Latte-DAH Cafe

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) 

National Cherry Festival

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!

Art's Tavern

This is the ultimate "local's" dining experience on the Leelanau Peninsula!

Let me tell you about my favorite area here in Northern Michigan. When I'm in the mood to escape the hustle and bustle of Traverse City in the summer, I hit the Empire area. What do I love most about the Empire area? Well, it's got nature (the most beautiful place in America!) and I love to get outside! It's got some amazing beaches, in fact, these beaches are some of the most pristine and breathtaking in the world! It's got perfect little towns with hundreds of activity choices.

And it's got Glen Arbor! What do they have? Art's Tavern!

Whether eating inside or el fresco, Art's Tavern is the place to be!

What is this Art's Tavern, you ask? Well, ask any local and they will regale you with a tale of Art or his tavern. This place, located in the middle of Glen Arbor's picturesque downtown on idyllic M-22. Art's Tavern has been around for over 75 years. To say that Art's is a Northern Michigan mainstay is an understatement. Art's has a loyal legion of followers from both the local and visiting populations. This joint is a must visit, their t-shirts a must buy. You have not experienced Northern Michigan, let alone Glen Arbor, unless you have experienced Art's Tavern!

The decor is extremely unique at Art's, complete with a pool table that rises from the floor.

Let's get this out of the way: A common complaint with Art's is that the decently priced sandwiches do not include any sides (fries, onion rings, etc.). After one orders a sandwich, fries and a drink, there is the possibility of spending around $12 or $14 on the one plate. While that is a bit more expensive than most comparable establishments, you will certainly find that the price is well worth the product! Not only have you just noshed and supped on one of the best pub menus in the area, you've just experienced Art's Tavern, and that will give you some amazing props with the true Northern Michigan crew! Congrats!

Art's Tavern does libations well!

Now that you know the catch that many local establishments have when tourist season comes to town, let's get to the food, yo!

As you can see from picture above, Art's Tavern is home to many a wonderful brew and other libation. These choices pair well with the extensive menu of pub favorites.



The varied menu at Art's Tavern has something for everyone.

First up on that menu are the appetizers. One can spend $3-$12 on a starter, depending on your choice. Some highlights from this section include Super Clams (big and tender, battered and fried, served with cocktail sauce), Whitefish dip (savory mix of Whitefish, cream cheese, capers and spices blended together to create a unique Northern Michigan favorite, served with warm flat bread crackers), a chilled shrimp cocktail and deep fried mushrooms. Much more is available on this section, all equally as tasty!

Next are the salads. Expect to spend about $8-$10 on this section, unless you want coleslaw, that's only about $3. Art's Tavern features the usual suspects when it comes to salads with one savory exception: the crancherry salad (assorted mixed greens with a touch of red cabbage, dried cranberries, dried cherries, feta cheese, tossed with their homemade black cherry vinaigrette).

And the bar has something for everyone too!

Next, the menu offers up Art's Sandwiches. A couple of highlights here include the Whitefish burger (minced Whitefish blended with savory spices, hand pressed and grilled, served on a wheat bun with lettuce, tomato and tartar sauce), the Great Lakes Perch (deep fried perch on a fresh baked roll served with tartar sauce and lemon) and the Rachel (thinly sliced oven roasted turkey, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing, served on grilled sunflower rye). One can expect to spend anywhere from $5-$10 on a sandwich.

An Art's Tavern favorite is up next, the burgers! Burgers range from $8-$12. Highlights include a double decker Art's burger, a bleu burger and an Art's surf and turf (made with burger and smelt). Love it!

The outside bar makes for a convenient outdoors dining experience.

Dinner entrees include seafood and "from the broiler" sections, with my favorites being the crusty Whitefish (Whitefish dusted with parmesan and corn flakes, sauteed to a golden brown) and the petite ribeye. Entrees run from $13-$20.

Art's Tavern also offers a grand selection of pizzas and south of the border fare. These range from $11-$17.

Don't forget to grab an iconic Art's Tavern t-shirt!

Hungry for more? Want some Art's in the AM? Well! Luckily for you, Art's does breakfast as well! Don;t miss their ribeye and eggs, good god that's delish! There're also a huge selection of omelets and waffles/pancakes/French toast options. In my humble opinion, Art's is at its best during breakfast, but that's just me, I'm a breakfast kinda guy! And no worries, side orders are plentiful as well. The wide selection of breakfasts range from $6-$10.

Last, but certainly not least, are Art's desserts! They serve up Moomer's Ice Cream, the best ice cream in America (really, there was a vote!). This place is the place to be on a hot summer's day. Nothing helps you recover from that better than a Boston Cooler! Desserts range from $6-$7 each.

I love this place!

