Get ready for a delicious spin through Michigan—discover small towns where pies are legendary, charm is plentiful, and every bite makes the drive worthwhile.
1. Beulah – The Cherry Hut
In Beulah, the aroma of tart cherries fills the air as you approach The Cherry Hut, a storied pie haven since 1922. This lakeside gem boasts a tradition of crafting cherry pies that are nothing short of legendary. Each slice is a nod to generations of pie lovers who make pilgrimages here, eager to savor the sweet-tart perfection. The Cherry Hut is more than a pie shop; it’s a cornerstone of community and tradition. Families gather to enjoy pies a la mode, relishing the harmonious blend of warm pie and cool ice cream. It’s a taste of Michigan’s cherry heritage, celebrated in every delectable bite.
2. Paw Paw – Sweet Small-Town Pie Magic
Paw Paw, nestled in Michigan’s fruit belt, offers a unique pie experience that draws adventurers from far and wide. The town’s quaint charm is matched only by its legendary pies, each crafted with love and local ingredients. Weekday travelers and weekend explorers alike find solace in the sweet flavors and flaky crusts. As you stroll through the town, the scent of freshly baked pies beckons, promising a taste of small-town magic. Paw Paw’s pies are more than a dessert; they’re a celebration of community spirit and the bounty of the land, making every visit a memorable journey into flavor.
3. Armada – Birthplace of Achatz Handmade Pies
Armada, a village of under 2,000 residents, holds the sweet origins of Achatz Handmade Pies. Though Achatz pies have spread across Michigan, their story begins here, in this charming village. The bakery is a bustling hub of activity, where pie lovers gather to indulge in handcrafted delights. Each pie is a masterpiece, reflecting years of tradition and passion. The warm, welcoming atmosphere invites you to take a seat, savor a slice, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this pie-loving community. In Armada, every pie tells a story, a delicious narrative of flavor and hometown pride.
4. Upper Peninsula – Pasties, the Handheld Heritage
In the Upper Peninsula, pasties reign supreme, offering a savory twist to the pie narrative. These handheld wonders are filled with a hearty mix of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, a nod to the region’s Cornish heritage. Standout spots like Lehto’s in St. Ignace, Yooper Pasty Co. in Sault Ste. Marie, and Mohawk Superette in the Keweenaw Peninsula serve these comforting delights, each with its own unique spin. The pasty is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural icon, a taste of history wrapped in flaky pastry. Visitors relish the warmth and flavor, a true taste of the UP’s culinary legacy.
5. Munising – Muldoon’s Pasties & Fudge
In Munising, Muldoon’s Pasties & Fudge offers a delightful blend of savory and sweet, captivating visitors with its unique offerings. The handmade pasties, served hot, are a comforting embrace of meat and veggies, perfect for the cool lakeside atmosphere. Paired with their famous “Grand Island Fudge,” the experience is a harmonious dance of flavors. The welcoming staff ensures every visit is memorable, adding a personal touch to each interaction. Munising’s charm extends beyond its scenic views; it’s a culinary destination where sweet and savory meet in perfect harmony, creating a delightful experience for every traveler.
6. Houghton – Roy’s Pasties & Bakery
Houghton is home to Roy’s Pasties & Bakery, a delightful spot where pasties meet picturesque views of the waterfront. The bakery’s offerings range from traditional pasties to sweet pies, each crafted with care and local flair. As you enjoy a treat, the scenic backdrop enhances the experience, making each bite even more enjoyable. Roy’s is a testament to Houghton’s vibrant community spirit, where locals and visitors alike gather to share in the joy of delicious baked goods. It’s a place where culinary tradition meets scenic beauty, a perfect pairing for anyone seeking a taste of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
7. Copper Harbor – Jamsen’s Bakery
Copper Harbor’s Jamsen’s Bakery offers a unique twist on traditional pies with its wild thimbleberry turnovers, a local specialty that draws pie enthusiasts to this charming destination. The bakery’s cozy atmosphere invites visitors to indulge in its varied offerings, each baked good a reflection of the region’s natural beauty. Surrounded by stunning harbor views, every bite transports you to a place where tradition meets innovation. Jamsen’s is more than a bakery; it’s a celebration of Copper Harbor’s rich landscape and the flavors it inspires. Here, each turnover tells a story of local pride and culinary creativity.
