Over the years, our most famous and visited hotels have strived to create iconic Michigan dishes that people seek to experience. Great Lakes caught fish and regional specialties and are found in these historic hotels’ grand dining rooms. These establishments have elevated local ingredients and traditions, creating dishes that are as memorable as the state’s scenic vistas. Here’s a delectable tour of ten iconic dishes born in Michigan hotels, perfect for any food and travel enthusiast.
1. Frankenmuth’s Famous Fried Chicken
Hotel: Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth and Bavarian Inn
Description: Lightly breaded, golden fried chicken served family-style with mashed potatoes, gravy, and buttered noodles.
Why It’s Special: Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth’s fried chicken dinners are a rite of passage for visitors. These Bavarian-themed hotels have perfected the art of comfort food with a European twist.
2. The Grand Pecan Ball
Hotel: The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
Description: A scoop of vanilla ice cream rolled in crushed pecans, topped with caramel or chocolate sauce. We have recreated the recipe and preparation of this delicious Grand Pecan Ball dessert.
Why It’s Special: This dessert embodies elegance and indulgence, much like the Grand Hotel. Its simplicity hides the culinary artistry that has delighted dignitaries and guests for decades.
Notable Patrons: From Hollywood stars to U.S. presidents, this dessert has been enjoyed by the elite who frequent Mackinac Island’s most luxurious retreat.
3. Lakeside Whitefish Dinner
Hotel: The Inn at Stonecliffe, Mackinac Island
Description: Fresh Lake Superior whitefish, expertly pan-seared or baked, served with a light lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables.
Why It’s Special: The dish celebrates Michigan’s fishing heritage and the pristine waters of the Great Lakes. Every bite offers a taste of the region’s natural bounty.
4. Detroit-Style Pizza
Hotel: The Siren Hotel, Detroit
Description: Square, deep-dish pizza featuring a thick, airy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and toppings layered under the sauce.
Why It’s Special: While the dish originated in Detroit’s pizzerias, hotels like The Siren elevate it to gourmet status, offering a refined take on a beloved regional classic.
Notable Patrons: Foodies and travelers seeking an authentic slice of Detroit have embraced this culinary masterpiece, cementing its status as a Michigan staple.
5. Traverse City Cherry Pie
Hotel: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, Traverse City
Description: A classic tart cherry pie with a buttery, flaky crust.
Why It’s Special: Traverse City’s moniker as the “Cherry Capital” is more than justified by this iconic dessert, which highlights the region’s prolific cherry orchards.
Notable Patrons: Every summer, the Cherry Festival brings pie lovers from around the world, but this dish remains a year-round favorite for guests at the resort.
6. Mackinac Island Fudge Ice Cream
Hotel: Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island
Description: Creamy vanilla ice cream swirled with chunks of the island’s famous chocolate fudge.
Why It’s Special: Combining two local favorites—Mackinac Island fudge and ice cream—this dessert is the epitome of summer indulgence.
Notable Patrons: Tourists flock to Mission Point Resort to savor this sweet treat, a perfect companion to the island’s picturesque views and charming ambiance.
7. Michigan Four-Cheese Penne
Hotel: Amway Grand Plaza, Grand Rapids
Description: A rich, creamy pasta dish featuring a blend of Michigan cheeses, including cheddar, gouda, blue cheese, and mozzarella.
Why It’s Special: Highlighting Michigan’s flourishing dairy industry, this dish is a tribute to the state’s artisanal cheesemakers. The harmonious blend of flavors makes it a standout for both locals and visitors.
Notable Patrons: Cheese lovers attending the Grand Rapids Cheese Festival or dining at the Amway Grand Plaza regularly rave about this comforting yet sophisticated creation.
8. Saugatuck Blueberry Pancakes
Hotel: The Hotel Saugatuck, Saugatuck
Description: Fluffy pancakes loaded with fresh Michigan blueberries, topped with whipped cream and maple syrup.
Why It’s Special: These pancakes capture the essence of Michigan’s agricultural pride, turning a simple breakfast dish into a celebration of seasonal, local produce.
Notable Patrons: Food bloggers and breakfast enthusiasts have propelled this dish to fame, often citing it as the perfect start to a day exploring the artsy town of Saugatuck.
9. Petoskey Stone Sour Cocktail
Hotel: Stafford’s Perry Hotel, Petoskey
Description: A cocktail featuring Michigan cherry whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, garnished with a cherry.
Why It’s Special: Inspired by Michigan’s official state stone, this cocktail encapsulates local pride in every sip, blending regional flavors into a refreshing drink.
10. Landmark Salad with Whitefish
Hotel: Landmark Hotel, Marquette, Michigan
Description: A refreshing salad featuring spring greens, roasted pecans, cucumbers, pickled red onions, and grape tomatoes, topped with seared whitefish and served with a choice of dressing.
Why It’s Special: This salad highlights the natural flavors of Michigan’s fresh produce and lake-caught whitefish. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish in the Upper Peninsula.
Seek Out Iconic Michigan Dishes
From indulgent desserts to hearty main courses, Michigan’s hotels have created dishes that embody the state’s unique culture, resources, and hospitality. Whether enjoying a crispy fried chicken dinner in Frankenmuth or savoring a slice of cherry pie in Traverse City, these culinary creations are as much about the experience as the flavors. So, pack your bags and your appetite—Michigan’s culinary gems are waiting to be discovered!
