Places to Eat in Alpena
Alpena, Michigan is a must-visit for dining and craft beers as it boasts a unique culinary scene with a variety of local restaurants and breweries. The town is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. Furthermore, Alpena's craft beer scene is vibrant, featuring numerous local breweries that produce a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. The combination of delicious places to eat and exceptional craft beers makes Alpena an outstanding destination for food and drink enthusiasts.
Dining options in Alpena
Alpena is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs but also a delightful destination for food lovers. Whether you're seeking a casual bite, a family-friendly meal, or a fine dining experience, Alpena boasts a variety of dining options that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Here’s a guide to some of the best dining spots you can explore in Alpena.
The Nest
The Nest is a popular dining spot renowned for its mouthwatering burgers and delicious truffle fries. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in a hearty and satisfying meal. The casual and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy some of the best comfort food Alpena has to offer. Closed Saturday through Monday, make sure to plan your visit to The Nest accordingly, its worth the trip!
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808 Bowlz & River Street Vault Smoothery
Located at 109 River St., in the pocket park next to Red Brick Tap & Barrel, these food trucks offer a delightful culinary experience.
808 Bowlz serves a Hawaiian-style menu featuring a variety of bowls and a build-your-own bowl option, allowing you to customize your meal with fresh and flavorful ingredients.
River Street Vault Smoothery specializes in refreshing smoothies and handheld sandwiches, perfect for a quick and nutritious bite. Both food trucks provide a unique and tasty alternative to traditional dining, making them a hit among locals and visitors alike.
Knaebe’s Apple Farm
Listed as Knaebe’s Mmmunchy Krunchy Apple Farm on Google Maps, this bustling apple orchard is a 47-minute drive north from downtown Alpena. It’s a favorite destination, especially in the fall when the orchard is at its busiest. Open only on weekends in the summer, the farm is famous for its wood-fired pizzas, locally brewed beer and hard cider, and delectable donuts. A visit to Knaebe’s offers a delightful blend of seasonal activities and delicious treats, making it a perfect outing for families and friends.
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Austin Brothers Beer Company
Beer enthusiasts will find their haven at Austin Brothers Beer Company. This local brewery not only offers a fantastic selection of craft beers brewed on-site but also boasts a robust menu of pub-style fare. From gourmet burgers and wings to creative appetizers and hearty mains, the food here perfectly complements the wide range of beers on tap. The lively atmosphere and outdoor seating area make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy some excellent food and drink.
Mango's Tequila Bar
Mango’s Tequila Bar is a lively and vibrant spot known for its extensive selection of tequilas and delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine. Whether you're looking to enjoy a casual evening with friends or celebrate a special occasion, Mango’s offers a welcoming atmosphere with colorful decor and a festive vibe. The bar features a variety of handcrafted cocktails, including classic margaritas and innovative tequila-based drinks. With a menu that boasts flavorful tacos, enchiladas, and other traditional dishes, Mango’s Tequila Bar provides a delightful culinary experience that pairs perfectly with its spirited beverage offerings.
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Cabin Creek Coffee
For a more laid-back dining experience, Cabin Creek Coffee is an excellent choice. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Their specialty coffees and teas are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you're stopping by for a quick coffee break or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Cabin Creek Coffee provides a relaxed and cozy environment to unwind.
JJ's Steak & Pizza House
A family-friendly dining option, JJ's Steak & Pizza House offers a little something for everyone. Their extensive menu includes everything from delicious steaks and fresh seafood to mouth-watering pizzas and pasta dishes. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for family dinners or group gatherings. With generous portions and reasonable prices, JJ's Steak & Pizza House ensures a satisfying meal for all.
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Scoops Ice Cream
Scoops Ice Cream is a beloved spot in Alpena, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This charming ice cream parlor offers a wide variety of flavors, ranging from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like mint chocolate chip and cookie dough. The shop is known for its generous portions and friendly service, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
In addition to traditional ice cream, Scoops also serves sundaes, milkshakes, and floats, providing a treat for every preference. The cozy atmosphere and nostalgic decor make it a delightful place to relax and enjoy a refreshing dessert. Whether you're taking a break from exploring the city or looking for a sweet end to your day, Scoops Ice Cream is a must-visit destination in Alpena.
