One of the best parts of traveling is discovering new and interesting restaurants. There’s lots of choices in the Petoskey Area, but we wanted to share a few of those that we know are super popular.

Like many places, the communities of Harbor Springs, Petoskey, Boyne City, Boyne Falls, Alanson and Bay Harbor are experiencing an employee shortage. This sure doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit, but it does mean you should plan ahead.  You may want to consider carryout or check in at a restaurant earlier than you normally would do so. Make a reservation if you are able. Kindness and patience will go a long way in helping your meal digest – trust us!

CASUAL

Mim’s Mediterranean Grill — Petoskey

If you’re feeling international, head to Mim’s for traditional Greek and Mediterranean goodness. You can’t go wrong with their yummy gyros, grape leaves or tabbouleh (chopped parsley with bulgar, green onion, tomato, lemon, and mint), and make sure to try the fiery feta fries for a mouth-watering experience. Bonus here? Mim’s rocks the customer service and does an awesome job with takeout.

Bob’s Place – Alanson

A friendly atmosphere adds to the appeal of Bob’s menu. Burgers, burritos, chicken strips or shrimp baskets are all served for lunch and dinner. Dinner options include jumbo deep-fried shrimp, creamy chicken alfredo and Friday night all-you-can-eat fish. Too much of a good thing the night before? Try the cure – a double order of hashbrowns filled with everything but the kitchen sink.

Lake Street Market — Boyne City

This terrific little deli has always offered takeout, so they have it down pat. Head to Lake Street Market for filling gourmet soups, sandwiches and homemade pizza, all on a menu with a sense of humor. Order in advance for the whole family.

Knot Just a Bar — Bay Harbor

Enjoy the casual ambiance of this waterfront Bay Harbor location. From burgers to pasta to a cone of cod, the menu at Knot Just a Bar is sure to have something to please everyone in your party. Order the amazing carrot cake and ask for extra forks.

Noggin Room — Petoskey

The Noggin Room Pub, inside Stafford’s Perry Hotel, offers live entertainment on many weekends in a casual, roll-up-your-sleeves environment. Enjoy a basket of popcorn with your favorite drink while anticipating that first delicious bite of juicy burger or their amazing three-cheese French onion soup. Provolone, parmesan and gruyere, oh my!

Stigg’s Brewery & Kitchen — Boyne City

Stigg’s is the only brewery in Boyne City, and they offer great tastes brewed onsite in an historic building with a from-scratch food menu. Even meat-lovers will appreciate the vegetarian sandwich – roasted seasonal vegetables, sprouts, & basil-feta spread on toasted sourdough.

Paper Station Bistro – Harbor Springs

Situated in downtown Harbor Springs, the Paper Station serves lunch and dinner, offers carryout, and also takes reservations. A great spot to try if you’re going to hit the Lyric Theatre for a movie, the Paper Station offers a quartet of fantastic burgers, a terrific selection of salads and onion rings you don’t want to miss.

FINE DINING

Don’t let the term “fine dining” scare you. The menus lean towards more upscale, but the atmosphere and dress are still casual.

Palette Bistro — Petoskey

For food that is innovative and pleasing, check out the Mediterranean-inspired menu at Palette Bistro. This Wine Guys endeavor offers stunning views of Little Traverse Bay and three separate seating areas so guests can be spread out throughout the building. For a winter warmup, be sure to try the forest floor soup – roasted mushrooms, stewed leeks, cream and Fustini’s white truffle oil.

The New York – Harbor Springs

A long-time staple of Harbor Springs (and once part of a hotel), The New York maintains the style and gracious service from days gone by. Chef Matt Bugera and his team are wizards with whitefish and everything else on the menu which features a delightful combination of items made from scratch and using local ingredients when possible.

1911 Restaurant at the Terrace Inn — Petoskey

Open for dinner service in the winter, the food is fabulous and the venue inviting with elegant chandeliers, original wood floors and many original antique furnishings. The prix fixe three-course menu is well-rounded and a wonderful value, but ala carte options are offered. The wagyu sirloin and its accompaniments are perfection on a plate.

Vintage Chop House | Wine Bar — Bay Harbor

Vintage Chophouse | Wine Bar embodies the charm of the classic all-American steakhouse, complemented by elements of an upscale lounge. Vintage is that quintessential retreat where adults come to indulge and unwind while enjoying the view of Little Traverse Bay. Don’t pass up on the appetizers here – they’re always something special.

Café Santé — Boyne City

A casual, European-style bistro serving The Classics— simply and with flair. Featuring Belgian beers, wood-fired pizzas, mussels and frites, pastas, unique breakfasts, and casual cuisine from other fine European traditions. You won’t find a better a better quiche Lorraine anywhere.

Are your taste buds fired up now? Come see us soon and let us know how you like the food! Of course, this is just a small “sampling” of our great tastes. There’s a lot to choose from here.

 

 

About the author

Diane Dakins is passionate about all of the communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of Michigan: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor and Boyne City. As assistant director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, she has “been there – seen that” when it comes to virtually every area attraction. She strives to create informative content that gives potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.