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Spring is the time for a Getaway in Michigan

2010-04-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

It's a perfect time for a getaway in Michigan to see the gorgeous spring blooms. Here are four stays that I highly recommend.

A really special place is The Wellington Inn in Traverse City. It is an old mansion, now b&b with nine beautiful rooms. The inn keepers are wonderful and the inn is a few blocks from downtown where many of Traverse City's best restaurants are located.

Another place I love is Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa. They have everything at the resort including a beautiful new "Green" Spa and an outdoor Art Park with sculpture. Although it's in between seasons, Crystal Mountain is in Benzie County and there are many cool biking trails in the area, great access to Lake Michigan where rock hunting is now big as the winter brings new petosky stones on shore, and forests for foraging wild mushrooms and wild leeks. The locals there will be good about helping you out with going to the right places to look for mushrooms. I've been told to check out the south side of a hill after a rain as well as forested places where ash trees are abundant. See the following website to learn more about how to find the rare and covetted morels! http://www.northerncountrymorels.com.

A third place for a relaxing stay is the Grey Hare Inn on Old Mission Peninsula. It sits within a vineyard up a private road from one of the cool wineries on Old Mission. You can do a wine tour during the day close to where you're staying and probably hit all seven of the wineries there if you're up to it! There are some nice restaurants on Old Mission, too.

And finally, for a more active cultural experience highlighted by a world class art museum and Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, soon to feature a spectacular Chihuly exhibition, stay at the historic, elegant Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. My suggestion is to book a corner room in the historic part of the hotel, have cocktails and dinner at Cynus 27 overlooking the Grand River one night. Explore downtown Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the many art galleries, riverwalk and abundance of friendly sidewalk cafes, bars and coffee shops on day 1. Day 2 visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, just six miles east from downtown and splurge for dinner at the only 5-diamond restaurant in Michigan, the 1913 Room located at the Amway Grand Plaza.

These are my picks for this spring. Travel, Explore and best of all Dine at these places that dot the wonderful Lake Michigen coast of Michigan!

There's lots more at www.greatfoodandtravel.com

Savor Spring!....Sally

Winners Announced for World Pastry Cup U.S. tryouts

2010-04-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

Grand Rapids, Mich. (April 17, 2010 10:00 p.m. EST)

The culinary team to represent the United States in the Lyon, France Coup de Monde de la Patisserie competition have now been decided.

The winners were announced at the World Pastry Cup U.S. tryouts which took place today in Grand Rapids, Michigan at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education. The winners include:

1st Place: Jean-Francois Suteau, Executive Pastry Chef, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, California

2nd Place: Bill Foltz, Executive Pastry Chef, L'Auberge du Lac - Casino and Resort, Lake Charles, New Orleans

3rd Place: Frania Mendivil, Executive Pastry Chef, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, California

Alternate: Yoni Morales, Executive Pastry Chef, Ark at New York, New York Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

Congratulations to you all! These people will represent the United States in the Coup de Monde de la Patisserie competition which will take place January 22 - 26, 2011 in Lyon, France during the SIRHA-International Hotel Catering & Food Trade Exhibition. SIRHA is the first specialized exhibition in France targeting professionals of the industry of hospitality and dining out.

For more coverage on the World Pastry Cup U.S. Tryouts in Grand Rapids stay connected to the GreatFoodandTravel.com blog.

The Perfect Day to Create at the World Pastry Cup U.S. Tryouts in Grand Rapids, Michigan

2010-04-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

It was perfect weather for creating precision pastries at the World Pastry Cup U.S. Competition held today in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In preparation for the upcoming Coup du Monde de la Patisserie in Lyon, France next January, eight vetted competitors met today at The Secchia Institute for Culinary Education who hosted the event. Sixty-five degree temperatures and dry conditions were the perfect setting for the coveted pastry event that happens every two years. Only four of the competitors, three finalists and one alternate, will go on to the finals in Lyon to be held January 22 - 26, 2011. Twenty-two nations will compete for the title which was last won in 2009 by the French team.

The World Pastry Cup U.S. Competition, was attended by enthusiastic supporters of the Secchia Culinary Institute. Many of the competition goers were younger - 9 years old and under - vying for a view and an autograph from one of the esteemed judges. Kerry Vincent, who is well-known for her appearances on the Food Network program "The Food Network Challenge", is one of the judges for today's competition. Vincent's legendary persona, which is revered and feared by talented pastry chefs who compete on the Food Network program, also has a group of young supporters who thinks she's "just great". Vincent, dressed in classic pearls and her signature braided headband, explained that her fans, "both love me and hate me - I'm sometimes called the Simon Cowall of cake." While having a wonderful time talking to the crowd who showed up for the competition, Vincent also explained that the purpose of her participation in the World Pastry Cup Competition is to "find a person who will represent the United States in a world class way."

Competitors include Francis Mendivil, Executive Pastry Chef of the Beverly Hills Hotel; Andrew Logan, Corporate Pastry Chef of Albert Uster Import, Gaethersburg, Maryland; Jean-Francois Suteau, Executive Pastry Chef, The Beverly Hills Hotel; Joseph Panepinto, Pastry Chef and Owner of Panardo Pasticceria in Middle Village, New York; Yoni Morales, Executive Pastry Chef, Ark at New York, New York Casino in Las Vegas; Bill Foltz, Executive Pastry Chef, L'Auberge du Lac Casino and Resort in New Orleans; Loan Co, Assistant Pastry Chef, San Francisco Marriott; and Thierry Auyjard, Pastry Chef of Jimmy Duffy Caterer in Downington, Pennsylvania.