Why? Because, for me, Art's Tavern in Glen Arbor rounds out a trip to the Sleeping Bear Dunes or the shops of Glen Arbor or the many hidden beaches of the Leelanau Peninsula so well! It maintains that "escape" atmosphere for a bit longer. It allows you to relax in a booth, sip on some great local brews and lose yourself in conversation with friends and strangers alike. It helps that exhausted-from-the-sun feeling sink in at a comfortable pace. And when you leave, you leave happy.

The next time you're in Glen Arbor, hit up Art's Tavern! You won't be sorry!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

Osorio Tacos Y Salsas

Osorio Tacos Y Salsas is a truly authentic Mexican experience near Traverse City, MI.

If you go waaaaay back to the first post that I put on this blog, the one wherein I explain why I have undertaken this adventure, you'll notice a picture that looks simply delicious, yeah? Well, sadly, that meal and its accompaniments are not available here in Traverse City. Actually, you'll need to travel about 3200 miles, to a barrier island in Guatemala (where I lived for about two years) called Sipacate. There, you will find fresh from the sea (you can watch the fishermen carry them in) delicacies as you enjoy miles of black sand beaches and an amazing non-resort, truly local atmosphere. I love Sipacate. It is perfect.

While Osorio Tacos Y Salsas isn't Sipacate, it is authentic! And by that, I mean supremely delicious. Yes, this is the closest to that amazing Guatemalan fare that I have yet come stateside.



Simple decor matters not. At this Traverse City area restaurant, the food is what shines!

There are a lot of joints around this nation that claim to serve authentic Central American fare. Hardly any of them do. What you'll find at those places is a bastardized Tex-Mex, a flour shell bathed in meat and cheese and sour cream. That is NOT authentic!

Osorio Tacos Y Salsas IS authentic!



Along with amazing fare is some truly delicious takeaway items, including tortillas and salsa.

This restaurant is somewhat of a dynasty here in the Grand Traverse region. For the longest time, a simple taco house was located in Traverse City. The locals loved it. Amazing, simple, authentic Mexican food was their hallmark and they had legions of fans because of it. Then, they simply disappeared. Not for lack of business. But for something else. No one knew why.

But, now they have returned! No longer located within the Traverse City limits, they have chosen a location very near to the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme, Traverse City's gateway to the north.

The new focus of this restaurant is an even more real and authentic experience. They are also featuring some of the most outstanding homemade salsas your palate will ever experience. Good god yum!

One feels as though they've stepped out of Michigan altogether when they enter Osorio Tacos Y Salsas.

The atmosphere is decidedly simple. A few tables, some sparse decor. You do feel as though you've stepped out of Michigan when you enter this establishment. Take it from me! This place feels like Mexico, and I love it!

The simple surroundings of your chosen table may be purposeful, who knows? Because, when the food arrives, "simple" takes on a whole new, much more enticing meaning!



A truly authentic Mexican dining experience awaits you in this Grand Traverse region eatery.

Speaking of food, let's dive into what this authentic eatery offers, shall we?

First off, for you folks that want to know what it feels like to "sit right here and have another beer in Mexico", you'll have to go to Mexico. There is no beer (yet) at Osorio Tacos Y Salsa. But don't let that deter you!

The menu starts out right where the name implies, with tacos. An order of four tacos costs $8.99. There's a varied selection of meats available, I suggest the Chorizo, a Mexican sausage. Damn that's good!

You can snag a Taquiza, a plate of tacos for four folks, for $39.99. It consists of steak, chicken, pork, rice, beans, pico de gallo (LOVE this stuff!), guacamole and tortillas. A sort of build-your-own paradise.

Quesadillas are also huge on this menu. A couple of great selections are featured, both for around $8 each.

Vegetarian quesadillas are also available for you poor folk that don't eat meat.

Moving on, we see the Tamales! $2 each, try the poblano con queso. Wowza!

Now we're at the main dishes, people. These are $10.99 each and feature some truly authentic meat preparations paired with rice, beans and five flour (no) or corn (YES! Like I said, let's be authentic here) tortillas. 

Next, we hit up the Enchiladas. $10.50 each, all simple, traditional, cheesie and delicious!

Plenty of side dishes adorn this menu for your added eating delight, ranging in price from$1-$4. Considering the amazing homemade salsa, you have to try the chips and salsa! Only $2!!

Lastly, a grand mix of drinks from Mexico (again, no beer) round out the offerings here.

Osorio Tacos Y Salsas is a grand place to gather with friends and family.

I love this place. I always have. True, this place just opened on May 21, 2012. However, this place can be found throughout Central America. It's the place where the locals go when they want truly amazing home cooked meals. When they're missing their mother's Mexican cooking, they come to this place. When they want to gather with other town folk, laugh at the touristos eating at Burger King, talk the day away, whistle at pretty girls, hit on handsome boys, this is the place that they come to. I have been to so many local eateries in Central America. Upon my return, I missed this food and this atmosphere so very much.

