Zakey

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)

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)

That'sa Pizza!

The Westside location of That'sa Pizza is just around the corner from me. I'm a lucky guy!

The summer has arrived in Traverse City. The Great Wakes Festival is in full swing, the weather is lovely, the beaches are bustling and sunburns abound. While Traverse City is home to some amazing places to nosh, many folks need that ever elusive easy solution to dining that so many towns lack. Thankfully for those folk, Traverse City has three amazing options for the sun exhausted boater, the beached out towel jockey, the shopped-til-they-dropped downtown divas and all the rest! And they deliver beer.

Yeah. You heard me. They deliver beer.

What is this perfect beach house dining solution? Traverse City's That'sa Pizza!

Not just a take-out joint! That'sa Pizza is chock full of atmosphere, great for dining in!

Yeah, the possibilities for delivery are endless here. There is nothing more satisfying at the end of long hard day of play here in Northern Michigan than returning to that perfect house, hotel, motel, cabin, condo or campsite and being able to kick back and let someone else worry about lunch or dinner......or breakfast, for the college kids.

BUT! Let's not discount the dining in options! Do you love some old school Pacman? Well! Are you in luck! That'sa Pizza has it! Do you love a local brew? Again, lucky you! That'sa Pizza has some!

And, do you love a genuinely awesome pizza? Oh, do I have a place for you! That'sa Pizza. What? What place did you think I was going to say?

That'sa Pizza not only has some grand nosh options, they have an equally inviting atmosphere. At their various locations about town you'll find comfy seats, a lovely bar and amazing staff. These joints are great for a wee little date or a family outing.



With the better half or the family, That'sa Pizza is a great place to be in TC! (Nice rhyme!)

Let's talk a bit about the food, shall we?

During my college days (not so very long ago), I held a favorite pizza joint or two. When visiting friends at other colleges throughout Michigan, we would inevitably end up at some great local, neighborhood pizza joint tossing back a few brews and chowing down on some truly amazing slices. The art of pizza making has been severely bastardized by the likes of Pizza Hut, Little Ceasars, BC Pizza, etc. There is a stigma attached to pizza nowadays that says that anyone can do it, anyone does do it and everyone sucks. While this stigma is mostly true, there are some glaring examples of pizza perfection out there. Traverse City's answer to the perfect local pizza joint question is That'sa Pizza. Need proof? Then order some food!

Obviously, they have a grand selection of "build your own" type fare here, as any self respecting pizza joint worth its pepperoni would. They also have a wide selection of house creations. The prices for these range from $13.99 for 12 inch pizzas to $24 for some of the 16 inchers.

Highlights of that house creation menu include the Mellow Mushroom (no sauce, olive oil, fresh garlic, fresh button and portobella mushrooms and Parmesan cheese), the Idaho (no sauce, mashed potatoes, bacon and cheddar cheese) and the Hawaiian (always a favorite of mine). Many other selections grace that section of the menu if your taste is not akin to mine, no worries.

Other menu sections include grilled sandwiches ($6-$6.50, try the Sicilian, yum!), grilled wraps ($5.50-$6.25, try the chicken and black bean wrap, wowza!), salads ($3.25-$6.25, try the Eastside House Salad, oh my gawd!) and odds and ends (consisting of things like cheesy breadsticks, BBQ wings, etc.....the wings are awesome, by the way, 20 pieces for $15.50).

That'sa Pizza has a grand bar. Awesome.

As I said before, That'sa Pizza has some grand brew selections, always featuring a Sam Adams, a Bells and a Right Brain (my favorite local brewery, soon to make an appearance on this very blog!). They also have some great bottles and the usual suspects as well. Spirits and wine can be had here too. This really is the perfect all-around pizza joint, take my word for it!



The food at That'sa Pizza is as good as it looks!

While the brews and vinos are certainly tops on the drinks list for this guy, they are not the only game in town by any means! Folks, if you get the chance, do not miss out on That'sa Pizza's 100% real fruit smoothies! Talk about heaven in a glass! Yes, I really did just say that. I guess, technically I wrote it, but whatever. They're awesome.

Yup. Yum!

Lastly on the menu are the calzones. Basically, you choose three toppings, they throw it into that yummy crusted creation and you experience a food orgasm. It really is wonderful to slay one's hunger with such a convincing beast!

That'sa Pizza also has a take-n-bake option that rocks. Taking the boat over to the beach house? Snag a take-n-bake. Heading home after a long weekend? Grab a take-n-bake. See what I mean? So versatile!

Here sits a summer tradition: Bells' Oberon from the That'sa Pizza taps.

I know what you're thinking. Questions are seeping into your mind. Questions like: "Did the 'local only' guy just review a chain?" No. I did not. That'sa Pizza is uniquely, fiercely Traverse City. "Why is this guy reviewing a pizza joint?" Because I love good food and That'sa Pizza is good food! Plus, it is summer and easy, transportable food.....or food that comes to you in a summer drunken stupor or other state of "I shouldn't go anywhere", is tops on people's minds right now.

