September 18, 2025

Birch & Maple’s French Toast Monte Cristo

Tastemaker
By Anna Faller | Aug. 14, 2021

For your weekly breakfast fix, look no further than the French Toast Monte Cristo at Birch & Maple in Frankfort. Founded and co-owned by fine-dining veterans Nick and Natalie Crawford, this cozy kitchen and cocktail spot first opened its doors in 2018; since then, its modern take on classic mama-fare has put Frankfort squarely on the map of northern Michigan foodie destinations.

A healthy mix of classic-meets-eclectic, Birch & Maple’s seasonally rotating menu offerings and locally sourced ingredients speak for themselves. But perhaps none is more vocal — or popular — than the signature French Toast Monte Cristo.

A fresh take on the classic Croque Monsieur, Chef Natalie begins her sandwich construction by coating two thick slices of buttery Challah in a secret egg-wash of baking spices and almond extract before cooking. Once the bread has reached crispy-golden perfection, she adds smoked Black Forest ham and American cheese, then tops off the whole melty magnificence with a drizzle of maple syrup and a house “crispy” egg — i.e., a sunny-side-up egg with butter-fried crispy edges.

You’ll want seconds, but trust us, you won’t manage to eat again until dinner. Or possibly breakfast tomorrow. $13. Find Birch & Maple at 727 Main St., Frankfort. (231) 399-0399, www.birchandmaplefrankfort.com

Trending

A Year-Round Pizza Joint in Elberta

When we talk about fresh, house-made, and hand-crafted at a pizzeria, that means fresh dough daily, in-house sauces, hand-gr… Read More >>

Lost & Hound

Americans spend over $100 billion annually on their pets and pet-related products and services. With that kind of investment… Read More >>

TC State Park Construction: September Update

The $8.5 million Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park renovation will become more visible starting this week. Per the … Read More >>

Fall-O-Ween in Gaylord

If you’re already starting to get the Halloween itch—decorations up, costume ready, bags of candy half-consumed&… Read More >>