Since I started this site, I’ve written about cross-continental bike rides, hitchhiking 20-plus countries, teaching English in Turkey and South Korea, and, most importantly, all of the delicious (and not-so-delicious) food from along the way.  The past few years have been a whirlwind, but I’ve loved almost every second of it. After being home in Detroit for nearly two months now, though, I realized that I’ve never posted about where I come from. True, the city is mostly known for its crime and going bankrupt, but Michigan as a whole shouldn’t get a bad rep because of those minor details.

For the first time, I brought J here to meet the fam and do a little exploring, and it actually reminded me of all of the good things that come out of this state, even in the sub-zero winter temperatures. There are loads of fun outdoor winter activities to do, but we were only able to go sledding due to my broken ankle situation.  Instead, we partied downtown at Campus Martius for New Year’s Eve after watching the hometown Red Wings dominate on the ice, enjoyed delicious meals in both Greektown and Mexicantown, and headed up north for some booze tours in a winter wonderland. Turns out, the north is a bit different since last I went. Winter reservations at bayside hotels are around a quarter of the price of the peak summer season, meaning you can afford to splurge a little on a room with a view (and a hot tub).  The Leelanau Peninsula is now home to a plethora of vineyards and wineries, breweries, and even distilleries. Plus, be sure to try something of the cherry variety- they’re world famous.

Vegan “krabcakes” and remoulade- Jazzy Veggie, Ann Arbor

A delicious piled high vegan “chick’n” burger- Jazzy Veggie, Ann Arbor

A pitstop at Frankenmuth Brewery yielded the best oatmeal stout I’ve ever had. This tiny town was designed to be a Little Bavaria, where Christmas is celebrated year-round.

J wanted big, thick onion rings; the Mackinaw Brewing Company delivered.

Five-cheese Mac&Cheese with red and green peppers and scallions- The Mackinaw Brewing Company, Traverse City

Taste four for free- Northern Latitudes Distillery, Lake Leelanau

Spent grain pretzels with smoked cheddar fondue and beer mustard- The Workshop Brewery, Traverse City

Four half-pints sampler of your own choosing- The Workshop Brewery, Traverse City

Eggroll mozzarella sticks with sundried tomatoes and garlic and a pesto ranch- North Peak Brewing Company, Traverse City

Stuffed avocados and crostini, best served with dry fruity cider- Northern Natural Cider House, Traverse City

Last but not least, homemade waffles and apple cinnamon compote- a la Me and my parents’ waffle maker