Walloon Watershed
Our close friends and neighbors Matt and Meghan Thatcher own this place and it shows — every detail has been thought through. The space is stunning: custom furniture, a glassed-in wine cellar, and an aesthetic that's been described as "if Ralph Lauren had a baby with northern Michigan." Artisanal small plates, a serious wine list, great cocktails, and local craft beers. The signature 1-lb pretzel and smoked whitefish spread are musts. Private dining room for up to 10. Please go and support them.
Cafe Santé
Our top restaurant in the area, full stop. European-style bistro right on Lake Charlevoix with a terrific patio and fire ring. Wood-fired pizzas, mussels and frites, steak frites, and a great Belgian beer list. Works for everything from breakfast to a proper dinner out.
Gilda’s Lake Street Bakery
Tiny French-Breton bakery run by Gilda, who is from Brittany. Best croissants and Kouign Amann in Northern Michigan. The authentic crêpes — savory and sweet — are the move. Go early, they sell out. Open Wed–Sun mornings only.
Horton Bay General Store
A genuine piece of Northern Michigan history — open since 1876, and a stop on the Hemingway Michigan tour (he was a regular here as a boy). Today it's a working general store with gourmet foods, cheese, charcuterie, wine, spirits, espresso, and snacks. Charming stop on a summer drive. Summer hours only.
