BOONE'S PRIME TIME: Rebuilt after a fire in 2000, this timber frame restaurant offers some of the same popular burgers, steaks and whitefish entrees as the other Boone's, but with in a more casual and intimate setting. Lunch & dinner. 102 St. Joseph, 231-271-6688.
CAFE BLISS: Renowned as one of the top vegetarian restaurants in Northern Michigan, the Cafe Bliss also has a number of flavorful poultry and fish dishes to choose from - many with an ethnic flair. Consider their Linguini Brasilia, Enchilada with black beans and maize, Chicken Sauté, garlic roasted Vegetable Pate', Chinese Stir Fry, or East Indian Vindaloo (seafood and apples in curry sauce). Voted "Best Vegetarian" restaurant, of course, by Express readers. Closed in winter. Dinner. 420 St. Joseph, 231-271-5000.
45TH PARALLEL CAFE: Offers just about anything you could ask for at breakfast with an eclectic range of omelettes, egg specialties and traditional favorites, not to mention a broad selection of pastries and coffee beverages. Lunch includes appetizers, soups, salads and sandwiches. Check out the Asian Chicken Breast Roll-up on a sun-dried tomato tortilla with cheddar cheese and onions. Breakfast & lunch. 102 W. Broadway. 231-271-2233.
HANG - ON EXPRESS: Lunch & dinner. Chinese & Thai food such as sesame chicken, garlic chicken, kung pao, Vang's Insane Noodles, Gang Masaman Curry and many other entrees. 316 St Joseph St., 231-271-0202.
JACK'S PIZZA & SANDWICHES: Lots of pizzas, sandwiches, salads, subs & hamburgers. 5981 SW Bay Shore Dr. ( inside the Kwik Mart), 231-271-0214.
O'KEEFE'S FIREHOUSE PUB: Situated in an old fire station, O'Keefe's offers pizza and breakfast in the summer and a broad range of sandwiches year-'round. Veggie, Greek, pitas, gyros, burgers and deli specialty sandwiches abound along with a varied selection of salads. Also available are several dinner entrees including a fried chicken dinner, fish & chips, New York strip, Shepard's Pie and Irish stew. Breakfast, lunch & dinner. 303 St. Joseph St., 231-271-6303.
ROMAN WHEEL PIZZA: Carry out or dine in with a selection of wallet-friendly pizzas and subs in the heart of the Suttons Bay shopping district. 116 St. Joseph, 231-271-4176.
SAMUELS: Enjoy a lovely dinner in downtown Suttons Bay, all "scratch" cooking using local ingredients. 111 St. Joseph St., 231-271-6222.
SILVERTREE DELI & GOURMET RESTAURANT: Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner to carry out or eat in. Soup & sandwich specials are offered daily and all selections are made fresh daily. Try their "Leelanau Gyro" and wonderful brownies. Large selection of Michigan wines and specialty items. Voted "Best Deli" by Northern Express readers. 119 S. Joseph St., 231-271-2271.
SUTTONS BAY-KERY: A pastry shop which also offers pizza, subs and Leelanau Roasting Co. coffee beverages. 318 St. Joseph St., 231-271-6540.
THE VILLAGE INN: Nightly specials featuring pizza, Mexican,Italian, fish and prime rib. 201 N. Joseph St., 213-271-3300.
PESHAWBESTOWN
DOUBLE EAGLE: Located in the Leelanau Sands Casino, the Double Eagle offers hungry gamblers a first class menu with everything from hearty entrees such as Beef Tenderloin, Prime Rib, BBQ Spare Ribs and New York Strip, to South-of-the-Border Mexican specialties and a casual menu of sandwiches and light luncheon choices. Plus, a Late Night menu starting at 9 pm with sandwiches, steak & eggs. Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
EMPIRE
EMPIRE VILLAGE INN: Pool tables, a full bar, friendly service and a varied menu make the Village Inn popular with families and locals. Dinners include Lamb Skewers, Blue Corn Enchiladas, Char-broiled Whitefish, Lasagna and Rib-eye. Also burgers, sandwiches, salads, appetizers and pizza. Located just north of the blinking light. 116601 Lacorre Ave. on M-22, 231-326-5101. Lunch & dinner.
