Brews on the Lakeshore

Spring All Year Round

Entering Montague by swinging down Colby and catching sight of White Lake is an unforgettable Michigan experience, no matter the season or time of day. Marinas, docks, and white sails stretch across the horizon, painting a picturesque scene of this lakeside town.

One of the first landmarks to greet you is the Weathervane Inn, its stark white facade blending seamlessly with the waterfront homes and, in winter, the snow-covered lake. Busy Bee Cafe is almost hidden behind it, with its white brick entrance welcoming passersby slipping into Montague. In summer, White Lake sparkles like a blue gem, visible from the cafe’s windows. In winter, the cafe’s electric fireplace offers a cozy retreat, perfect for watching the snow fall outside.

Inside Busy Bee Cafe, spring has arrived in Montague—even in winter. Solid wooden and metal tables fill the space, complemented by pops of yellow furniture that stand out like tulips against the snow. The walls are covered in bee-themed decor with no shortage of puns, plus paintings, photographs, and crafts from local artists, with bright garden decorations placed in between.

The cafe’s menu is just as distinctive as its decor. Several drinks tie into the theme with a special ingredient: honey. Favorites include The Bees Knees: steamed milk with espresso, lavender, honey, and vanilla, and The Queen Bee: steamed milk with espresso, white chocolate, and honey. Busy Bee has a large selection of Lotus Drinks as well: colorful and refreshing plant-based caffeinated drinks. Brunch and snacks are ready to order at the cafe as well, with several wrap, sandwich, and pastry options. 

Montague Moments

Just a short walk from the bright and lively Busy Bee Cafe lies a darker, cozier retreat: The Book Nook & Java Shop. Nestled among Montague’s local favorites like Lipka’s Old Fashioned Soda Fountain and Jimmy’Z Pub, this small-town gem invites exploration. 

In the spring, summer, and fall the walk between Busy Bee Cafe and The Book Nook is a thriving economy of home-grown goods. The path winds through the Farmer’s Market and ends at the Artisan Market Village, a cluster of cottages where small businesses sell their creations. Fresh produce, preserves, treats, flowers, books, home goods, and more highlight the vibrant local businesses of Montague.

More Than a Bookstore

As you enter The Book Nook & Java Shop turn right, there are rows and rows of books that are easy to get lost in. To the left is a charming expanse of seating with a stunning bar lined with bottles and books. The atmosphere is rich and moody, with jazzy, dark mosaics on the walls and plush leather chairs tucked among the shelves. Technically a full-service bookstore, The Book Nook is available for a study date and coffee in the morning, a music-filled drink at night, and everything in between. 

The menu is just as versatile, boasting an array of creative coffee options alongside a full bar and food menu. A long list of sandwiches, breakfast items, soups, salads, and snacks are available for a break from studying or dinner with friends. But what truly sets The Book Nook & Java Shop apart are its events. From live music performances to unique activities like American Sign Language and ukulele classes, there’s always something interesting going on.

Whether you’re drawn to the bright, buzzing atmosphere of Busy Bee Cafe or the cozy, moody ambiance of The Book Nook Java Shop, Montague offers something special for every kind of coffee lover. With pit stops between resting places (see a previous post about a passing brewery, Sawyer’s Brewing Company: Fetch Brewing Co. and Sawyers Brewing Company: Brewery Neighbors, Two of the Best Breweries Near White Lake) this trek is a community-filled view of Montague.