True Edibles: Reviews of Traverse City and Beyond

Bradley's Pub and Grille

2017-07-31T16:05:00.000-07:00

The more formal dining room at Bradley's Pub and Grille.

Popped collars, weird saunters with one hand partly in the pocket of some pastel colored short pant, raucous joking about holes and balls, and the smell of drying Bud Light.

Seems to me that no matter how swanky the club, many golf course restaurants hold some or all of the above. Some adore that, some loathe it. Luckily for both, Bradley's has none of it - but also has quite a bit more!

A fun bar area with plenty to drink and see!

Bradley's is located at the Interlochen Golf Club. This little gem of a course has seen its fair share of me. I've whacked balls on the driving range, downed brews in what was once the club gathering place, I even broke my driver head clean off here! An annoying day, that was.

Yet, despite all that history, I only just recently chose to experience the newly minted Bradley's. And I am glad that I did!

The aforementioned (or soon to be mentioned, whatever the case may be) beef tips.

My lovely wife, wiggly son, and I met my parents-in-law for dinner here. I had no idea what to expect. They bill themselves as a "pub and grille" and, while those two words excite me greatly, I understand that one must proceed with caution. Doesn't Applebees call itself a pub and grille? If so, my point is most excellently illustrated - yuck.

I have ventured into PLENTY of pubs and grilles and left feeling completely deflated....in the wallet....from the absolute robbery that just happened at the hands of the liars who had named the place.

The smoked salmon dip.

Not so at Bradley's. The chef here knows exactly what he is doing. He also knows that folks in these parts (read: people in this region) have come to expect excellence from their pub and grille set!

Enough babbling. Let's talk food and drink!

First and foremost, the house brew is a lighter IPA made by Right Brain Brewery in Traverse City - one of my favorite breweries. It is most satisfying! If you happen upon a place in our region that counts Right Brain as their house brew maker, get it! Minerva's has the Park Ale, Sleder's has a cream ale. Boone's Long Lake Inn has another cream ale. All are excellent!

Starter salad and wine....with crayons!

Appetizers on the menu run the gamut. We were served the blackened beef tips - a wondrous concoction consisting of Spanish rice cakes, blackened beef tips (hence the name, yeah?), diced roasted red peppers, cilantro ( my wife's favorite!) and shredded smoked cheddar cheese. There's a picture of these things on this blog somewhere. Read the captions and take a look! They were outstanding! We also partook of the smoked salmon dip, consisting of house smoked salmon whipped into cream cheese with chives, red pepper, and seasonings, served with pretzel toast points. Also divine!

The appetizer menu also features pulled pork nachos, southwest eggrolls, and more!

My lovely wife's feast of walnut crusted rainbow trout.

For dinner, one particular dish caught my eye - beer battered bluegill. As a kid, I would go fishing with my dad and catch a mountain of these tasty little fish (some not so little!). I wanted to take a trip down that memory lane. And so I did!

This dish features a half pound of pale ale beer battered bluegill drizzled with malt vinegar gastrique. It was served with roasted red skin potatoes and house slaw. I soon discovered that I had made an excellent decision!

Wings by the pound, walnut crusted rainbow trout, charbroiled beef tenderloin, smoked baby back pork ribs, and much much more was also to be found on that wonderful menu.

This be the Bluegill! Along with that Right Brain Brewery IPA.

A couple of tasty salad and sandwich choices rounded out the menu. And the wine and beer list, along with available mixed drinks, were quite extensive! With abundant local options.

The views here are pure Michigan!

The ambiance of the joint is none to over the top. All windows look out onto the green rolling fields of golf, it even has a rive rolling through. The dining areas range from a bit more formal seating to the old standard of bellying up to the bar, which has a welcoming design and ambiance as well.

In short, Bradley's of Interlochen is a grand place to visit before that Interlochen Center for the Arts concert, after a round, or just because. Get there and try it for yourself!

Tall Ship Manitou

2017-07-05T16:54:00.002-07:00

The Tall Ship Manitou is one of Traverse City's most unique dining and drinking experiences.

(After a way too long hiatus, one that consisted of still eating at and loving all of our area's awesome joints, I am back! Let's get this thing up and going again!)

One condition that any local of the Grand Traverse Region suffers from, whether they know if or not, is Proximitus Notus Waterus, also known as the "we're HOW FAR from a beach??" syndrome.

You see, here in Traverse City, and throughout its surrounding towns and villages, one is always a short walk or drive from some glorious beach. When that TC local is removed from this area and plopped into the middle of, say, Iowa, the mind tends to be blown at how far away one can truly be from swimmable, open water.

See the Grand Traverse Region in a whole new way!

Knowing that, you'll understand the love that every local, and most visitors, to this area has for the lakes and rivers that run through our state. And, you know what they say! "When in Rome!"

Traverse City's West Bay is this ship's playground.

Well, you can't get much more Traverse City than drinking craft beer on a boat. But, the Tall Ship Company's Manitou is much more than just "a boat."

Tall Ship Manitou is a replica of an 1800’s “coasting” cargo schooner, similar to those that sailed the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. Specifically designed for passenger service, her hull was constructed in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in 1983 and finished by Vermont carpenters on Lake Champlain. With a 59 passenger capacity, there is plenty of space for sitting and moving around the decks while under sail. Her overall length of 114 feet, beam of 21 feet, and displacement of nearly 100 tons ensures a comfortable, relaxing motion, soothing to both landlubbers and “old salts” alike.

Great for families! Kids get to steer!

This cruise through Traverse City's West Bay is fun and freeing! Do be warned that, while this ship is a pleasure boat, it is also one that can take on the bay's various moods, as I found out during our recent cruise when a mighty wind began to blow and we were soon keeling at a most impressive rate. This would be when the wind really catches the sails and pushes the ship along at an impress clip, whilst also causing it to lean at what could be an alarming angle to the not so seasoned.

The Manitou has many various options for the curious sailor when it comes to specialty cruises. Do you like live music with your craft beer? Well, the Manitou features "Entertainment Nights" every Wednesday evening through July and August, featuring Song of the Lakes, a grand and much loved local band whose music comes from this nautical life.

How about ice cream? Again, the Manitou has you covered with a Moomer's Ice Cream themed sail. Moomer's is America's favorite ice cream and is made right here in Traverse City!

How about wine? When you come to the Grand Traverse Region, you must try the wine! And Manitou has you covered there as well, with a Wine Tasting Cruise featuring Mediterranean cuisine provided by local favorite eatery Silver Swan.

Craft beer on the bay! No other way!

For our 2 hour cruise, we chose a simple pleasure cruise, a loop around Traverse City's West Bay. On this cruise, you were free to move about the ship and explore, kids could steer a bit, you could help the crew hoist the sails (a real workout, that! I loved it!), and more! Once cruising, the aboard bar kicked into service. Our cruise featured a beer from Petoskey Brewing Company, one from Bell's Brewery, and a cider from Starcut Ciders. Various small, packaged snacks were also available for purchase. The brews were inexpensive, $4-$5 for a good size pour, and for a couple of dollars more, you could snag a glass pint emblazoned with the Tall Ship Company's logo.

For the longer sails, and the bed and breakfast option, there's an amazing dining room and kitchen aboard.

Our cruise was amazing, there's nothing quite like kicking back on the deck of a schooner with a local beer in your hand, watching Traverse City, the Old Mission Peninsula, and Leelanau Peninsula pass by.

But, this particular ship offers one more option for cruising - the "bed and breakfast" sail. This sail consists of cruising around the bay, then securing at the dock for the overnight bit, where you'll sleep in one of the on board cabins (there's room for 20 guests!) or, weather permitting, you'll be able to sleep under the stars on the deck.

Bright and open, despite being below decks.

In the morning, a fresh cup of coffee will be waiting, as will a full, scratch made breakfast from the ship's kitchen, which holds a massive wood burning stove. If I heard the captain right at the conclusion of our voyage, they also offer multi-day overnight stays up and down the coast.

A huge wood burning stove is ready to rock!

One does not get much closer to Traverse City perfection than this! Seeing TC from a whole new angle, one that many will never see because they just won't bother to climb on board. Do not be one of them! Get aboard this boat for a 2 hour cruise, or for a few nights. Great brews, views, and dining await!

Spanglish of Traverse City

2014-02-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

Spanglish inhabits the former home of the Underground Cheesecake Company on the grounds of the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

First and foremost, I apologize for the absence! I am back, traversing this wonderful area with my little family, eating outstanding food, taking pics and blogging about it here. My goal is 1-2 restaurants per month, so do continue to check back often!

Anyway! Onto the fun stuff. The above picture may be a bit familiar to those of you who have read through this blog a time or two. There's a very good reason for that. This building that now houses Spanglish once housed the Underground Cheesecake Company. For those of you that love cheesecake, have no fear, the cheesecake brilliance is now located in the building directly behind this one.

The interior is small, but, since takeout is an option, this won't matter at all!

Now that I've put your no-cheesecake-induced panic attack to rest, let's discuss this Spanglish, shall we? I've noticed that the blog on Osorio's continues to be the most read blog on my little site. Obviously, you folks enjoy authentic Central American fare. Well, here at Spanglish, you get just that!

The bean dip is the best in town!

A brilliant native chef and his equally brilliant wife have put together a little bit of Mexican heaven. right on the grounds of the Grand Traverse Commons here in Traverse City. Together with their team, they are putting out some of the very best Mexican food available in the region today!

Outstanding, simple creations flow from this Traverse City kitchen.

Their tag line is "A Fresh Tradition." And that is exactly what they are. Their offerings are simple and traditional. They know what they are good at and they produce that excellence daily. Since their opening, their small restaurant has become a hub for hungry locals and visitors alike. In fact, the one sure thing that I used in Central America to find excellent food can be seen here at Spanglish everyday. That thing is the line of folks who live in and work at the Grand Traverse Commons seeking their daily fix of Spanglish. When the true locals love it enough to stand in line, especially when there are so many other options available to them, you know that it has got to be good.

And it is!

Spanglish is quickly becoming an institution within the Traverse City dining scene.

Let's talk about food!

To begin with, from 9-11AM, they serve an outstanding breakfast burrito, consisting of eggs, queso cheese, potatoes, salsa roja, sour cream and your choice of Michigan pork sausage or a veggie option, which includes onion, poblano, sweet corn and bell pepper. All for only $5.50.

Before we continue, you should know that all of their ingredients are locally sourced. Awesome.

Now, for $9 you can snag 3 tacos. These are corn tortillas topped with shredded cabbage, salsa verde, chopped onion, cilantro and feta cheese. You can choose roasted pork,, braised beef, grilled chicken or the veggie option.

If you're a burrito lover, check out the Big Daddy for $9. This thing really is BIG. It consists of refried beans, rice, salsa verde, shredded cabbage, onions, cilantro and feta with your choice of Carnitas roasted pork, barbacoa beef, chicken or veggie.

One of the most purchased items here are the Tamales. You can snag one for $3. The options here are Carnitas and Tomatillo - consisting of roasted pork with a tomatillo sauce, chicken and guajillo - consisting of chicken with a mild red chili sauce, Three Sisters - consisting of butternut squash, corn, beans, and red bell pepper, and the New World - consisting of zucchini, roasted tomatoes, potatoes, onions and pepitas (toasted pumpkin seeds). These things rock!

They also offer Quesadillas and Tostadas, both very tasty!

Sides offered include beans, rice, hot sauce, chips and salsa and more. The sides range in price from 50 cents to $5. Pretty decent pricing! In fact, nothing on the menu tops $9.

You can even take home some of their salsa or layered bean dip (one of my favorites!).

And, of course, they offer a bit of sweet as well. This is in the form of a Polvorone - an orange zest shortbread cookie for $1.50.

These cookies hit the spot for sure!

There really is nothing quite like an authentic experience, brought to you by folks who truly love their art! At Spanglish, you will find just that!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Left Foot Charley

2013-06-01T09:14:00.001-07:00

Left Foot Charley hosts a perfect summer patio.

