5 Foods to Try in Lansing Michigan
There's a lot that can be said about Lansing Michigan, it's the capital of the state, it's growing neighborhoods have a lot to offer, the MSU campus is gorgeous, etc. But I never would have expected it to be such a foodie town! Spending a few days sampling some of the Midwest's finest, here are 5 foods I highly recommend if you're ever in the area.
1. Donuts from Glazed and Confused
I love all sweets and it's hard for me to find a donut I don't like but there is something incredibly special about downtown's Glazed and Confused bakery; and it's the quality and love that goes into making them. Pete Counsellor opened the bakery after an injury ended his career as a fireman and he decided to put his culinary talents to use. So what does he do that sets his donuts apart? He makes everything from scratch...and I mean EVERYTHING! I pointed out the incredible looking apple fritters to which he said "we cut the apples up every night for those." A chocolate long john, seems pretty basic right? Not when instead of chocolate sauce, they order blocks of pure chocolate ganache for the glazing. They even offer yeast and cake donuts. In the two years they've been open, they've already expanded to an East Lansing location as well as a breakfast and lunch menu. After sampling many different donuts and some ridiculously good coffee, I've come to the conclusion that Glazed and Confused can do no wrong.
2. Meat Southern BBQ & Carnivore Cuisine
As soon as I heard that Guy Fieri featured this place on Diners, Drive-In’s and Dives, I knew it was going to be awesome. Again, there’s a reason I’m not a food host and that’s that I like everything! But this place is a step above the rest! They slow smoke the meats for hours and you can taste it. The flavor is so incredibly rich in each dish. Not to mention the homemade sides of Pickle Fries, BBQ pit beans, and of course the made-to-order Mac-N-Cheese. Throw in some local beer and the rocker decor vibe, and this place is a slice of meat heaven!
3. Lansing Brewing Company
Along with food, there’s very few beers I’ve met that I haven’t like. But Lansing Brewing Company surprised me with not only it’s incredible beers, but also it’s delicious food! This was one of the last stops we made and every other place, when we mentioned we’d be coming here, said “Oooh, good choice!” They were right! IPA Cheese Bombs combined with Sambal Aioli, Angry Mayor IPA Fish and Chips, and of course the “Ma’ The Meatloaf” (Any food that quotes a dumb comedy is a winner in my book!) As one of the oldest breweries in Lansing originally dating back to 1897, the brewery embraces it’s history and the capital city and is full of unique decor and throwback murals. The Stockhouse is an awesome back room full of kegs, another bar, and of course, plenty of beer. Throw in the amazing brews and a hip patio and this place is awesome!
4. Ice Cream From the MSU Dairy Store
You want farm-to-table? How about cow-to-mouth! The MSU Dairy Store is as close as it gets! Michigan State University is well known for their College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the dairy store utilizes the program by making all of their own products right here on campus. With a viewing area to watch, students, interns, and professionals make cheese and ice cream right before your eyes. Up in the store, they offer samples, and hefty portions to satisfy your taste buds.
5. Uncle John’s Cider Mill
Wait, MORE donuts?!? Yup! Uncle John’s Cider Mill is an autumn staple in the Lansing area. About 45 minutes away in St. John’s, this fully-functional cider mill presses their own fresh apple cider, bakes incredible donuts, and even has a winery! With a pumpkin patch, games for the kids, and alcohol for the adults, Uncle John’s is perfect for all ages. The donuts here melt in your mouth and the bakery is full of pies, cookies, jams and more. Apparently Michigan and donuts go hand in hand!
I've traveled to cities of all sizes and every one is unique and has their own tasty treats to offer, but Lansing exceeded my expectations with delicious, after delicious, foods! Everywhere we went was incredible! I kept thinking, we have a lot of food places to hit so I'll just take a few bites of each thing...cut to 5lbs later and a very satisfied belly, I have no regrets! If you're looking for some amazing treats, Lansing is the place to go!
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