Osorio Tacos Y Salsa may not be open air. It may not be the center piece of some small Mexican village. It may not serve beer. But, what it may not be does not matter. What it is is a place that has taken its Mexican heritage, a heritage that prides itself on authenticity, and has dropped it in the midst of Acme, Michigan. This is authentic Mexican fare and oh how I love it!!

Added bonus here, soon, very very soon, Osorio Tacos Y Salsas will serve fish tacos and....my mouth is watering just thinking of this....chile rellenos. I will be there every day.

Buen provecho!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

The Cook's House

Traverse City's The Cook's House is nestled back away from Front Street, but is the true epicenter of culinary excellence in TC.

Imagine, if you will, entering the home of your favorite world class chef. He or she invites you to sit down at their dinner table, peruse their collection of rare and exotic food books, sample their amazing bar and, best of all, sup from their kitchen on creations crafted by them.

Like what you're hearing? Enticed? Intrigued? Slightly aroused? (food does do that to a person!) Well then! Welcome to The Cook's House! A place that offers an amazing food experience in an elegant, intimate atmosphere.

The Cook's House atmosphere is a charming mix of intimate and elegant.

This amazing little joint is one of my favorite food experiences in the Grand Traverse region. And I'm not alone in that sentiment! Folks travel from far and wide to dine at Traverse City's The Cook's House. In fact, one regular flies in from Chicago with various friends almost every summer weekend, just to sample the outstanding goods at The Cook's House!

Yes, this place is that amazing!

A bit of fun is tossed in amongst one of TC's best menus.

Now, I'm not going to lie to you here; you will spend a pretty penny at The Cook's House. But, believe me, every pretty penny that you spend will result in a culinary gifting from heaven above! (Yeah, also can't lie about the fact that this Traverse City restaurant is one of my very favorite!)

The open kitchen allows you to witness your food creation coming to life at The Cook's House.

Now, despite my talent for weaving words into irresistible poetry, I know why you peeps show up at this blog day after day, looking for some damn fine nosh, you want to see the food! And here it is!

We'll begin where most folks do, with the appetizers.

Now, before we dive in, allow me to mention this: LOCAL! The Cook's House sources as much of their menu as possible from local farms. Yet another reason to love this TC eatery.

The appetizer menu includes some truly amazing treats. From roasted rabbit to poached duck egg served on old world rye with asparagus, pickled garlic and prosciutto broth, the options tempt the palate in a most pleasing sort of way.

A local highlight on the appetizer menu is a region (and world) wide favorite: Morel mushrooms, gnocchi, grated wild horseradish and black walnuts.

Appetizer prices range from $10-$13 each.

A smaller dining area allows for a feeling of exclusivity.

Now, onto soups and salads. Soups are $7, with selections including Asparagus and Shiitake mushrooms and white bean and red wine.

Salads are $8 and usually include four to five selections, with a favorite of mine being The Cook's House Salad; a salad of smoked rabbit and warm seasonal vegetables.

Yum!

The drink options at Traverse City's The Cook's House are top shelf!

Entrees are really where it's at, here at Traverse City's The Cook's House.

Prices range from $24 to $35 per dish, and they're worth every cent!

Some highlights include:

Roasted leg of lamb, anise hyssop, dried apricots, coco rubico heirloom beans.

Grass fed beef trio: New York strip, hanger steak and beef cheeks with roasted sunchokes and warm potato salad.

And, of course, more. All equally as amazing!

The Cook's House has a grand selection of wines, brews and mixed drinks as well that go along swimmingly with the various menu gems!

A locally sourced menu, downtown atmosphere and classy charm mix perfect at The Cook's House in TC.

Speaking of wine (I almost always am), The Cook's House offers a five or seven course tasting menu. These menus are $50 and $60 per person respectively, or $82 and $101, respectively, with wine pairings. These tastings include some of The Cook's House most outstanding creations, well worth the price!

Be sure to call ahead! While it may be a bit empty for their small plates and drinks lunch time menu, dinner time brings in the crowds, every night.

The Cook's House also has some delicious dessert options, perfect for that end of meal sweet tooth!

This is another "fine dining establishment" that gets it right here in TC. Life for the food lover is very good at The Cook's House. Local food and some of the most tantalizing flavor combinations you will ever experience abound at this perfect downtown establishment. It may not be on the "well beaten path", but that's just fine with the folks who choose to tuck into the offerings here at Traverse City's own artisanal food paradise, The Cook's House. I'll see you there!

Grass fed beef trio: New York strip, hanger steak and beef cheeks with roasted sunchokes and warm potato salad.

And, of course, more. All equally as amazing!

The Cook's House has a grand selection of wines, brews and mixed drinks as well that go along swimmingly with the various menu gems!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)

The Filling Station Microbrewery

Outdoor seating lines the patio at the Filling Station Microbrewery in Traverse City during the warmer months.

