“Southwest Michigan has a wonderful array of gastronomic delicacies, but probably none are more universally popular than its French fries. From crispy golden shoestrings to thick, steak-cut beauties, the region has a tempting range that would gratify any fry lover.
Whether coupled with a gourmet burger or consumed on its own, these top five restaurants elevate the basic fry to an art form. Each venue adds its distinct flavor to the table, from inventive seasonings to locally sourced potatoes, creating a delectable experience with each bite.
Join us on a savory adventure through Southwest Michigan to discover the top candidates for the title of finest French fries, where flavor and quality reign supreme.”
1. Harbor House Trading Co. – New Buffalo
Harbor House Trading Co., located in the center of New Buffalo, sets the standard for hand-cut French fries. These fries, fresh from local farms, demonstrate the region’s commitment to high-quality food. Crispy on the exterior and fluffy on the inside, they’re wonderfully seasoned with a dash of sea salt, bringing back memories of lazy beach days and refreshing lake breezes. When combined with their signature dipping sauces, such as truffle aioli or tangy BBQ, each mouthful is a symphony of tastes that leaves customers wanting more.
2. Brewster’s Italian Cafe, Paw Paw
Brewster’s Italian Cafe, located in the charming village of Paw Paw, is a hidden gem noted for its substantial Italian cuisine and exceptional French fries. These fries are a labor of love, hand-cut each day from locally sourced potatoes and fried to golden perfection. What distinguishes them is their powerful flavor blend, which includes garlic, rosemary, and a hint of Parmesan cheese. Served hot and crispy, they wonderfully compliment Brewster’s famous sandwiches and pasta dishes, making every meal a delicious experience.
3. The Livery, Benton Harbor
Amidst Benton Harbor’s artistic beauty, The Livery distinguishes out not only for its craft brews but also for its tempting beer-battered fries. These fries combine local brewery innovation and culinary heritage, with a light, crispy batter produced from the brewery’s pale ale. What was the result? Fries that are crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and full of flavor. The Livery’s fries, whether served with a house-made dipping sauce or alongside a burger, demonstrate the inventiveness and excellence that distinguish Southwest Michigan’s culinary scene.
4. Clementine’s Too – South Haven
Clementine’s Too, which overlooks the bustling port in South Haven, has long been a local favorite, known for its waterfront views and outstanding fries. What’s their secret? Thick-cut fries are cooked to a beautiful golden brown and seasoned with a special blend of spices that accentuate the natural potato flavor. Whether served as a side dish or alongside one of their famed seafood platters, Clementine’s Too fries are a comforting pleasure that keeps customers returning for more.
5. Food Dance – Kalamazoo
Food Dance, located in the heart of Kalamazoo, promotes the farm-to-table ethos with a twist, serving farm-fresh ingredients in unique meals such as their signature French fries. These fries are a gastronomic marvel, created with locally farmed potatoes that have been hand-cut and fried to crispy perfection. What distinguishes them is their dedication to sustainability and flavor; each batch is seasoned with herbs and spices acquired from local farms, which enhance the fries’ natural sweetness. These fries served with one of Food Dance’s artisan sandwiches or on their own with a variety of house-made sauces, capture the essence of Southwest Michigan’s lively food culture.
Summary
To summarize, Southwest Michigan’s diverse culinary landscape provides a tempting selection of French fries, ranging from crispy shoestrings to meaty steak cuts, each reflecting local flavors and a commitment to excellence. These top five restaurants elevate the humble fry to an art form, delivering a tasty and memorable dining experience with each bite.