Empire Village Inn

The 231 Bar & Grill brings solid American comfort food and drinks to Benzie County with something for everyone. Their craft beer taps rotate regularly, showcasing Michigan breweries alongside a thoughtfully curated wine list. The handcrafted cocktails hit the mark, while multiple screens keep sports fans happy. Families appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and kid-friendly menu options. Live music adds energy on weekends, and the spacious layout handles groups easily. You can grab takeout for lakeside picnics or make reservations for dinner. It's the kind of neighborhood spot that works for casual lunches, family dinners, or catching the game with friends.

The Mill Glen Arbor transforms the classic bakery concept into something uniquely Leelanau Peninsula. This local favorite serves fresh-baked pastries alongside craft cocktails and local beers, creating an unexpectedly perfect combination. Families gather on the spacious patio while friends share small plates and Michigan wines. The menu caters to everyone with thoughtful vegetarian and vegan selections that don't feel like afterthoughts. Grab a morning coffee and cherry scone, then return for evening drinks with Lake Michigan views. It's the kind of place that makes you rethink what a neighborhood bakery can be.

Cajun flavors meet Northern Michigan hospitality at Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen, where the gumbo simmers low and slow while craft beer flows from local taps. This Antrim County gem brings authentic Big Easy cuisine to the Great Lakes region, complete with a sprawling patio perfect for summer evenings. The kitchen crafts everything from jambalaya to po' boys, while the bar shakes up proper hurricanes and sazeracs. Weekend brunch draws crowds for beignets and bourbon cocktails, and families appreciate the welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel like regulars.

Tucked away in Grand Traverse County, Backwoods BBQ and Eats serves up wood-fired pizzas that locals have been quietly raving about. This isn't your typical pizza joint – the smoky flavors from their outdoor pits create crusts with a distinctive char that you won't find anywhere else in northern Michigan. The menu leans heavily into comfort food territory, with hearty toppings and generous portions that satisfy even the hungriest appetites after a day on the trails. Their delivery service brings that authentic backwoods taste straight to your door, making it a perfect discovery for visitors staying in Traverse City.

Right in downtown Traverse City, Park Place Hotel strikes that perfect balance between business-class comfort and family-friendly warmth. The lobby welcomes you with polished stone floors and oversized windows that frame views of the bustling Front Street scene below. Kids love the indoor pool area, while parents appreciate the spacious rooms and prime location just steps from the waterfront. The on-site restaurant serves up solid American fare, and the conference facilities handle everything from intimate meetings to large celebrations. It's the kind of place where business travelers and vacationing families cross paths naturally.

A neighborhood pub in Beulah serving classic pub fare and cold drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.