Apart from its bustling automobile industry and beautiful Great Lakes, an underrated part of the state of Michigan is its food scene.
The Wolverine State is teeming with restaurants offering various delicious dishes worth trying.
One particular spot that’s filled with different dining choices is Mackinaw City, Michigan.
This quaint village in Northern Michigan is home to some of the best restaurants in the state.
From breakfast joints to fine dining and pizzerias, Mackinaw has a little something for everyone.
If you visit this beautiful place, check out the best restaurants in Mackinaw City, Michigan, for a complete and unforgettable experience.
Nonna Lisa’s Italian Restaurant
Nonna Lisa’s Italian Restaurant is the premier go-to spot for traditional Italian dishes.
This family-owned restaurant serves classic recipes that have been perfected and passed down for generations.
Nonna Lisa’s offers a complete Italian experience, from handmade pasta with tomato-based sauces, and decadent desserts.
However, what Nonna Lisa’s is most known for is its wood-fired pizzas, where you can choose what toppings you prefer.
Choose from toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, onion, basil, garlic, extra tomatoes, and much more.
All ingredients are guaranteed fresh, and the restaurant’s signature dough ensures that every bite is flavorful.
At Nonna Lisa’s Italian Restaurant, you’ll feel the taste of Italy with every bite of their signature dishes.
So if you’re in the mood for some Italian cuisine, drop by this place.
Lighthouse Restaurant
The Lighthouse Restaurant is a popular seafood joint in Mackinaw City that offers fresh, locally-sourced dishes.
From their signature whitefish to their delectable crab cakes, you’ll experience the best seafood in Mackinaw.
You can also get fresh lobster straight from the tank; pick one, and the chef will prepare it.
The Lighthouse Restaurant is known for its creative and flavorful recipes.
Their signature dishes are prepared using the freshest ingredients, fresh fish, and hand-picked seafood daily from local fisheries.
The people at the Lighthouse Restaurant will always ensure you get a delicious meal every time.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some freshly caught seafood, head to the Lighthouse Restaurant and have a great time with your family and friends.
Toast A Go-Go
Toast A Go-Go is the perfect spot to start your day in Mackinaw City.
This diner-style restaurant is known for its hearty breakfast dishes that will give you energy for a long day ahead.
Whether you’re looking for omelets, pancakes, or waffles, Toast A Go-Go has it all.
Their best-selling item is the Cinnamon Swirl French Toast, made with thick slices of cinnamon swirl bread dunked in their signature egg batter and grilled until golden brown.
If you’re not in the mood for classic breakfast favorites, they also have other items on their extensive menu, such as sandwiches and burgers.
They also have a kids’ breakfast consisting of breakfast dishes explicitly tailored for the little ones.
Health-conscious people should try breakfast salads, wraps, and smoothies.
No matter what you choose, you can expect a delicious and satisfying breakfast experience at Toast A Go-Go.
Dixie Saloon
Dixie Saloon is a local restaurant that serves traditional American grub in a rustic and cozy environment.
Located in downtown Mackinaw City, Dixie Saloon is one of the oldest restaurants in the village.
Established in 1890, it underwent numerous renovations through the years, yet it still maintained its classic American charm.
Their menu features a wide range of American comfort foods, from burgers and steaks to sandwiches and salads.
From burgers and sandwiches to steaks and ribs, Dixie Saloon has all the classic fare you could ask for.
The menu also features old-school favorites like the Cowboy Burger, Jalapeno Firecrackers, mac n’ cheese, and much more.
These delicious meals are served in an old-fashioned atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time.
So, if you’re in the mood for some good old-fashioned American fare, head over to Dixie Saloon. You won’t regret it.
B.C. Pizza
No restaurant in Mackinaw City is more beloved than B.C. Pizza.
This locally-owned restaurant has served some of the best pizza in town since 1988, showing no signs of slowing down.
Their signature pizzas are handmade and perfectly cooked in a traditional brick oven.
This method means you get a pizza that’s crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside.
Their menu features a wide selection of pizzas, such as the smokehouse mac & cheese pizza, the bacon double cheeseburger deluxe, the dill pickle pizza, BBQ chicken pizza, taco pizza, and much more.
