As Jimmy Buffett would say, “… The skies are too clear life’s so easy today, The beer is too cold, the daiquiris too fruitiful, No place like home when you’re this far away…”  Many would agree!  Matey’s a taste of the Caribbean and a song away from the pristine beaches of the Indiana dunes really is “like a Buffett song that’s come to life,” according to Mark Taylor of the Post-Tribune.

Spotted by its owners, Bill and Carole Bailey over 17 years ago, a quaint little convenience store with a “For Lease or Sale” sign would become the backdrop from which this nautical paradise would eventually grow. Even in its humble beginnings Captain Bill’s concept and passion for a place that would “change peoples’ l’attitudes” has turned Matey’s into a destination point for Michigan City, with its Seafood taking top billing.  Constantly growing and expanding to meet the various needs of its clientele, Matey’s now seats more than 200 guests on its three different levels of bars and restaurants.

Enter the Chart Room, family dining with a cozy Cocktail Lounge for the adult crowd, strung with buoys and fishing nets throughout the bar, captains chairs at the tables, tropical music on the sound system and a laid-back feel.  Three dimensional Maps of the Great Lakes, lighthouses, sails and seafaring décor transport you out of the Midwest and into a small fishing village or inlet on some remote island.  Relax and have a great conversation with the local sailors and boaters and enjoy any of Chef Paul’s delectable menu selections.  Whether you are looking for a four star Seafood Buffet, a zesty appetizer, or a “Cheeseburger in Paradise”, Matey’s fare can satisfy your appetite for a more tropical slice of life.

Not quite ready to relax in the soft summer breeze?  The Sports Bar is a hub of activity with video games, Bags, Golden Tee golf, pool table, dart machine, as well as beer pong for the more ‘salty dogs’ and nonstop sports coverage on its 6 big screen TV’s.  A great place to watch your favorite college or NFL football team when the weather turns cold.  Captain Bill is a Pennsylvania native and his Sports Bar is also a Steeler.Nation bar with DirecTV’s NFL Package during the football season.  During the summer its all about the Cubs and Sox for the fans who aren't out on their boats.  If you’re more inclined to dance the night away, you’ll be planning to spend your Friday and Saturday nights out on the dance floor listening to the Digital DJ spin your favorite tunes from 10pm till 2am.  During the day, bring your whole family and dine on the Outdoor Patio with access through the Sports Bar or in the Sports Bar family area.

Spring is in the air and its time for boating season, the three-level Tiki Deck is busy.  People are drinking cocktails, dining in the sunshine or under the stars enjoying the great lake view.  You are “over 21”, you climb the stairs to the Tiki Deck and wonder … are you still in Michigan City, or by some chance are you in a tropical bar in the Florida keys!  Every weekend there is something else to enjoy in Michigan City — the beach, the boating, Washington Park festivals and getting together with your friends at Matey’s.  Voted one of the best locations to meet people both locally and in the state of Indiana, Matey’s will make you feel like you took a vacation instead of a night off!  As we say at Matey’s … You can barhop here without leaving the premises!