Wine and beer. You'll find that Traverse City is chock full of amazing, local selections of both. The entirety of the Grand Traverse Region has become synonymous with excellent wines, beers and food, all sourced from local farms and farmers. Indeed, many of the regions wines and brews have become national and international sensations, taking gold medals at worldwide competitions.

In short, when you're in TC, you need to sample some of the drink as well as some of the food! A great place to start that sampling is Left Foot Charley, a thoroughly Traverse City winery that focuses on excellent vintage, yummy bites and the perfect atmosphere for those who love what Traverse City is all about.

And yes, we have returned, once again, to the fabulous Village at the Grand Traverse Commons (the old state hospital grounds).

Wine. It's their business!

Left Foot Charley inhabits the old laundry house on the state hospital grounds. They are one of the only tasting rooms within walking distance of downtown Traverse City, making them an incredibly popular stop. In fact, Northern Natural Cider House and Left Foot Charley are the only two bonafide tasting rooms in the downtown region. If you're looking for other tasting rooms, you need to hit the peninsulas.

Want to have a look in the back? Just ask! Perhaps they'll let you in!

I'm a huge fan of the wines served here. My current favorite is a lovely mix of Riesling and Gewurtztraminer - not too sweet, not too dry, juuuuuust right. I dig it for sure!

While their wine list does change with the seasons, some remain static, so, if you see a wine that you hope to try on the list of suggestions that I am about to provide, it may or may not be there when you visit. No worries though, you're certain to find something outstanding no matter your taste!

Row after row of bottles await your purchase at Left Foot Charley in Traverse City.

The wine! During my recent visit, I sampled quite a few of their vinos. Here are a few of my favorites:

The Pinot Gris - not light nor easily understood, a great sip and savor.

Murmur - This thing changes year to year, always fun, a yummy dry wine, perfect for almost any occasion.

Hard Apple Ciders - Yeah, these are becoming all the rage in the region and, when done correctly, they can be incredibly diverse and tasty. Give them a try here, see what you think!

Obviously, there are many more flavors to sample. One can spend an entire afternoon losing themselves in the various bottles available here.

Not feeling the patio? No worries, the atmosphere inside is equally swell.

The food! While Left Foot Charley is certainly not the place to go if you're hoping for a huge meal with your wine, they do serve up some very satisfying grub. This menu, as well, is often changing, so take the following suggestions as an example of what you will find at Left Foot Charley.

First off, every Thursday K2 Edibles takes over the kitchen and offers a different international flavor. For $15 you can snag a glass of wine or hard cider and sample some fine thing from across the globe. When I visited, they were featuring a Polish theme.

If that sort of thing really isn't your bag of chips, as they say, no worries, there are other ways to nosh here. Take, for example, the Ploughman's Lunch. This is Finocchiona and Chorizo with Boss Mouse Swiss, 18 month Beemster and Blue Cheese served with Pleasonton Bakery's Golden Wheat Bread, Mike's Mustard, seasonal chutney and McClure's Pickles. All this local goodness for $12.

Another fun selection would be the Fish and Chips. For only $5 you can score some smoked Whitefish pate and Kettle Chips served with McClure's Pickles.

There are a few other selections as well, and a few daily specials. These dishes usually run from $3-$13 each.

There's no pretentiousness attached to the wine here!

This wine lunch thing is a grand way to spend an afternoon in Traverse City. Left Foot Charley is the ideal spot for such a thing. It has served as meeting spot, after work kickback, first date (or 1,000th date) locale and more since it first began operating around 2004. During the summer time, there really is nothing better than a good glass of wine, a perfect patio and Oscar worthy conversation.....unless, of course, you're doing all that with a good glass of beer, for that is equally as good!

Green House Cafe

2013-05-02T09:04:00.001-07:00

Green House Cafe in downtown Traverse City is where those in the know go for great breakfast and lunch fare.

Ahh, downtown Traverse City in the Spring! Thoughts turn to fresh, crisp fare that satisfies and energizes, am I right? Well, if you're downtown Traverse City, and on foot, that means that you're a bit too far from Centre Street Cafe to enjoy their amazing offerings. So, I'd suggest one of downtown's best breakfast and lunch spots - Green House Cafe!

DO NOT miss the muffins!

This place has long been a favorite of the downtown wanderer, the lunch hour rusher, the casual meeting....ers, basically everybody loves this joint!

Why do they love it? The answer to that is both simple and delicious! The food!

Whether you're seated inside or out on the sidewalk watching the world go by, the atmosphere is uniquely TC.

That's right, nothing more, nothing less. The food here is always outstanding, especially so if you're in the mood for a lunch or breakfast that will leave you completely satisfied, but still able to continue shopping, beaching, movie-going, etc. without that "good lord, I'm going to burst" feel.

Keep an eye on this board! Amazing things happen here.

Speaking of breakfast, let's dive right in, shall we?

We start with a section entitled simply "Basic Breakfast." But, as you'll soon discover, there's not too much Basic about Green House Cafe.

The Basic selections run from $4-$6. They include things like biscuits and sausage gravy, granola/fruit/yogurt, pancakes, French toast, etc. This section is perfect for the wayward traveller on a budget or the person with simple tastes.

We next see "Omelettes". These range in price from $8-$9. Some fun combinations can be had here. My favorite is the asparagus and Swiss omelette for $8. Yum!

We move onto the House Specialties next. These range from $8-$11. My preferred house specialty breakfast is the Eggs Neptune for $11. This would be poached eggs on top of two crab cakes smothered with hollandaise sauce, served with hash browns or fresh fruit. This hits me in the sweet spot every time!

After house specialties comes Sides, Kids and Beverages. The sides consist mostly of the usual suspects and the kids menu is affordable (ranging from $2-$5) and full of selection.

Amazing things happen here as well!

Jumping into what is most likely their most popular reason for existing now - lunch.

Please note that house specials, features and the chalk board are constantly changing. This includes the homemade soup selections. However, their freaking amazing French onion soup is almost always available. For $8, you can take a trip to soup heaven!

Salads here are fresh and tasty, they range in price from $6-$11 and there are a few yummy options to take advantage of to kick your salad up a notch.

Burgers come next. These range in price from $8-$10. My favorite slab is the crab burger, described simply as "our homemade recipe." Delish!

After burgers comes sandwiches. This is the menu that I usually utilize when I visit their downtown Traverse City location. The prices in this section range from $8-$10. The best selection here, in my humble opinion, is the shrimp salad sandwich. This thing is $10 and comes on a croissant. I dig it VERY much!

Green House Cafe compliments downtown Traverse City style to a "T"!

When most locals think of Green House Cafe in Traverse City, they picture the muffin bar. So, as my closing thought, if you go here for only one thing, let it be one of their outstanding (and HUGE) muffins! Lemon Poppy, chocolate chip, pineapple coconut, pumpkin and many more. Yeah, you can't forget to snag a muffin.

Downtown Traverse City is jam packed full of eateries that seem to have their own perfect niche. Green House Cafe is no different. Whether you're doing a bit of take-out for the beach or boat, or you're dining in with friends or family, this place is certain to scratch whatever culinary itch you may have!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Shameless Self Promotion! Yay!

2013-04-19T10:16:00.001-07:00

Greetings folks! I have some awesome and faithful readers on this blog. You guys obviously love Northern Michigan and are pretty interested in what it has to offer. To that end, I invite you to Like my Journalistic self's Facebook Page. This page will keep you up to date on all of the happenings, goings-on and the like in the Grand Traverse Region, as well as every article I write! Yippee, right?? Also, the minute that I throw a post up onto this blog, I'll put it on my Facebook page for you to click and enjoy! BRILLIANT!

Additionally, as you'll see when you click on the above link, I am a "freelancer". This means that I am always interested in hearing about any needs that your publication may have, foodie or otherwise. Just hit me up on my page or at brooks.vanderbush@gmail.com!

OK, enough of that. Get back to reading about awesome restaurants here in Traverse City and beyond!!! Happy eating!!

Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen

2013-04-16T11:20:00.001-07:00

Across from the Elk Rapids golf course is a little bit of Cajun in Elk Rapids.

Alligator. Shrimp Po' Boy. Hot sauce galore. Yeah, this is the North's own little bit of Cajun. And we love it so! Welcome to Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen.

There's a lot going on with the walls inside of Pearl's.

At Pearl's in Elk Rapids, you'll find a little bit of everything. Literally. Check out the wall decor! This place is dripping, nay, swimming, in memorabilia. Yet, it seems to accomplish exactly what it has set out to accomplish; that being an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of Cajun culture, but uniquely local and welcoming as well.

Whether or not you're a fan of this form of decor will matter not once your plate is set down in front of you. These guys know good food! Let's get to it!

The decor is overwhelming, but in a good way. No worries.

Pearl's is famous for their Po' Boy and a Pint Wednesdays, wherein you can snag a Po' Boy and a pint for $8.99. I love it!

The menu starts out right, there's no doubt about that! The very first thing you'll see is the varied selection of featured mix drinks at Pearl's. These things run from $5-$9. My twin favorites have always been the Oyster Shooter (a freshly shucked oyster, jalapeno steeped vodka and cocktail sauce for $4.99) and the the Hurricane (a 23.5 oz cocktail served tall glass with dark rum, light rum and fruit juices for $9). The Hurricane takes me back to Key West sunsets.....ahhhhhhh.

For me, if I'm not snagging a Po' Boy, I'm usually tempted to make a meal out of a few appetizers. These dishes run from $7-$23. Highlights include a dozen oysters on the half shell for $23, Huckleberry Quail for $8, crawfish cakes for $8, blackened Alligator for $8, and oysters Rockefeller for $16. Many other options are available if you're not a fan of my favs, no worries.

Pearl's manages to capture that perfect neighborhood feel that so many other joints miss.

Onto everyone's favorite......Soups and Salads! Yay hipsters! All jokes aside, Gumbo Ya Ya is a serious bit of delicious. This is house made with chunks of chicken and spicy Andouille sausage, finished with rice. This dish is $4 for a cup and $5 for a bowl. Crawfish and corn chowder (same price) is always my go-to soup here. The salads range from $6-$20. The selection of salads is quite nice, if you're a greens lover, check them out!

Heading into the entrees, these things run from $14-$24. A lot of selection here. My favorites are as follows (listen close, for I have EXCELLENT taste): Pearl's Etouffee for $17. This is a sauce with onions, bell peppers, celery, garlic, cayenne pepper and more, served over dirty rice. You can pair this with garlic crawfish, blackened shrimp, Andouille Tasso or a combination. Your choice!

I also thoroughly enjoy the Whitefish Florentine for $19. This is Charlevoix's Cross Fisheries whitefish baked with Pearl's shallot sauce, served on a bed of garlic spinach with red beans and rice.

A third personal highlight is Doctor John's Garlic Delmonico for $24. This is a 12 oz cut seasoned with Voodoo spices and pan seared, finished with roasted garlic butter and smok'in tobacco onions. It is served with cheddar mashed potatoes, andouille milk gravy and fresh veggies.

A fully, FULLY stocked bar. Always a good thing!

For many folks, the po' boys make this place. Luckily for them, that's the next menu section!

These outstanding sandwiches range in price from $9-$12. Some personal favs include the fried shrimp po' boy for $10, the blackened catfish po'boy for $10 and the corn fried whitefish muffuletta for $12. Yum!

Desserts are $6. And fun! I can never resist the bananas foster. Wowza.

Great food, great drink, great service. Pearl's gets it!

Happy hour runs seven days a week from 3pm-6pm where you can snag $1 off your favorite drink and a $2.99 appetizer.

I dig this place. True, it's not in Traverse City, but it's a great place to meet up with friends who yet remain in Elk Rapids. The atmosphere is truly neighborhood and the food/drink are always completely satisfying. If you're pondering a trip north of Traverse City, give Pearl's a try!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Brew

2013-03-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

Grand coffee and delicious beer. That's what awaits you here!

The novice Traverse City-ite can be excused for passing Brew by on their search for good food paired with outstanding local beer. But, beware, once you have finished reading this, you are no longer excused from such poppycock as that!

Brew's atmosphere is very modern city, complete with that laid back TC style.

The fact of the matter is that while Brew does turn out an incredibly tasty cup of coffee and immensely satisfying breakfast offerings, they also live up to their motto of "Morning, Noon and Night" quite well.

