10 Michigan-Made Foods You Have to Try

Mike Around Michigan

Michigan is famous for its stunning Great Lakes, cozy small towns, and rich automotive history—but did you know it’s also a foodie paradise? From iconic sweet treats to hearty classics, Michigan has given us some incredible culinary creations. Whether you’re a lifelong Michigander or just visiting, here are 10 Michigan-made foods you absolutely have to try!

1. Mackinac Island Fudge

A Sweet Legend

If you’ve been to Mackinac Island, you know that fudge is more than just a treat—it’s a tradition. Shops on this charming, car-free island have been perfecting their fudge recipes for over a century. The smooth, rich texture and mouth-watering flavors make it impossible to leave without a box.

Where to Try It:

Pro Tip: Don’t stop at chocolate—flavors like maple walnut and peanut butter chocolate are just as delicious!

2. Detroit-Style Pizza

Thick, Cheesy, and Crispy

Detroit-style pizza is a rectangular masterpiece with a thick, chewy crust that’s crispy on the edges. Born in Detroit in the 1940s, it’s topped with Wisconsin brick cheese and finished with sauce on top. This unique pizza style has gained national fame—and for good reason.

What Makes It Special?

  • Rectangular pan = crispy edges
  • Cheese baked to perfection
  • Sauce added last for a punch of flavor

Where to Try It: Buddy’s Pizza—the OG Detroit-style pizza joint.

3. Coney Dogs

A Michigan Hot Dog Classic

The iconic Coney dog features a steamed bun, a beef hot dog, savory chili sauce (no beans!), diced onions, and a squiggle of mustard. While many states claim their version of the Coney dog, Detroit has it down to a science.

Fun Fact: The rivalry between American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island in Detroit is legendary. Try both and pick your favorite!

Ingredients at a Glance:

  • Beef hot dog
  • Chili sauce
  • Onions
  • Mustard

4. Traverse City Cherries

Sweet, Tart, and Totally Addictive

Known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” Traverse City produces some of the juiciest, most flavorful cherries around. Whether fresh, dried, or in a pie, Michigan cherries are a must-try.

How to Enjoy Them:

  • Fresh cherries in summer (look for Balaton or Montmorency varieties)
  • Cherry pies
  • Cherry salsa or BBQ sauce
  • Dried cherries for a snack

Best Spot: Check out the National Cherry Festival held annually in Traverse City.

5. Vernors Ginger Ale

The Original Ginger Kick

Vernors isn’t your average ginger ale. Created in Detroit in 1866, it’s bold, spicy, and effervescent with a one-of-a-kind flavor. Many Michiganders swear by it as a cure-all for upset stomachs—or just as a refreshing drink on a hot day.

Best Ways to Enjoy Vernors:

  • Straight from the can
  • As a “Boston Cooler” (Vernors + vanilla ice cream)
  • Mix it into cocktails for a Michigan twist

Where to Find It: Almost everywhere in Michigan, from grocery stores to diners.

6. Pasties

A Yooper Staple

Originally brought to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula by Cornish miners, the pasty (pronounced PASS-tee) is a hearty hand pie filled with beef, potatoes, rutabaga, and onions. It’s the perfect meal for cold Michigan winters.

Quick History: Pasties were portable lunches for miners—easy to carry and satisfying after a hard day’s work.

Where to Try It:

7. Superman Ice Cream

Michigan’s Colorful Treat

If you grew up in Michigan, you know about Superman ice cream. This bright, tri-colored scoop of blue, red, and yellow is often flavored with blue raspberry, cherry, and lemon. It’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.

Fun Fact: Superman ice cream is hard to find outside the Midwest—so get it while you’re here!

Best Places for a Scoop:

8. Michigan Apples

Fresh and Flavorful

Michigan ranks among the top apple-producing states in the country, and its crisp, juicy apples are hard to beat. From Honeycrisp to Gala, you’ll find no shortage of tasty varieties.

Top Ways to Enjoy Michigan Apples:

  • Fresh from the orchard
  • Warm apple cider
  • Apple pie (because, of course)
  • Cider donuts—a fall favorite!

Best Apple Orchards:

9. Kowalski Kielbasa

A Polish Heritage Classic

Michigan’s rich Polish heritage shines through in its kielbasa (Polish sausage). Kowalski Sausage Co., a Detroit favorite since 1920, produces some of the best kielbasa you’ll ever taste—perfect for grilling, stews, or a hearty dinner.

Why It’s a Must-Try:

  • Smoky, garlicky flavor
  • Versatile for any meal
  • A staple at summer barbecues and winter holidays

Where to Buy: Kowalski products can be found at major grocery stores or local markets.

10. Better Made Chips

Crunchy, Salty, and Oh-So Good

Detroit’s Better Made Snack Foods has been a household name since 1930. Known for their extra-crunchy texture and unique flavors, Better Made chips are a must-try snack.

Top Flavors to Taste:

  • Original
  • Red Hot BBQ
  • Salt & Vinegar
  • Sweet BBQ

Fun Fact: Better Made still uses Michigan-grown potatoes for their chips!

Try Michigan’s Best—One Bite at a Time

From sweet fudge on Mackinac Island to hearty pasties in the U.P., Michigan-made foods are as diverse as the state itself. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, savory, or something in between, these local favorites will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

So, what’s first on your list? Grab a Coney dog, sip a Vernors, and don’t forget to pack some fudge for the road—you’re in for a tasty adventure!

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