FREE SOIL, MI – An Up North dive bar will reopen today, continuing its “fun vibe” alongside major upgrades and a new owner.

Doc is on the riverformerly Doc’s Sauble River Inn, reopens today at 4 p.m. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Monday with the owner Dr. Andy Riemerwho came to the restaurant’s rescue after the previous owner decided to close it.

This is not Riemer’s first rescue. He also purchased, renovated and reopened Chuckwagon Pizza in Ludington; rebuilt Stix Bar near Ludington State Park; and is building a new restaurant in downtown Ludington, which will be known as AndyS.

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Located on the banks of the Sauble River along US 31 between Ludington and Manistee, the Sauble River Inn was a gathering place for over 80 years. Then, in March, previous owner Rob Beck decided to close and Riemer, an ophthalmologist and restaurateur, stepped in to buy it.

“I really wanted Doc’s to continue,” Beck said. “I simply didn’t have the resources to invest and had to make the difficult decision to close. It was a surprise when Andy called.

Beck will always be part of the team. In addition to the familiar face, customers can expect the same menu they love, including “lizards,” skirt burger and fish. The mug club will also continue.

The “lizards” – with two Zs – are a menu mainstay that deserves an explanation: it’s a plate of half-and-half fried chicken livers and gizzards.

“Rob was great in creating an experience at Doc’s that brought people together,” Riemer said. “We are very pleased that he will help build on his past successes.”

However, a lot has changed. Riemer and his team completely renovated the kitchen. The dining room has new flooring, ceiling, paint and furniture.

Riemer, who owns a spectacular beer garden with Stix, is also expanding the outdoor dining area. It will feature fire pits, seating with views of the Sauble River, a sandbox, tether ball and horseshoes. This should be ready in the spring.

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This isn’t Riemer’s last rescue, either.

Work is underway on the former Emerson Lake Inn in Walhalla. When it reopens, it will be called Fins Beach Club.

Doc’s will be open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday at 9121 N. US-31 in Free Soil.