Whether you're looking for a refreshing pick-me-up by way of this nation's favorite warm beverage or a hearty lunch/dinner complete with a unique and Delicious local beer, this is the place for you!

Don't forget to check out the daily sweets and treats!

Brew is a unique establishment, nestled in amongst many of the other unique restaurants of downtown Traverse City. For those who think that it's simply a coffee joint, it's pretty easy to pass by, despite its front and center downtown location. But, once you enter, you find an eatery catering to the slightly healthier appetite. What does that mean? Well! Let's peruse their menus, shall we?

If you can, grab a window seat. Grand people watching, that!

We'll start with "Morning".

Breakfast options run from $3-$8, depending on the size of your appetite. If I'm very hungry, I'll snag the Breakfast Brewrito. This concoction is egg, bacon, spinach, tomato, red pepper and pepper jack cheese, all for $7.95.

If you're not starving, skip the bagel choices and snag the oatmeal with brown sugar. This is $3 and you can add cherries, pecans or raisins for a measly 25 cents more.

The beer here is creative, fun and tasty!

"Noon and Night" come next.

The sandwiches at this place are where my sweet spot lies. There's nothing better than a good sandwich alongside a lovely local brew!

The sandwiches range in price from $8-$9. My favorite is the North Park for $8. This is a ham, mozzarella, red pepper, lettuce, tomato, basil and balsamic vinaigrette creation. As with all of the other sandwich choices, you can have this thing hot, cold or served as a wrap.

Another favorite on the sandwich menu are the BBQ pork sliders for $9. These are served on cornbread with apple IPA slaw. Yum!

Brew in Traverse City. They have it all!

Next come some tasty salad choices. These range in price from $8-$9 as well.

My salad of choice is the Julius Caesar for $8. This is fresh romaine lettuce tossed with asiago cheese and herbed chicken breast and topped with house Caesar. Fun!

Breakfast, lunch or dinner, TC's Brew is the place to be!

As should be expected at these sorts of downtown joints, the menu is constantly in flux. A few items are static, but there will be changes. Soups change daily as do the awesome locally made sweets selections. Prices seem to stay within the same basic ranges, however.

This one is hard to miss, right off of Traverse City's Front Street.

The atmosphere here is grand. The view from the front tables of downtown is highly desirable, to say the least. People watching here is excellent. And the beer.....wow, they come up with some grand combinations!

This is big city downtown light dining, to be sure. Step into Brew and you might as well be in Chicago. From lively folks in the A.M. to live music in the P.M., Brew has it all and is well worth the venture in! Besides.....who amongst us doesn't require an afternoon brew?

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Blue Tractor

2013-03-03T10:02:00.002-08:00

Old Town Traverse City is the place to go for boots full of beer!

The Cuban Burger. That is all.

Just kidding, folks. We'll throw a few more syllables into this piece, but, for real; the Cuban Burger at this joint is out-freaking-standing.

A darker, more relaxing atmosphere is tailor made for convo and good times at Blue Tractor in Traverse City.

Blue Tractor is slightly removed from downtown Traverse City, located in TC's Old Town District. But, that slightly removed is just enough to allow for way too many folks to find themselves not at Blue Tractor, because, unfortunately, they never knew that it existed.

Well, it does exist and it turns out some supremely satisfying fare, as well as an outstanding selection of Michigan brews! They'll even serve you a boot full of beer, which is an ungodly amount of awesome. Beware of this glass boot, though! Filling that 32 oz mug with many of the craft beers featured on tap can be a severely mind altering experience, what with the high alcohol content and all. Whew.

Belly on up to the bar, or grab a table or booth. It's all good here at TC's Blue Tractor.

Blue Tractor serves up lunch and dinner, and they serve it up well!

The lunch menu is the perfect re-energizing force for that midtown shopping break. It starts off with....well...starters! Perfecto!

These selections run from $5-$9. I usually gravitate toward the artichoke dip ($9), the breaded green bean platter ($6 or $9) or the Tractor Twists (hand twisted bread sticks, stuffed with Monterrey Jack cheese, topped with herbed garlic butter and served with warm marinara sauce - $8).

Side note: you'll notice that Blue Tractor is not the healthiest choice in TC restaurants. But, one does not enter such a locale looking for health food. This is good food alongside great beer. 'Nuff said.

Moving on with the lunch menu!

Soups and salads come next. This section has prices ranging from $5-$10. When I'm in a soup/salad mood, I'll snag the raspberry chicken salad ($10) and the soup of the day ($5)! They're standby soup is a smoked chicken chowder ($5), which is swell, but I have something against ordering chicken or pork when dining out. I just can't do it. That is, unless that meat is part of a unique, fun salad, of course.

The menu then moves onto Tractor Pies. These be pizzas, mateys. They range from $8 for personal pizzas to $15 for pizzas to share amongst the gathered table. I usually snag the five cheese and roasted vegetables pizza for $8. Simple, elegant, cheesey. I dig it!

Next comes the Burger Board. This would be where Blue Tractor shines. These burgers range in price from $8-$9, with sliders coming in at $3 each or $11 for 5 and fries in a basket.

I'm a bit wishy-washy when it comes to the burgers at Blue Tractor. I don't really have a favorite or anything.......HA! I jest! The only burger I order here is the CUBAN! This lovely mama-jama comes topped with pit smoked pulled pork, jack cheese, housemade pickles, secret sauce and yellow mustard. The portion of the menu that announces the presence of this delightful burger starts with "Addictive. You've been warned." And it certainly is! I have seen others at my table thoroughly enjoy the other burgers on the menu, so I am sure that they are all swell as well.

Sandwiches and mac-n-cheese round out the lunch menu. Despite only having a few selections of mac-n-cheese, when one mentions Blue Tractor about town, that selection of dishes seems to be what they're most know for.

Sandwiches run $8-$9, while mac-n-cheese comes in at $9-$10. The corned beef Reuben is a lovely thing, as is the BBQ pulled pork with smoked Gouda mac-n-cheese. Yum!

Michigan made brews. The best in the world!

Onto dinner!

Starters, soups and salads, Tractor Pies, mac-n-cheese, the Burger Board, and sandwiches are all pretty much the same here, with some slight increase in prices. Sneaky!

An added section is Blue Tractor BBQ. Pulled pork, ribs, brisket and beer can chicken can all be had here, with prices ranging from $14-$22.

Desserts can be had as well, prices stick at $5 for around four selections. Try the Caramel Pecan brownie Sundae!

Blue Tractor also does some lovely take-out.

Cuban Burger and a local brew. This is the recipe for a perfect evening out amongst friends!

I really enjoy this joint. It's one of a few restaurants throughout Traverse City that is consistently good. It is also one of MANY restaurants throughout Traverse City that has an amazing atmosphere for good times and conversation. This is a grand place to meet up, nosh on tasty fare, sling a few amazing brews and simply enjoy this life.

The Underground Cheesecake Company

2013-01-31T13:28:00.000-08:00

No matter the season, this place is pleasin'!

PLEASE NOTE that the Cheesecake factory has moved into Building 50 at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons and has vastly expanded their options! Check them out! The building in the above photo is now inhabited by Spanglish.

Brace yourselves, this one is pure indulgence! Welcome to the Underground Cheesecake Company in Traverse City!

This little joint sits behind the old state hospital (otherwise known as the Grand Traverse Commons). If I'm not mistaken, the building that this dessert lover's heaven occupies is the former laundry facility for the hospital. As you may have noticed, this is not the first eatery that I have featured from the grounds of the Grand Traverse Commons, nor will it be the last. If you are coming to Traverse City, you need to spend a few hours exploring (and eating) here!

The selection of sweets can be overwhelming at first. No worries, you'll recover.

Anyway, now that we have that tid-bit out of the way, let's get to the food!

I'll begin by saying that this is an excellent little lunch stop, of that there is no doubt. They do some excellent sandwiches, ranging in price from $7-$9 (try the vegetarian roasted butternut squash and balsamic onion grilled cheese. Whoa!), a couple of very nice salads, and a small choice of yummy soups whipped up daily. So, yes, lunch can be had here, along with some refreshing drinks and lunch sides (chips, etc.).

But, who are we kidding here? We all know why you're about to wander through these doors. Let's talk cheesecake, shall we?

A small dining area offers you the option to eat in at the Underground Cheesecake Company.

As stated, the Underground Cheesecake Company is a sweet lover's delight. Single serving desserts are priced as follows: brownies - $3.50; cookies - .90-$2.25; cheesecake - $4.25; scones - $3.50. They also have many miscellaneous items available daily, be sure to check that out!

If you're in the market for some gourmet brownies, you're in luck! The always featured flavors are Decadent Double Fudge, Turtle, Creme de Menthe, Peanut Butter and German Chocolate. More flavors may be featured on a day by day basis. If you're looking for a 1/4 sheet of brownies, that'll cost you $35.

Specialty cakes and desserts is the next section that may be of interest to the sugar starved diner. These selections may or may not be available for single serving purchase, one never knows what specific items will be up for single serving grabs. Whole cake/specialty dessert prices range from $20-$37. Favorites of this rather large section include the Black Bottom Cake, Strawberry Torte, Chocolate Raspberry Torte, Fresh Fruit Tart, Pumpkin Cake Roll and the Red Velvet Cake Roll. If you're feeling like a "regular" cake, that can be had as well, just let them know what you're looking for.

Crystalized Ginger. Wowza.

Now, to the cheesey meat of this blog. Cheesecakes are the stars of the show here. If you're throwing a beach party, a boat gathering, a park suare, or a porch gathering, one of these cakes will certainly liven up your event and leave your guests in awe!

Cheesecakes are priced as follows: 9" - $32 (12-16 servings); 6" - $21 (4-6 servings); 12" - $65 (30-35 servings).

Highlights of the HUGE cheesecake menu include the Amaretto Cream, the Caramelized Bourbon Snap, the Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle, the Chocolate Malt, the Cookies and Cream, the Dutch Apple Crumb, the English Toffee Crunch, the Lemon Drop, the Madagascar Vanilla Bean, the Orange Sherbert, the Pomegranate Splash, the Pralines and Cream, the Real Key Lime, the Red Velvet, the Strawberries and Cream, the Vanilla Cappuccino and the White Chocolate Raspberry Swirl.

And that's only a few of the many selections available!

Something for the hiking trail (located just outside of the Underground Cheesecake Company's door)?

How would the Underground Cheesecake Company fit into a lovely Traverse City afternoon? Quite easily. For me, I'll snag a late lunch downtown, hit these folks up for some amazing dessert, then stroll next door and sup the wine at Left Foot Charley! Sounds like a perfect afternoon to me!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Thai Cafe

2012-12-31T11:22:00.002-08:00

Folks are requesting hidden gems. Well, they don't get much more hidden than Traverse City's Thai Cafe!

What is it about Asian fare that is so absolutely necessary in this world? That question has plagued locals and travellers alike for centuries. Without reason and without cause, a sudden, overwhelming urge to sup on the delicacies of the Far East will firmly implant itself within your skull and, until you satiate that urge, the torture is almost unbearable!

Here in Traverse City, we're lucky enough to have quite a few options for such urgings. This, however, can be a nasty crutch. When one craves a bit of China, Japan, Thailand or more, one wants the absolute best that can be had. And, again, while TC has its share of fine joints that fall into these categories, there is but one establishment that has grasped the concept of unerringly amazing Asian food. Perhaps not surprisingly it is located in Traverse City's Campus Plaza, next to Northwestern Michigan College. I speak, of course, of Thai Cafe.

The decor is.....very simple. You are very aware that you have just stepped into a restaurant with a college nearby. No worries, though! The food is all the decor you'll need here!

As I just mentioned, Thai Cafe is tucked discreetly into the Campus Plaza, between two chain restaurants. Their sign is small, their entrance slightly hidden. Their space here appears to be almost an after thought. If you're driving past, it is extremely easy to miss this place.

That's right. Thai Cafe has every mark of a bit of hidden foodie treasure.

Traverse City's Thai Cafe is easily the best Far East food joint in town!

