Elberta Life Saving Station

Historical Sites · Traverse City, MI

Simply Exquisite by the Bay started as chef Maria Santos's dream to bring authentic coastal cuisine to Benzie County's shoreline. After years perfecting her craft in Chicago's top kitchens, Maria returned home to Michigan with a vision: fresh Great Lakes fish paired with premium steaks in an atmosphere that celebrates the region's natural beauty. The restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows frame Crystal Lake's changing moods, while Maria's team sources locally whenever possible. Her signature whitefish preparation and hand-cut ribeyes have earned devoted followers who drive from Traverse City and beyond for dinner that truly lives up to the name.