The competition is judged on many aspects including decoration, construction, ongoing preparation, and show-personship throughout the grueling six hour preparation phase. The final plated desserts and entremet (tiny cakes) were also sampled by the judges who scored them for balance of sweetness, contrasting tastes, texture, temperature and originality among many other attributes. Ten internationally known pastry chefs participated in judging the competition. They looked for subtle outstanding details, flaws, and overall workmanship in the creations presented by each of the competitors.

The competitors who move on to the final competition in Lyon, France will create three pastry creations as a team in the categories of sugar, chocolate, and ice carving.

Look for the results of today's competition in Monday's blog.

Snow & Temperture Conditions are Excellent for Active Winter Fun in Benzie County, Michigan

2009-12-27T05:54:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Benzie County, Michigan, has been on the receiving side for perfect winter weather this season. Cold temperatures and an abundance of snow in Northern Michigan have helped to launch another spectacular winter in a location where snow sports are top notch. Benzie County is the perfect escape for a week or weekend for those who like winter sports and outdoor adventure. New this season are snow mobile rentals to experience 135 miles of groomed natural trails, and dog sled excursions that the entire family can enjoy. These activities along with excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding at Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, snowshoeing along the dunes on Lake Michigan's shore, and over 40 kilometers of groomed cross country skiing trails give those who seek winter adventure a chance to see Michigan's beautiful scenery along with their outdoor fun.

According to Mary Carroll, President of Benzie County Visitor's Bureau, "The temperatures and the significant amount of natural snowfall so far this season has contributed to the high quality of snow for such sports as downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling." Brian Lawson, Director of Public Relations for Crystal Mountain adds, "We're skiing and snowboarding on nearly four feet of base and the lake effect snow has provided a nice blanket of powder for the last two weeks. We plan to have all of our downhill terrain open for Christmas weekend and all 40km of our cross-country trails are currently ready to go."

Downhill & Cross Country Skiing

One of Parents Magazine's Ten Best Snow Resorts for Families (2009) and rated #1 Resort in the Midwest by Ski Magazine, Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa's conditions for downhill skiing and snowboarding are prime. The resort features 45 downhill slopes and two terrain parks. Led by Ron Shepard, a former Professional Ski Instructors of America examiner from Park City, Utah, Crystal's snowsports school features programs for skiers and snowboarders of every age. Visitors can also experience cross-country skiing along 40 kilometers of groomed trails including those through Michigan Legacy Art Park, a 30-acre preserve featuring over 40 outdoor sculptures. The resort also takes pride in being a premier destination for healthy living with a first class fitness center, an extensive list of fitness classes, Peak Performance menu in its restaurants, and Crystal Spa, the Midwest's only LEED-certified spa awarded Favorite Hotel/Resort Spa: Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, & Midwest by Spa Magazine and Top Ten: Winter Sports Spa by SpaFinder. Packages can be reserved online at www.crystalmountain.com or by calling 800-968-7686, ext. 5100.

Dog Sledding

Crystal Mountain Resort has partnered with Wiggins' Mountainside Huskies this season to offer a family experience you won't soon forget -- dog sledding. Sleds are pulled by four to six Siberian Huskies along Crystal Mountain's wooded trails. Rides are available on select evenings by advance reservation. 30-minute rides start at $70. For more information about dog sledding excursions, contact Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa at (800) 968-7686 ext. 7000.

Snow Mobile Rentals

Crystal Adventures, located on M-115, just two miles from Crystal Mountain, is offering snow mobile rentals by the day or weekend with prices ranging from $100 for four hours on a non-holiday weekday to $195 for an all day rental during the holidays. Advance reservations are required. Accessories such as helmets can also be rented. Guided snowmobile trips are offered on some dates as well as snowmobile delivery and pick-up for a modest cost. Contact Crystal Adventures at 231-651-9648 for more information.

Benzie County's 135 miles of groomed and challenging snowmobile trails are spread throughout the county in three locations: East of the village of Honor, in Thompsonville, and in Beulah. There are maps showing the trails, as well as, staging areas, available at the Benzie County Visitors Bureau located on US31 in the village of Benzonia. Contact Benzie Country Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801 or see www.visitbenzie.com/winter-fun--14/

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport and one in which anyone can take part. Snowshoeing doesn't require a lot of advanced training and is a great group activity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the most majestic locations for snow shoeing in Benzie County are the Elberta Dunes and Arcadia Dunes along the Lake Michigan Shore.

Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore is nearby to the north and a wonderful destination in any season. Old Indian Trail at the National Park is one of the best places to snowshoe. They also offer guided snowshoeing excursions on the weekends during the winter season. Contact Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park at 231-326-5134 for snowshoe tour hours and other information. More information about snowshoeing at www.visitbenzie.com/winter-fun--14/

Ice Fishing

Benzie County has 57 inland lakes, which are perfect for ice fishermen and women. Make arrangements for your fishing shanty at Crystal Adventure at 231-651-9648. Five Corners Store in Beulah, 100 feet from Crystal Lake, offers bait and tackle for ice fishing. When you have to run back to shore for minnows or wigglers, you can walk instead of drive to Five Corners www.fivecornersstore.com . For more information about ice fishing locations, contact Benzie County Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801.

Benzie County Winter Events

Benzie County Winterfest in Beulah

Beulah, Michigan

February 13, 2010

Wintertime Parade, Frozen Fish Toss & Snowmobile Poker Run

Fishing Contest on frozen Crystal Lake, Iceboat rides, Chili Cook-off and Fireworks at Dusk

Shiver By The River in Frankfort

Frankfort, Michigan

February 19, 20, & 21, 2010

Featuring SnoCross Competition, a Parade, Kids Snow World Play Area, Ice Bowling, and numerous Warming stations with beverages and food.

