One of the best parts of traveling is discovering new and interesting restaurants. But how do you know what’s best? Ask a local. That’s exactly what we did and narrowed the choices down to 13 of our favorite places to dine in the Petoskey Area.
Things are a little different this year as Covid restrictions linger and restaurants are only open at 50% capacity. Our eateries are keeping everyone safe with social distancing and lots of to-go/online-ordering options so bring your appetite. Want to be sure your choice is open? Please call or check Facebook or websites for updates.
CASUAL
Mim’s Mediterranean Grill — Petoskey
If you’re feeling international, head to Mim’s for traditional Greek and Mediterranean goodness. You can’t go wrong with their yummy gyros, grape leaves or tabbouleh (chopped parsley with bulgar, green onion, tomato, lemon and mint) and make sure to try the fiery feta fries for a mouth-watering experience. Bonus here? Mim’s rocks the customer service and does an awesome job with takeout.
Turkey’s — Harbor Springs
Turkey’s can take care of your breakfast, lunch AND dinner needs before or after a day on the slopes or trails. From filling hash and eggs, to a healthy cherry chicken salad and their famous pizzas, this is the place to go to control your hunger with super tastes.
Lake Street Market — Boyne City
This terrific little deli has always offered takeout so they have it down pat. Head to Lake Street Market for filling gourmet soups, sandwiches and homemade pizza, all on a menu with a sense of humor. Order in advance for the whole family.
Knot Just a Bar — Bay Harbor
Enjoy the casual ambiance of this waterfront Bay Harbor location. From burgers to pasta to a cone of cod, the menu at Knot Just a Bar is sure to have something to please everyone in your party. Order the amazing carrot cake and ask for extra forks.
Noggin Room — Petoskey
The Noggin Room Pub, inside Stafford’s Perry Hotel, offers live entertainment on many weekends in a casual, roll-up-your-sleeves environment. Moved upstairs to offer more space, the pub is also home to the famous “Hall of Foam” and now comes with a view of the bay.
Stigg’s Brewery & Kitchen — Boyne City
Stigg’s is the only brewery in Boyne City and they offer great tastes brewed on site in an historic building with a from-scratch food menu. One of the few places you’re likely to find smelt on the menu – if you like fish, you totally need to try it!
FINE DINING
Don’t let the term “fine dining” scare you. The menus are more upscale than burgers and fries, but the atmosphere and dress are still casual.
Palette Bistro — Petoskey
For food that is innovative and pleasing, check out the Mediterranean-inspired menu at Palette Bistro. This Wine Guys endeavor offers stunning views of Little Traverse Bay and three separate seating areas so guests can be spread out throughout the building.
Pointer Room – Stafford’s Pier Restaurant – Harbor Springs
The Pier’s Pointer Room extends out towards the beautiful yacht basin and offers an eclectic menu. Guests enjoy spectacular views while experiencing perfection in service and a comfortable, warm environment. Menu items feature regional cuisine and new tastes, as well as traditional staples such as Stafford’s signature whitefish.
Sage — Odawa Casino – Petoskey
Sage combines a superior menu, impeccable service and a luxuriously intimate setting to provide you with an amazing culinary adventure. The centerpiece of Sage is a sixteen-foot tall wine tower offering an impressive number of high quality wines to pair with your meal. Don’t pass up the signature seafood chowder and be sure to try the specials (now served regularly) like the Thursday night prime rib and the Friday night crab boil.
1911 Restaurant at the Terrace Inn — Petoskey
Open for Dinner 4 to 9 p.m.Thursday, Friday and Saturday spring, fall and winter and every night in the summer, this classic 1910 venue offer gorgeous views overlooking Bay View’s Victorian Neighborhood from the outdoor Terrace and romantic vintage setting also has a beautiful dining room with elegant chandeliers and original wood floors and many original antique furnishings.
The food is amazing, prepared from scratch, and presented beautifully. Choose from the prix fixe three course menu or ala carte or enjoy cocktails on the patio. Regionally inspired artfully presented and delicious food and friendly service will ensure a repeat visit!
Vintage Chop House | Wine Bar — Bay Harbor
Vintage Chophouse | Wine Bar embodies the charm of the classic all-American steakhouse, complemented by elements of an upscale lounge. Vintage is that quintessential retreat where adults come to indulge and unwind while enjoying the view of Little Traverse Bay.
The New York — Harbor Springs
This northern Michigan bistro features daily specials and eclectic cuisine in a comfortable setting overlooking the waterfront. An award-winning wine list with over 300 wines is available, as well as a wide selection of beers and spirits. Enjoy sushi each Thursday evening and reduced pricing for early diners on select days.
Café Santé — Boyne City
A casual, European-style bistro serving The Classics— simply and with flair. Featuring Belgian beers, wood-fired pizzas, mussels and frites, pastas, unique breakfasts and casual cuisine from other fine European traditions. Sneak off for lunch through May and take advantage of the $5 pizza lunches Monday – Friday.
Are your taste buds fired up now? Come see us soon and let us know how you like the food! For even more dining options, click here.
About the author
Diane Dakins is passionate about all the lakeside communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of northern Michigan: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor and Boyne City. As assistant director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, she has “been there – seen that” when it comes to virtually every area attraction. Her blogs give potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.