Mackinaw City: Five Delicious Places to Eat

From the moment you set foot in Mackinaw City, you realize that it’s more than a quick stop on your way to Mackinac Island. In fact, this charming village has quite a few activities that will keep you occupied for hours. And, after all those exciting activities, you’re guaranteed to be a bit hungry. Okay, very hungry! 

Since we don’t want to risk making you hangry during your vacation, we’ve put together a list of the best places to eat in Mackinaw City. From family restaurants to fine dining, seafood, breweries and pizzerias, there’s nothing missing from our finger-licking recommendations list. 

Then, once you’ve satisfied your hunger with some delightful bites, you’ll be ready to hit the road across the straits and dig into what Mackinac Island has to offer. For a side dish of delicious info and unique insights, make sure to download the Mackinac Island App. You’ll get access to six self-guided audio tours that will take you deep into the past, present and future of this unique island. But first, have a look at what’s on Mackinaw City’s menu of highly rated eateries.

Audie’s Restaurant

Mackinaw City might be small, but its residents and visitors have big appetites. Knowing this, Audie’s Restaurant does everything to rise to the challenge. Under its roof, two full-service restaurants and a lounge operate at full capacity. 

The Family Room offers American and international classics, including every dish you could possibly crave, from salads to pasta, burgers, sandwiches, beef, seafood and chicken specialities. The homemade desserts are something of another world, and they’re definitely worthy of throwing any diet out the window—at least for two or three bites. The Hot Fudge Cream Puff is as fun as its pronunciation and the New York Style Cheesecake is sinfully rich. But worry not, a lot of hiking awaits on Mackinac Island, so you’re guaranteed to burn off those extra calories. 

The Chippewa Room is also a mixture between locally inspired dishes and more international flavors, but what makes it distinct is its authentic atmosphere. Of course, the courses are, in themselves, unique and include specialties like Bison Meatloaf, Hunter’s Elk and Great Lake Fish dishes that are fresh and inventive. 

Darrow’s Family Restaurant

If you’re looking for that all-American feel in Mackinaw City, look no further than Darrow’s Family Restaurant. Open since 1957, the restaurant has been taken care of by four generations of the Darrow family. Their distinctive passion for good food and great atmosphere can definitely be tasted in both the decor and the dishes. 

However, the homey feel at Darrow’s Restaurant is the special ingredient that will get you hooked. With freshly baked bread, just-brewed coffee, soups made from scratch with loads of love, authentic hamburgers and to-die-for pies, this restaurant is every foodie’s dream. You can come and have a taste for breakfast, lunch or dinner and, of course, you can bring your whole family, because there’s something for everybody on the menu. 

Scalawags Whitefish & Chips

The waters around Mackinaw City are fish-bountiful and it would be a shame indeed to pass through and not taste some of the local fish specialities. One of the best restaurants that transforms seaside cravings into spectacular dishes is Scalawags Whitefish & Chips. If the restaurant’s name is not revealing enough, their slogan “Take a bite out of the Great Lakes” surely is. 

What to expect? Casual seafood dining with loads of flavor and authenticity. The restaurant’s owner, Brian Parker, is a Michigan native who, after gaining cooking experience across the US, came back to northern Michigan to open his own restaurant. His made his culinary dream come true, but the reality of Scalawags had exceeded even his expectations. Today, people from all over come to Mackinaw City, sometimes just to enjoy his whitefish and famous tartar sauce. 

Biere de Mac Brew Works

Your time spent visiting Mackinaw City will most definitely deserve a toast. And what better way to say “Cheers!” than with a fresh cold brew, followed by some juicy and delicious bites? We certainly think so! 

Biere de Mac Brew Works is a microbrewery that serves all 152 styles of beer classified by the Brewers Association. How’s that micro? Well, micro refers more to the cozy atmosphere than to the diversity of beers, which is pretty macro if you ask us. The venue is open year-round because, well, you do need a lot of time to taste all the varieties of beer. And since every good brew deserves an equally exciting dish, Biere de Mac Brew Works has an all-encompassing menu. From burgers to sandwiches, tacos, noodles, BBQs and mac and cheese, every brew will find its rightful pairing. 

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To finish on a sweet note, the brewery also offers ice-cream desserts that will have you up on your tiptoes, closer to cloud nine than ever before. 

B.C. Pizza

Who doesn’t love a good pizza place? No matter where you are or what you’re doing, a pizza is always a great way to fuel your day. And, in Mackinaw City, one of the best spots to grab a slice of cheesy delight is B.C. Pizza. 

More than just another pizza place, this spot has been thoughtfully built by two brothers, incorporating only the freshest ingredients and ideas. A big part of their success is, in addition to their fabulous recipes, their involvement in the community and their commitment to making a difference.

So, if you’re looking for a food spot in Mackinaw City that really reflects the city itself, B.C. Pizza is a good place to start. Sure, pizza doesn’t exactly scream “local food” but there’s a lot more to this restaurant than what’s served on its plates. 

Grab a bite and venture further

Once you explore Mackinaw City and fuel up in one of these delicious eateries, head to the ferries and begin your journey towards Mackinac Island. Don’t forget to download the Mackinac Island App and follow the six exciting self-guided audio tours that are included. Hours of original content and insightful info await. Journey on, friends, always with a full belly!