Tastemakers: The Bistro‘s Mesquite Chicken Sandwich - Brother David‘s Abbey Style Ale

When the 131 Bypass around Cadillac was completed a few years ago many thought it would be the death of the downtown. Not Mark Fowler: he saw the freed-up Mitchell Street through town as a great opportunity. “Before the bypass we were flooded with cars that were just passing through to somewhere else and not stopping,” said Fowler. “Now we have locals and visitors coming downtown to enjoy what we have without all of the congestion.”
Fowler, a longtime “foodie,” opened The Bistro on North Mitchell two years ago, specializing in both sandwiches and atmosphere. He struck up an interesting deal with his landlord; in exchange for low rent, Fowler completely renovated the deteriorating building. In between restoration projects, he added to his menu and even hosted several acoustic shows, and will continue with his concert series all summer. Without the highway traffic Fowler has now decided to add cappuccinos and breakfast items to the menu. In a week he will open at 7 a.m., but it is lunchtime where he has been making his name.
Fowler has been famous for his sandwiches for quite some time. In the 1990’s he owned the Park Place Café and numbered his sandwiches after his favorite athletes. One carry over sandwich is #23, for Michael Jordan of course (or maybe Kirk Gibson), the Mesquite Chicken Sandwich. Made with marinated chicken, aged Swiss cheese, Roma tomatoes and Fowler’s special homemade pesto sauce, and this sandwich, like Jordan, is of championship caliber. Of course even Jordan had a supporting cast, and so does this #23 with its fresh multigrain bread from the Bay Bread Company in Traverse City. The sandwich pairs well with a Jones Strawberry Lime Soda and both may be enjoyed at one of the sidewalk tables.
Fowler is always smiling, but that smile is now a little bigger since he recently proposed to another foodie, Christen Landry, of Kejara’s Bridge fame. Her answer? Just look on his face.

BROTHER DAVID‘S DOUBLE/TRIPLE ABBEY STYLE ALE
Amanda Danielson of Trattoria Stella is a sommelier (wine expert) and one of the best in the state -- many trust her recommendations. So, does she have a palate for brews as well? Absolutely. Look for Amanda and her staff to recommend Brother David’s Double Abbey Style Ale from the Anderson Valley Brewing Company (AVBC).
Located along the Russian River in California’s famed Mendocino County Wine District, AVBC has been a favorite stop for those visiting winery-tasting rooms, looking for a change in taste. AVBC brews two Abbey style ales. The Double is dark brown in color and has roasted coffee and dark chocolate flavors in the nose and finish. This full-bodied, strong ale (9% alcohol content) also has some fruit scents in it.
The Double is a fantastic American attempt at this traditional Belgium style developed by monks. Purists may find flaws, primarily when comparing to some of the great abbeys out there. But location and atmosphere also have an impact on flavor, and Stella, with its basement-monastery feel, is perfect for these ales.
Create your own beer tasting party with a group of friends. Order a couple of bottles of each (depending on the number of friends). Note that the Triple is slightly higher in alcohol and is a pale reddish brown color with spicy hops. Ask for wine glasses and pair with late night menu items such as mussels, baked Brie and the white pizza. If looking to enjoy these ales at home, head to Jack’s in Traverse City (Jack’s and Stella are two of three places in Michigan that carry AVBC brews).
So, if you are at a great restaurant, don’t be afraid to consult with the sommelier on beer choices – you won’t be disappointed. -- Rick Coates
View On Our Website