Top Best American Restaurants in Lake Leelanau

"This kitchen/bar not only provides both great food and drinks, but also an amazing atmosphere. It has a great line-up of small plate and sushi offerings with one of the best happy hour deals in the city. Located only two blocks away from Front Street, Firefly provides its guests with a great view of the Boardman River."

"A dazzling small-plate menu, sushi, steaks and burgs at a sophisticated hotspot on the river. No longer hosts Sunday brunch.LD • BAR • $-$$ • 310 S. Cass St. • 231.932.1310"

"Time and time again, Apache Trout is solid, with excellent service and one of the best views in the city. Situated right on the West Grand Traverse Bay, there isn’t a seat is the house where you can’t see the water. It’s so beautiful that not only makes it one of the best Traverse City Restaurants for date night, but also for a night out with friends and family."

"Rough-hewn eatery affords a great bay view along with ribs, steak, pasta and salad.LD • BAR • $$ • 13671 S. West Bay Shore Dr. • 231.947.7079"

"A hands-down favorite, they serve fresh, local fare that is globally inspired, for more than reasonable prices. Whether they’re serving grits, curry, or banh mi, the portions are generous and the quality of the food is excellent. Don’t miss their brunch deal, featuring one dish + coffee for $10 even."

"Located in the downtown area, this restaurant is highly recommended for breakfast & brunch & is one of the best restaurants in Traverse City. The french toast, omelettes, & blueberry pancakes made here are some of the favorite breakfast items. Pork, they say, is their forte."

"With a name like The Original Flap Jack Shack, there’s no question about what to expect at this restaurant. Although it’s owned by the same group as The Omelette Shoppe, it has a slightly different style. The informal dining room is a fantastic place for families, and the variety of flapjacks is especially tantalizing."

"From Business: Outback Steakhouse, the home of juicy steaks, spirited drinks and Aussie hospitality. Find our location in Traverse City off Marketplace Circle and U.S. 31…"

"Vegetarian and vegan friendly, they also welcome dogs on the patio and will even provide a bowl of water in case fido gets thirsty. This soup and sandwich place is ideal for lunch, and it’s pretty healthy too."

"Fresh, health conscious, chef-prepared meals, guided by nutrition and delivered on a weekly basis to your door. At Fuel Your Tomorrow, we want to optimize your health and life through fully prepared local and organic food for you and your family."

"When you're downtown Traverse City and hoping to find a place to rest your weary feet, grab a quick bite to eat, and a good cup of coffee, you should visit Brew. Located in the historic Opera building, the aesthetic is cozy and a bit moody. Given their comfortable and ample seating options, you won't be in a hurry to leave."

"Mostly known for its espressos, coffees, teas, local wines, microbrews, and other seasonal drinks, the Brew is a rustic-chic coffeehouse. You can find it in the same building as the City Opera House. Despite its popularity for beverages, it serves breakfast all day."

"Making fresh, flavorful breakfast and brunch foods from scratch since 2009, Frenchies Famous is a gourmet joint with a funky dining room and patio. For the morning sweet tooth, you can order crepes, French toast, a French toast sandwich with pastrami, or biscuits and jam. If you prefer a protein-rich breakfast, Frenchies serves several different omelets and savory dishes."

"If you’re a fan of homemade and hearty, Frenchie’s Famous delivers just that with handmade lunch sandwiches, salads, coffees and sweets. Indulge in Frenchie’s delights on the quaint outdoor patio for a cozy lunch date."

"Housemade tagliatelle, rigatoni and gnocchi are the specialties at this airy downtown delicatessen. The menu also sports several fresh salads and picnic-perfect sandwiches to choose from. The inside is spacious with plentiful seating and a casual countenance, but the close walk to Boardman Lake makes Raduno an excellent quick lunch pitstop for those on the go."

"Prefer to spend your northern Michigan vacation tending the backyard grill?. At least make sure whatever you’re cooking includes some sausages from Raduno. This deli-style cafe features a rotating selection of salads, vegetable sides, and daily specials, but the whole-animal sausages are especially impressive."

"We've been here all week from Cincinnati and this is the best meal we've had. Everything is freshly prepared and so friggin' delicious!"

"Downtown steakhouse serving up American Wagyu beef tenderloin, seafood and other inventive dishes.D • $$-$$$ • 250 E. Front St. • 231.421.5912"