One of the best parts of traveling is discovering new and interesting restaurants. But how do you know what’s best? Ask a local. That’s exactly what we did and narrowed the choices down to 13 of our favorite places to dine in the Petoskey Area.
Want to be sure your choice is open? Please call, check Facebook, or websites for updates.
CASUAL
Mim’s Mediterranean Grill — Petoskey
If you’re feeling up to some Mediterranean cuisine, head to Mim’s for traditional Greek and Mediterranean goodness. You can’t go wrong with their yummy gyros, stuffed 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. Or order some fiery feta sauce on the side to add to your gyro or to dip your fries in. Bonus here? Mim’s rocks the customer service and does an awesome job with takeout.
Turkey’s — Harbor Springs
Turkey’s can take care of your breakfast, lunch, AND dinner needs before or after a day on the slopes or trails. From filling hash and eggs, to a healthy cherry chicken salad and their famous pizzas, this is the place to go to control your hunger with super tastes.
Gurney’s Bottle Shop – Harbor Springs
Eat at a liquor store? Trust us with this one. You can’t beat this sandwich for less than $10. Gurney’s is a local favorite for stacked deli sandwiches in their small deli! Choose from one of their fresh baked bread options and then choose one of their few sandwich options or tailor your sandwich to what you prefer. One of their staple sandwich selections is the Trainwreck which comes with ham, turkey, salami, roast beef, and your choice of cheese and condiments. Personally, I order my sandwich custom and rarely skip out on their Gurney’s Deli sauce – think a zippy, creamy condiment. Things to note here: cash only and say yes to a pickle spear on the side if you are a pickle lover.
No seating at this establishment so take your sandwich to a picnic table by the marina or by the city beach.
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.
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. Moved upstairs to offer more space, the pub is also home to the famous “Hall of Foam” and now comes with a view of the bay.
Stigg’s Brewery & Kitchen — Boyne City
Stigg’s is the only brewery in Boyne City and they offer great tastes brewed on-site in a historic building with a from-scratch food menu. Smoked meats are all done on-site and are amazing! My personal favorite is their Brisket Melt – just wow – trust me.
Brandy’s Harbortown — Bay Harbor
Brandy’s Harbortown opened in the early summer of 2024 and is off to the races with being a hopping place for enjoying the Bay Harbor atmosphere. A soon-to-be local spot, this new dock-side multi-kitchen style option has a cabana bar that is an awesome place to be in the warmer months. Choose from their four different options in their kitchen collective: Heirloom, Wings + Beer, Brandy’s Kitchen, or Fresh Catch!
Julienne Tomatoes — Petoskey
Julienne Tomatoes is just good eating. Period. Using local ingredients they have such great options for a casual breakfast or lunch from Tuesday through Saturday. Sandwiches, salad, breakfast sandwiches, daily quiche options, great coffee, and SO many pastries to choose from for dessert ( My personal favorites: Grilled Ham & Brie, Tomato Gorgonzola soup (available from time to time), or their classic B.L. Tomato sandwich.
FINE DINING
Don’t let the term “fine dining” scare you. The menus are more upscale than burgers and fries, 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. Also, don’t miss their Happy Hour specials that we might deem as some of the best in the Petoskey area – 40% off small plates, $1 off draft beers, and $5 Cosmopolitan, Margarita, French 75, Manhattan, Select Glasses of Wine.
Pointer Room – Stafford’s Pier Restaurant – Harbor Springs
The Pier’s Pointer Room extends out towards the beautiful yacht basin and offers an eclectic menu. Guests enjoy spectacular views while experiencing perfection in service and a comfortable, warm environment. Menu items feature regional cuisine and new tastes, as well as traditional staples such as Stafford’s signature whitefish.
Sage — Odawa Casino – Petoskey
Sage combines a superior menu, impeccable service, and a luxuriously intimate setting to provide you with an amazing culinary adventure. The centerpiece of Sage is a sixteen-foot tall wine tower offering an impressive number of high-quality wines to pair with your meal. Don’t pass up the signature mushroom gnocchi appetizer and be sure to try the specials (now served regularly) like the Thursday night prime rib and the Friday night surf-n-turf special for $39.
1911 Restaurant at the Terrace Inn — Petoskey
Open for Dinner from 4 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday this summer, this classic 1911 venue offers gorgeous views overlooking Bay View’s Victorian Neighborhood from the outdoor Terrace and a romantic vintage setting. It also has a beautiful dining room with original wood floors and many original antique furnishings.
The food is amazing, prepared from scratch, and presented beautifully. Choose from the prix fixe three-course menu or ala carte or enjoy cocktails on the patio. Regionally inspired artfully presented and delicious food and friendly service will ensure a repeat visit!
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.
The New York — Harbor Springs
This northern Michigan bistro features daily specials and eclectic cuisine in a comfortable setting overlooking the waterfront. An award-winning wine list with over 300 wines is available, as well as a wide selection of beers and spirits. Enjoy sushi each Thursday evening and reduced pricing for early diners on select days.
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. Sneak off for lunch through May and take advantage of the $5 pizza lunches Monday – Friday.
Are your taste buds fired up now? Come see us soon and let us know how you like the food! For even more dining options, click here.
About the author:
Ellen Auten is a native of the area, and a lover of hiking, snowboarding, foraging, and a great meal. She enjoys promoting the next fun thing to do in the Petoskey Area – but also likes to recommend local favorites and learning opportunities for all. She hopes to help in your planning process for your next trip to the Petoskey Area of northern Lower Michigan.