Benzie County, 30 minutes Southwest of Traverse City, has miles and miles of beaches and dunes, including over 24 miles along Lake Michigan and 57 inland lakes, quaint towns and villages, and is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is one of the most desirable destinations in the state of Michigan for year round vacationing or second home purchases. Benzie County is the smallest county in Michigan and has only one stoplight in the entire county! Whether you're a nature seeker or more adventurous type, Benzie Country offers something for everyone. As you travel its winding roads from village to village, you'll discover natural beauty and abundant winter fun.

Passion Reigns at the 2009 Grand Rapids International Wine and Food Festival

2009-11-15T10:03:00.000-08:00

The memories of a standout bottle of wine are often associated not with the bottle itself, but the activities that are part of an exceptional wine experience. Memories include laughing with friends at a party, gazing across the room at a beautiful man, sipping wine while preparing a magnificent recipe, and lovemaking.

This brings to mind the 2009 Wine and Food Festival in Grand Rapids. I wasn't doing any of the above activities per se at this event - but somehow these activities all crossed my mind as I made my way across the sea of booths displaying what seemed to be an infinite number of wines from all parts of the world. Throughout the evening, as I strolled with a friend , I saw many people from my past who I hadn't seen in quite some time. Some I knew well and others were merely acquaintances. But they all had one thing in common - they all inspired those long ago memories that burst forth when a face is seen and the vivid snapshot of an experience together is recalled. The memories come alive in that brief moment as you meet, exchange cordial conversation, and wish each other well.

And in the presence of wine, the old feelings bubble up again, fresh and new, making you realize that you are indeed very much alive. Here on this particular evening was a room full of wine lovers willing to experience the moment and let their guard down. Their emotions were high and full of the anticipation of a great wine tasting.

As we drank at this booth and the next, the wines blurred in our quest to find the very best. The experience was educational, while the appreciation of the wine was intuitive. "Where is that booth where the wines bring memories of great bottles and great memories."

As my friend and I strolled along the corridors of the winemakers, we paused to say hello to friends and to talk to the young apprentices who staffed the booths. Most had no clue about the wines that they were serving, but they did know what others had most enjoyed and they eagerly steered us to them.

One of the standout vineyard booths was the very last one we experienced. Having an abundance of wine tickets to use up before the evening ended, we wandered to the place where we had seen an engaging "15 ticket" pour, considered an extravangent amount when we first arrived, but now a must for our taste buds as we longed for that special wine that would rock our world. This exclusive wine was from a small vineyard out of Napa called Celani Family Vineyards. The $200 bottle of wine was called Ardore, a 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon which would cost us $7.50 for a small sip. We dug into our pockets without hesitation. Why not splurge when the moment was ripe? As we hoped, Ardore was outstanding and became our top wine pick of the night.

As the evening ended I was reminded that the experience of a good bottle or "taste" of wine is best remembered by the experience that one has with the people or situation that surrounds it. This was an event that included familiar faces, old forgotten memories, an enhanced awareness of feeling, and a bit of learning. Combine this with Ardore, the most noteworthy wine of the evening and the moment was complete.

It's not easy to express what the International Wine and Food Festival in Grand Rapids is like. But if you take a mixture of our favorite wine called Ardore and combine that with the dictionary term "ardor" this may give you a nice understanding: "A warmth of feeling or sentiment: Passion." That pretty much best sums up the pleasure that can be derived from this wine tasting experience.

Frankfort Film Festival

2009-10-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

A New International Film Festival Launches this Weekend in Frankfort.

The newly restored Garden Theater in Frankfort, Michigan, 30 minutes southwest of Traverse City will feature the best films from prestigious film festivals from around the world October 23 - 25.

Confirmed films in the inaugural festival include:

Adam, a comedy / drama film directed by Max Mayer: Winner of the Tribeca Film Festival’s Alfred P. Sloan Prize

Away We Go, directed by Sam Mendes, featuring Jeff Daniels, Allison Janey and Maya Rudolph.

Adventureland, a comedy film directed by Greg Mottola: Featured in the Sundance Film Festival 2009.

The Dinner, a comedy film directed by Karchi Pelrmann: Winner of the Palm Springs Film Festival Best of the Festival Award and Winner of the Venice Film Festival.

Man on Wire: Winner of 2008 British Independent Film Award for Best Documentary.

Trouble the Water, a documentary film directed by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin: Winner of the 2008 Sundance Film Festival’s Documentary Grand Jury Prize.

The Commandant, a 12 minute film directed by Stephen Pell: Winner of the Grand Rapids, MI Film Festival Audience Choice Award.

Seraphine, a French full length feature directed by Martin Provost, Winner of seven awards including Best Film at the 2008 Cesar Awards

Tickets to the Garden Theater Film Festival are $35 per person for the weekend or $8 per film. The Garden Theater is located at 301 Main Street, Frankfort, Michigan 49635. Seewww.frankfortgardentheater.com for films and showtimes. Films begin at 3 p.m. on Friday.

Weekend packages and specials include:

$35 off a two night room rate at Betsie Bay Inn when the all weekend film festival ticket is presented at check-in. See www.betsiebayinn.com;

$35 off a two night room rate at Harbor Lights Resort when the all weekend film festival ticket is shown at check-in. See www.harborlightsresort.net;

Dinner and a movie offers and specials will be featured at various Frankfort restaurants including Coho Cafe, Dinghy's, Betsy Bay Inn, Tali Bistro, Villa Marine, and A&W Drive-In.