FRIENDLY TAVERN: A casual small-town friendly atmosphere married to a full menu at reasonable prices, including whitefish and steaks. The Friendly burgers are huge (especially the one topped with Canadian ham), and the Tavern prides itself on a good selection of specialty brews. Lunch & dinner. 11015 Front St. 231-326-5506.
GLEN ARBOR
ART'S TAVERN: Everything a small resort town beach bar should be, offering burgers, whitefish, Mexican, steaks and sandwiches along with an imaginative selection of micro-brews. 6487 Western Ave., 231-334-3754.
BOONE DOCKS: The deck scene is popular hangout in the summer, offering music by local folk bands such as Third Coast and picnic table dining. Inside, you'll find a full menu with Boone's renowned huge portions on prime rib, steaks and chops. Also, whitefish and shrimp. Lunch & dinner. 5858 S. Manitou Blvd. 231-334-6444.
CHERRY REPUBLIC: If you're looking for an oasis to kick back while the family shops, this is it, with coffee and pastries available along with outdoor seating in a garden-like setting across the way from several art galleries. 6026 S. Lake, 231-334-3152.
FUNISTRADA: There's no menu, just a board system with each evening's specials at this popular Italian bistro/trattoria. There are always three or four seafood dishes to choose from, perhaps fresh mussels, shrimp, salmon, sea bass, red snapper or brook trout. And of course, pasta, including portabella ravioli with acorn squash cream sauce topped with toasted pecans (one of the most popular dishes), tenderloin in bitter chocolate, port and veal sauce, grilled quail with porcini mushroom and bacon sauce, or traditional dishes of osso bucco and oxtail stew. Funistrada boasts a wine list comprised of "off the beaten path" bottles not commonly found in other restaurants. 4566 West Macfarlane (at the corner of County Roads 675 and 616), Burdickville, 231.334.3900.
GOOD HARBOR GRILL: Excellent, hearty breakfasts married to a healthful menu with seafood specialties are among the surprises at the Good Harbor Grill. First class food served in a rustic, casual atmosphere. Seasonal, breakfast, lunch and dinner. 6584 Western Ave., 231-334-3555.
JOHNNIE SALAMI'S: Salads, sandwiches and pizza with a Crystal River setting. 6281 Western Ave., 231-334-3876.
SNUFFY'S COOP:
6298 Western Ave., 231-334-3163.
THE MANOR: Sundays offer a fine brunch, there is lunch on Fridays & Saturdays and dinner during the week. Please call for reservations and to check on seasonal hours. 231-334-0150.
WESTERN AVENUE GRILL: Atmosphere rules here, along with a family-friendly menu packed with sandwiches, pasta, steaks, seafood, whitefish and more. The Grill is pleasantly decorated throughout with fishing and boating memorabilia, including giant wood carvings of muskies, pike and other freshwater denizens. Lunch & dinner. 6410 Western Ave., 231-334-3362.
WINDOWS AT LEBEAR: Enjoy an elegant dinner in an intimate setting overlooking Lake Michigan. Their menu features fresh seafood dishes, as well as beef, veal, duck, lamb and local specialties. In the summer & fall they are open 7 days at 5pm and in winter & spring, Wednesdays through Sundays also at 5pm. Please call for reservations and ENJOY! 5705 Lake Street, 231-334-2530
THE HOMESTEAD RESORT
The resort offers several dining experiences; Cavanaugh's is an Irish deli offering everything from fresh baked goods, soups, salads, freshly prepared and frozen entrees. Plus wines, micro brews and liquors. Nonna's Restaurant is a relaxed, casual family restaurant, offering a large selection of steaks, chops, seafood and many other selections. Beppi's is a fun tavern and pizzeria. CQ's Cabin is cafeteria style dining experience. Homemade soups, salads and sandwiches are on the menu. Rendezvous Cafe offers hot chocolate and fresh baked pastries. These venues have seasonal hours so check ahead. Wood Ridge Rd., 1-231-334-5100.
