Lunch in Frankfort, Manistee, Ludington and all of Benzie County means inventive pizzas, local brews, and homemade berry pies. Whether you are simply cruising M-22 or exploring local trails in Benzie West Shore, try to make stopping for lunch part of your itinerary. From Ludington to Frankfort, there are plenty of award-winning institutions to satisfy your palate and give you the true up north dining experience.
They call their style Northwoods fine dining, and fine are offerings like the yellow perch, fresh whitefish, nutty trout, crispy duck with homemade cherry sauce and homemade blueberry raspberry pie—all served in a woodsy setting along scenic M-22 between Crystal Lake and the Platte River. 4349 S. SCENIC HIGHWAY, FRANKFORT, 231.882.4761, THEMANITOURESTAURANT.COM.
The clubhouse at this public course offers quite possibly the most scenic al fresco dining along any Great Lakes shoreline (beautiful views from indoors as well). Add in an expansive wine list and remarkable cuisine, like roasted quail with a peach and balsamic reduction or NY strip with blueberry-horseradish sauce. 14710 NORTHWOODS HWY., ARCADIA, 231.889.3001.
TJ’s Pub
With events like Mad Men martini nights under its barreled ceiling and a cozy fire burning, it’s no wonder this quintessential pub situated inside Manistee’s historic Ramsdell Building has become one of the hottest spots in town. The menu is seasonal, featuring local farm-fresh fare. 399 RIVER ST., MANISTEE, RAMSDELLINN.NET/THE-PUB.
Enjoy casual fine dining overlooking beautiful Portage Lake. Only the freshest of seasonal ingredients dictate the ever-changing menu. Premium steaks, seafood (including the signature Parmesan Whitefish), and of course, chops are mainstays. Order an ice-cold beer and choose your toppings on hand-tossed pizza. 4427 CRESCENT BEACH RD., ONEKAMA, 231.889.3121, SHAYSCHOPHOUSE.COM.
Built in 1890, and once known as the Red Andrews Saloon, this cozy pub is known for craft beer, brewed on site. Try the cherry bourbon sirloin, salmon grilled with a beer-maple glaze or beer-battered fish and chips. Bring the family—an extensive children’s menu proves kids are welcome. 410 S. JAMES ST., LUDINGTON, 231.845.2522, JAMESPORTBREWINGCOMPANY.COM.