Whether you’re passing through town on a Michigan shoreline road trip, spending the day, or staying for a whole week in Glen Arbor, there are some pretty amazing restaurants that you won’t want to miss. From quick and classic burgers and fries to fine dining French food, Glen Arbor has something for everyone. Here are a few of our recommendations for any occasion.
Casual Eateries:
Art’s Tavern: First on the list is Art’s Tavern, a welcoming eatery that is arguably the most popular restaurant in town. You’ll find juicy burgers, chili with a kick, outstanding smoked trout dip, and some of the best tater tots on the Western shores of Michigan. On a nice day, you’ll want to sit on their outdoor patio, but make sure to walk through the restaurant and check out the unique decor. Pinned up on the ceiling are college flags from universities all over the states and the world. Find your alma mater and take a picture!
Riverfront Pizza & Deli: Grab a slice of pizza or a melty sandwich and sit back with a view of the Crystal River that runs through town. This little oasis has one of the best patios in town and is a favorite lunch destination for locals and visitors alike.
Cherry Public House: After a long day of hiking the sand dunes, nothing is more rewarding than a cold, crisp beer and a bite to eat from Cherry Public House. Treat yourself to their cherry BBQ ribs, gooey grilled cheese/cherry-fig jam sandwich, or fresh fish entrees and you’ll be licking the plate clean. If you’re looking for a sweet treat on a hot day, stop by for a slice of their famous true cherry pie and a scoop of homemade ice cream.
Broomstack Kitchen & Tap: Arguably the most unique date night spot on the entire Leelanau Peninsula, Broomstack Kitchen & Taphouse is a rustic eatery with mouthwatering comfort food. Then try your hand at curling in the adjoining Leelanau Curling Club. Their menu reads like a classic pub menu, but is elevated into heavenly renditions of your favorite dishes. Try the braised pork belly ends with one of their signature stacked high-burgers and you’ll never want to leave.
High End:
Blu: For a dinner with a view, head to Blu on the shores of Sleeping Bear Bay. Let James Beard nominated Chef Randy take you on a culinary experience while you watch the sunset over the water. On the menu you’ll find upscale New American entrees with wine pairings off their extensive wine list and a collection of desserts you’ll be dreaming about for weeks to come. Their duck confit is such a favorite that it comes numbered. As of this writing, they were at #10,611 since opening a decade ago. Think about that! Reservations are highly recommended and seats fill up far in advance.
La Becasse: Specializing in French Country cuisine, this timeless restaurant is the place to go for a romantic date night or an anniversary celebration. Classics like cassoulet, pate, rillettes, Bourgogne and crème brulee are staples on the menu. But we highly recommend ordering whatever special the chef has created that evening for an experience that is truly unlike any other. Reservations are recommended, but La Becasse will do their best to make extra room for any day-of walk ins.
Trattoria Funistrada: On the East side of Glen Lake in the small community of Burdickville lies a world-class Italian restaurant that might just be the highlight of your trip. It may be a little off the beaten path, but your journey over will be all worth it once you taste their authentic and masterfully created entrees. Make your reservations far in advance, you won’t want to miss out on this gem.
Breakfast:
Leelanau Coffee Roasting Company: If you are up early and want a snack and coffee on-the-go, then Leelanau Coffee Roasting is your quick fix stop. From slow steeped French pressed coffee to classic espresso drinks. During the summer you can pick up a blended drink or a refreshing fruit smoothie to start your day right. Pick up a pastry for a quick and easy morning treat.
Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast: When you stay in this well-appointed inn in the #HeartOfGlenArbor, you’re treated to a homemade three-course breakfast that will power you up for a day filled with adventures. Courses vary based on seasonal offerings and can range from Fresh Vegetable & Ham Strata to Pecan Belgian Waffles to Italian Pasta Frittata, accompanied by their own turkey sausage or crispy bacon. Yummy fresh-from-the-kitchen pastries and always available Honey Vanilla Granola, too. For guests only, of course.
Favorites Beyond Glen Arbor:
Martha’s Leelanau Table, Suttons Bay: To truly taste the Leelanau Peninsula, head to Martha’s Leelanau Table, a rustic farm-to-table restaurant in Suttons Bay. Using local ingredients sourced from nearby farms, the menus change seasonally to highlight in-season produce and maximize the flavor of each dish. This is a great stop when touring the Leelanau Wine Trail.
Award-winning Trattoria Stella, Traverse City: An Old World atmosphere and farm-to-table Italian fare welcome foodies to Trattoria Stella in the heart of the historic Grand Traverse Commons. Let their knowledgeable servers guide you through your evening with wine pairings to match your appetizers, entrees, and desserts for culinary heaven.
West End Tavern, Traverse City: Not many places are on the water, but this one is….and far from mediocre. West End Tavern is an incredible New American gastropub with a deck overlooking a marina, an extensive local beer selection, and mouthwatering food options. One of the best daytime stops for a great bite and a view.
Glen Lake Restaurant Week: April 24 – May 2, 2020
The Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast and Cottages offers a special Arrive. Explore. Eat, Sleep, Repeat package for foodies looking to visit Glen Arbor during Restaurant Week. The package includes special pricing on overnight stays plus an $85 voucher fee for 2 prix-fixe dinners and a lunch per person at your choice of participating restaurants. This may just be the spring getaway you’ve been dreaming of.
Whether you want a quick bite or a fine dining experience, you’ll find something to satisfy any craving right here in Glen Arbor. Come visit us during Glen Arbor’s Restaurant Week to sample all of the best restaurants around town.
Ready to taste the best flavors of Glen Arbor? Book a stay at Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast and Cottages in downtown Glen Arbor and experience Northern Michigan from our comfortable accommodations.
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