Niijii Restaurant

McGee's No. 72 brings upscale dining with a relaxed Michigan vibe to Grand Traverse County. The restaurant strikes that rare balance between sophisticated cuisine and genuine warmth, where handcrafted cocktails meet hearty comfort food done right. Their kitchen turns out dishes that respect both local ingredients and global flavors, while the bar program showcases Michigan craft beers alongside an impressive wine selection. The spacious patio becomes a hub during Traverse City's glorious summers, and inside, families mix easily with date-night couples and groups catching the game.

Farm-to-table restaurant at Black Star Farms on the Leelanau Peninsula. The kitchen works with local and estate-grown ingredients, and the wine pairings from Black Star's own cellar are a natural fit.

PepeNero elevates Traverse City's dining scene with sophisticated Italian cuisine that respects both tradition and innovation. The restaurant's warm atmosphere draws you in with rich aromas of garlic, herbs, and wood-fired preparations. Their extensive wine collection pairs beautifully with house-made pastas and seasonal dishes crafted from local ingredients. The outdoor patio becomes a coveted spot during cherry season, while craft cocktails and local beers complement the menu year-round. Vegetarian and vegan diners find thoughtful options that never feel like afterthoughts.

The Towne Plaza brings serious culinary craftsmanship to downtown Traverse City with a menu that changes seasonally to showcase local ingredients. Their wine program highlights Michigan vintages alongside international selections, while craft beer taps rotate regularly. The breakfast menu runs until 2 PM, and weekend brunch draws crowds for good reason. Vegetarian and vegan dishes get the same attention as their meat-centric plates. The spacious patio becomes prime real estate during summer months, and the dining room easily accommodates larger groups without sacrificing the intimate atmosphere that makes date nights memorable.

Tucked into the rolling hills of Leelanau Peninsula, Trattoria Funistrada brings authentic Italian flavors to Northern Michigan's wine country. The kitchen crafts traditional dishes using local ingredients, while the bar program showcases an impressive wine selection alongside craft beers and handcrafted cocktails. The intimate dining room works well for date nights or larger groups celebrating special occasions. Reservations help secure your spot, though takeout lets you enjoy their pasta and entrees at home. The restaurant's location makes it a natural stop after vineyard hopping, combining Italian hospitality with Michigan's agricultural bounty.

Amical brings together wine, craft beer, and artisan cocktails under one roof in downtown Traverse City. The rustic-modern space combines exposed brick with warm wood accents, creating an atmosphere that's both sophisticated and relaxed. Their curated wine selection highlights Michigan vintages alongside international favorites, while rotating taps pour local craft brews. The cocktail menu changes seasonally, incorporating fresh ingredients and house-made syrups. The spacious patio draws crowds during summer evenings, and their vegetarian-friendly menu makes it easy for groups with different dietary preferences to gather here.