BEPPI'S: This is a pizzeria and sports bar and live entertainment.
CAFE MANITOU: A bistro by the shore offering fabulous views of Lake Michigan at The Homestead. Serving lunch in the summer months, with reservations suggested spring through fall. 231-334-5000.
CAVANAUGH'S: Gourmet grocery offer fresh bakery and deli fare, sandwiches, box lunches, espresso, cappuccino and dinner-to-go for the picnic-minded.
NONNA'S RESTAURANT: Located in The Village at The Homestead, Nonna's offers the cuisine of northern Italy at moderate prices, including a children's menu to please the whole family. Breakfast buffet daily & dinner.
CEDAR
CEDAR RUSTIC INN: An old-time roadhouse featuring homemade entrees such as pot roast, Southern fried chicken, plus tamales, and perch. 8699 Good harbor Tr., 231-228-2282.
CEDAR TAVERN: If you're looking for the rustic atmosphere of a small town bar where locals gather to play pool, grab a burger and trade yarns, the Cedar Tavern is just the ticket. 9039 Kasson, 231-228-7445. Lunch & Dinner.
SUGARFOOT SALOON: Mexican specialties in the heart of Leelanau County. The Sugarfoot is renowned for its nachos, burritos and margaritas. The family dining destination also offers a full menu of American favorites - ribs are a specialty. Lunch & dinner. One mile east of Sugar Loaf on County Road 651, 231-228-6166.
GLEN LAKE
THE FOOTHILLS OF GLEN LAKE: Restaurant adjoins four-season resort motel, serving lunch and breakfast until 3 p.m. 7097 Dunns Farm Rd., 231-334-3495.
LA BECASSE: French country gourmet cuisine and regional specialties in this small but polished restaurant Reservations: 231-334-3944. On the east side of Glen Lake, intersection of County Road 616.
LAKE LEELANAU
DICK'S POUR HOUSE: Like its down-home name, the Pour-House delivers an authentic blend of rustic atmosphere and budget-minded burgers, sandwiches and bar food, making it popular with families and locals. It's claimed that writer Jim Harrison sometimes raises a glass here. Lunch & dinner. M-204, 231-256-9912.
KEJARA'S BRIDGE: The emphasis is on health, with sandwiches such as falafel, tuna, "naked" chicken and a veggie burger. Healthful whole-grain muffins, breads and pastries, with a flavorful blend of coffees and teas. Enjoy acoustic music on Saturday evenings. Breakfast & lunch. 302 Main, 231-256-7720
LELAND
THE BLUEBIRD: One of the epicenters of Leelanau County's social scene, The Bluebird offers quality dining with a full menu in a casual setting as well as a sports bar for mixing and mingling. Throughout the winter months, The Bluebird offers a world tour of ethnic dinners each Wednesday and Thursday, ranging from Michigan Wild Game to Spanish Tapas, New Orleans, Chinese/Thai, French, Italian, you name it. Voted "Best Whitefish," "Best Staff," "Best Happy Hour" and "Best Brunch" by Express readers in the 2000 survey. Lunch & Dinner. 102 E. River Street, 231-256-9081.
THE COVE: Offers the Northern Michigan dining experience everyone longs for - deck-side dining beside a rushing river, sometimes with the sight of salmon trying to jump their way over the dam. If the sight puts you in the mood for seafood, The Cove has a specialty in that area, including their Fishtown Stew and one-of-a-kind Seafood Pie. Open late spring to fall. In Fishtown, 231-256-9834.
EARLY BIRD: If you're in the mood for a robust breakfast with a bustling clientele, the Early Bird is where it's at on a Leland morning. The menu includes pork & eggs, a breakfast burrito and Belgium waffles. Lunch includes a whitefish sandwich, Early Bird Philly, tuna melt, chicken wrap and a three-decker club. Breakfast & Lunch til 2 pm. 101 S. River St. at Main, 231-256-9656.
