Earlier this year, Traverse City was named number one among the nation's top ten surprising "foodie" cities by
Livability.com, and earned a close second-place finish by
Midwest Living magazine as best Midwest food town. So it was only a matter of time before someone offered a guided tour of local "foodie" destinations.
Local marketer Lysa Gudz saw it the same way. Inspired by a visit to Florence, Italy, Gudz entered the food-tour business this spring with
Tasty Morsel Culinary Excursions.
Be it a walkabout wander on foot or a point-to-point trip by van, guests can sample a variety of locally sourced food deftly prepared by accomplished artisans and chefs. The clientele is largely made up of visitors -- "about 75 percent," Gudz says -- so look at it as the gastronomic equivalent of a wine tour.
The three-hour, two-mile walking tour ($59) includes tastes of artisanal bread, meat, cherry products, pastries, chocolates and beer.
Meanwhile, the six- to seven-hour van tour of Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula includes all the above, plus possible stops at a winery, family farm, herb shop and bakery. Price is $139, including food.
A hands-on culinary experience offering the opportunity to prepare food is also available for $179.
Gudz has two goals: "To give customers an experience they wouldn't otherwise get on their own and to help promote local businesses that give this community its character," she says.
"It would make my day if everyone on this tour found something they can't live without -- some food or beverage they fell in love with."
Writer: Tom Tracey
Source: Lysa Gudz
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