Blair Hopkins

The vast array of natural resources at hand in Northern Michigan has fostered a deep appreciation for locally-sourced fare. 'Foraged' isn’t just an industry buzzword at the best restaurants in Traverse City: the local food scene is season-driven and revolves around getting creative with basics. Nearly every menu boasts something root-based and basically all desserts make outstanding use of cherries. The area is renowned for its cherries, after all – Traverse City is home to the National Cherry Festival, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Planning a visit? Check out our list of the best things to do in town and browse through the following collection of best restaurants in Traverse City. Make sure to dine at them all. Yes, all.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Michigan  

Madison is tight-knit, with a wealth of natural resources and an admirable sense of community informing its food culture. The engaged visitor will find the region host to tremendous diversity, but old-school diners and pubs are canonical and its reputation as a burgers-and-beer sanctum reigns supreme. It's a city that welcomes classic Midwest fashion and has price-points at even its finest establishments that make a delicious weekend accessible for every traveller. Further to its credit, Madison is pedestrian-friendly and cares for its local institutions; you can hardly throw a cheese curd without hitting a 30-year-old eatery. Here are our favourites of the best restaurants in Madison.

Newport is a town that prides itself on enjoying the finer things in dining. The city has a history of refinement that carries into the modern age with many of its well-aged mansions converted into luxurious seafood establishments. Newport’s plentiful resources naturally welcome guests to a sophisticated array of seaside views and fresh-daily Atlantic catch, and can offer visitors an exquisite culinary experience at any budget level.