LELAND LODGE: Upscale dining with a fabulous view. 565 E. Pearl St., 231-256-9848.
RIVERSIDE INN: An old country inn atmosphere with rooms for guests alongside the river belies the fact that the Riverside also offers full bar service and an imaginative menu that includes dining with a view. Breakfast is a sublime experience. 302 E. River St., Leland, 231-256-9971.
STEAK-HAUS: Located at the Kings Challenge Golf Course, this is the only steak house in Leelanau County. Great atmosphere and great food at reasonable prices. Reservations suggested. M-22 between Glen Arbor and Leland, 231-228-2071.
STONEHOUSE BREAD: You've seen their bread at grocery stores all over Northern Michigan, but a visit to the hearth is a must-do when in Leland. Sweet and sour baguettes, cherry walnut bread, a North Country loaf, Italian and Olive specialties are available with coffee. For an ethnic diversion try the Stone House Italian and Mediterranean Focaccia, Fougasse and Chiabata. 407 Leland Building, S. Main, 231-256-2577.
SISSON'S MAIN STREET SPECIALTIES: Too tired to cook? Come in and pick up a wide variety of entrees, salads and "compliments." Don't forget dessert! 203 N. Main St., 231-256-9201.
MAPLE CITY
BENCHWARMERS BAR & GRILL: Enjoy the sports bar surroundings while chowing down on some great food. A wide range of sandwiches, soups, salads, burgers and vegetarian dishes. 172 W. Burdickville Rd., 231-228-4688.
LEELANAU COUNTRY INN: Situated in a rambling Victorian-era mansion, the Leelanau Country Inn would be pleasant for its setting alone. Pleasantly, the menu lives up to the romantic surroundings, with steak, pasta and seafood specialties. Dinner. M-22 at intersection of Maple City Road, 231-228-5060.
MAPLE LEAF RESTAURANT: Family dining in a renovated schoolhouse offering lunch and dinner with soups, salads, sandwiches, American classic entrees and bar service. 172 W. Burdickville Road.
NORTH: Enjoy dining in this elegant Centennial Inn. Reservations are suggested. 149E. Harbor Hwy., 231-228-5060.
BARB'S BAKERY: No visit to Northport is complete without a visit to this pleasant country bakery, situated besides a creek on Mill St., especially if you've just rolled in on a long bike ride 'round the county. Barb's is famous for their cinnamon twists. 112 Mill St., 231-386-5851.
THE EAT SPOT: A pleasant cafe with a contemporary design and sense of ambiance, offering pizza, deli sandwiches, soups, salads, espresso, muffins, scones and more with seasonal outdoor seating available. 215 Mill St., 231-386-7536.
FISCHER'S HAPPY HOUR TAVERN: Offers the feel and comfort of an old-time roadhouse, with a long tradition of popularity among locals and tourists alike. And no wonder, because the food is great a reasonable prices. Famous for their burgers, the Happy Hour offers a variety of other sandwiches, a Chicken Dinner, Clam Basket, Chicken Basket and Sirloin Steak Sandwich. Beer connoisseurs will appreciate their international selection. Lunch & dinner. 7144 N. Manitou three miles south of Northport on M-22 towards Leland, 231-386-9923.
STUBB'S SWEETWATER TAVERN: An imaginative menu offers both regional specialties and ethnic dishes, including Parmesan Crusted Whitefish, Penne Primavera with Steamed Mussels, Grilled New Zealand Rack of Lamb, Thai Shrimp, Tandoori Lime Chicken and Broiled Lobster Tails, to name a few. Plus excellent sandwiches and a Tapas selection of light fare. Check out their Vegetarian Black Bean Burrito or Adobe Chicken Fajitas. Stubb's also offers Northport's most contemporary decor for the artfully inclined. Lunch & dinner. 115 Waukazoo, 231-386-7611.