North X Northwest: Region is a foodie paradise

When you think of Northwest Michigan, what are some of the things that come to mind?

The Great Lakes? M-22? The beautiful scenery and natural wonder everywhere you look?

Here at Northwest Michigan Second Wave, those things definitely come to mind--but so does the fact that this region has become a foodie paradise. It seems like you can't turn a corner without running into a fabulous restaurant. If that weren't enough, the wonderful wines and beers of this region are everywhere as well--and that's a good thing.

Northwest Michigan is a destination, and it has been for decades. The wonderful beaches, the amazing communities and the superb people who live here have made it an outstanding place to visit for those who haven't settled here already. But unlike many areas that draw the attention of tourists, this region isn't chock full of an overwhelming amount of chain restaurants and fast-food joints. Instead, it is overflowing with great chefs who have cutting-edge thinking when it comes to what food is supposed to be.

It's impossible to name all of the places that we love to eat in Northwest Michigan, but a few have always truly stood out to us.

Take the Cooks House in Traverse City, for example. This place is no secret--anyone who knows the value of succulent dining has made a point of grabbing a table here. It's often very busy, which is just a testament to the cuisine and the atmosphere there, and your best bet is to get there early unless you have time to spare. The ingredients that make up the mouth-watering menu are locally sourced whenever possible and always sustainable. It is truly a restaurant that others should strive to be like. The menu is packed full of items that are prepared to perfection--you can't go wrong ordering anything here.

In Petoskey and looking for a great lunch? Take a jaunt over to Julienne Tomatoes, a wonderful little stop that will have you coming back again and again. There are so many good things to eat on the menu that you won't have trouble picking one, but some favorites here in the office include the How Sweet It Is Sandwich (turkey and cranberry sauce) and You Asked For It (chicken salad). They also have daily specials and soup that are absolutely scrumptious.

Want to grab a drink and keep it local? Then hit up the Mitten Bar in Ludington. If it is a beer, wine or liquor that is made outside of the state of Michigan, then you're not going to find it here. The Mitten Bar is dedicated to the wonderful drinks that are crafted right here. They support this wonderful 175-year-old state of ours--and that's something we can all raise a glass to.

We've hit a couple of restaurants and a bar, so we can't possibly leave out the best part of any meal--dessert! Enter the Grand Traverse Pie Company. Sure, it's technically a chain, but it was born and raised right here in the Northwest and we are proud of this homegrown favorite. Everything you get from them hits the spot. Love apple, cherry, lemon meringue or key lime pie, or any others for that matter? Try there's. For being a company that churns out pies constantly, every bite of any of their delicious desserts tastes like your mom made it. And they have so much more to offer than just pies, such as cookies, cakes, cheesecake and turnovers, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner options (why yes, that is prime rib pot pie!).

When it comes to dining in Northwest Michigan, you have options galore, so don't feel like you need to always go back to the same places. Sure, loyalty is grand, but so is trying wonderful new foods and dishes made by outstanding chefs. Throw a rock in this area and you're likely to hit one.

Sam Eggleston is the managing editor of Northwest Michigan Second Wave. He is born and raised in Michigan and it is evident, at just a glance, that he definitely loves food. He can be reached via email.