The Wine Grotto

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Wine Sanctuary at Saint Johns Resort

Tucked below the main floor of Saint Johns Resort in Plymouth, Michigan, The Wine Grotto is the kind of place that earns its reputation quietly — through the quality of what's in the glass and what's on the plate. The venue holds a 2024 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, recognition that reflects the depth and care behind its curated selection of fine wines and premium spirits.

What to Expect

The atmosphere blends what the resort describes as "historical elegance with contemporary luxury" — lounge seating, couches, and high-top tables arranged to encourage exactly the kind of unhurried, social evening the space was designed for. It opens to both resort guests and the public, making it genuinely accessible rather than exclusive by default.

The food program is built around elevated American small plates: artisan cheeses, charcuterie, flatbreads, and shareable dishes crafted to move alongside whatever is in your glass. A sommelier is on hand to guide selections, whether that's a single pour or a bottle from the private collection.

Wine Wednesday and Private Gatherings

Every Wednesday from 5 PM, the Grotto runs a standing weekly event — live music from 6 to 9 PM paired with a chef-crafted special and a featured wine. It's a midweek ritual that has clearly found its audience.

For private occasions, the space accommodates welcome cocktails, corporate networking, and intimate social events. The architectural character of the room does much of the work, setting a tone that's hard to manufacture elsewhere.

The Details That Matter

Beyond wine, the full bar includes specialty cocktails, beer, and mocktails — so the experience isn't limited to those with a purely vinous interest. Dietary restrictions are accommodated when possible, and reservations, while not required, are strongly recommended on weekends when the room fills and the atmosphere shifts toward a more adult lounge setting later in the evening.