Big Spring Inn - Manistique

We stopped by this restaurant for dinner after visiting Big Spring. We ordered the Friday Fresh Fish Fry Special, which featured beer-battered perch, and upgrad... read more We stopped by this restaurant for dinner after visiting Big Spring. We ordered the Friday Fresh Fish Fry Special, which featured beer-battered perch, and upgraded to sweet potato fries. The fries were served with a brown butter dip that my husband absolutely loved! The meal also included green beans that were expertly pan-seared and had a nice char. Instead of soup, we were delighted to find homemade mac and cheese on special, which was delicious – my boys couldn’t stop talking about it. The service was exceptionally friendly and accommodating. Overall, it was a wonderful stop during our road trip.

The restaurant has a charming classic lodge ambiance, with a noticeable emphasis on cleanliness. The bar and seating area are particularly inviting. I ordered t... read more The restaurant has a charming classic lodge ambiance, with a noticeable emphasis on cleanliness. The bar and seating area are particularly inviting. I ordered the fish baskets, which weren't on the menu, and was delighted to find the perch and bluegill to be fresh, expertly cooked, and absolutely delicious. They came with coleslaw and a choice of potato; I opted for the sweet potato fries, which were excellent. The drink portions were generous, the prices were reasonable, and the service was attentive. Overall, it was a great value and a satisfying experience.

I know this spot as Big Spring Tavern. If you're planning a trip to Palm Book State Park, home to the Kitch-iti-Kipi spring, then a visit to Big Spring Tavern i... read more I know this spot as Big Spring Tavern. If you're planning a trip to Palm Book State Park, home to the Kitch-iti-Kipi spring, then a visit to Big Spring Tavern is a must, whether before or after your trip to the spring. Our group of four ordered the Reuben sandwich with chips and, of course, some beer. It was the best Reuben I've ever had! I just wish I didn't live so far away; otherwise, I would definitely return for another one. The owners are incredibly friendly and take great pride in their establishment. So make sure to stop by and enjoy the delicious food and welcoming atmosphere!

I forgot to take a photo of our meal, but we decided to order from Big Springs after exploring the area. Unfortunately, our experience was quite disappointing.... read more I forgot to take a photo of our meal, but we decided to order from Big Springs after exploring the area. Unfortunately, our experience was quite disappointing. We ordered burgers, fries, and cheese curds. While they did ask how we wanted our burgers cooked and we requested medium, they arrived overcooked and closer to well done. The burger bun was tough on the outside and soggy on the inside due to grease. The fries seemed like they had been baked in the oven but were greasy and not served hot. The cheese curds were in a similar condition. This was particularly disappointing since the restaurant came highly recommended. Had we dined in rather than opting for take-out, we would have expressed our dissatisfaction at the time; however, the demeanor of the woman who took our order suggested she wasn't pleased to be there either. If we find ourselves in the area again, we plan to give Big Springs another chance, this time dining in. Even though we were just a short walk away, the food didn’t meet our expectations. I hope they can improve in the future.

Big Springs burgers are exceptional. The Inn serves locals, campers, and residents of Indian Lake. Dining there for lunch or dinner is a must for us. Plus, the... read more Big Springs burgers are exceptional. The Inn serves locals, campers, and residents of Indian Lake. Dining there for lunch or dinner is a must for us. Plus, the patio is dog-friendly!