Mackinac Island: A Foodie’s Fantasy - Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, MI

Mackinac Island: A Foodie’s Fantasy

World-famous fudge. It’s what Mackinac Island is known for. Yet, it’s just the tip of the tongue when it comes to the dining delights waiting to lather your taste buds. From casual fare at scenic outdoor patios to exquisite meals in some of the country’s most historic hotels, there’s a restaurant on Mackinac Island for every occasion and every mood. And with so many visitors and workers from all over the world, there’s a sundry selection of international foods available, too. There’s no shortage of fine beverages, either, with great places to grab a drink around every corner.

The Michigan Sugar Queen uses a wooden paddle to spread molten fudge on a marble slab as a crowd watches on Mackinac Island

Food Experiences You Will Love

Casual Restaurants and Fine Dining

From a burger and fries at the Chuckwagon to the Wiener Schnitzel in the 1852 Grill Room, there’s something on Mackinac Island to please every palate. In addition to casual lunches and fine dinners, you’ll find many great breakfast options and fantastic coffee shops, too.

Outdoor Dining

With stunning views at every turn, it’s no wonder Mackinac Island has oodles of outdoor patios for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can dine al fresco right on the water, with a view of the Mackinac Island harbor or in cozy nooks surrounded by lilacs.

Drinking and Nightlife

With more than two dozen liquor licenses, Mackinac Island has plenty of places to get a drink. You can find your favorite beer or glass of wine or indulge in a local specialty such as the iconic Pink Pony rum runner. After dark, Mackinac Island nightlife revs up with live music and dancing in several spots.

World-Famous Fudge

With no fewer than a dozen fudge shops, you’re never far from a taste of Mackinac Island’s famous treat. Just pop in for a free sample and spend a few minutes watching fudge makers ply their craft. You can inhale the sweet scent as they shape layers of molten fudge atop marble slabs.

America’s Oldest Grocery Store

Aside from many bars and restaurants, Mackinac Island is home to America’s oldest grocery store. Doud’s Market offers a deli and bakery where you can pick up some staples for your room or find just the right ingredients for lunch at one of Mackinac Island’s many picturesque picnic spots.

Specialty Foods at the Market

With seasonal workers coming from the Caribbean, Europe and Asia, Doud’s Market stocks a variety of international items that aren’t available just anywhere. Go ahead and try some ackee while you’re on the island or sip some Irish moss! You just might find a new favorite!

Special Dietary Needs

On a diet? No problem. Many Mackinac Island restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free dishes as well as vegan and allergen-free options. There also are places to stay with kitchens where you can make your own meals using just the right ingredients from Doud’s Market.

Let Your Inner Foodie Eat!

Mackinac Island is much more than the fudge capital of the world. It’s home to a diverse collection of bars and restaurants that are full of character and personality – some with incredible waterfront settings, many with spectacular views and several right in the heart of all the action downtown. From breakfast through dinner and late into the night, there are unique and memorable dining experiences to be had all over Mackinac Island. Come explore all the places to indulge your inner foodie (and be sure to fancy yourself a fudgie, too!).

A Mackinac Island fudgemaker and two children peer through the counter display of fudge during the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival

START PLANNING

While you’re planning which bars and restaurants to visit on Mackinac Island, don’t forget to book your place to stay. You can also sign up for the newsletter to get the latest updates in advance of your trip and download the visitor’s guide to see everything else there is to do while you’re here.

Other experiences you might like:

There are lots of ways to work up an appetite while visiting Mackinac Island. Perhaps you’d enjoy exploring the island’s historic sites. Taking the reins of a horse-drawn carriage. Or pedaling a bike on a leisurely and scenic ride along the car-free road that circles the island.

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