Adventures in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula go far beyond scenic trails, historic sites and sweeping Great Lakes views. Some of the most memorable moments here happen around the table. The foods of the U.P. have been shaped by generations of migration, with especially strong influences from Northern Europe and Italy that still define many local favorite flavors today. Whether you're diving into a classic pasty, savoring smoked fish or sampling international dishes, tasting your way through the U.P. is an adventure all its own.
Pasties
Pasties (pronounced pass-tees) are an iconic U.P. meal. These savory meat pies were the original fast food of copper miners and lumberjacks. Brought here from the mining region of Cornwell, England, U.P. wives would fill the rolled-out dough with leftover beef, potato, onion and rutabaga, fold the pastry in half, seal the edges and bake. The miners would take these golden pastries into the mines and reheat them on a shovel over their lantern candles. Today, you can buy them steaming hot with a variety of traditional and innovative fillings from these local shops. Don’t go back home without eating at least one!
Thimbleberries
The Keweenaw Peninsula is famous for its wild thimbleberries, the small, delicate berries that thrive along forest edges and roadside trails. Highly prized by locals and visitors alike, these bright red gems have a distinctive sweet and tart flavor. Their short growing season and soft texture make them nearly impossible to find fresh, but they shine in jams and jellies. Spread thimbleberry jam on warm muffins or toast for a true taste of the north. You can find jars of this local favorite at many shops across the region, including these popular U.P. shops:
- The Jam Lady – Eagle River: A five-generation, family-run business creating handmade wild berry products.
- The Jampot – Eagle Harbor: All these goods are sure to delight and they’re made with the finest local, regional, natural and organic ingredients available. Purchasing from the Jampot supports the Holy Protection Monastery, a Byzantine Catholic monastery.
- Thimbleberry Shoppe – Copper Harbor: Step back in time and discover a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, complete with tasty treats!
- Wood'n Spoon – Mohawk: Thimbleberries shine in jams, jellies, syrups and even cookies, all part of a lineup of over 70 handcrafted spreads made from locally grown fruits.
Whitefish
Some of the best-tasting freshwater fish you will ever have are whitefish reeled in from the deep, cold waters of Lakes Michigan, Huron and Superior. With a firmer flesh and more delicate flavor than fish caught from warmer regions, whitefish is a staple on Upper Peninsula menus — and for good reason. You’ll enjoy every tasty morsel baked, broiled or pan-fried at these standout restaurants. Also, don’t miss the local Fish Fries (typically on Fridays), they are a beloved U.P. tradition. These are just a few of the top spots, but there are many more across the region where you can savor whitefish prepared with regional flair and fresh-from-the-lake quality.
- The Belvedere Grand – Curtis: Enjoy fresh whitefish in salads, tacos and baked.
- Brownstone Inn – Au Train: Highlights include Dennis & Paul's Whitefish Chowder and Lake Fish Basket.
- Cap'n Ron's Fish 'N' Chips – Munising: Fish baskets, sandwiches and smoked fish dip.
- Four Suns Fish & Chips – Hancock: Whitefish prepared in a variety of ways, fried, baked, tacos, sandwiches and chowder.
- Freshwater Tavern – Gladstone: Savor an upscale whitefish sandwich or herb-crusted and pan-seared with mushrooms, spinach and leeks. Your choice also comes with a view of the Little Bay de Noc.
- Moofinfries – Naubinway: A new hotspot for fried local whitefish.
- The Vierling Restaurant – Marquette: A variety of sumptuous Lake Superior whitefish dishes.
Check the appetizer menus, too, for smoked whitefish dip or local fish markets and delis to purchase a tub. It makes a delicious addition to any picnic or charcuterie board.
Cudighi
This spicy Italian sausage originated in northern Italy, but many claim it’s an Ishpeming original. Check out these spots for the best cudighi.
- Congress Pizza – Ishpeming: Truly unique thin crispy crust, fresh homemade sauce and 100% mozzarella cheese all brick-oven baked.
- Crossroads Restaurant – Marquette: One of the fan favorites on their expansive menu.
- Lawry's Pasty Shop – Ishpeming: In addition to their well-loved pasties, this local favorite is known for its popular cudighi. Be sure to try it “with the works.”
- Tino’s Bar & Pizza – Negaunee: Home of the world-famous Italian sausage cudighi made from a secret family recipe. A local favorite for generations!
Trenary Toast
This twice-baked Swedish-inspired coffee bread, known as Trenary Toast has been a U.P. favorite since 1928. Choose from a variety of flavors from plain to cinnamon to cardamon to vanilla or get a sampler pack. Dip it in a hot beverage or slather with a creamy topping such as butter or your favorite nut butter. All Trenary Toast comes in a brown bag and will keep for a year! Buy it right off the shelves at one of hundreds of locations in the U.P. and beyond.
Smoked Fish & Jerky
Smoked fish and jerky are long-standing traditions in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. These local favorites are made using time-honored methods — fresh-caught whitefish, trout and salmon, slowly smoked for deep, rich flavor. If you’re looking to taste the best in the U.P., arrive hungry at these standout spots:
- Gustafson’s Smoked Fish – Moran: Family-run and full of flavor, this shop delivers some of the U.P.’s finest smoked selections.
- King’s Fish Market – Moran: A hidden gem offering expertly smoked fish and regional specialties with a loyal local following.
- Manley’s Fish Market – St. Ignace: This is a go-to for travelers heading across the Mackinac Bridge. It offers a wide selection of tasty smoked fish and handcrafted jerky.
- Peterson’s Fish Market – Hancock: A favorite in the Keweenaw Peninsula, known for high-quality smoked fish and fresh local catches.
- Thill’s Fish House – Marquette: A classic harbor-side shop with freshly smoked Lake Superior whitefish right off the docks.
Craft Beers
You can’t talk about U.P. food without mentioning craft beer. After all, Michigan is one of the hottest brewery tour destinations in America and you’ll find that beer tastes better UP here!
Increasingly Diverse Dining Options
The Upper Peninsula’s dining scene is becoming increasingly diverse, with new restaurants offering international cuisine alongside long-loved regional staples. In Houghton, Suomi Home Bakery & Restaurant serves traditional Finnish dishes rooted in the area’s heritage. Marquette offers a wide range of global flavors with Rice Paddy specializing in Thai takeout, Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery highlighting Louisiana-style fare & cocktails and El Santo Tacos & Tequila delivering vibrant Mexican street fare. On Drummond Island, Esther’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine offers handmade, family-style dishes. In Escanaba, Swedish Pantry provides a menu full of Swedish classics and Kingston Kitchen in both St. Ignace and on Mackinac Island brings bold Caribbean flavors to the table.
Start planning now!
Which of these U.P. foods are you most curious to try first? Customize your own “Taste of the U.P.” itinerary and map out every bite you want to experience. Be sure to book your hotel in advance, especially during peak seasons. Many lodging options feature on-site restaurants with menus you won’t want to miss. Otherwise, ask for their local food recommendations when you check-in.
While you’re at it, research nearby historic sites, museums, scenic drives and iconic attractions to fill in the time between meals. With a little planning, your trip will be full of flavor, culture and unforgettable Upper Peninsula moments — both on the trail and at the table.