10 Best Places to Eat When Visiting the Keweenaw
The eating experience in the Keweenaw is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the moment you step into the local eateries, you are enveloped by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The region takes great pride in its traditional cuisine, with hearty dishes that reflect the area's mining heritage. Savor the taste of pasties, a local specialty filled with meat and vegetables, or indulge in a comforting cudighi sandwich. The Keweenaw is also known for its seafood, with fresh lake trout and whitefish caught daily from the nearby Great Lakes. As you dine, you can relish stunning views of the picturesque landscape, surrounded by lush forests and serene lakes. Whether you are a food enthusiast or simply looking for an authentic taste of the Upper Peninsula, the Keweenaw's dining scene offers a truly remarkable experience.
1902 Tap and Grill
Pictured is a BYO burger with a side of chips and battered spicy pickle fries.
The 1902 Tap and Grill in South Range, MI, is a historic gem nestled in the Keweenaw Peninsula. Walking through its doors is like stepping back in time, as the restaurant retains much of its original charm and character with hints of modern elegance. With its rustic wood interior, vintage decor, and warm ambiance, it exudes a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. The menu at the 1902 Tap and Grill showcases a delightful fusion of classic American fare and local flavors, featuring dishes like juicy burgers, tender steaks, and fresh fish sourced from the nearby Great Lakes. Whether you're a local seeking a taste of nostalgia or a traveler exploring the region's rich history, a visit to the 1902 Tap and Grill is sure to leave you satisfied and nostalgic for a bygone era.
The Ambassador
Pictured is the Tostadas Pizza, a personal favorite!
The Ambassador Restaurant, located in Houghton, MI, is a must-see. This restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience that combines traditional flavors with a modern twist. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by the hand-painted murals and a historic saloon setting. The menu at Ambassador Restaurant showcases a diverse selection of dishes, ranging from mouthwatering steaks to fresh seafood, and vegetarian options that cater to every palate. Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner for two or a gathering with friends, the Ambassador Restaurant is the perfect place to indulge in excellent food and create memorable dining experiences.
Soumi Home Bakery & Restaurant
(top) Finnish Pancake, Pannukakku, with raspberry jam. (left) breakfast pasty with a side of gravy. (bottom) seasonal pumpkin spice Finnish Pancake, Pannukakku.
For those seeking a taste of local flavor, the Suomi Restaurant in Hancock is a must-stop destination. Its hearty Finnish-American cuisine, including the famous Finnish pasty, is a true delight. While you’re there, you must also try the Pannukakku, an oven-baked, custard-list pancake, and a side of Nisu toast. If you thoroughly enjoy the nisu toast, don’t forget to grab a fresh loaf on your way out the door! For anyone looking for an authentic, and cozy breakfast or brunch joint, this is the place.
Copper Range Depot Family Restaurant
Pictured is the Gulf Port Shrimp Oo’ Boy
This family friendly spot is known for its delicious comfort food and friendly service. What started as the original passenger depot for the Copper Range Railroad in 1899 is now a family style restaurant offering a dining experience that is filled with train memorabilia. The Copper Range has never disappointed, whether we ordered breakfast, lunch, or dinner! A majority of the menu features house made sauces and ingredients, will the baked goods are sourced from the next-door bakery Roy’s.
La Cantina Mexican Restaurant
If you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, La Cantina in Hancock has you covered. From sizzling fajitas to flavorful tacos, this place brings the spice! The Carnitas Tacos are a crowd favorite - tender, juicy, and topped with fresh ingredients.
Milly’s
Milly’s in Hancock is where pizza lovers can enjoy a slice of heaven. Known for their perfectly crispy crust and locally sourced toppings, it’s a local favorite! We tend to order the special of the week, where the ingredients are always changing based on what is available at the local Co-Op.
Gino’s Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge
Pictured is the Cudighi sandwich with sweet potato fries
Gino’s in Hancock is a classic Italian-American restaurant with a cozy lounge atmosphere and a menu that’s stood the test of time. One of the standout dishes here is their Cudighi Sandwich, a true Upper Peninsula specialty. Cudighi (pronounced COO-duh-gee) is a spicy Italian sausage that made its wy to the U.P. with Italian immigrants in the early 1900s. Originally served as a sausage patty with mustard and onions, it’s evolved into a beloved local dish often topped with marinara and mozzarella cheese. Gino’s Cudighi Sandwich hits all the right notes—savory, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a must-try bite of regional history that you won’t forget.
The Quincy
Pictured: Deep Dish Miner’s Deluxe Pizza
Quincy’s in Dollar Bay is a local favorite that delivers hearty, comforting meals surrounded by historic mining charm. While everything on the menu is worth trying, we especially love their deep dish pizza. It’s thick, cheesy, and loaded with toppings—every bite feels like a warm hug.
As Metro Detroit natives, Quincy’s deep dish gives us a nostalgic taste of home. It’s the kind of pizza that reminds us of Friday night dinners growing up—only now, we get to enjoy it in the heart of the Keweenaw.
The Fitzgerald
Pictured: Garlic Udon with brisket and seasonal Umami Fries
If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, The Fitzgerald in Eagle River is the place to go. Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional food, their garlic udon is a personal favorite and hits the spot with each visit - if they ever remove it from the menu, I will be one sad local!
The Mariner North
Pictured: whitefish sandwhich
For a cozy, waterfront dining experience, The Mariner North in Copper Harbor offers a beautiful setting alongside delicious meals. Their whitefish sandwich is a favorite of mine - topped with a creamy house made tartar sauce. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a taste of the lake.
Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a cozy meal with a view, or authentic international cuisine, the Keweenaw Peninsula has something for everyone. These 10 restaurants are just the beginning of the flavorful experiences awaiting you. Be sure to stop by each one and savor the unique tastes of this stunning region.