Apart from their signature pizzas, they also serve other dishes like pasta, salads, subs, desserts, and appetizers.
Their handmade pizzas are well-known locally and have earned rave reviews from customers all over Michigan.
So, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Mackinaw City, B.C. Pizza is the place to go.
Rusted Spoke Brewing Co.
The Rusted Spoke Brewing Co. is a well-known restaurant and meeting spot in Mackinaw City.
Located in downtown Mackinaw City, this industrial-style bar and restaurant feature a relaxing atmosphere for socializing.
The place is always bustling with people, both locals and tourists alike.
The Rusted Spoke Brewing Co. is known for serving comfort foods like mac and cheese, burgers, wings, and other bar eats.
However, they’re also known for their signature entrées like steaks, brisket, pulled pork, smoked pork Sammy, and much more.
The Rusted Spoke has a wide selection of beers, brewed and bottled right in the restaurant.
Their craft beers come in various flavors and styles, so there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a spot to unwind and socialize with friends or locals, check out Rusted Spoke Brewing Co.
C.J.’s Grub Stop
C.J.’s Grub Stop is your typical diner where locals go for good food and friendly conversation.
This classic diner’s cozy environment screams, “Come, sit and stay.”
Their menu features all the diner classics like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups.
They also serve your grilled favorites, like nachos and fries.
They’re also known for their slushies, milkshakes, and other diner-style beverages that will hit the spot after a long day of exploring.
What makes C.J.’s Grub Stop different is that it’s a dog-friendly eatery; your furry friend is welcome to join you at an outdoor table.
If you want to enjoy a good old-fashioned meal and relax with your pup, C.J.’s Grub Stop is the perfect spot!
The Historic Depot Restaurant
The Historic Depot Restaurant is an iconic place to dine, as it is housed inside one of the oldest buildings in Mackinaw City.
Despite the building’s age, this restaurant is anything but outdated.
The Historic Depot features a classic menu with modern takes on some of the town’s favorite dishes like steaks, sandwiches, burgers, seafood, and tons of other American fare.
The casual pub-style atmosphere is also inviting, and the place is always buzzing with people.
If you want a vibrant atmosphere and a good meal, head to the Historic Depot Restaurant.
Keyhole Bar & Grill
For over 50 years, Keyhole Bar & Grill has become one of Mackinaw City’s premier destinations for good eats and vibes.
This unique spot features a massive collection of over 25,000 keys, hence the name.
You can find this enormous essential collection everywhere you look inside Keyhole Bar & Grill.
From the walls to the tables, everything is covered in keys.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the place is always filled with locals from the area who want to eat something good.
Keyhole Bar & Gill has been building on their impressive menu list for years.
Today, they’re known for having one of the most extensive menus in the city.
This bar and restaurant serve delicious burgers, BBQ ribs, walleye, whitefish, shrimp, wraps, Mexican food, steaks, chicken, and a variety of sandwiches, homemade soups, daily specials, and appetizers.
Keyhole Bar & Grill has also won numerous awards, from being the best seafood dive in the state to the best bar in northern Michigan.
With its tenure, reputation, and awards, there’s no doubt that Keyhole Bar & Grill is one of the best spots for a good meal and some great conversation.
Bridgeview Diner
Bridgeview Diner serves the best burgers in all of Mackinaw City.
This claim might be bold, but this diner isn’t one to mince words.
They make their burgers with freshly ground beef and serve them on a homemade bun.
They also have a wide selection of sides like fries, onion rings, and coleslaw.
Many locals and visitors agree with their claim, as Bridgeview Diner is always crowded with people.
Their burgers have become an absolute favorite among locals and tourists.
Unfortunately, Bridgeview Diner is a seasonal restaurant and will only open from May to September.
If you want to taste their signature burgers, drop by and let your taste buds be the judge.
Wienerlicious
Mackinaw also has a food joint that claims to have the best hot dogs in town.
Wienerlicious is a local hot dog restaurant that has served hotdogs since 1916, making it one of the longest-standing restaurants in town.
This restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients when creating its signature wieners.
