but good, simple food! Perch dinner was definitely worth the trip - crispy and good flavor. Burger was fresh made - not pre-formed or frozen. Salad bar was great - fresh and lots of toppings and salads to choose from. Chicken fingers were typical frozen, deep fry as were the fries. Everything came out hot and tasty! Service was excellent, too!

Tim Servies 24 Nov 2025

Stopped in here for dinner Friday Halloween night and although they were cleaning up for the night they served me anyway. Wendy the waitress was so nice and the Steelhead Trout dinner was so tasty. The wild game collection was very impressive!

Ben Schmitt 24 Nov 2025

Food and service are always good, This is one of the last restaurants around here that feels small town. Great people, great food! Good salad bar!

Jeanne Klein 28 Oct 2025

I had a hard time choosing what to eat. They had a variety of sea food. Walleye, perch, steelhead, trout and more. My friend got a steak and it looked yummy. You made a salad at the salad bar. They have a bar, and I had a really good long Island Ice tea.

Sarah Latva 20 Oct 2025

This place is such a gem. It's nostalgic, friendly, good, and affordable. The salad bar is one of the best salad bars (which not many exist anymore), and there's an employee constantly restocking it and keeping it fresh. It's simple but so good. Also, the garlic toast with the cheese spread before your meal...so good. The staff is always so friendly and kind. We've only been there twice, but both times we've had great experiences. Family friendly too!

Ashlee A 15 Sep 2025

Great place for some comfort food! Loved my 1/2 pound burger and everybody else’s food looked great too. Nice staff and cool setting. Feels very welcoming and homey. I would highly recommend and will be back in the future!

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