86 the Fast Food and Eat Local on I-75

Over 43% of Michiganders live in the five county region of Metro Detroit, making I-75 the main thoroughfare for popular getaways all Summer long. Wherever you find your “up north”, make sure to include destination bites along your journey! Skip the Big Mac on your way to the Mighty Mack and head to these three stops close to I-75 in Mid-Michigan for an upgraded bite full of local sources.

Dig into Local Sources at Dig Cafe

Support a women-owned business by visiting Dig Cafe of Frankenmuth through the Dixie Highway or Holland Road exits. Go for the Hot Turkey Club – which features Bread Guy fresh sourdough bread and turkey bacon from Eight Plates Farm. Owner Kennedy Krieger also recommends the Southwest Bowl, with powerhouse ingredients quinoa, sweet potatoes and a house-made avocado dressing. 

Dig Cafe, 975 N Main Street, Unit C , Frankenmuth
9am – 2pm Tuesday-Saturday 

Plenty of Options at the Flint Farmers’ Market

Got a minute to ooh and aah and eat local? Stretch your legs (and your stomach!) at The Flint Farmers Market. Five minutes from I-75, this market has everything from freshly harvested produce to cheese to BBQ and sushi, or even drool-worthy baked goods from Crust. Remember to bring an empty cooler and ice packs to keep your market haul fresh on the way north. 

300 E First Street, Flint
9am-5pm Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 

Find Something for Everyone at MI Table

With a long list of local sourcing, MI Table has plentiful options for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free eaters. Find a wide range of items available including a Michigan charcuterie plate , pizza, and even breakfast (until 3!) This Bay City restaurant isn’t far from the highway in the historic Legacy Building. 

213 Center Ave, Bay City
10:30am-9pm Wednesday-Friday, 9am-9pm Saturdays, 9am-4pm Sundays 

Every corner of Michigan is filled with small businesses cooking up amazing food. Take a detour on your way north this summer and try somewhere new!

Claire Butler is the Content Strategy Specialist for Taste the Local Difference. Contact her at [email protected].

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