The closest grocery shopping is in Bellaire at the Family Fare supermarket.  It’s about a 10-minute drive. There is also a Family Fare in Mancelona, also about 10 minutes, but to the east.

Shorts Brewery, Bellaire:  Famous for their craft beer selection, they have great specialty pizzas, live music on some weekend nights, and lots of outdoor seating.

Bee Well Mead and Cider, Bellaire:  Outstanding atmosphere, and really good mead and cider menu.  If you’re willing to try something a bit different, this is a GREAT alternative to Short’s (which is right across the street).  Friendly, welcoming staff and great ambiance.

The Corner Bistro, Bellaire:  Small, cozy bistro with small plates and great wine.  Reservations are recommended.

Bellaire Bar and Restaurant, Bellaire:  Casual bar fare, great burgers, a laid-back feel, and good beer selection.  A good alternative for when there’s an hour wait at  Short’s. 😊

Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen, Elk Rapids:  Into cajun/creole food?  Do not go home before you try Pearl's.  It gets busy, but this might be the best cajun food we've ever had.  It's about a 30-minute drive.

Toonies Fish and Steakhouse, Bellaire:  Known for their fresh-cut steaks and local fish, Toonie’s is a relaxed dining experience that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Awesome ribs, too!

Sarducci’s, at Summit Village:  This is one of our favorites, and is a bit of a hidden gem.  Outstanding Italian food, and great specialty pizzas, the place is cozy, inviting, and almost never crowded.  A great bartender who’s a bit of a wise-guy, but serves ‘em good and cold nonetheless.  Tell him “the brothers” sent you! 😊

The Shanty, at Summit Village:  A great little tavern with a “western” feel, this is great for apres tubing (with its ever-burning fire on the patio), or to just stop in and grab a drink in a very cozy and rustic atmosphere.  Definitely worth a visit. 

Mammoth Distillery, Central Lake and Bellaire: Michigan craft distiller, making bourbon, gin and vodka locally.  This is basically a bar / tasting room with limited food, but Central Lake Bar is right down the street and serves up an excellent burger.

Ivan’s Bar and Grill, at Schuss Village:  This was the premier restaurant (then known as the Ivanhof) when the “Kingdom of Schuss” was opened back in the late 60s.  It is now the apres ski party scene with live music, a dance floor, good food and a very laid back vibe.  Inconsistent hours in the summer, but open most ski days in the winter. Ivan’s is right at the bottom of the blue lift, near the Schuss Lodge.

The Lakeview Restaurant, at Summit Village:  For miles-long views that include Lake Bellaire and the surrounding countryside, it’s tough to beat the Lakeview.  Make sure you request (or reserve) a table next to the windows.  The food can be a bit pricey, but is very good.  The restaurant is located on the main floor of the Lakeview hotel.

The River Bistro, at Cedar River Village:  Best for lunchtime, take a break here from your golf round for a great sandwich and pasta.   Service can be a bit slow, and it lacks a bit of ambiance, but the staff is very friendly, and the location is great (in the Cedar River Village Hotel).

The Iron Skillet, Mancelona:  For the best breakfast you’ve probably ever had, try the Southern Skillet or Irish Skillet (seriously - our kids come up just for this place).  (Pro tip:  when you’re done, stop into the “Rooted” store right next door.  Awesome gift shop with everything Michigan and great selections of clothing, custom home décor, etc.)

The Pelican’s Nest, Bellaire:  Located at “The Chief” golf course, the nest is a sports bar / restaurant with tons of TVs, and a laid back tavern feel.  During the summer, there's an outdoor bar, and oftentimes live music.  The burgers are outstanding, and the beer selection is very good (spirits, not so much).  Only about a 5 minute drive from the property.