Michigan House Cafe & Brewpub

A peek inside of the historic Michigan House in downtown Calumet, Michigan. (photo by Ron Caspi)

Calumet, MI – If you’re looking for ambience this is the place. The historic downtown district of Calumet looks as if frozen in time and the Michigan House Cafe & Brewpub honors the rich past of the area in every way. It occupies the street level floor on the corner of 6th and Oak where the building has stood since the late 1800’s.

As your eyes adjust to the dim light upon entering you have the impression you’ve just stepped into a scene from the natural history museum. Antiques depicting the northern lifestyle and previous mining boom of the area line the walls from top to bottom. Old world character emanates from the wooden floorboards, booths, and massive bar which seems to murmur secrets and stories of hardships and fortunes from 100 years past. Just to sit inside and take in the atmosphere is a pleasure and then, there is the food!

A toast to the great craft beers at the Red Jacket Brewing Company in the historic town of Calumet tucked away in the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan. (photo by Ron Caspi)

First off they offer a full bar with a nice wine selection of whites and reds and over 75 different brews including at least 4 varieties of beer from their in-house microbrewery. We sampled their signature Oatmeal Espresso Stout which was one of the best I’ve ever had. For those inexperienced with selecting a style of wine of beer they offer a great beverage menu full with interesting information that gives a basic overview on food pairings for the many varieties they offer.

The food menu features sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, wraps, entrees, and desserts all priced moderately and made with care from quality ingredients. We were delighted with our “Black and Blue Burger” a ½ lb. of fresh grilled Certified Angus Beef served on a three grain bun alongside homemade fries and trimmings. We subbed the fries here to try their “Stout Beef and Kidney Bean Chili” which was rich, smoky, and balanced with just the right amount of heat.

The melt in your mouth tenderness and salty flavor of the ‘Kalua Pig Sandwich’ are sure to please at the Michigan House restaurant in Calumet, Michigan. (photo by Ron Caspi)

After living many years in Hawaii we had to try the  “Kalua Pig Sandwich” and were not disappointed. The slow roasted island style pork with its salty flavor brought back happy memories although, it was just screaming for some grilled onions and sweet pineapple salsa… but never mind, it was delicious on its own.

Finally, we finished off with a slice of cheesecake only it wasn’t a slice, it was a hulking chunk of chocolate bliss! It arrived on a plate looking as if it had been mined from the earth just outside of town but melted into a silky mouthful of rich creme de cocoa and cheesy euphoria. For those who revel in cheesecakes, it’s worth stopping in for and I hear the other desserts on the menu are just as good, I don’t doubt it.

Currently, they also offer two refurbished suites on the second floor to serve as overnight lodging. Both rooms are decorated with historic charm and sleep single or multiple travelers up to 4. Children and well-behaved pets are welcomed. In addition, being located within blocks to snowmobile trails, Swedetown Ski Trails, art galleries, and the historic Calumet Theatre makes it an especially nice getaway destination.

The Michigan House Cafe & Brewpub is a local gem in the Keweenaw area and well worth a stop whether you’re just in the mood for a quick drink, an excellent meal, or a weekend escape.

by marquette_magazine