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.
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!
The Paper Station — Harbor Springs
The Paper Station is filling bellies with lunch and dinner items ranging from bleu burgers, hand dipped onion rings and a terrific salmon salad. Take it up a notch with the lobster mac-n-cheese served at 5pm.
Lake Street Market — Boyne City
Looking for some delicious takeout? 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 every weekend in a casual, roll-up-your-sleeves environment. The pub is also home to the famous “Hall of Foam.”
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, offering stunning views of Little Traverse Bay.
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. Don’t pass up the signature seafood chowder.
The Terrace Inn and 1911 Restaurant — Petoskey
The restaurant is open to the public and the fare is fresh, prepared onsite from scratch, and a good value. Their house specialty is the planked whitefish (fresh caught from the lake!) with piped duchesse potatoes, and broiled spinach/artichoke stuffed tomato. The bar is stocked with over 100 wines from around the country, Michigan-produced bottled beers and refreshing cocktails.
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.
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, panini, unique breakfasts and casual cuisine from other fine European traditions. Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Aonach Mor Moonlight Dinner – Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs
Your evening begins with a sleigh ride from the Main Lodge lobby to the North Peak. An inviting bonfire greets you before you take your seats at tables adorned in white linen and illuminated by candlelight. On clear nights, the lights of the Mackinac Bridge add to the stunning ambiance. An acoustic guitarist strums favorite tunes, rounding out the perfect atmosphere. Dining is only on Saturday nights with limited seating available.
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
Diane Dakins is passionate about all the lakeside communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of northern 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. Her blogs give potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.