Welcome to the Filling Station Microbrewery of Traverse City. No longer are the trains rumbling through or screeching to a steam or diesel spewing stop at this historic depot. Nowadays, the only rumbling comes from the brew house, the only smoke from the wood fired stone pizza oven. If you're a fan of artisan pizzas fresh from the flame's tender licking and handcrafted brews, then the Filling Station Microbrewery is the place for you!

One of Traverse City's newest breweries is receiving some rave reviews.

Located near Traverse City's public library off of Woodmere Avenue, this microbrewery focuses, first and foremost, on their beer selection. That selection is partnered well with some very creative and tasty artisan pizza offerings.

You'll notice that the urban minimalist atmosphere mixes well with the menu offerings and the slowly evolving industrial surroundings of this former home to numerous Traverse City rail based enterprises. Again, this joint doesn't need to tease your senses with any sort of flash or sparkle in the decor. They know why you're there, for brews! That's where they focus their dazzle! 

Urban and open, the decor at the Filling Station Microbrewery only adds to its offerings.

Despite the fact that the depot that houses the Filling Station Microbrewery was the epicenter of a hard working area, the views from the Filling Station's dining areas are perfect for a slice and a pint. The Boardman Lake is just a few steps away and the people watching is spectacular during the warmer months, what with one of Traverse City's many parks running adjacent to Boardman Lake's shores just beyond this eatery's windows, the TART trail cutting through that park, the library next door and a small marina and sailing school nearby as well.

The Filling Station Microbrewery near Traverse City's public library is a great place to meet and unwind.

We'll begin with the food! As stated, this eatery features wood fired pizzas and a lovely salad option. Some of the highlights of the menu include:

Cock O' The Walk for $14. This pizza features house made basil oil, oven roasted chicken, artichokes, oven roasted tomatoes and mozzarella.

Burlington Northern for $14. This pizza features garlic oil, roasted garlic, red onions, fresh pears, prosciutto, brie and a balsamic reduction.

Three Rivers for $12. This pizza features marinara, fresh basil, roma tomatoes and mozzarella.

As I said before, there is also a fun and tasty salad as well as a dessert pizza (for guys like me who can not live without dessert) that features Nutella, graham crackers, marshmallow and more. Yum!

The taps are magical at the Filling Station Microbrewery.

Now, on to the reason that this place exists! The beer! (also Yum!)

Each brew is listed under a track number, tracks 1-9. These tracks do change from time to time, so the beers listed below may not be the exact same as the ones offered during your visit. Be sure to check out their site for updates on small craft brews, etc.

Having said that, their current menu offers some tasty, fun examples of craft brewing, definitely worth a look and sip on your next trip to Traverse City!

Out of the 9 available treats, I'll list three, two from my set of favs, one from my lovely Lisa's preferred drinking style.

First (as always), my lovely Lisa.

Track 4 carries a Dublin Stout. 4.3% ABV for you tickers out there. It is described as a nice session stout.

My two picks are these:

Track 3 features a Bacharach Golden Ale, 4.4% ABV. It's a nice malty ale with a subtle bittering.

Track 5 is a Denver Brown Ale, 4% ABV. It has a higher finishing gravity, which gives body and sweetness to this mild ale.

Arriving on every track, some scrumptious brews!

Obviously, my tastes are my own. If you don't see something that tickles your fancy in the items that I have chosen to highlight, don't let that stop you from visiting this brand spanking new TC brewery! There are plenty of other options available on both their pizza and beer menus.

An ancient art conjures up some tasty fare at the Filling Station Microbrewery!

Traverse City is hoppin', literally. The number of breweries springing up throughout TC and beyond is astounding. Another brewery is slated to take up residence within the depot district very soon. Life is good here in the Grand Traverse region for lovers of both the hop and the vine. And, luckily enough for us all, local and visitor alike, these amazing concoctions are being paired with some superb culinary offerings.

Whether it be the fun, urban atmosphere of the Filling Station Microbrewery or any of the other outstanding dining experiences here in Traverse City and the surrounding regions, you will be hard pressed (hard cider pun, that's also a very popular and growing industry here in the Grand Traverse region. Aren't I just da bomb at these innuendos and sly transitions??) to find any other city or town that can rival Traverse City in culinary prowess, options of amazing local brews and vints (my own word, that).

I encourage you to keep an eye on this blog for some amazing "do not miss" dining experiences here in Northern Michigan! Pass the word around! And hit up the Filling Station! It's easy to miss joints like this if you're new to the TC area or don't really get out too much. It is my aim here to make a resource for those that want to be "in the know" to actually have a constantly updated, actionable way to truly be in the know! Thanks for reading!

(All photos by Brooks Vanderbush)