Now, throughout my time here in Traverse City, I have made a routine of hitting these guys up every couple of weeks. They have never disappointed. Their food is always perfect, no matter what I order. In fact, once I finish this blog, I'm off to Thai Cafe!

So, as I am very much looking forward to the trip, let's get this blog over with!

The food: As one will likely expect, Thai Cafe's menu is quite large. As such, I'll list a few of my favorites and some price ranges from each section. But, believe me, no matter what you choose, you will instantly fall in love.

The menu begins with Appetizers. These range in price from $2-$6. You cannot go wrong with the shrimp tampura ($6) or the crab meat ragoon ( $4)!

From there, the menu continues on into the Salads section. These range in price from $7-$12. For $9, you can snag the Yum Squid. Whoa is it fun!

Soups come next. These range in price from $2-$9. While they have some excellent soups, I have yet to try anything other than the egg drop ($2). SOOOOOO good!

Noodle dishes are up next. They range in price from $7-$14. The Talay will give you shrimp, scallops and squid ($9 or $14 depending on portion size).

Fried rice dishes are always popular here. These range in price from $7-$14 as well. Coconut red curry. Need I say more?

What Thai Cafe lacks in atmosphere it more than makes up for in dining awesome.

Up next is my favorite section of the menu: Coconut Curries Dishes. Now, Thai Cafe is known for their curries, some can be quite hot, so watch out for that! This section ranges in price from $7-$16. I will usually match up the duck or talay with the Gang Ped (red curry with peppers, onions, pineapple, bamboo and tomato).

Stir fried dishes makes the next appearance. This has a price rang of $7-$15. Try out the Pad Bai Gai Plow (stir fried peppers, onions, basil and mushrooms.

Fish dishes comes next. These have no range. Three dishes are all $14 each. The Pla Chu Chee is my favorite (white fish with ginger, onion, basil and coconut red curry).

Lastly comes the Chinese dishes. These range from $7-$12 and include some of China's most well known dishes (at least at American joints).

A dessert of sweet rice and mango is usually available as well for $4.

Buddha would approve of Traverse City's Thai Cafe.

Obviously, the decor isn't breathtaking and the location isn't the most beautiful view. When you enter here, you certainly feel the closeness of the college campus. But, once you tuck into your order, none of that will matter. Your taste buds will be in Thailand and, as we all know, when the buds are happy, so shall be we!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Rounds Restaurant

2012-12-29T10:20:00.000-08:00

The perfect place to fuel up on fantastic fare.

You've seen this place in the movies. The quintessential neighborhood grill. This is the place that deals are made, good conversations are had, amazing stories told and hangovers are cured. Indeed, if you venture into this joint on a Saturday morning, you will hear some crazy stories from last night and you will see some folks who are certainly suffering the effects of a night well lived out on the town.

This is Rounds Restaurant in Traverse City, and its breakfast fare has been curing what ails Traverse City residents for decades.

Bar seating, table seating, booth seating. It's up to you at Rounds.

Stepping into Rounds is akin to stepping into the Quality Cafe (that joint in every movie cafe scene ever, need proof? Look here.). One big difference separates a movie facade from Rounds, however. These guys know good food!

The raspberry French toast. Yeah, I want that.

You won't find gourmet here. In fact, the fare will be incredibly familiar. What you will find at Rounds is a menu chock full of comfortable favorites certain to please your pleading gullet.

Now, before we dive into the menu, I must confess that my opinion of Rounds is shaped by a body craving carbs after a lovely night of tipping pints. This is my go-to place of recovery in Traverse City and it has never disappointed me!

Like I've said throughout this blog, Rounds helps one recover from a well earned night out, like these folks are doing here.

Now, onto the menu!

Rounds is a breakfast and lunch establishment. Be that as it may, they are most well known for their extensive (and awesome) breakfast menu.

They start right out with a "Hot From the Grill" section featuring some incredibly satisfying battered delights. Prices in this section range from $4-$6 and the helpings are HUGE. The homemade raspberry French toast is a sure cure for any amount of fun had the night before! And it's only $5.79.

Moving on down the menu, we hit "Omelets". Prices here range from $7-$10. One of my favorites from this section is Dave's Red Velvet Hash Omelet. This is grilled cornbeef, potatoes, onions, red velvet seasoning and Swiss cheese, all for only $8.59. Yum.

Next up is the "Breakfast Served All Day" section, wherein you'll find my favorite choice at Rounds, the steak and eggs. Prices here range from $7-$10.

After that you'll find a selection of egg choices and also a nice bit of breakfast sides.

Comfortable and necessary. That's Rounds in Traverse City.

Moving into the lunch sections, you'll find sandwiches, burgers, fish, chicken, etc. ranging from $5-$9.

Rounds also has a nice selection of salads, soups and sides for you lunching needs, ranging from $2-$8. Try their taco salad! It's fun!

Truly the typical diner, Rounds in Traverse City has carved out a unique niche amongst their more specialized neighbors.

And, of course, you can't go to this sort of diner without the obligatory piece of pie, or some other dessert. Rounds does dessert right. Unless you've just filled up on the raspberry French toast, I'm sure you'll be craving something a bit sweet. The desserts range in price from $2-$4. My favorite is always a nice cup of coffee and a slice of the pie of the day. But, what can I say? I'm old fashioned like that.

This is the place to go for something filling and fantastic!

If you seek a place wherein the chef is, on a daily basis, toying with the menu, serving up outstanding creations, Rounds is not for you. But, if you seek good food and good folks, then Rounds in Traverse City is for you. Whether you're recovering from a hard played night out, filling up for a day on the town or fueling up for that long drive ahead of you, Rounds won't disappoint!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Joe's Friendly Tavern

2012-12-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

Whether it's Christmas or the Fourth of July, Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire is the perfect place to nosh.

Today, we venture out to the heart of "America's Most Beautiful" locale: the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Most visitors to the Grand Traverse region will make this tiny trek at some point during their stay, as they should. This part of Northern Michigan is not to be missed. Equally as do-not-miss is the little beach town nestled within the park's various scenic attractions: Empire. This is the sort of place where you can snag an ice cream cone after a wander downtown from the Lake Michigan shoreline, cross the street, rent a stand up paddle board and head back out onto the water.

Yeah. Summer, winter, fall, spring; it makes no difference. You need to check out Empire.

Comfortable, familiar and good. Friendly's in Empire is a grand place to kick back.

Whilst checking out Empire and its severely majestic surroundings, I'm sure that you'll get a bit hungry and perhaps a little thirsty. Well, as always, I have the perfect solution for you! Let's chat a bit about Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire, shall we?

After the Sleeping Bear Dunes adventures are through, Friendly's is read to serve up some satisfying fare!

Joe's Friendly Tavern, known locally as "Friendly's", is the ideal meal destination for the famished nature lover. Why is that, you ask? Well! Let me tell you!

A full bar will take away any aches or pains from a day spent conquering nature.

Hiking, beaching and all other manner of adventuring take a lot out of a person! Friendly's is here to help you put that "a lot" back. How do they do it? Well, they start with some fun appetizers. These range in price from $7 to $12. I tend to gravitate toward either the chicken livers (breaded, deep fried crispy, served with onions and Granny Smith apples - don't knock it til you try it!) or the Vietnamese eggrolls (handmade locally!).

From there, the menu launches into their salad selection. You'll find prices ranging from $6 to $13. My favorite leafy choice is the Quinoa salad (fresh romaine hearts topped with dried cherries, pecans and quinoa, served with a pear Gorgonzola vinaigrette).

Private booths or wide open tables, you choose at Friendly's in Empire.

For me, the best part of this menu is the burger section. I'm always a sucker for a lovely slab of ground meat on a bun, and these guys know their stuff. Some of the best burgers of my life have come from Friendly's. Now, is this opinion shaped a bit because each time I have dined here it has been after some strenuous and fun outdoors adventure? Perhaps. But, these burgers are delicious nonetheless!

Burgers here range in price from $7 to $14. The Texan comes topped with Friendly's homemade chili, a local favorite. The Bleu Cheese Burger is out of this world. The County Fair Burger is topped with chili cheese fries. The Rodeo Joe is flooded with outstanding BBQ sauce and the Surf and Turf is perfect. There is no doubt in my mind, you can not go wrong when choosing from this menu! (Please only hold me to that promise if you take your burgers medium rare or less)

Local beer, like this North Peak Diabolical, is always a hot selling point for me!

Along with the burgers comes an assortment of other menu sections. Those include the sandwiches, ranging in price from $8 to $13 (try the Dagwood!), the dinners, ranging in price from $15 to $16 (you can't go wrong with the Campfire Whitefish), the Mexican section, with prices ranging from $12 to $14 (go for Joe's Wet Burrito) and an excellent selection of breakfast options for fueling up before starting a long, adventurous day. Breakfast options are vast and range fro $4 to $8.

And, do not neglect the bar! This is a "tavern" after all. Nothing brings a hard earned day of fun to a close better than a local brew! These guys are particularly proud of their root beer, FYI.

The food at Friendly's in Empire is tasty and filling, perfect for the on-the-go adventurer!

Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire is, without a doubt, vacation food. This is the stuff that would find its way into our stomachs when dad was driving. It's tasty, it's hearty and it's a perfect complement to a day spent conquering nature!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

North Peak Brewing Company

2012-11-29T07:15:00.000-08:00

An upscale, trendy bar atmosphere greets diners at Traverse City's North Peak Brewing Company.

Every town has its mainstay. A place that is consistently good, both in food and service. A place that is always a good choice when your brain is failing at the "where should we eat" question. For Traverse City, that place is North Peak.

While the menu at North Peak is filled with amazing selection, many gravitate toward their hearth baked pizzas. Yum!

North Peak is part of a local grouping of restaurants here in the Grand Traverse Region that includes Blue Tractor, Jolly Pumpkin, etc. It's an upscale pub, a fun place to take the family and a grand place for a date! While this Traverse City mainstay has many mainstays of its own (like a pint of house brewed Northern Light, a hearth baked pizza, a perfect burger or an outstanding cup of white cheddar ale soup), I am constantly drawn to one of two bits of sensory savors on the menu: the Cajun crawfish salad or the hangar steak. Both of these dishes have always been spot on for me, hitting me right in the middle of my favored flavor zone. Just thinking about them sends my senses whirling! They are both quite delicious!

A burger and a pint. Never a better lunch combination!

But, those two dishes are not the only ones on the menu. Let's dig into that, shall we?

North Peak offers a completely satisfying lunch and dinner menu. Both menus mirror each other in quite a few ways. A lot of the same dishes are shared by each menu, the only real difference between those dishes on each menu is the price. Example: The hangar steak ordered at lunch time will set you back $14. On the dinner menu, that steak is $18. Rather sneaky, I do admit, but both prices are well within the "acceptable" zone for this, the most scrumptious dish on the menu.

The large bar at North Peak is perfect for game watching or socializing.

On both menus, you'll find a delightful mix of choices.

On the lunch menu, you'll come across an appetizer section with prices ranging from $5.95-$10.95. My ideal lunch time appetizer is always the corn dusted calamari ($8.95). That same section on the dinner menu maintains the same price and selection. For dinner, I'd snag the beer steamed mussels for $10. This "appetizer" is big enough to be a meal by itself!

Next up would be North Peak's ever popular hearth baked pizzas. The lunch menu has these ranging in price from $8.50-$10.95. These are usually the perfect size for two to share. At lunch time, I always gravitate toward the wild mushroom pizza. This thing consists of wild mushrooms, garlic-herb olive oil, mozzarella, fontina cheese and cracked black pepper, all for only $8.50. Nice! On the dinner menu, these things range from $10-$12. My pizza of choice at dinner time is BBQ Boar pizza for $12. Wild boar, nice!

After that comes the soup and salad menu. $4.95 will get you a bowl of soup. I'd go with the white cheddar ale, it never disappoints! The salads range in price from $4.95 to $13.95 during lunch. I'm not a huge fan of snagging a salad to go along with my meal, but, when I'm checking out a North Peak salad for lunch, I always choose the Cajun crawfish salad. This thing is spectacular! It has spicy crawfish tails over mixed greens with tomatoes, pepperjack cheese, bell peppers, red onions and chipotle ranch dressing, all for $9.95. If you love seafood, you'll love this thing! Dinner menu choices range from $5-$17. At dinner, I still snag the crawfish salad. Yeah, that good!

