The North’s foodie scene is constantly growing, from diverse Traverse City restaurants to beers and burgers at the Mackinac Bridge. With so much to explore, taste and devour, we asked our audience (more than 15,000 voted on 101 categories!) for their favorites. These are the best new Northern Michigan restaurants, according to our awesome readers.
The Good Bowl, Traverse City
Vietnamese classic like pho and banh mi drive the menu, but the wings and spicy limi chili sauce steal the show.
Robby’s Mexican & Spanish Cuisine, Traverse City
Owner Rosalba, her friends call her Robby, wanted to “bring a little bit of México to this area,” and with three locations, she certainly has! Robby’s traditional Mexican fare prepared with fresh ingredients showcases her roots.
Wren, Suttons Bay
The weekly menu at Wren rises from a fusillade of text messages between Chef Adam McMarlin and his network of farmers and foragers. Truly garden-to-table at heart, you’re in for Northern Michigan delight.
Rose & Fern // Photo by Andy Wakeman
Rose & Fern, Traverse City
Becky Tranchell’s pop-up proved a success. Now her pride-and-joy restaurant proper has fans swooning over her pillowy pita with luscious hummus, golden raisins, pickled onion, pepitas and a lovely “jammy” soft-boiled egg to top.
Lucky Dog, Beulah
Locals rave about the food in this bar and grille, but it’s also already well known for its amazing tap list and bottle and can selection. Fire-grilled brats, house-smoked wings, stacked-high burgers…need I say more?
Birch and Maple, Frankfort
Have you ever enjoyed a meal-sized Bloody Mary that wards off hunger for hours? If not, you’ve never been to Birch and Maple.
Slate, Traverse City
Named after its chalkboard-style menu, Slate features menus that change based on the availability of fresh foods, the whims of their culinary team and the seasonality of Northern Michigan.
Lake Street Pub, Boyne City
Classic pub food is elevated with Lake Street Pub’s rustic vibe, beautiful outdoor patio, delicious food and friendly service.
Paddle Hard North, Mackinaw City
When they opened their doors in December of 2018, there was no telling what the response would be. 300 opening-night customers later, Paddle Hard North is serving up a wide variety of beer, fan-favorite burgers, and daily fresh fish. It’s a must-stop of the North.