The Garden Theater was recently purchased by a grassroots community based ownership group motivated to restore the theater to its original glory of the Art Deco period of the 1920s. It was built in 1923 and has been in continuous operation since that time.

September is the Best for Lake Michigan Swimming

2009-08-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

I always loveSeptember because it signifies the start of "something new". School begins, work life picks up, and everyone gets back to their regular routine. It is also the best time for swimming in Lake Michigan.

The big Lake is beautiful in all seasons, but for swimming, it's the month of September that is the best time to take the plunge and experience the warmest water temperatures of the year.

Since my early youth I've always enjoyed the unique experience of just me with the water. When everything in life seems complex, a dip in the Lake is the only time when you are able to get a perspective on things. Problems melt away with the waves, sounds of nature calm the soul, and the comfort of refreshing water all around with a quiet beach in the distance restores the body in a way that nothing else can.

In September when the Lake is a very comfortable it may be the one place where you can feel the earth in its simplicity.

September on Lake Michigan is the Season of Calm. All of the vacation traffic has subsided, you're ready to begin a new year, and it's time for reflection. There is a hint of the new Fall beauty in the air.

This is the best time to book a weekend along Lake Michigan'sshoreline in Michigan. From New Buffalo to Muskegon to Frankfort to Mackinac Island, prices at hotels and inns begin to relax after the peak summer season . Special offers can be had.

Try not to miss out on the Indian summer season before it melts away.It's time to try something new and special.There are many places waiting for you in one of the many beautiful havens northeast of Chicagoland along the Lake Michigan Shore.

My Picks for Best Beaches for Lake Michigan Swimming

Glen Haven-good swimming beach and part of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore
Northport's Christmas Cove- rocky and off the beaten path
Beaver Island's Donegal Bay- rivals any beach anywhere in the world!
Elberta - expansive and sandy and close to restaurants
Pentwater's Charles Mears State Park - family oriented - teens love it
Grand Haven State Park - sunbathing and people watching, plus a great pier
Holland's Ottawa Beach - clean
Saugatuck's Oval Beach - relaxed
South Haven's North Shore Beach

For ideas on great lodging and great restaurants in Michigan all along the Lake Michigan Shore, check out GreatFoodandTravel.com

Wine Country in Michigan - Part One

2009-04-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

Many people don't know that there's a beautiful wine country growing in Michigan. I know. I've experienced it this past week. The vineyards of Northwest lower Michigan's Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas are surrounded by water on three sides. The land is hilly and picturesque with farms and trees and long distance views of big water - Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. The landscape is beautiful and the people who grow the wine are passionate about their craft. They're very down to earth and interested in having you experience their prize wines. They worry and wonder about who will come, who will know all that they have been doing to create a prize winning "terrior", an area which produces fine wine. It's taken a while for this wine region to develop. Lee Lutes is the winemaker at Black Star Farms, one of the largest wineries in the area. "The reason our vineyards are now ready to blossom is that we've been a work in progress for a long time. Now our vineyards are reaching their maturity. We have some winemakers here that are committed to their craft and are staying here no matter what. That makes all of the difference."

Shawn Walters is a handsome young wizard known as the "bad boy" of the wine scene on the Leelanau Peninsula. Walter is the official wine maker at the new 45 North winery in Lake Leelanau and has been around the "wine block". He started at Leelanau Wine Cellars and studied under Lee Lutes at Black Star Farms. He's innovative, creative and has produced 16 gold medal winning wines. He knows the potential for Michigan wines and wants to be "at the table" as the Northern Michigan wineries mature. During the past year he has worked with area wineries on the Leelanau Peninsula to send some of the best juice - 5 tons of Leelanau Peninsula Reisling - to California to be bottled under the "Janna" name which is in the family of prestigious "Scott Harvey" wines. Michigan wines are now poised to be recognized by national consumers as exceptional boutique wines.

Many of the Michigan wines produced sell out before the season is over. If you want to experience some of the best wines Michigan has to offer, you'll have to be there as they are released for sale this spring and summer. Some of the best red wines from the 2007 growing season will be offered as well as the favored whites that have been making the mark for some time. According to Michigan vintners spring, summer and fall 2007 offered superb weather conditions better than any season that the Michigan vintners have seen and the reds sold this summer will be among the best ever. With the maturity of the vineyards now in their fifteenth year, this year looks better than ever before for Michigan wines.

Look for the Gills Pier 2007 Cabernet Franc Merlot available in July by bottle ($30), liters and magnums under a special commemorative label. It will only be sold out of their Northport tasting room location. Try Black Star Farm's Arturos 2007 Pinot Noir for a red that is smooth and memorable. In whites, look for the dry Reislings from any of the Leelanau Peninsula wineries. Black Star Farm's Arturos label Dry Reisling and the Dry Reisling from Chateau Fontaine are both rich and fruity with lasting presence in each sip.

Most of all I recommend a spring, summer or fall wine tour. Make that multiple wine tours of the Michigan wineries on the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas.

There's a lot more to talk about in the Northern region of lower Michigan. Both Leelanau and Old Mission are developing. However, we hope they will stay farm quaint and picturesque largely due to the efforts of their main industry - wine.

Suggested Itineries:

On the Leelanau Peninsula visit seventeen different wineries: Most open daily beginning in May. See Leelanau Penisula Wineries for a wine trail map of the area.

For Luxury

The Inn at Black Star Farms

Includes full gourmet breakfast, complimentary bottle of Red House Wine, Special Reserve Tasting in Tasting Room, Hospitality hour with wine and hors d'oeuvres, 10% off wine

Dinner at Black Star Farms available weekends with gourmet entrees, appetizer, salad and dessert in an intimate setting.

