Searching for what’s new Up North? Each month in Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine, we share the newest openings for local businesses, restaurants, breweries, wineries and so much more. Not a print or digital subscriber to Traverse? Check out our quarterly online roundup below to see what’s new in Northern Michigan. Know of a business that just opened or have a fun community update? Let us know at editorial@traversemagazine.com.
What’s New Up North this September
Bahia | Traverse City
A Spanish-Latin fusion restaurant with family-style indoor and outdoor seating and a menu focused on tapas and shared small plates. Located in the former RAM’S space.
Bahia Website | 127 S. Union St., Traverse City
Crown and Cork | Ludington
This waterfront restaurant and bar, located across from the marina, opened at the end of May. The menu is refined but approachable with items like beer-battered cauliflower, roasted bone marrow with lemon vinaigrette and shrimp and grits with crumbled chorizo. And … get ready … dueling pianos on Saturday evenings from 7–10 p.m.
Crown and Cork Website | 502 W. Loomis St., Ludington
The Ridge at Verterra | Northport
Verterra Winery opened a second location for wine tastings at its satellite location, The Ridge. The vineyard-lined property has hosted weddings for four years, but just recently opened to the public in June for flights, glass and bottle service in a three-season tent with views of Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. Open seasonally through Oct. 16.
The Ridge Website | 8080 N. Swede Rd., Northport
The Pig ‘N’ Whistle | Cheboygan
A cocktails and confectionary shop with Mackinac Island fudge and other sweets, plus pig-themed treasures. The business is also a gateway to the Lark Theater, which hosts a variety of live musical performances.
Cheboygan Chamber Website | 219 N. Main St., Cheboygan
New Up North: August 2021
Vita Bella opened back in March in the old Coho Café space, and though we’re a little late to the game, we wanted to spread the love. The restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, Italian soups, salads and desserts. There’s also a full bar and a small market with to-go items.
Vita Bella Website | 320 Main St., Frankfort
Lake District Wine Co. | Traverse City
Formerly Bon Vin, new owners have purchased the neighborhood wine shop, offering Old World and New World wines with an emphasis on Michigan producers. Watch for educational tastings, industry collaborations, membership opportunities and an e-commerce store.
Lake District Wine Co. Website | 539 E. Eighth St., Traverse City
Long Road Distillers Tasting Room & Cocktail Bar | Charlevoix
The Grand Rapids-based distillery recently opened a Charlevoix tasting room offering guided spirit samplings, bottle sales and a cooler full of canned cocktails to go.
Long Road Website | 109 Bridge Park Dr., Charlevoix
Outside Social District | Ludington
To give visitors more space to socialize at downtown food and drink establishments, Ludington created an outdoor “social district” allowing patrons to purchase alcoholic- ic beverages in designated cups from businesses with permits and then take them outdoors to enjoy within a defined area. Find a map of the social district at downtownludington.org/LOSD.
New Up North: July 2021
Relocated from its Cass Road location, the taproom offers indoor and outdoor seating, and the homebrew section carries local malt and hops.
Fresh Coast Website | 120 Park St., Traverse City
Northport Pub & Grille | Northport, MI
A downtown restaurant, bowling alley, sports bar and event space in the former Tucker’s space.
Northport Pub & Grille Website | 116 S. Waukazoo St. Northport
Sleeping Bear Tour Co. | Honor, MI
A National Park Service-approved company offering small, personal tours into the park’s wilderness areas led by former park ranger Julie Den Uyl, the first commercial operator to be granted permits for accessing these regulated, rarely-visited areas. Learn more at sleepingbeartourco.com.
TC Picnic Company | Traverse City, MI
Marisa Farr creates customized, luxury picnic settings for groups of two people up to 20, delivering and setting up tables, candles, flatware, decor and more. She partners with caterers for private events, or guests can provide their own food and drinks. Learn more at tcpicnicco.com.
Winchester’s Whiskey & Bourbon Room | Mackinac Island
Located inside Bicycle Street Inn, this rebranded restaurant now offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere for lunch and an up- scale-casual evening experience with dimmed lights, Prohibition-era vibes and craft cocktails.
Winchester’s Whiskey Website | 7416 Main St., Mackinac Island
Searching for More Northern Michigan Food & Drink?
For more local restaurants, recipes and dining ideas, visit our Northern Michigan Food & Drink page, preview and purchase our digital issues or subscribe and get Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine delivered to your door each month.