Next come the sandwiches. For lunch, they range from $8.50 to $10. If you're seeking something tasty for lunch, try the wasabi salmon sandwich. It's $10 and you'll dig it! At dinner, these sandwiches range from $10-$11. The herbed Monte Cristo is a grand way to spend a dinner time!

Lunches signature dishes are always fun. They range from $10 to $14. I'm always up for the honey porter hangar steak, a porter marinated hanger steak served with smoked Gouda mashed redskins, curried haystack onions and seasonal vegetables for $13.95. At dinner, prices range from $15-$27, with a few additional dinner menu choices. I still love that steak, but the Parmesan white fish for $18 is always a tempting deviation.

The dessert section, a favorite of mine, rounds out this always pleasing menu. Prices range from $3 to $6. And, while we're on this subject, let me make sure that you understand this: do not miss the black and tan brownie! It's a homemade chocolate brownie with New York-style cheesecake baked on top, served with vanilla malt ice cream, chocolate ice cream and hot fudge for just $5.95! Wowza!

A wide open kitchen allows you to watch your meal take shape.

This joint also has a full kids menu, complete with smiley face fries and some grand fruit and veggie options. Speaking of kids, they eat free on Sundays, all day long. Yeah, you heard me, kids eat free!

In addition to some of the most satisfying food in Traverse City, this place also brews up some tasty beers! Their taps are filled with their homemade concoctions. I always snag a Northern Light. Lately, I've also been a fan of their Diabolical IPA. Very fun! The Siren Amber Ale is also a supremely yummy brew. Pints run from $4 to $5. Grab a 22 ouncer for around $6. If you take a seat in this Traverse City restaurant, you should NOT miss their beer!

Traverse City's North Peak is the place where locals and visitors alike will congregate for some good food, good convo and good peeps! North Peak is the perfect locale to meet up after work for a brew, gather around the bar for the big game, slip into a booth with that special someone or just snag a beer and a hangar steak with your buds. Lady's night, men's night, date night, it doesn't matter; North Peak fits right into any set of plans. That's why folks love it!

(All photos by Lisa Kelly and Brooks Vanderbush)

Latte-DAH Cafe

2012-11-14T08:21:00.000-08:00

As soon as you pull up to Traverse City's Latte-DAH, you know that you're in for a unique experience!

(Unfortunately, it appears as though this lovely joint and its lobster bisque have ceased to exist. In its place has risen a pastie joint. They're tasty! Try them out!)

Since I began this little blog venture, I've started receiving some very expected questions. The most popular of those questions being: "We need a hidden bit of awesome, Brooks. Suggestions?"

Take note, popular question askers, today's blog is all about a hidden bit of awesome.

The Lobster bisque is a definite do-not-miss! As are the desserts.

Not so long ago, my lovely Lisa returned home with a surprise: take out from Latte-DAH Cafe. Now, this cafe is almost literally right around the corner from where we live (give or take a block), yet we had never ventured through their front door. This non-venturing wasn't for lack of want, I assure you of that. Almost every day I drive past Latte-DAH and smack my forehead at my lack of time allowance for a quick stop in.

As usual, Lisa saved my culinary life yet again by bringing Latte-DAH to me. What did she bring? She brought their signature soup, the Lobster bisque, a gyro and an exquisite peanut butter/chocolate cookie creation.

From that first spoonful of Lobster heaven, I was hooked.

Traverse City's Latte-DAH is delightfully unique.

We'll start the food section out right. Please take note that I have written "Lobster bisque." If you miss this, you might as well jump into the river that flows lazily through Latte-DAH's backyard. I have not yet had the equal of this bit of lobstery goodness. And, being a seafood freak as I most certainly am (Lobster or Crab legs would be my deserted island choice), this statement of complete loving for the Lobster bisque is a well informed, researched and educated opinion. Yum. For real.

A perfect bit of seating allows you to lose yourself in your coffee and the view.

Onto the rest!

Folks wander into this establishment in search of some severely supreme breakfast and lunch options. And they find them!

For breakfast, there's some excellent coffee options, breakfast sandwiches and more. But, the highlight of the breakfast menu here is coming fresh out of the oven. In other words, muffins, cookies, brownies....pastries of all shapes and sizes, the sort of thing that is simply smashing with a kick ass cup of coffee. I just bit into one of their pistachio muffins and had to stop and stare for a moment.

"Maybe they have Jesus in the kitchen making these things," my mind wondered. "That's it. They've kidnapped Jesus to make these muffins."

Yeah, they're that amazing.

As is everything else in this joint.

Obviously, it's Christmas time here in Traverse City. Nothing says "Christmas" better than a Latte-DAH Christmas cookie!

Everyone loves a sandwich, yeah? So, let us discuss that for a moment.

Sandwiches at Latte-DAH range in price from $4.99 to $7.95. That range is smack-dab in the middle of the comfort zone of most folks' lunch budgets, which always helps.

If you need a nudge in a certain culinary direction, I'd suggest Wayne Hill Club. It's turkey, bacon, swiss, avocado, lettuce, tomato, pesto mayo and Italian herb dressing. Quite lovely, that!

Sandwiches can come in a wrap or on your choice of baguette, ciabatta or croissant.

After your Lobster bisque, be sure to grab a sweet!

Moving onto the gyro section, these range from $4.99 to $8.99. That culinary push should break toward the gyro supreme, for sure! It's stuffed with meat, sauce, lettuce, onion, cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, banana peppers and black olives. Wowza!

The river or an active Front Street. The view choice is yours at Latte-DAH.

If you're not into Lobster (Whaaaaaaaaat??) there are always other soups, including a soup of the day. There is also a grand salad selection, ranging in price from $6.95 to $7.25.

Lastly, they serve up some custom quiche as well, a 9 inch of individual portion. Choices include spinach, crustless spinach, crab (WHOA!!), bacon and cheddar, swiss and mushroom, ham and swiss, chicken and asparagus or "your special combination."

To sweeten the pot, these guys also deliver and cater! Just call 922-8722 and set it up.

The kitchen is always jammin' at Latte-DAH.

If you're a regular reader of this blog, which I am certain that you are, you are well aware that I am a lover of the hidden bits of awesome present within every community. While Latte-DAH is technically on Front Street, it is a world away from the restaurants that every visitor to the region sees during their downtown visits.

Everything about this place is unique. From the food to the building, which seems to hang precariously in mid-air, a very Lemony Snicket vibe. This is one of those experiences that you will remember about your visit to Traverse City. It will be a conversation piece and an insider recommendation.

If you're a local who has never tried Latte-DAH, then it will hook you. It is the proverbial neighborhood cafe, the perfect meeting spot, the ideal afternoon escape.

Latte-DAH is everything that a cafe should be; friendly, fun, quirky, fantastic. Needless to say, I love it here, and so will you!

(All photos by Lisa Kelly and Brooks Vanderbush)

TJ Charlie's Restaurant

2012-11-01T18:35:00.001-07:00

TJ Charlie's awning remains one of Elk Rapids' iconic downtown features to this day.

The hometown. The first job. The epitome of Northern Michigan comfort food. That is all included in this one blog. Aren't you lucky?

The atmosphere is simple, the food is comforting and the view is downtown Elk Rapids.

Situated on Elk Rapids' main drag (that would be the "hometown" part, my hometown - where I grew up) is one of ER's most recognizable eateries - TJ Charlie's (that would be the "first job" part - my first job). If you're wandering around Northern Michigan's amazing terrain and you happen upon one of the North's most outstanding port towns...AND you're in the mood for some grand, simple Northern Michigan comfort food, then this is the place for you!

Whether it's breakfast or lunch, you're sure to see some loyal locals at TJ Charlie's tables.

Want to know what sort of folk venture through the doors at TJ Charlie's? The local folk! Hit this place up between 12:00 and 2:00 and you'll see the town doctors, pharmacists, lawyers, realtors, other varied business folk and their staff. Yeah, local ER people have given this joint their collective thumbs up for years, dating waaaaaaaaaaaaaay back to the days that I bussed tables as a starry eyed 16 year old kid, just dreaming about the day that I'd be that hotshot cook, flippin' cakes, stabbin' steaks and hittin' on the waitresses.

Alas, it was not to be, I ended up in Guatemala, loving every second of life. That love continues to this day, as my utterly amazing wife tortures me with The Voice as I try to write this blog. I say "torture" because we always discuss every little thing on this show, makes it hard to write.

But, despite that moving on aspect of my life, I find myself, every now and again, returning to the comfort of TJ Charlie's. Let us discuss why, shall we?

Walking into TJ Charlie's is walking into some true old school Elk Rapids.

We'll begin with the salads at this breakfast and lunch establishment. Salads range from $3.75 to $8.25. If you need a suggestion, try out the Ginger Salmon Salad, a 4oz filet of salmon seared in ginger infused olive oil, served on mixed greens with house made Asian vinaigrette.

Moving on to the sandwiches, these guys range in price from $5.25 to $6.95. I'd go with The Cuban, which is roast pork tenderloin, ham, swiss, sliced pickle, dijon mayo served on ciabatta roll, grilled panini style. Yum!

In the wraps section, you'll find prices ranging from $6.25 to $6.95. Try the California Turkey Wrap, it's turkey, roasted red pepper, avocado and lettuce with dijon cream cheese spread. Fun!

Again, old school Elk Rapids!

Burgers take up the mid section of this menu and the locals love them. Visitors too. The prices are just right, ranging from $4.75 to $6.25. I'd snag the Southwest Turkey Burger. This one is a grilled turkey patty topped with pepperjack, avocado and salsa, served on a warm pretzel bun. I adore pretzel buns. Damn.

Sliders can be had for $5.50, old favorites, like grilled cheese and Mediterranean Tuna, are available as well, along with some awesome side dishes. There are no alcoholic drinks served at TJ Charlie's, fyi.

Now, is TJ Charlie's the fanciest joint in town? The finest? The best food? The best atmosphere? No. What TJ Charlie's is to Elk Rapids is tradition, comfort, good eats and that old school downtown ER vibe that has disappeared from some of the establishments of the ER of today. Despite that half disappearance, the beaches remain perfect, the bridge to the library still provides the best vista for wandering and thinking it all over, the streets are still ideal for an afternoon run and TJ Charlie's still serves up some tasty fare, full of Elk Rapids pride and wholesome goodness.

If you find yourself in my ER, wander under the awning and grab a bite.

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Dockside Party Store

2012-10-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Northern Michigan has become a veritable art project, thanks the most colorful of all seasons - Fall.

The foliage is on fire here in Northern Michigan. That's right, it is that time of year where folks from all over the state, nation and world (literally, not joking here) pile into their cars and traverse the veritable oil painting that is the Grand Traverse Region. Fall has arrived, in other words, and people are taking to the road.

This showcase holds some of the very best Fall roadtrip food in all of Traverse City!

Now, when I take to the road with family and friends, not just any old lunch break will do. Despite my childhood roadtrip nostalgia being firmly and irrevocably attached to the Golden Arches, I am simply not a fan of the fast food option being the only go-to for roadtrippin' fare. But, I'm also not a fan of pulling myself out of some amazing location, discovered whilst simply following some random road, just to locate some eatery somewhere that will do. Oh no. It is for that reason that I choose to hit the road with some supremely amazing fare stowed safely within the big red cooler resting on the third row of seats. And, when it comes to the perfect fall roadtrip in Traverse City, the Dockside Party Store is one of the best accompaniments that I have yet found.

My go-to, everytime, the BLT wrap.

For me, there's nothing like pulling up on some remote beach or following some obscure two-track into the Fall explosion that is the woods these days, parking, snagging one of Dockside's BLT wraps and just kicking back and enjoying the sounds and sights that nature has to offer. That first bacon filled bite, combined with the crisp Fall air, the sound of crunching leaves and the feel of utter stillness envelopes one completely. It is a supremely satisfying affair!

Don't neglect the dessert section of the homemade offerings' case.