For Comfort

Korner Kottage in Sutton's Bay

Includes breakfast made with locally grown ingredients.

Restaurants:

La Becasse a French Country Restaurant hosted by French Chef

Trattoria Funistrada Excellent Italian Cuisine

On the Old Mission Peninsula visit seven wineries: Most open daily. See Wineries of Old Mission for a wine trail map of the area.

For Luxury

Tamarack Lodge

Luxury condo resort on the Grand Traverse Bay

Wellington Inn

Fancy upscale bed & breakfast

For Comfort

Inn at Chateau Chantal

In the Chateau Chantal winery on the Old Mission Peninsula

Restaurants:

Trattoria Stella Italian Gourmet Restaurant with award winning wine list

Red Ginger Trendy Asian Fusion in Downtown Traverse City

Goodbye Tapawingo. Hello Red Ginger, Trattoria Stella, Bloom, Mia & Grace, six.one.six, and more along Lake Michigan's Shore

2009-03-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

The owners of Tapawingo, the star of Northern Michigan dining recently announced their decision to close due to the downward trend of the economy over the past two years. They wanted to go out on a high note without sacrificing their superb style and quality. Nevertheless, their choice makes us sad.

For twenty five years they led the way in Farm-to-Table dining in Northern Michigan even before the trend had a name. From a tiny town called Ellsworth, they were innovative leaders in culinary creativity and became known as a "destination" restaurant where people from all over the country visited to experience the restaurant.

Tapawingohelped bring a more sophisticated clientele to Northern Michigan and a new restaurant scene along Lake Michigan's coast took hold. New sophisticated visitors wanted more. Other creative chefsand talented entreprenuers began starting restaurants along the Lake Michigan shore. These newly createdrestaurants rival any in the country and include:

Red Ginger, a chic asian restaurant with a CIA trained chef and owner whocaptivates our taste buds with his unique flavors of Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese creations.

The exoticTrattoria Stella, with a beautiful old world ambiance in an amazing historic district, serving a fresh Italian menu with outstanding wine selections - a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner.

Mia & Grace, a new concept in casual dining with an amazing "five star quality" menu and a hip vibe in Muskegon.

JW Marriott's hip and sophisticated six.one.six along the Grand River in GrandRapids with the trendy JDeck including spectacular river views and the downtown cityscape.

The Greenwell, one of the first LEED certified restaurants in the region is a gastro pub with farm-to-plate culinary philosophy.

San Chez Bistro, with great ambiance, a sizzling setting, and an amazing tapas Spanish inspired menu uses organic and locally sourced foods and maintains a commitment to "green" management in all areas of operation.

There are many restaurants that have emerged since Tapawingo first began. The excitement is brewing along the Lake Michigan shore where produce and meats are grown on local farms and where people are discovering the joie de vive of the culinary arts. All along Lake Michigan's shore there are unique quality wineries, microbreweries, farmers markets, fruit and vegetable stands, great places to stay, as well as outstanding places to eat.

Tapawingo did Michigan a service by focusing the eyes of the world on a little place in Northern Michigan. The fruits of the land are plentiful and simple elegance prevails surrounded by natural beauty.

"Ponder well this point: the pleasant hours of our life are all connected by a more or less tangible link with some memory of the table"Quote from the menu ofTapawingo 2009

Enjoy making your own memories in the years to come in the great restaurants along Lake Michigan's shore.

Bon Appetit!

Sally

Carnival & Wine in the Leelanau Peninsula of Northern Michigan - February 28

2009-02-25T15:14:00.000-08:00

Extend the Fat Tuesday Celebration and travel to the village of Northport the northernmost place on the Leelanau peninsula in northern lower Michigan for fun this weekend. Make it a weekend or overnight stay and experience some of the best Midwest wines available from this fertile county in Michigan. With over 19 wineries located on the Leelanau peninsula you're sure to have an experience in tasting that could last at least two days!

Carnival activities in Northport begin on Saturday with a snowmobile Poker Run at 11 a.m. (cost $10) and a chili cookoff at 11:30 followed by Curling and Broomball competitions, snowshoe races, cardboard sled races and outhouse races. Hmmm, sounds interesting or amusing to say the least.

Maybe visit a couple of wineries before you attend the Carnival and it could be really fun!

Wineries in the Leelanau peninsula are well marked by a wine trail map that you can pick up in Glen Arbor at the Cherry Republicwhich is a stop you can't miss with all of their cherry products like bbq sauce, nut and cherry mixes, chocolate, and of course, wine. There are some nice b&b's as well as the beautiful Homestead Resort to stay during your Northern Michigan wine adventure or try The Inn at Black Star Farms a luxurious b&b in Sutton's Bay area close to at least six wineries including Black Star Farms own winery with large tasting room and creamery for homemade cheeses. In fact, Black Star Farms served their special ice wine at the White House Governor's Dinner this week. Besides the luscious white and red wines (try the Red House Red, my favorite) the dessert wines are spectacular, especially the Sirius Maple Dessert Wine and the Sirius Cherry Dessert Wine. Although I have not tried their spirits, I understand that those are nice (or naughty!) too.

Other great wineries right in the area are Forty-Five North, Shady Lane Cellars, Ciccone Vineyards, Good Harbor Vineyards, L. Mawby, Willow Vineyards, Chateau de Leelanau,Chateau Fontaine , Bel Lago Vineyard & Winery, and Longview Winery .In the Northport vicinity there's also Leelanau Cellars, Good Neighbor Organic, and Gill's Pier.