Yeah, there's an eclectic mix of eateries on this blog. Why? Because I'm an eclectic kinda guy! You might find me here for lunch, dropping $20 on a slice, a brew and a salad and meet up with me at The Cook's House for dinner, where I'll gladly drop $150. Amazing food knows no name, no boundaries, no shape, no incarnation. Any menu within any establishment has the potential to be outstanding. I have had supremely amazing nosh in a dirty Guatemalan parking lot, sitting atop a broken plastic stool, eating from a paper plate. Judge not, folks.

If you seek delicious vacation food, simply walk through the doors of That'sa Pizza!

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)

Slabtown Cafe

Slabtown Cafe (Burgers) in Traverse City, MI is the perfect stop for the family on the move....to the beach!

The windows are wide open, the sun is shining and my mug is sitting here next to me, sweating little beads of condensation, patiently awaiting my next sip of Short's Soft Parade, a right proper brew for the Summer! 

Another right proper part of Summer here in Traverse City is a sweet little spot just down the road and around the corner from my abode, Slabtown Cafe, otherwise known as Slabtown Burgers by us locals, possibly because of their slightly misleading sign. What is not misleading about this joint is the amazing food! 

Dine in or dine outside, it makes no difference. Traverse City's Slabtown Burgers is certain to please.

Now, dining in at this establishment is a true little local bit of fun. The atmosphere is fun, slightly cramped, but you tend to not mind, the people here are usually quite awesome. There's even a great porch and some picnic tables outside along Front Street and Spruce Street. The actual address of this place is 826 W. Front Street. Although the address is on Front Street, this burger stop is not downtown, it's actually across Division Street from downtown, right in the midst of the Slabtown neighborhood; my neighborhood. A great place to live! 2 blocks from the beach!

Slabtown Burgers, a local mainstay of summertime in Traverse City.

Now, shall we get to it? The food!

We'll start with the sides and lesser plates. Here at Slabtown Burgers, if you're not into burgers, no worries, there's plenty to go around!

There's salads! How about a Traverse City Salad? It's got a bit of everything we love in our salads up here. Dried cherries (of course, cherry capital and all that), chicken, walnuts, red onion, blue cheese and a cherry vinaigrette. All for $6.95!

They've got hot dogs! A fun all beef 1/4 pound hot dog dressed with ketchup, mustard, relish and onion makes for a grand treat, especially at the dirt cheap price of $2.50. Yum! Beeeeeef!

Fancy a wrap? Slabtown has you covered! My favorite has to be a wrap that is aptly named for Summertime here in TC: The Hot Chick wrap. It's got grilled chicken, pepperjack cheese, jalepenos, grilled mushrooms, onions, lettuce, tomato and mayo. All that for only $7.25.

They've got sandwiches! Lovely offerings like the Big Bird will bring you the fuel you need for playing on the beach! It comes complete with sliced turkey, swiss, lettuce, tomato, banana peppers, mayo and homemade sweet Lincoln honey mustard sauce served on a bun. Again, great price: $5.25.

They've got fresh daily soups, local sodas, awesome shakes, and great extras like onion rings, chili cheese fries and some of the best fresh cut French fries around! Smother them in some vinegar and you're in heaven!

You can even snag a slab of ribs for $12.95. That comes with coleslaw and fries.

Summer is here. That means it's Slabtown time in Traverse City!

But, I'm not going to lie to you here, the main reason that folks visit Slabtown is for the burgers!

Their chalk boards are full of specialty bun contenders.

Highlights include the Big Blue Burger (bacon and blue cheese stuffed burger dressed with ketchup, mustard, pickle and onion, a personal favorite, for $4.95), JD's Half Baked (topped with bacon, cheddar, potato, ranch, ketchup and a pickle for $4.85), The West Side (burger stacked with ham, swiss, american cheese and mayo for $4.85) and Pungi's Pepper Patty (with jalapeno, cream cheese and bacon stuffed burger with pepper jack, ketchup, mustard, pickle and onion for $4.85). They even serve up a homemade black bean veggie burger for the unfortunate vegetarian that may inadvertently wander through the door.

Don't forget to grab a shake at Traverse City's Slabtown Burgers.

Bottom line, summer is about to hit the Grand Traverse region, and there is no better place to be during the summer than outside, am I right? Course I am! When you come to Traverse City, you're here for the downtown shopping, the State Theatre, the concerts and shows and, yes, the beaches, hiking, boating, climbing, biking and scenic driving that this perfectly picturesque locale affords the lucky traveller. What goes better with those activities than a transportable meal?

Now, I realize that this area has certain places that serve transportable "food" claiming to be a king, an arch, etc. This is NOT an acceptable form of nourishment. It is neither local, nor is it food. If you're here to experience TC, do it locally, immerse yourself in this amazing experience that is Traverse City!

And, if you truly love the part of a trip that allows you to let go and not care about your diet or health, grab the Double Bypass Bag from Slabtown and hit the trails! See you at the beach!