Craft Beer in Alpena
Visiting Alpena for craft beer is a fantastic idea for several reasons. Firstly, Alpena boasts a flourishing craft beer scene with local breweries that offer unique and flavorful brews. These breweries often use locally sourced ingredients, giving you a true taste of the region. Additionally, the breweries in Alpena are known for their warm and welcoming atmospheres, making them perfect spots to relax and enjoy a pint. Many breweries also host events, live music, and food pairings, enhancing the overall experience. Finally, Alpena's stunning natural surroundings provide a beautiful backdrop for enjoying a craft beer, whether you're at a brewery or taking a growler to enjoy with a view.
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HopSide Brewery
HopSide Brewery is a local favorite known for its diverse selection of craft beers brewed on-site. With a rotating menu of seasonal and specialty brews, it's a must-visit for any beer enthusiast looking to explore unique flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Austin Brothers Beer Company
Austin Brothers Beer Company is another top spot for craft beer lovers. This family-owned brewery offers a wide range of expertly crafted beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, all brewed with high-quality ingredients. The lively taproom and outdoor seating make it a great place to relax and enjoy a pint.
Knaebe’s Apple Farm
Knaebe’s Mmmunchy Krunchy Apple Farm is not just known for its delicious apples and family-friendly activities, but also for its impressive selection of craft cider and beer. They produce a variety of beverages that cater to diverse tastes, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Knaebe’s craft ciders are made from the apples grown right on the farm, ensuring fresh and authentic flavors. Their ciders range from traditional, crisp apple varieties to more adventurous blends that might include hints of spices or other fruits. Each batch is carefully crafted to highlight the natural sweetness and tartness of the apples, providing a refreshing and satisfying drink. Seasonal specials often appear, making each visit a unique tasting experience.
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In addition to their ciders, Knaebe’s also offers a selection of craft beers. The farm's brewery creates small-batch beers that showcase a variety of styles, from light and hoppy IPAs to rich and malty stouts. Using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques, Knaebe’s craft beers are designed to complement the flavors of their ciders and the local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy these beers in the farm's cozy tasting room, often paired with delicious snacks and meals prepared on-site.
Whether you're a cider enthusiast or a beer aficionado, Knaebe’s Mmmunchy Krunchy Apple Farm provides a delightful array of craft beverages that celebrate the best of local produce and skilled craftsmanship.
Presque Isle Farm Cider
Presque Isle Farm Cider is a charming, locally owned hard cider bar that offers a delightful array of beverages and treats. Known for its artisanal ciders, this establishment serves a variety of cider cocktails and refreshing mocktails, catering to all tastes. In addition to its impressive drink selection, Presque Isle Farm Cider provides a cozy atmosphere where patrons can enjoy delicious baked treats and light lunches, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon or a casual gathering with friends.
Thunder Bay Winery
Thunder Bay Winery, located in the heart of Alpena, offers a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Known for its locally-produced wines, the winery provides a unique taste of Northern Michigan's region. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wines crafted from local and regional grapes, each with its own distinct flavor profile. The winery's tasting room offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for sampling their diverse selection of wines. In addition to wine tastings, Thunder Bay Winery often hosts events, including live music, wine pairing dinners, and seasonal celebrations, making it a vibrant part of Alpena's community life. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just looking to explore, Thunder Bay Winery promises a memorable experience.
The combination of delicious food and exceptional craft beers makes Alpena a fantastic destination for those who love to indulge in culinary experiences. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this vibrant town.
So, if you're looking for a new place to satisfy your taste buds, make sure to visit Alpena, Michigan. With its unique culinary offerings and thriving craft beer scene, it promises to be a memorable destination for any food and drink lover.
These all look delicious! Saving for my next trip