In 1958, Chef Clarence Tuma and his business partner Norm LaBelle opened Embers Restaurant in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Advertised as a fine dining experience noted for its excellent service, the restaurant was located on the route between Mackinac and Lansing and attracted the attention of motorists. However, its food made Embers famous nationwide. In particular, Tuma’s One-Pound Pork Chop became its signature entre. As Tuma cooked this meat to perfection, while still preserving its tenderness, and mastered the art of presentation as a means of increasing demand, the meal became a bestseller and prompted Farm Journal to feature the restaurant as a major buyer of pork. After nearly 50 years of service, Embers closed in 2007.