For restaurants I'd suggest North on M-22 or The Homestead Resort's Nonna's for a fine meal. My only question is "where are the Michigan wines on the menu"? For breakfast, if you're not staying at a b&b you must try The Early Bird in Leland for a robust breakfast - it's great and entertaining, too. The wait staff are serious and busy so don't get in their way!

Look for more in the next few weeks about Leelanau penisula on GreatFoodandTravel.com. It's a special place and one of my favorite spots for a getaway.

Great Spring Skiing and Spa-ing in Northern Michigan at Crystal Mountain in Benzie County

2009-02-02T16:50:00.000-08:00

I traveled to Crystal Mountainlast week to do some skiing and to visit the new Crystal Spa which just opened on January 30th. The Crystal Spa is the only LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified spa in the Midwest and one of only six in the U.S. Let me just say that the spa is gorgeous! The "all natural" and refined, tasteful design of the spa is top notch. I was totally relaxed during my "Aromafusion" 50 minute massage by Christopher who expertly applied strong pressure on tight muscles and placed hot towels on my back and neck and arms. The friend that I traveled with wanted to experience the Signature Crystal Balance Massage where you select an energy stone of your choice that corresponds with a matching vibrational oil to be used in the massage. There's warm oil, and deep breathing techniques used with the massage along with basalt stones and a calming vibrational sound used to finalize the massage experience - This wasn't yet available until after February 14th so she went with the Aromafusion experience and loved it as well. The Signature treatments are very appealing and something to try next time we're there.

During our stay we were in one of the cottages at Water's Edge at the base of Crystal Mountain which was lovely. The new Bungalows are also open next to the Thistle Pub and Grill in Kinlochen. The Bungalow is beautifully appointed with a Mission Style decor and the latest in flat screen tv's and lovely bathrooms and bedrooms and expansive living area - 3 bedrooms in all.

All of Crystal Mountain's lodging sites are nice, however. We had a fabulous meal at the Thistle Pub and Grill where ingredients that comprise their menu items are locally sourced.

For a Great Winter Getaway try skiing at Crystal Mountain. They also offer snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating and more. The Snowsports Director, Ron Shepard will even set you up with a lesson that can include a video taped version of your progress so you can learn the sport visually. Spring skiing at Crystal Mountain will be the place to be for Spring Break in Michigan.

More to come about this cool trip to Benzie County!

What to do on New Year's Eve

2008-12-19T10:57:00.000-08:00

So you're just starting to think past Christmas and wondering what to do on

New Year's Eve? Here are a few suggestions.

For those who love fine dining and lodging, the Amway Grand Plaza hotel and the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids have great packages which are affordable and fun. Plus, you can experience The 1913 Room, the only five diamond restaurant in Michigan during your stay.

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

Starting at $189 per couple you can have accommodations for two and access to the Ambassador Ballroom's Party, GP Sports' Party, the JW Marriott's 80's Night Party or the Courtyard of Marriott's Country Party all after 10 p.m. For dinner there's The 1913 Room package at $250 per couple that includes a five course dinner for two from 5 - 10 p.m.; Cygnus 27 Restaurant overlooking the city at $275 per couple with Dinner, a bottle of champagne, party favors and dancing from 8 - 1 a.m.; and GP Sports at $78 per couple with a dinner buffet, cash bar, champagne toast at midnight and party favors.

JW Marriott

The JW is offering overnights on New Year's Eve starting at $229 per couple with access to four parties (after 10 p.m.) in three hotels which are connected to one another by sky walk. Have dinner in the trendy and delicious Six.One.Six restaurant. Or venture into the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel for their many restaurant packages.

Other Ideas for New Year's Eve in Grand Rapids are:

A 4 course tasting menu at Bistro Bella Vita, a fresh farm-to-table restaurant in Grand Rapids, for $50 per person between 9 and 10 p.m. with dancing and music afterwards by Simien and the Whales. You can also come to Bistro Bella Vita early to relax at their 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. seatings with dinner available from their regular menu.

Other downtown restaurants are also open for business include San Chez, a wonderful Tapas Mediterranean Restaurant,Bar Divani, Tre Cugini, The Chop House, the BOB, and more.

Downtown Grand Rapids is a wonderful place to spend New Year's Eve within fine hotels at a fraction of the price that you'd pay in any larger city. Most of the best restaurants in the area are within easy walking distance from the Amway Grand Plaza, the JW Marriott and the Downtown Courtyard Marriott. There's even ice skating, across the street from the Amway Grand Plaza and JW Marriott, at Rosa Parks Circle at the Maya Lin Sculpture, Ecliptic.

Grand Rapids is quaint, yet hip. You won't stop smiling.

Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival

2008-11-26T18:14:00.000-08:00

We attended the first Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival which took place November 21 - 23 at the DeVos Place Convention Center in downtown Grand Rapids. It was great! There were over 100 booths -- wine distributors, wineries, Michigan to International in scope -- and food. The wine representation was spectacular. We tasted only a few but of those we could sample we chose a $200 Opus One 2005 Red for our tasting experience and were impressed with the smooth rich berry flavor. This wine is a 92 pt rated red from Napa, the result of a partnership between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild to create a Bordeaux style blend in Napa Valley. The bottle retails for $179 or more at most wine stores. Described as "a voluptuous garnet, the 2005 Opus One offers concentrated aromas of blueberry, rose petals, white truffle, licorice and nutmeg. Flavors of cassis, black olives, raspberry and dark chocolate." I'm not sure I got all of those flavors out of my tiny sip, but I sure liked the rich berry bouquet that was especially smooth . This wine is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec. Tasting wines at events like this really help determine what you like best. And for a $176 bottle, you'd better know that you really like it prior to purchasing. One of the best places along the Lake Michigan Coast to buy wine is at Martha's Vineyard in Grand Rapids. At Martha's they specialize in hundreds of international wines. Their great selection of Cabernet's and French reds is known by wine connoisseurs throughout the state and beyond. Their wine attic is fascinating and the bottles are significant enough to impress just about any wine snob.

