If you’ve ever traveled Up North in Michigan then you’ve probably heard of Gaylord, maybe even pulled off of I-75 for a quick bite to eat. Nowadays even the locals are having a hard time choosing where to stop, in this once-small town. Whether you’re new to the area, just passing by, or have lived here your entire life, you don’t want to miss these Gaylord restaurants and bars!
132 W. Main St. | 989.448.7077
Snowbelt opened its doors in August 2016. The atmosphere inside continues to build on the upscale theme associated with new businesses opening in the Gaylord area. With eight of their own craft brews on tap, Snowbelt offers a unique opportunity to try something brand new. Don’t forget, this brewing company includes a kid’s zone!
Main St. Market & Bistro
148 W. Main St. | 989.448.2133
Start your day here at the specialty coffee bar with beans from the Upper Peninsula, or stay a bit longer and enjoy their delicious light lunch and dinner menus. Main St. opened during the summer of 2016 and instantly became a hit among the younger crowd of Gaylord. Market isn’t just a word in the name, the business also features a specialty grocery where you can shop for cured meats, fine wines and more.
140 W. Main St. | 989.748.8552
If you’re familiar with Gaylord, you know Kim Roney and her restaurant Diana’s Delights. In 2015, she opened Tap Room 32 right next door! With over 30 different craft beers and 24 on tap, the tap room offers one of the widest selections of beer in the area.
330 W. Main St. | 989.705.7740
Mary’s = Gaylord. Mary’s originally opened its doors in the mid-1930s and has continued to be passed on through the generations. With 25 craft beers and 15 on tap, Mary’s has a great lineup of brews and also offers a 2 a.m. close every night of the week. If you’re planning a bar crawl you can’t forget about Mary’s. Enjoy a beer and a game of pool, or several, with your friends.
302 S. Otsego Ave. | 989.619.0298
Although it opened in 2010, The Dogg is still considered a new attraction in Gaylord. Connected to the well-known, Old Spud’s Warehouse, you won’t find a more easy-going lounge in town. Each booth feels like it is concealed within its own private dining experience, and the food and drinks are as tasty as they are unique.
220 S. Otsego Ave. | 989.732.5444
Bring the entire family down to the tavern and enjoy their homemade chili, specialty pizzas or stuffed burgers. The sports bar theme is unique to Gaylord and takes the action, from the TVs, to their outdoor patio where customers can play corn-hole while drinking their favorite beer. Bonus: If you’re hosting an event, they cater!
Timothy’s Pub & Restaurant
110 S. Otsego Ave. | 989.732.9333
It would be a travesty to write a piece like this and not mention Tim’s Pub. Tim’s opened in 1994, and even if you aren’t familiar with it, Aldo will make you feel right at home the moment you walk in. He sets a beer in front of locals before they even sit down. There’s nothing fancy about the bar food, but the log-cabin decor and pool tables will make you feel like you’re in your hometown bar.
3885 Old US Highway 27 | 989.370.5371
Remember the old Stampede Bar outside of town? Well, that’s gone, and in its place is Porter Haus. A new paint job and complete remodel of the inside are replacing the western saloon theme. A different look for the south end of town, it seems to be taking after its Main Street predecessors. With no exact opening date set, look for doors to “swing” open in late 2017.
1600 S. Otsego Ave.
Locals have something to be excited about now that the long-time empty remnants of The Fireside Grill are being replaced by The Pine Squirrel, and the baseball field is staying! The building is under construction and set to open in late 2017. The Squirrel will offer an entertainment atmosphere with patio dinners, softball games, dance events and a pool room. If you love beer, love to dance and love to play baseball, you’ll be one happy nut for the Pine Squirrels’ grand slam!