Now, if you're not much for bacon, have no fear. These guys have something for everyone. Let's cover some of the highlights right now, shall we?

Jerky. One of the many reasons folks love Dockside. These guys cater too!

To begin with, this joint is a hunter's paradise. They offer some amazing homemade jerky. This stuff is beyond delicious and an awesome source of energy for that huge hike, drive or hunt you're about to embark upon.

They also serve up some yummy pizza slices.

But, the highlight of this place has always been the wraps and sandwiches available.

As I said a few times, the BLT wrap is simply divine, dah-ling. But, it's not the only thing these guys do right.

Mainstays at Dockside include the Cherry Chicken Wrap, the regular Chicken Wrap, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Wrap, the Turkey and Swiss Wrap, the Turkey and Cheddar Wrap, the Asian Chicken Wrap, the Veggie Roll-Up, the Greek Gyro Pita and some excellent sub and sandwich choices, including an outstanding egg salad offering.

From local Traverse City wines - pictured here - to the more familiar offerings, Dockside has a grand selection of vino.

If you're plotting a Fall trip that includes a pit stop the likes of which I described earlier, a sort of Fall picnic, or maybe an overnight excursion to that most iconic of Fall dwellings - the cabin in the woods or on the lake - have no fear! Dockside offers an ample supply wines, both local and non, fine and just-fine.

The beer room, nicely chilled, filled to brusting with a grand selection of craft brews.

Along with the wine, Dockside also brings it quite well in the beer department, devoting an entire room (cooled quite well) to single bottles of brew.

And, as this is a "party store" after all, Dockside offers every accoutrement necessary for that wrap, sandwich or slice you've picked out, including some grand local chips, the usual plethora of party store fare and some delicious homemade dessert options.

From the familiar to the not so familiar, Dockside in Traverse City has the perfect side or drink for you!

Fall is, without a doubt, my favorite time of year. And it is places like Dockside that make Fall so very epic for me. So many towns suffer from a lack of amazing prepared food. So many folks must hit the road with subpar offerings tucked into their gullets. Not here in Traverse City.

When the leaves change and the weekends are dominated by the ultimate roadtrip, for me, there's no place better to begin this ultimate celebration of the season than at a place like Dockside!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Soul Hole

2012-09-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

While the inside of Soul Hole adds to the southern charm of the fare offered, I'd suggest grabbing a seat along Union Street and watch Traverse City's Old Town pass you by.

(I am sad to say that Soul Hole closed its doors for the last time on Saturday, December 15, 2012. This closing came down to Michigan's awesome bureaucrats and their failure to realize that some small businesses simply can't wait months for a decision. Way to go guys! Way to go. I'm leaving this post up to sing the praises of one my favorite downtown spots. I will miss this amazing joint!)

Every now and then, I get a hankerin' for some collard greens. To you Northern Michigander folks, that may sound strange, but, for real, these things are delicious!

Care to know what else is delicious at Traverse City's Soul Hole? Pretty much everything.

Eclectic Southern Cuisine. That's Soul Hole's motto. And they do it well!

Soul Hole's menu features some of Traverse City's best examples of Southern Cuisine. Whether you're seated indoors (where the massive dessert case tempts your every sense) or taking advantage of the outdoor seating, the atmosphere at Soul Hole is eclectic and amazing, made even more so by their food!

Grab a booth at Soul Hole in Traverse City and prepare yourself for some of the toughest decision making of your life.

And, speaking of their food, let's jump into some of the menu highlights, shall we?

I love this part of the blog!

Let's talk about the starters. The highlights here include hushpuppies ($6.95) and crab cakes ($9.95). As a whole, the starters range from $3.95-$9.95 and no matter what you're ordering, you can't go wrong!

Moving on to sandwiches, hear me when I say this: Do not miss the Po' Boys, especially the Oyster Po' Boy, good Lord it's amazing! And only $10.95! Another amazing "sandwich" is the Bayou Burger (1/2 pound of ground beef, crawfish, onion, creole spices and fried green tomatoes served with sweet potato fries and jalapeno catsup). This thing is...dare I say it?...the best burger in Traverse City! And, again, only $10.95! The Sandwich section has some other outstanding choices as well, with prices ranging from $6.95-$10.95.

The Entrees are where most folks find the one item that Soul Hole does to perfection: Chicken and Waffles. This dish consists of cornbread waffles topped with smoked country ham and buttermilk fried chicken breast, served with mashed yams, braised cabbage and bourbon spiked Michigan maple syrup. Wowza. It carries one of the highest prices on the menu, $18.95, but is completely worth it.

If chicken and waffles isn't your thing, how about shrimp and grits ($14.95)? Or Catfish tacos ($13.95)? Or house cured and smoked pork ribs ($24.95 Full or $14.95 Half)? Or Jambalaya ($9.95)? Oh yes, this menu has something for everyone!

Rounding out the menu is a perfect selection of sides (like collard greens, all sides $2.95), salads (like the blackened tuna salad for $10.95) and a daily selection of soups.

Finally, as I mentioned before, the desserts at this joint are phenomenal! Do not forget to check out the dessert case, usually full to bursting with cakes and pies. They also offer beignets with ice cream for $7.

The Oyster Po' Boy on the left, collard greens in the middle and the Bayou Burger on the right. Freaking tasty!

Soul Hole is a typical find within the lesser known Traverse City dining scene. It is different, eclectic, has carved out its own niche and owns that niche completely. It is small on space, but big on taste. This restaurant, like so many other foodie finds within the Traverse City region, is delicious to a fault. That fault? Well, once you've latched onto a favorite dish, it's incredibly hard to stray from it and sample the rest of the menu....believe me, I know. Damn you, Oyster Po' Boy, for being so very delicious!

Quick note: Very soon, Soul Hole will be revamping their interior to make way for a newly acquired liquor license. Currently, alcohol is not available, but that is about to change!

(All photos by Lisa Kelly and Brooks Vanderbush)

Mana

2012-08-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

Mana, at Traverse City's The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, is a grand lunch stop amidst a day of wandering.

PLEASE NOTE that Mana is no longer with us, sadly. In its place is a very fine establishment by the name of Pepenero. The review on this eatery is coming soon!

"Real Men Eat Quiche."

You can buy that slogan on a tshirt at this joint. And these guys actually believe it. To them, quiche isn't some fluffy little affair, it's a meal. A real man's man feast. To make it even MORE bad ass, they say that ladies eat it too!

Mana's dining room is the Mercado hallway. Great people watching, great food!

In case you haven't noticed, we've returned to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, AKA the old State Hospital in Traverse City. Today, we dine in the midst of the Mercado. All manner of artisans ply their trades here. One of my favorites would be Mana.

Nothing is left to chance at Mana. Their priority is great food for you.

This place is a simple joint. Hence the shorter blog. They have one goal: to fill you up with amazing food. And, on a routine basis, they meet that goal.

The atmosphere is rather industrial. One feels as though they may have just wandered into the local meat and fisherman's market's vendor restaurant. I love it.

Something else I love? Their menu! Let's get to it!

That Mana from heaven saying? This is where it comes from.

First off, don't miss out on the outstanding quiches made freshly every day. Their desserts rock too!

They do have a fixed menu, though. It is also not to be missed. Let's just say that you'll be doing a lot of not missing on your trip here!

We'll start with my favorite section, the sandwiches. And, of course, we'll start with my favorite sandwich! The Cuban! This sandwich is pork loin, grilled ham, swiss, lettuce, tomato and homemade Cuban Mojo on a French Baguette. Yum!

Another favorite involves Nutella and peach preserves on Mana bread. Whoa.

These guys have a great little selection of fixed sandwich options. Prices range from $7-$9.

Other options include a lovely slaw dog, some awesome soup du jour specials made daily, and a grand chopped salad. These other options range in price from $3-$8.

As for drinking, no alcohol here, but they do have Northwoods Soda and Higher Grounds Coffee, local favorites, for sure.

But, as mentioned, the quiche is the highlight. If you're only getting one thing, get some quiche!

One of the many treasures found whilst wandering the old State Hospital's hallways.

As I've said before, dining is all about amazing food and an outstanding experience. Well, being able to enjoy some seriously delicious nosh amongst the surroundings of the old State Hospital certainly fits that bill! So, my suggestion for your lunch today? Go Mana! It certainly is from heaven. (Sorry, that joke had to make it in to this at some point!)

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Apache Trout Grill

2012-08-12T12:56:00.002-07:00

Traverse City's Apache Trout Grill is the perfect spot to enjoy some Great Lakes bounty and beach side sitting!

There's something to be said for location. One could be supping on a delectable bit of Mahi Mahi and throwing back some supremely scrumptious local brew, but, if that one's view is a parking lot full of cars, that tantalizing dining experience certainly leaves one feeling as though something was missing......

At Apache Trout Grill in Traverse City, that problem plagues no diner.

The trendy, visually pleasing bar area is a grand spot to unwind....or wind up!

Apache Trout Grill, situated next door to the Grand Traverse Yacht Club, is certainly a favorite of the boating set. But it is by no means exclusive to the boating set. An upscale city grill ambiance mixes well with a slightly "lodge" type feel for indoor diners. In the warmer months, Apache has one of the best patios in Traverse City, complete with a full service tiki bar.

And the view, oh my, the view! In warmer months, sailboats rock back and forth as the sun glints lazily off of East Bay. The Old Mission Peninsula stretches out across the water and downtown Traverse City's skyline breaks the tree tops in the distance. This is one of Traverse City's best dining views, to be sure!

The fishing lodge decor isn't just for show here at Apache Trout Grill.

And, speaking of dining, these guys certainly do it right! As you'll notice in the pictures that accompany today's blog, they put out quite a spread for their Sunday Brunch, one of the best brunches in the Grand Traverse region.

But, on a day to day basis, these guys are none too shabby either!

Apache Trout Grill hosts one of Traverse City's best Sunday brunches.

Upon entering a place with "Trout" in the moniker, one has certain expectations. You won't be disappointed here at Apache!

The lunch menu is incredibly satisfying. I'll make it easy for you and name off a few highlights from each section.

And one of the best patios in Traverse City as well!

A favorite salad is the Baked Goat Cheese. It features crisp bacon, tomato, mixed greens and toast points with fresh herb arugula pesto. This salad goes for $12.95. Salad prices on a whole range from $11.95-$14.

I am a sucker for crab cakes, and Apache Trout Grill knows their crab! This is why, when it comes to the Starter section, I always lay down the $10.95 needed to score their delicious crab cakes served with garlic aoli cream sauce. The starter menu is vast and varied. Its prices range from $7.95-$14.

"Apache Favorites" is a great section to order from for the beginning Apache enthusiast! I'd sample the Baja Shrimp Tacos. They're $10.95 and they come with two flour tortillas filled with lightly fried shrimp, salsa, sour cream, avocados, red onion, lettuce and swiss cheese, they also feature an avocado egg roll! "Apache Favorites" range from $9.95-$19.

For many folks the "Fish" portion of the lunch menu is always a hit, including me. Here, I go for the Parmesan Encrusted Whitefish (Lightly breaded Lake Superior filet deep fried, topped with Parmesan cheese with marinara sauce. Served with garlic mashed potatoes and a vegetable) for $18.95 or the Rainbow Trout (pan fried filet with peppers, onions and feta cheese in a white wine sauce) also for $18.95. Fish prices range from $18.95 to $23.

Soup? No question. Always snag a bowl of the Shrimp and Lobster Bisque. $6.95. Good Lord, it's yummy!

Now, I'm not much of a pasta guy, but if you put some of Apache's Crab Cake over Six Cheese Sacchettini in front of me, I'm suddenly Italian! This feast consists of real crab meat (always important, no crab with a "K"!) sauteed crisp and placed in a lemon caper sauce over cheese filled Sacchettini....or Little Purses...for only $16.95! other pasta prices range from $14.95-$19.

The sandwich section is a popular lunch stop on the menu. I'd snag the Whitefish Sandwich, it's tasty and simple, $9.95. Sandwiches range from $8.95-$12 and come with french fries or cole slaw.