We participated in one of two restaurants who offered a special three-course small plate and wine pairing. Both the 1913 and Bar Divani Restaurants in Grand Rapids offered the special seating throughout various times at the event. Tickets were $25 for the one hour presentation. Craig Oland, new Executive Chef at Bar Divani, did a fantastic job of answering questions and showing the 12 interested participates how to make each course. We were served, for the first course, sauteed fennel and sweet corn crowned with cornmeal encrusted scallops. The "crisp, clean" Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc 2006 was a perfect wine pairing for the delicate and slightly sweet flavors in the dish. The second course was a roasted cauliflower risotto - simple and subtle as well. The wine that they paired with this was a surprise - a Morande Pinot Noir 2007 - a great wine that was subtle enough but paired nicely with the nuttiness of the Parmigiano-Reggiano in the risotto and the slightly smokey flavor of the cauliflower in the dish. The last course was a pork Saltimboca created with thinly pounded pork tenderloin, sage leaves and thinly sliced proscuitto served on sauteed turnip greens. This dish was paired with an unoaked Cabernet Sauvignon, Earthworks, from the Barossa Valley of Australia, a rather light Cabernet that paired well with the more complex flavors of this dish. Although these food creations are not on the Bar Divani regular menu, they offer a wonderful selection of diverse small plates for vegetarian and meat eaters along with a wide selection of incredible wines at their trendy Ionia Street restaurant in Grand Rapids. All of the wines are available at Bar Divani, however.

All in all our short 1 1/2 hour experience at the International Grand Rapids Wine and Food Festival was very interesting and worthwhile. Mark your calendar for next year's event which will likely be even bigger and better than this year. Plan on the middle of November the weekend prior to Thanksgiving. About 8000 people attended the three day event.

Bon Appetit!

Sally

The Heritage Restaurant at Grand Rapids Community College - Wonderful Food and Presentation and Chance to Watch Students Learn their Craft

2008-11-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

I had the distinct pleasure to go behind the scenes and photograph and observe the students at the renowned

Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. While there, I also enjoyed a fabulous lunch in their teaching restaurant, The Heritage. My lunch selections were some of the best dishes that I have ever tasted. The food was not only outstanding in flavor, it was a work of art. I chose two dishes, a small plate "Tuscan spiced butter poached giant shrimp" and a main course, "Roasted thyme infused Confit of duck".

The Tuscan shrimp appetizer was lovely. It included a risotto base with white truffles and crimini mushrooms, and two delicate perfectly prepared shrimp on top with a thin crunchy crouton and crisp greens. The small "cake" was surrounded by a ring of chive oil - very green in color - and another ring of cardinal sauce made with lobster eggs and whipped into a bright orange, red sauce. This appetizer was perfectly prepared and presented. The crunchy crouton and firm shrimp combined with risotto al dente, subtly spiced, made for the best sensation of feel and flavors I can remember in a dish. This is one winning recipe that I will soon feature on the greatfoodandtravel.com website! The confit of duck was also a delight and included a garlic chive Yukon gold potato hash, baby carrots, buttered snap peas, orange sesame salad and sauce bigarade. The confit of duck melted in my mouth and, with the sauce which was composed of citrus, cream, Gran Marnier liquor, and the au jus of the duck (as well as many other ingredients!) I was in heaven.

The students are the stars at this restaurant and seeing them work in the kitchen with such earnestness and dedication, I can see why the food is superb. Chef Angus Campbell, the Chef Instructor for The Heritage at lunchtime, creates the dishes on the menu which are all intriguing. The students were dutiful and very much "on" to impress this revered teacher. With his Scottish brogue and commanding presence, "Chef" lights up the kitchen and the dining room while he darts from one place to the next overseeing his students, watching preparations with a keen eye, stepping in to demonstrate, and sending words of focused instruction and encouragement to all of the students. They appear to be watching him out of the corner of their eye, hoping that he will see their finely tuned skill or the beautiful presentation they've just created.

The day I observed there was a lucky tasting table of five people, the Karsten's, who have, since their father's death, vowed to meet on the same day (the 7th) of every month to remember their father who loved food. They meet at a special restaurant or arrange an experience revolving around food. On this occasion in November, they had been personally invited to the tasting table at The Heritage where 14 courses were being served while they observed the students preparing and serving each course. I recorded their day with a photograph and am happy to mention that the host of the table is the owner of D. Schuler's Wine Cellars in Grandville, Jim Mulder. Sisters Kim, Shelly, Kristen, and Nicole were Jim's honored guests. I would say that he was a lucky guy!

You must go to The Heritage for lunch or dinner if you live close to Grand Rapids or are planning to visit in the future. I promise it will be one of the best experiences in food you will ever have. Watching the students makes it that much more special.

Kudos to The Heritage and Chef Campbell's lunchtime student class for an outstanding performance!

The Heritage menu changes each semester so if you want to try what I've just described you need to get reservations at lunch between now and mid-December when the holiday break begins. Classes resume in January 2009 when the new semester starts and a whole new menu will be revealed. The Heritage also serves dinner.

Enjoy!