Their hot dogs are made with 100% fresh meats and come in various toppings, from classic condiments to more creative combinations like jalapeno and pickles.
Some signature hot dogs include the Mackinaw, Coney Dog, the Chicago Dog, The Reuben Dog, Spicy Italian, and the Bratwurst.
If you’re looking to satisfy your hotdog cravings and want to try something unique, Wienerlicious is the place to go in Mackinaw City.
The Chippewa Room at Audie’s Restaurant
Fine dining is great, but what if you can make it even better?
The Chippewa Room isn’t just your typical fine dining restaurant in Mackinaw.
It is located within Audie’s Restaurant and pays homage to the Native American culture with its interior design and overall vibe.
The Chippewa Room is a local favorite for hosting parties and special occasions.
It’s a great place to dine with loved ones as it offers a relaxed atmosphere and a super attentive staff.
The menu features signature dishes you typically see in a fine dining restaurant.
Try the rack of lamb, fresh seafood, quality-cut steaks, elk, pasta, salads, and more.
You can also pair your dinner with their wide selection of wines, homemade desserts, and other delicious beverages.
If you want a unique fine dining experience, get it all here and more at the Chippewa Room at Audie’s Restaurant.
Audie’s Restaurant
If you’re looking for an all-around dining experience, then check out the rest of Audie’s Restaurant.
This massive restaurant is divided into four areas: the welcome lounge, the family room, a space for weddings and events, and the Chippewa Room.
Relax and unwind at the welcoming lounge, where the bar is located and where you can order some of the best drinks in town.
Enjoy family dining at the Bridge, known as the family room.
This area offers a comprehensive menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
They serve all your favorites, including burgers, fries, wings, and more.
The menu also offers fresh fish, salads, sandwiches, and other light meals.
You can rent the banquet to host short parties and events such as weddings, conventions, and the like.
This space can accommodate 30 to 200 guests and is the perfect place for celebrating any special occasion.
Apart from these four areas, Audie’s also features an outdoor patio where you can enjoy drinks and munch on bar bites while overlooking the beautiful views.
No matter what kind of dining experience you’re looking for, Audie’s Restaurant has it all.
Sully’s Sweet Shop
Mackinaw City doesn’t get hot as some other places in the country.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a cold and sweet treat.
In Mackinaw City, Sully’s Sweet Shop is the best place to grab some excellent ice cream, shakes, and other desserts.
It’s a cozy little shop serving the best ice cream in town.
You can dine in, but most people prefer to get their ice cream and other desserts to go.
This spot is trendy among kids, who love the variety of flavors, from salted caramel to fruit punch.
You can also munch on some of their famous treats like fudge and taffy while you’re here.
Head to Sully’s Sweet Shop for a delicious treat to beat the summer heat or satisfy your sweet tooth all year round.
Hunt’s Mackinaw Pastie & Cookie Co.
Established in 1964, Hunt’s Mackinaw Pastie & Cookie Co. is a restaurant known for its iconic Mackinaw pastie.
This savory dish is a traditional British and Irish hand pie.
It’s usually made with potatoes, carrots, onions, and spices.
The secret to Hunt’s pasties is in the pastry; it’s thick, flaky, and flavorful.
You can order a whole pastie or a slice depending on your preference.
The staff would encourage you to go for the whole pastie, as you’ll only deprive yourself of the fantastic crust that makes this dish so good.
Through the years, the staff behind Hunt’s has perfected their craft at creating this iconic dish.
Their efforts paid off, as Hunt’s is now known as the home of the best pastie in town.
If you want a unique and delicious dining experience, drop by Hunt’s Mackinaw Pastie & Cookie Co.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the best restaurants in Mackinaw City, Michigan.
With its variety of dining choices, you should find something that suits your taste.
Start planning your culinary journey to this vibrant city and enjoy all that it has to offer food-wise.
Check out the best restaurants in Mackinaw City, Michigan, for a beautiful dining experience.
✍️
link
More Stories
Amazon Launches First Advertising Campaign For Own-Label Food Range
City vistas, secret islands and sensational food: How Jeff and Kate Brazier fell in love with their Athens city break
Quezon City ad agency operates own coffee shop inside office