Finally, there's burgers! Try the Mighty Mack! It has Thousand Island dressing, sweet onions, shredded lettuce and Tillamook cheddar cheese. $10.95. You can't beat it! The other burgers range from $8.95-$11 and, again, come with fries or cole slaw.

The wine selection is grand and the beer list is large, if a bit light on local selection.

The dinner menu has much the same as the lunch menu. Differences being a few additional large plates. Of these, I thoroughly enjoy (and recommend) the Salmon Oscar under the Fish section (grilled salmon served with house bernaise sauce, a crab cake and asparagus) for $23.95 and the Seared Sea Scallops, also under Fish (seared scallops served with lemon caper buerre blanc) for $29.95.

A "Steaks" section is also new to the dinner menu. I'd suggest the Boursin Filet for $29.95 (an 8oz filet topped with boursin cake, mushroom cap and demi-glace). Other steaks range in price from $18.95-$30.

Another difference between the lunch and dinner menu is the addition of "Barbecue" to the dinner menu. The barbecue here is grand. Dishes in this section range from $15.95 for chicken breast to $23 for a full slab of ribs.

One of Traverse City's best (and only) tiki bars. There's nothing like sipping a Hurricane while watching your boat come in!

As would be expected from a joint like this, the wine lists and beer lists are extensive. Unfortunately, many of the beers are not exactly local, something that I think would thoroughly improve this already amazing beach side restaurant, but, oh well, I'll just saunter up to the tiki bar and order myself a tall glass of coconut rum and pineapple juice. Yuuuuummmmm.

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Cuppa Joe

2012-07-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

Building 50, which houses Cuppa Joe and many other businesses and residences, is the most well known building at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is an ancient and sprawling complex. It has an intensely industrial feel about it, as it should, it is the former Traverse City State Hospital after all. That's hospital for insane folks, not hospital for sick ones, FYI.

One of my very good friends became a very good friend byway of this place. Before renovations began in earnest on all of the many buildings making up this campus, it was a creepy, derelict old beast that dominated a picturesque chunk of land. Needless to say, it was fun to walk around in. Granted, that wasn't entirely encouraged, but folks did it anyway. This slightly illicit activity is how my friend and I came to be.

Nowadays, you'll find an actual, vibrant community within the many walls of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons you'll find multiple shops, activities, food marts and eateries. One could easily spend a leisurely afternoon and evening perusing the many offerings of this place, especially on a warm summer's night when the lawn in front of Building 50 is full of revelers or relaxers partaking in one of the many festivals or events that take place there.

Yoga on one side, coffee on the other.

One of the many oft missed gems hidden within the vast expanse of this amazing complex is Cuppa Joe, a coffeed up destination beloved by locals and savvy visitors alike (like the ones who read this blog, for example).

Traverse City's Cuppa Joe is a much loved coffee destination. But don't forget the food!

But Cuppa Joe is much more than just a coffee joint, it's an entire dining solution!

What in the world does that mean? Basically, it means that it's a full service breakfast and lunch joint. Lovely!

A surprisingly modern motif greets Cuppa Joe patrons after entering the century (and more) old Building 50.

Now, these guys are definitely known for their delicious, refreshing coffee. It's "Earth and People Friendly", as they say. They always have a grand selection of coffees from around the world and coffee drinks that will certainly delight the senses. They also do a fantastic smoothie! My favorite is the Cherry Bomb, both because it is delicious and because it is the name of one of my favorite local sports teams!

The Cherry Bomb consists of tart cherries and a splash of vanilla. Yum! They also have the Calypso, another of my favorites. This one is quite tropical! Banana, coconut and pineapple juice.

Speaking of frozen things, you have to try the frozen chai latte! The frozen drinks are all $4 or $4.50 and the smoothies are all $4.50 or $5. Nice!

Scenes from Building 50's past decorate the walls at Cuppa Joe in Traverse City.

Breakfast brings a faithful crowd to Cuppa Joe. The various professionals that inhabit the surrounding offices and businesses of the Village, along with the residents of the luxury condos and apartments all gravitate to Cuppa Joe for their morning fast breaking ritual.

There's breakfast burritos and breakfast bagel sandwiches. The burritos go for $6.50 and the bagel sandwiches are a steal at $3.95!

I usually gravitate toward to San Luis or the Havana burrito.

The San Luis includes two fresh eggs, smoked andouille sausage, roasted poblano pepper, potatoes and cheddar cheese, while the Havan sports two fresh eggs, ham, black beans and cheddar cheese. Good stuff yo!

Cuppa Joe. In this case, it means "good food" too!

Lunch is where the menu tends to open up. Be sure to check the various boards for daily specials.

The lunch menu consists of salads, a soup or two/three of the day, wraps and grilled paninis. Salads range in price from $6.50-$7.95. The soup is $3.75 for a bowl and $2.75 for a cup. The wraps range in price from $5.95-$6.50 and the paninis range from $5.95-$6.95. All of these prices rock, by the way.

Don't miss out on a wander around the Mercado after you dine at Cuppa Joe.

Highlights of the lunch menu include Ray's Salad (salami, ham, provolone cheese, feta cheese, onion, cucumber, red pepper, oven roasted beets, kalamata olives and mixed greens served with the homemade Greek dressing), the Baja Beef wrap (sliced roast beef, colby jack cheese, fresh homemade salsa, mixed greens and creamy ranch dressing), and the Quebec Blue panini (sliced roast beef, blue cheese crumbles, bacon and caramelized onions).

The hallways go on forever in Building 50, with a pleasant surprise around every corner.

For those of you that do not enjoy the taste of meat, no worries, Cuppa Joe has some tasty veggie selections as well, including the Vegout wrap (hummus, cream cheese, sweet onion, carrot, cucumber, sweet red pepper, sunflower seeds and mixed greens).

And don't miss out on a wander around the grounds. Some of the buildings have yet to be renovated. Great picture taking opportunities abound at Traverse City's old State Hospital.

I love the experience of this place. Yeah, it's in the newer part of Building 50, but you can still feel the disturbingly amazing history that surrounds you. If you check this place out, do yourself a favor and allow for some walking around time! The halls that can be followed beyond Cuppa Joe will bring you past some unique and perfect pieces of art, storefronts and food paradises. Like I said, this a community unto itself. Then, when you've traversed as far as you can traverse within the walls, take a step outside and peruse the grounds of this grand old institution. Not only are some of the buildings still in their history oozing state of decay (not for long, but some yet remain that way), but, if you take a wander down one of the many well travelled hiking trails that lay behind the main grounds, you'll experience nature and history all rolled into one!

To walk where the "insane" have tread. To dine where the unknown occurred. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons has taken what was once a mythical and fearful place and turned it into one of the most amazing examples of urban renewalism I have ever seen!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

The Dairy Lodge

2012-07-15T09:49:00.001-07:00

Americana is on display everyday at Traverse City's The Dairy Lodge.

Ah July in Traverse City. Many folks make the trek "up state" during this time of year. Of course, a huge amount of non-Michiganders make their way to the Grand Traverse Region during July as well. Why? Because things seem to be just reaching perfect during this favorite summer month. The water has all but lost its icy bite from the past winter's chill. Temps are steady, maintaining a 75-100 degree span, rarely lower, only sometimes higher. Festivals are rolling through the region, people's vacation time is kicking in and summer sales are beginning to hit throughout Traverse City.

Yes, this truly is the perfect time to be in TC, take in an open air concert, spend a day beaching and wrap it all up with one of Traverse City's oldest summer mainstays, The Dairy Lodge.

Locals and travellers alike love this outdoors ice cream parlor.

The Dairy Lodge has long been a family tradition for locals and visitors alike. Centrally located (nestled on the edge of Slabtown), it is within walking distance of downtown and all of the major beaches. Children love the creative toppings for the small cones......which, truthfully, are not that small!

Grown-ups tend to gravitate toward the flurries or shakes. I certainly do. On my last visit to The Dairy Lodge I ordered a thin mint flurry (as in the Girl Scouts cookies). It was fun!

Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to peruse the many menus at The Dairy Lodge!

Now, as is to be expected, this TC tradition is a grand outing for a fun end to an awesome day. But, if you're looking for the absolute best ice cream in all of Traverse City, this place, and those like it, do not meet that description. However, The Dairy Lodge takes a pretty boring product (soft serve ice cream) and turns it into something slightly magical! How? Well, with their creative toppings, dips and mixes, of course!

But, as any mother that has never appeared on Maury will tell you, no dinner begins with ice cream. The Diary Lodge has a small, but fun, selection of "sandwiches", as you can see by the above photo (fyi, clicking on that photo, and any other photo in this blog, will enlarge the photo, thus making it readable! Genius!). The sandwiches, actually a small collection of outdoor American fare standbys, are priced perfectly. All come on a bun. There are a few hot dog versions and a sloppy joe.

Like I said, MANY menus.

After you've noshed on whatever bunned creation you may be craving, it's time for the real decision making to begin. Again, as you can see by the two above pictures and the one below, The Dairy Lodge takes their everyday form of iced cream pretty seriously. As I've mentioned before in this blog, these guys work with one of my least favorite forms of dessert (soft serve) and they actually make it palatable, in MANY ways, as evidenced by their decorative window coverings......otherwise known as their menus.

Yeah, this is not an indecisive person's paradise!

Again, as I wrote before, my favorite thing to sample here would be their flurry creations. they always have some sort of special flurry that usually sounds and tastes pretty swell. For those of you that don't enjoy ice cream, there are plenty of frozen fruit whip and frozen yogurt options. Be sure to study these menus carefully, yo! They also do some grand banana split and strawberry shortcake action!

While few will disagree that soft serve ice cream is the worst sort of lie (ice cream-wise, that it is), The Dairy Lodge takes this mediocre product and jazzes it up quite nicely!

Most of The Dairy Lodge's patrons come by in the evening after the day has begun to wind down, dinner has been served (either at home or at another area restaurant, Sledder's folks LOVE coming here after dinner) and nothing sounds better than a little melty nostalgia.

When it comes right down to it, that's what The Dairy Lodge truly offers, a way to escape the rat race and enjoy a bit of the sweet life in a setting that your grandparents would easily recognize and relax within. This is America, tucked neatly into a sugary cone. This is how we've unwound as a nation during the warmer days of the year for almost a century. If you're into that sort of old time relaxation, the kind that allows you to sit back and watch the world go by, the The Dairy Lodge is the place for you!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

National Cherry Festival

2012-07-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

The Cherry Festival is one of the crown jewels of the Traverse City festival season.

There is a certain food here in Traverse City that out-ranks every other food. It is not the steak, nor is it the burger. It is not duck, asparagus, foie gras, pork or buffalo.

It is the Cherry. And it rules all things. Especially during the first part of July……every year.

That’s right folks! As it is Wednesday, July 11, 2012, we Traverse City-ites sit in the midst of the internationally known and renowned National Cherry Festival. It began last Saturday and it ends when the midway closes and the fireworks explode this Saturday (July 14).

The carnival is fun, but the real heart and soul of the Fest is through this archway!

It celebrates all things Cherry, of that there is no doubt. You can score some Cherry drinks (alcoholic and not), Cherry cotton candy, Cherry jelly/jam, Cherry butter, Cherry clothes, Cherry pie, Cherry burgers, Cherry EVERYTHING! You can even tuck into some actual Cherries, locally grown, straight from the farmer’s hands, while conversing with the Cherry Queen (a past queen happens to be a friend of mine)!

But, amidst all of this Cherry goodness, there is another, some would say, larger theme: Traverse City.

Traverse City's Cherry Festival is certainly full of carnie food!

While there is a midway with an increasingly fun set of rides (they added a tower drop to this year’s offerings) and an ever present grouping of typical carnie fare, there is also a grand showcase of Traverse City’s local cuisine.

After you visit the midway and spend a Benjamin on tickets, cross the road, walk underneath the huge Cherry Festival archway and enter a world that brings many folks’ memories and loves of Traverse City to life in one glorious setting.

This area is where the local flavor of Traverse City comes to life.

