The Northport Union

You can't miss the bright blue building that houses Bardon's Wonder Freeze - it's been a Grand Traverse County landmark since 1969. This old-school ice cream stand serves up generous scoops of homemade flavors alongside classic comfort food like burgers and fries. The outdoor picnic tables fill up fast on summer evenings with families enjoying everything from hot fudge sundaes to their famous twist cones. Kids love the casual atmosphere where they can run around while parents savor that nostalgic soft-serve experience that never gets old.

You'll smell Flour Pot Bakery before you see it - that incredible aroma of fresh bread and pastries drifting through Antrim County will lead you right to their door. This small-town gem turns out everything from crusty artisan loaves to decadent cinnamon rolls that locals line up for on weekend mornings. The bakers start early, so you can count on warm-from-the-oven goodness throughout the day. Their sourdough has a cult following, and the seasonal fruit turnovers showcase Michigan's best produce. Perfect for grabbing breakfast on your way to the lakes or stocking up for a cottage weekend.

Grocer's Daughter Chocolate transforms bean-to-bar artistry into pure Northern Michigan magic on the Leelanau Peninsula. This award-winning chocolatier crafts small-batch confections using single-origin cacao beans, creating everything from silky truffles infused with local cherry wine to handmade bars studded with Michigan blueberries. Their retail shop showcases the chocolate-making process through glass windows, letting you watch artisans temper chocolate while you sample seasonal specialties. Take advantage of their takeout service to stock up on gift boxes, or arrange delivery to your Traverse City accommodations for the ultimate sweet surprise.

The aroma hits you before you even walk through the door at Jojo's Cookies – warm butter, vanilla, and brown sugar mixing in the air like a sweet invitation. This local Traverse City bakery turns out cookies that crumble just right between your fingers, with that homemade texture you can't fake. Their chocolate chip cookies arrive warm from the oven throughout the day, edges golden and centers still soft. The display case showcases rotating seasonal favorites alongside classics, while the friendly staff wraps your selections in cheerful packaging. Can't make it in? Their delivery service brings these sweet treats straight to your door.

Jomo's Ice Cream Shop brings artisanal scoops to Benzie County with flavors that capture the essence of Northern Michigan summers. This local favorite crafts small-batch ice cream using regional ingredients, creating unique combinations you won't find at chain shops. Their rotating seasonal menu highlights local berries, Michigan maple syrup, and other regional specialties. The friendly atmosphere makes it easy to linger over your cone while chatting with locals about the best swimming spots nearby. Each visit feels like discovering a sweet secret tucked away in this charming corner of the region.

You'll find some of the Leelanau Peninsula's best Jewish deli fare at L'Chayim in Glen Arbor, where fresh bagels and house-made pastries draw locals and visitors alike. The breakfast menu hits all the right notes with everything from classic lox and cream cheese to hearty egg dishes. Weekend brunch gets busy, but the outdoor patio makes the wait worthwhile. Grab a seat outside and watch Glen Arbor wake up over your morning coffee, or swing by for takeout if you're beach-bound. This family-friendly spot proves that great deli food has found a home up north.