Sanford Lake Bar & Grill History

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The story of Sanford Lake Bar & Grill is tied deeply to the history of Sanford, the lake, and generations of community. Before the restaurant as you know it existed, the land beside what was once Francis Grove Beach hosted local gathering spots dating back to the early to mid-1900s. Over the decades, the location evolved through several incarnations — Francis Grove Tavern, Safari House, Schoenherr’s Grove, and Putter’s Landing — each leaving its mark on local history.

These names mark phases of change, but the mission stayed constant: a place to eat, drink, connect, and belong. When Howard and Barbara Schoenherr purchased the business in 1972 and helped guide its early growth, they gave the place renewed life and a stronger connection to the Sanford community. Their daughter, Sharlyn, grew up in the business — setting the stage for what would become decades of family-driven hospitality.

In 1987, Richard and Sharlyn Corbat formally took ownership of the bar and grill, stepping in with vision and dedication. In those early years, the place was “a band bar” — serving burgers, drinks, and hosting live music — but the Corbats had bigger plans. Over time, they expanded the menu, introduced daily specials, and focused on creating a true destination for comfort food and connection.

One pivotal moment came in 1989, when they began serving fresh lake perch — a decision that transformed the restaurant from a local watering hole into a regional favorite. The perch became legendary, drawing crowds from around Midland County and beyond. Over the years, the menu continued to expand with hearty appetizers, hand-crafted burgers, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, and their famous nachos.

By 2022, the Corbats celebrated two milestones — 50 years of the restaurant’s history and 35 years of ownership. They marked the occasion with a Customer Appreciation Celebration, serving free burgers, brats, and hot dogs to thank the community that had supported them through generations.

In April 2023, after 36 years of ownership, the Corbats passed the torch to Jamie and Corinna Mose, lifelong Sanford residents. For Jamie, Sanford Lake Bar & Grill had always been part of his life. Purchasing it wasn’t just a business move — it was a way to keep a local tradition alive.

Corinna stepped in as the new restaurant manager, trained directly by Sharlyn before the transition. Together, the Mose family has pledged to preserve the spirit that made the restaurant what it is while adding their own touches — like the now-famous Juicy Bar Burger, updated menu options, and small refinements to enhance the guest experience.

Locals have embraced the change, praising Jamie & Corinna for honoring the past while bringing fresh energy into the future.

Today, Sanford Lake Bar & Grill stands proudly on a foundation built over half a century. Located at 3770 N. Bailey Road, the restaurant remains a true reflection of Sanford’s resilient spirit — a place where families gather, old friends reconnect, and newcomers instantly feel at home.

Our menu still celebrates the classics: hand-battered lake perch, pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and weekly specials that keep people coming back. Add in friendly faces, cold drinks, live music, and the sound of laughter — and you’ll see why this spot continues to earn its reputation as one of mid-Michigan’s best.

Through ownership changes, community challenges, and decades of memories, one thing has remained the same:

Good People. Good Times. Great Food. 

That’s not just our slogan — it’s who we are.
And it’s what will continue to make Sanford Lake Bar & Grill a place worth gathering for generations to come.