After walking through said archway, you find yourself bordering Traverse City’s Duncan L. Clinch Marina and the Open Space. Turn left and you will see two huge, open air stages. The first stage is known to locals as the “free music stage.” That stage showcases some amazing acts, many local, for free, hence the moniker. In front of this stage you’ll notice a plethora of seating/table choices. A closer inspection of the surrounding area will clue you into why there are so many tables.

It's true, the Cherry Festival is certainly full of cherries!

Surrounding the free music stage is an orgy of local food vending tents. Almost any taste and budget can be satiated at one of these tented kiosks. Local area restaurants bring down some of their favorite menu choices and offer them up to the hungry, walking masses that flow through the Festival gates. My favorite stop is at the Agave tent (a GREAT local Mexican restaurant that will be featured on this blog shortly) for some seriously satisfying nachos! No worries, though. If you’re not into nachos or Mexican fare, there are plenty of mouth-watering locales to choose from. This part of the Cherry Fest is always the hardest for me. I have no idea where to start when laid out before me are so many amazing restaurant names.

This guy's favorite fair food is in Gibbyville!

Now, from the archway, if you take a right, you’ll be walking toward Gibbyville! At first glance, Gibbyville seems to be an extension of the carnie’s food efforts. There are quite a few food trailers touting what, at first glance, appears to be typical carnie fare in loud colors and bright designs. Don’t be fooled! This is NOT typical carnival food! This is a local family that is serious about kicking up their carnival based creations a few notches.

Does Gibby’s follow around travelling carnivals? Yup. Do they know a lot of carnies? Yup. Do they serve the same thing that the carnies do? NO!!

And this is my Cherry Festival tradition.

As far as carnival fare goes, my obsessions are simple. I need an elephant ear and a turkey leg. No one does these wonderful creations better than Gibby’s! Do yourself a favor, put on your local’s cap, step into Gibbyville and order yourself some grub! You will not be disappointed!

Don't miss the Cherry Festival's local vendor tents!

Again, from the archway, you venture straight this time. You’ll notice, at the back of the free music stage area, a long line of tents. Housed within these tents are some outstanding local craft foods dealers. Take a walk down the line and see if you don’t stop and sample some goodness.

Naturally Nutty knows their stuff!

Especially at the Naturally Nutty tent. Oh my goodness, do these guys know how to work magic with their spreads!

The Cherry Fest's beer tent is one of the best I've ever been in.

Continue straight and you’ll see that ever present favorite playground for adults, the Beer Tent. You’ll need to be 21 and you’ll need a festival pin to enter. The pin is $5 and is available from wandering Festival folk who will be parked at the front of the tent. You’ll then buy beer tokens, $3 a pop (I think, I can’t remember…..I had a good time, what?). Then, you’ll mosey on up to the bar and order a brew! They have the usual suspects along with a nice selection of craft brews as well. There is also a decent selection of liquor available at the tent.

What's not seen in this shot is that the patio of the beer tent is quite large with ample seating.

While most beer tents are thrown up haphazardly on the outskirts of some random celebration, this one actually has quite a bit of thought behind it! It’s perched right on the edge of the bay and features a lovely, large patio with ample seating overlooking the water and the surrounding festivities.

The Cherry Festival is TC's family event!

I know that there are a few locals who really don’t think too highly of the Cherry Festival. I am not one of them. I love observing the sea of humanity that descends upon our Northern Michigan town, I love how the Cherry Fest showcases Traverse City and I love how this festival is only the beginning.

And I love the food. Wow, do I love the food.

Gotta love Gibby's.

If you’re in Traverse City right now, get down to the Open Space and grab some tasty nosh! If not, keep your eye on the Cherry Festival’s site and come to the party next year. It’s an amazing place to be!

Boone Docks

2012-07-02T13:23:00.000-07:00

Glen Arbor's original party deck is located riiiiiiight here, at Boone Docks!

As this blog rolls on, you'll notice a certain fondness for a certain tiny hamlet known as Glen Arbor. When I have an opportunity to venture forth on that ever covetted "day trip" we Northern Michiganders love so very much, I usually opt for a Leelanau Peninsula excursion, one that always includes Glen Arbor. Outside of Traverse City, Glen Arbor is easily my favorite place to be here in the Grand Traverse region!

Whether looking for a relaxed dining experience, a fun family outting or a party, you'll find it all at Glen Arbor's Boone Docks.

You'll recall, not so very long ago, I reviewed Art's Tavern, a Glen Arbor mainstay.

Another of my favorite Glen Arbor eating establishments is Boone Docks! This is the ultimate before/during/after beach party joint. Traditional, indoor dining, great for a laid back family meal, mixes excellently with some seriously fun deck party action.

This joint is the perfect dining experience for beach lovers!

Inside Boone Docks, you'll find three different indoor dining experiences. First, immediatley upon entering Boone Docks, you'll notice some supremely pleasant window seating along a narrow-ish corridor. This is where folks who are hoping for a quieter, more laid back experience hang out. The view is grand for people watching, you're looking out on M-22 and the sidewalks of downtown Glen Arbor.

Venture deeper into Boone Docks and you'll find a comfy lodge type atmosphere. A beautiful stone fireplace keeps the joint toasty in the winter and lookin' good in the summer, a wrap-around wood bar ensures that your glass is never dry and the amazing kitchen serves up some the area's most satisfying grub!

The epicenter of Boone Docks is its massive patio.

But, it's out on the patio where the action really is!

From the endless patio (one of the biggest around) to the massively awesome patio bar and the most excellent people watching and mingling opportunities, this patio is where Boone Docks really shines!

Grab a bench, grab a drink and grab a friend, because the fun goes on all night here!

Live music from some of Michigan's finest artists gets the patio rockin'.

From the grand selection of local brews to a mind boggling selection of mixed drink opportunities, the patio is always hoppin' here. Family friendly during the day, the patio offers some authentic beach town atmosphere for the vacationing masses or the fun seeking local.

A slightly less energetic pation section is available at Boone Docks' as well.

As the sun goes down, the place cranks up. How? With some outstanding local musicians, of course! Northern Michigan's finest music makers work their magic on the patio on an almost nightly basis during the summer months. This place really allows you to slip into that "vacation" state of mind!

Boone Docks' hosts a huge patio bar.

Now, usually, I elaborate on the food of a restaurant somewhere in my blogs, yeah? Usually I highlight each section of the menu and price some of my favorites. But, alas, the menu for Boone Docks has very recently changed and they have no up-to-date resources.....at least none that can be removed from the restaurant.

So, allow me to tell you this: this joint has some delcious nosh! Do you fancy yourself a lovely steak? Some succulent seafood? Ribs from heaven? A burger in paradise? And all the accoutremonts? Then you need to hit Boone Docks on your next Glen Arbor excursion!

This is where the action is at during the summer; Glen Arobor's Boone Docks!

Do it! You'll soon discover that there's only one place that's better for sipping on a hurricane!

Key West. Mallory Square. Just in case you didn't know.

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Zakey

2012-06-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

In the midst of downtown Traverse City rests Zakey, an oft overlooked culinary paradise.

So, today, while wandering through my lovely downtown Traverse City, I was stopped by a poor, unfortunate soul. What exactly do I mean by that? I mean that a very nice lady pulled up next to me and asked "Where would the nearest Subway be?"

Reluctantly, I obliged. But, not before I pointed out that one of the very best sandwiches in town could be had at a certain restaurant that many folks tend to overlook, as it is surrounded by some of Traverse City's most well known eateries (Subway is most definitely NOT one of these well known eateries, FYI). After describing the intense awesome-ness that is the fare at this particular joint, the nice lady smiled sheepishly and stated that she wasn't quite that adventurous.

Inside, I cried a little.

Surrounded by Traverse City's finest dining, many folks make the mistake of passing by the joint with the Middle Eastern music.

What was this far too exotic locale? Traverse City's own little piece of the Middle East, Zakey!

The poor Subway bound lass was missing out on some of my favorite downtown food.

Upon entering Zakey, one is transported. This does not feel like a Traverse City restaurant. The small TVs feature a strangely engrossing MTV like channel (from back when MTV actually played music). The music seems to be popular Middle Eastern in genre and serves to add to the authenticity of this joint. Personally, I love it. The music, combined with the whir of the ceiling fans (reminiscent of an open air market) and the slightly campy decor all come together to bring you an outstanding and truly Middle Eastern dining experience.

In short, yeah, a little corny, the music's not for everyone and if you're in there on Saturday's, you'll probably get some belly dancer action. I love it.

The decor is distinctly not Traverse City at Zakey, but in a good way!

Earlier, I mentioned something about a sandwich. Remember that? Yeah. Well, it's time to talk about that sandwich, and a bunch of other outstanding menu selections! Because, when you get right down to it, it's not the music or the decor that makes this place. It's the food.

The belly dancing isn't just on the walls here. On most Saturdays, live belly dancing is included with the meal!

Let's explore the menu, shall we?

We'll begin at appetizers. There's the familiar - Fried Chicago Cheese, Calamari, and Hummus.

There's the not-so-familiar - Mazza Plate, Stuffed Grape Leaves, and Spinach Pie.

And there's the pure awesomesauce! - Baba Ganouge, Tat Belay and Kibbeh.

These appetizers are all priced swell. Prices range from $4-$7.

If you're not sure which to pick, go with the Kibbeh! It's bulgar, cinnamon, onion, lamb and pine nuts served baked, with cucumber yogurt salad. Yum! All for only $6!

Moving onto the salads, these guys range from $6-$8 and are all Middle Eastern themed. My favorite is the Falafel salad. It comes with three falafel balls served on lettuce topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, onion and tahini sauce. A grand bit of veg for only $8.

By the way, the prices here? Yeah, they're some of the very best in downtown Traverse City! The amazing quality of the food at Zakey could easily command a higher price tag, especially given this restaurant's center-of-downtown location.

Anyway, sandwiches! These creations range from $6-$7 and are, in my opinion, the highlight of the menu!

That favorite sandwich of mine that I spoke of earlier is the Shawarma. One can choose lamb or chicken (go with lamb) served in the house spices, with garlic and fresh lemon juice, broiled, topped with fresh onion, parsley, sumac and tahini sauce as well as Arabic salad. My mouth is currently watering. Wow, I love this thing!

If that isn't your bag, baby, no worries, Zakey has plenty of sandwich selections, all with a Middle Easter flare, of course.

Chef Nabiel Musleh serves up some favorites from his homeland at Zakey in Traverse City.

Now we're into the Entrees. These bad boys range in price from $9-$16 and come with pita bread and your choice of two sides listed on the menu.

Highlights of the entree menu include Roasted Lamb (marinated in olive oil, garlic and fresh lemon juice) for $13 and the Palek Paneer (Indian cuisine - spinach, onion, garbanzo beans cooked together with exotic spices, topped with cheese and served with rice and naan bread) for $14. Again, if neither sound grand, no worries, there are other selections!

There is also a kid's menu offering a few kid friendly items for children 12 and under, all for $3.

Oh! And don't forget dessert! The Baklava is outstanding here! $5 for three pieces!

Located in the midst of downtown Traverse City, Zakey's tables offer some grand people watching!

Zakey encourages you to let staff know if you're allergic to anything before ordering. I would follow that advice. As far as "exotic dining" goes, this place is near the top for most folks here in TC. This isn't Applebees folks, this is real food, prepared by a REAL chef whose intent is to give you a little taste of his homeland. For me, that's everything! Allowing someone to take me on a culinary expedition is one of the great joys of my life. I am lucky enough to not be allergic to anything. For those of your that aren't that lucky, let these folks know before your excursion begins!

If you have the choice, skip the generic crap, hit up Zakey!

Now, granted, Traverse City is about as far removed from the Middle East as one can possibly be. The flavors and combinations that you will find within Zakey's kitchen are quite foreign to the average casual diner. And that is why you must go! Life is about experience. If you do not allow your senses to be tantalized on a daily basis (multiple times daily, actually), then you are not living life! A trip to Zakey in downtown Traverse City will not only give you such a tantalization, it'll also allow you to dip your toe into some true Middle Eastern culture.

Whether your shopping, wandering, beaching or movie going, Zakey is a stop that you need to make! Oh, and if you do make that stop, be sure to bring mints! One's breath is not always rosy upon paying the bill and checking out.

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)