Sally

A "Great Escape" to Benton Harbor / St. Joseph

2008-10-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

We just visited a "great escape" destination in Benton Harbor just ten minutes from St. Joseph, Michigan. The Bed & Breakfast, Riverbend Retreat B&B, was such a delight that I wanted to share information about this place. You might consider a trip here especially during November if you need a place to get away for a bit of r and r. See Riverbend Retreat on GreatFoodandTravel.com

As we approached Riverbend Retreat we saw a long driveway to a gated property within a nice residential neighborhood. Traveling through the gate we suddenly came upon what looked like a small castle sitting on a bluff overlooking the St. Joe River. Riverbend Retreat is a Mediterranean colonial home built in the 1920's. The home was converted into a b&b in the early 90's with three upscale bedrooms and well-appointed, modern bathrooms. The b&b which is owned by two women is deliciously quiet and private. The owners who are people-oriented and very accommodating are cool and relaxed. Due to their demeanor, the entire house feels welcoming and warm. In addition, the breakfast was wonderfully prepared and served on china and silver.

While you're in St. Joseph / Benton Harbor check out The Chocolate Garden a small shop east on I-94 where the chocolate truffles are made on the premises. Also, the wine tours to Domaine Berrien Cellars, Lemon Creek Winery, Round Barn Winery, and Tabor Hill Winery and Restaurant are possible without driving yourself. There is a local wine tour limo service that Riverbend Retreat has used with other guests who desire a tour without the hassle of driving - especially fun with a group.

The Tabor Hill Restaurant is supposed to be very elegant with great food. Close by, other recommended restaurants include Tosi's in Stevensville, Silver Beach Pizza in the Train Station down at Silver Beach in St. Joe, and Clementine's in St. Joe. I also like Bistro on the Boulevard if you're looking for a fancier meal in a quiet setting overlooking the windy shore of Lake Michigan.

Other stops recommended are the Box Factory for the Arts and Krasl Art Center both in downtown St. Joseph.

Two fun events taking place in St. Joe in November include the Luminaria Festival on November 21 with over 800 luminaries in the downtown and refreshments and holiday music at area businesses from dusk til 9p.m. On November 29 there will be a Reindog Holiday Parade with costumed pets and their owners escorting Santa in the festive parade event.

Check out greatfoodandtravel.com for more getaway ideas and food fun for the holidays.

Enjoy!

Sally

Mackinac Island for Halloween!

2008-10-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

I just visited Mackinac Island on October 11th and it was a blast. We stayed overnight at a great b&b, The Cloghaun www.cloghaun.com which has been in the same family for over 4 generations. It's an Irish b&b and so perfectly situated just one block off of the Main Street on Market Street a block from the ferries. An overnight stay at this time of year is about $160 for two people.We took Shepler's ferry over to the island www.sheplersferry.comand walked to the b&b with a porter who gladly helped us with our bags all the way into the room for a tip only! There are some great gift finds on the island right now at 40% to 75% off in order to get rid of merchandise as the island pretty much closes down by the end of October for the winter season.

Restaurants that I would recommended now are the Seabiscuit Cafe www.seabiscuitcafe.com or the Carriage House at the Iroquis Hotel on Main Street. Bars that are fun include Good Fellows www.lake-view-hotel.com at the Lakeview Hotel, Horn's Bar www.hornsbar.com or Mustang Lounge.

What's there to do there right now? Well, if you like to have adventure try riding a horse from Cindy's Riding Stable on Market Street. After being guided part way to the trails on the island, the staff will let you ride alone through the woods if you can convince them that you're an average to skilled rider and can handle a horse. I rode mine through the woods alone and she was very responsive and would trot or gallop with the least bit of coaxing. It was thrilling! The horses know the way back to the barn, so don't be afraid that you'll get lost. The best fudge on the island - and you have to have fudge if you go to Mackinac Island as the entire Main Street smells like fudge cooking - is Murdick's www.murdicks.com. I love the maple walnut fudge with a passion. If you're on a diet or watching your weight don't resist buying it as it's delicious and you can share with friends. The entire island right now is a treat so whether you take a bike ride around the perimeter (about 8 miles), or walk through the streets down on the harbor front, or through the inner island roads, this place is a must-visit during the Autumn season!

About Halloween: The Island holds a big Halloween Party where EVERYBODY dresses up and walks around to all of the restaurants and pubs. The pubs are very generous as it's the last weekend before they close and they want to "run out of" all of their beer, wine and liquor prior to the season ending. This year the party, called the Samhain (summer's end) Weekend is October 24th - 26th. There's the Great Turtle run/walk event, whishing stone toss (what's this? Please tell me!) trick or treating, and great grown up Halloween parties at all the pubs.

Check out more information on the Mackinac website at www.mackinac.com.By next season before the Island opens I'll have all of the great places to stay, eat, have fun and more on www.greatfoodandtravel.com. Stay tuned....

GreatFoodandTravel.com is Launched!

2008-09-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hello All! GreatFoodandTravel.com went live on Thursday, September 25 after many hours of research and happy eating and traveling. The website is still being developed but I wanted to let you in on all of the Great Places to consider this Fall for eating out and weekend getaways. Please add your comments so others can learn about your experiences at the places you visit. Happy travels and check back daily to see what's new! Also, enjoy the recipes on the site and the online videos from Chef Dan Chudik of Tuscan Restaurant and Chef John State of Six.One.Six in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Both restaurants are spectacular and if you haven't already tried them you should! They offer a wonderful menu and unique dining experiences.

2008-08-23T19:30:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Great Food and Travel.com. As you review the site, let us know your thoughts and give us your comments. There's lots more to come.

Sincerely

Sally Zara