Chandler's - Petoskey

I highly recommend making a reservation since Chandler's is a cozy, intimate spot. Located in what feels like a hidden alley with charming old wooden décor, it’... read more I highly recommend making a reservation since Chandler's is a cozy, intimate spot. Located in what feels like a hidden alley with charming old wooden décor, it’s easy to underestimate at first. However, the food truly stands out. We tried the red wine-braised Colorado lamb shank and the halibut, and both were exceptional. The lamb shank was definitely one of the best I've ever had. Paul took excellent care of us and had an impressive knowledge of both the food menu and wine list.

Chandler's offers a unique lunch menu. The Southern chicken sandwich was flavorful, though it had so much sauce that the bread became soggy. We visited Petoskey... read more Chandler's offers a unique lunch menu. The Southern chicken sandwich was flavorful, though it had so much sauce that the bread became soggy. We visited Petoskey from the U.P. for the day and stopped in for a quick lunch with our 3-year-old. While they didn’t have a kids' menu, they kindly made a grilled cheese sandwich and provided chocolate milk for him. The dining area is small and it was busy during lunch. I’d like to return sometime for drinks since they have a great selection of wines.

Chandler's is consistently one of the top dining options in Petoskey. The chef possesses a remarkable understanding of flavors and perfectly achieves the right... read more Chandler's is consistently one of the top dining options in Petoskey. The chef possesses a remarkable understanding of flavors and perfectly achieves the right balance in each dish. The presentations are straightforward and devoid of unnecessary embellishments. While the menu could benefit from a bit more creativity, the ingredient combinations are typically spot on and well-executed. The ambiance offers a nice blend of fine dining and a casual sports bar feel. The staff is exceptional; we have always experienced attentive and friendly service, with food arriving promptly but without feeling rushed. On my last visit, I ordered the duck breast, which was served over a delightful mix of grains and vegetables that had a wonderful texture, complemented by a delicious red wine reduction sauce. Most importantly, I had requested it cooked medium rare, which is often difficult to get right, but the kitchen executed it perfectly!

The beef tip tacos were part of the lunch special, but our top pick was definitely their version of a Reuben. It was a towering sandwich, expertly put together... read more The beef tip tacos were part of the lunch special, but our top pick was definitely their version of a Reuben. It was a towering sandwich, expertly put together so that nothing spilled out while we ate or when we cut it into quarters. The dipping sauce that accompanies it is amazing! We also sampled the bourbon bath martini, which was exceptional. Be sure to visit their wine cellar and the general store next door – it's a really great place!

This restaurant is an excellent choice for a wonderful dinner. Both the service and the food are top-notch. It's a cozy place, so it's a good idea to make a res... read more This restaurant is an excellent choice for a wonderful dinner. Both the service and the food are top-notch. It's a cozy place, so it's a good idea to make a reservation, though it's not required. The chicken tacos were the standout dish for us, but everything we sampled was delicious!