My Trip to the Upper Midwest

Last week, I came back from a trip to the Upper Midwest (northeastern Wisconsin, and the upper peninsula of Michigan). Before this, I'd never explored the Midwest apart from a couple of quick trips to visit a friend in Duluth (and an even quicker jaunt to Superior from there). I'd loved it there and was excited to return to the region and really explore it.

I stayed on a little chain of lakes right on the Michigan border (see photo of lake above) with Mike and his son at his family's cottage. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing new things, talking to the friendly locals, and especially trying the different foods. Interesting culinary differences: supper clubs, Friday Fish Fry, cheese curds, cheese shops, pasties, huge chocolate-chip pancakes, and butter burgers. (Sad to say that I did not try chocolate cheese or fried cheese curds.) It is a wonder I did not come home 500 pounds heavier, though. The Midwest food is not for the weak of heart!

Instead of writing a travelogue, I think I'll just let the photos tell the stories. (Click to view them larger.)

Cheese shops dot the Wisconsin landscape

Curds and smoked string cheese

Keyes Lake, Florence, WI

Barb's Cafe, Florence, WI

Jean Kay's Pasty Shop

Damian's Pasties

A butter burger from Kroll's in Green Bay, WI (yes, there is butter on that burger!)

Ski jump and and viewing deck

Annie's Trading Post

Pembine Family Restaurant

In Wisconsin, you can get your hash browns *inside* your omelette. Genius.

Friday Fish Fry is popular in Wisconsin (I had the Walleye Fish Fry)

The Tavern on Central, Florence, WI

Kids playing in the barrens

Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI (Go, Packers!)

Steamin' Joe's cinnamon rolls were perhaps the best I've ever had!

Tried two Wisconsin beers, both from New Glarus Brewing, both good!

Gina Marie's Supper Club