Your Spring Guide to Must-Try Tastes: Traverse City to Elk Rapids

Country Hermitage Bed and Breakfast is already looking forward to welcoming you back. Melting snow and cherry blossoms, spring flowers and farmers markets, and of course all things food that the area has to offer. As Northern Michigan’s restaurant scene springs back to life with seasonal menus and fresh local ingredients so are they at the Inn. While guests at Country Hermitage enjoy their gourmet breakfasts, they often ask where to find the best local dining experiences. Here’s a curated guide to dining between Traverse City and Elk Rapids.

Traverse City’s Spring Awakening: Amical on Front Street showcases the season beautifully with their ever-changing menu featuring local ingredients and their famous wild mushroom soup. The bustling Red Ginger offers pan-Asian cuisine with a spring twist, often incorporating local produce into their signature dishes. For an unforgettable dinner experience, Firefly’s intimate atmosphere and innovative American cuisine make it a must-visit destination. Their carefully crafted seasonal menu and exceptional cocktail program showcase the best of what Northern Michigan has to offer. For a unique and vibrant dining experience, Little Fleet transforms into the ultimate food hub as spring arrives. Their eclectic collection of food trucks offers everything from authentic street tacos to gourmet Asian fusion dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and creative vegan options. The indoor bar serves up craft cocktails and local brews, while the outdoor seating area comes alive with community energy. It’s more than just a meal – it’s a gathering place where you can sample multiple cuisines in one visit, making it perfect for groups with different tastes. Evening visitors can often enjoy live music while they dine, creating that perfect casual Northern Michigan vibe that makes our region special

Hidden Gems Along US-31: The scenic drive between Traverse City and Elk Rapids holds several culinary treasures worth exploring. Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen in Elk Rapids serves up Cajun-Creole cuisine that’ll transport you straight to the French Quarter. Apache Trout Grill, perched on the edge of the bay, offers stunning water views alongside their famous whitefish dishes and seasonal specialties.

Elk Rapids: Small Town, Big Flavors: Despite its size, Elk Rapids punches above its weight in culinary offerings. Cellar 152 offers a carefully curated wine selection alongside their delectable small plates. The popular River Street Market serves up fantastic sandwiches and salads perfect for a spring picnic by the harbor. For pizza lovers, Chef Charles’ serves up amazing pies with a view of the bay, and their outdoor seating is perfect for those first warm spring days.

Tastes of the Season Spring in Northern Michigan brings distinct flavors worth seeking out:

Fresh asparagus from local farms like Altonen Orchards
Early season mushrooms foraged by local experts
Spring pea shoots and tender greens from Loma Farm
Lake Michigan whitefish from John Cross Fisheries
Local maple syrup from Harwood Heritage
Greenhouse herbs and microgreens from local suppliers


Northern Michigan Beverage Scene: The region’s craft beverage scene flourishes in spring. Right Brain Brewery releases seasonal specials, while Grand Traverse Distillery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning spirits. Townline Ciderworks in Elk Rapids crafts unique hard ciders that perfectly capture the flavors of Northern Michigan.

Plan ahead, spring dining in Northern Michigan can be popular, especially during events and weekends. We recommend making reservations at fine dining establishments, particularly for larger groups or special occasions. Many restaurants begin extending their hours as the season progresses, but it’s always wise to check current schedules.

When you stay at Country Hermitage Bed & Breakfast, you’re perfectly positioned to explore all these culinary offerings. After enjoying our home-cooked breakfast, you’ll be ready to discover the flavors that make our region special. Our innkeepers are always happy to provide personal recommendations and help with reservations to ensure you have the best possible dining experiences during your stay.