I first discovered craft beer while I was attending CMU and have never really looked back since. Everything from the raw materials, fermentation process, packaging and flavor profile of the products is a wonderful blend of artistry and science. This took me on a hard dive into a career in the Michigan craft brewing industry, which is still one of the greatest beer states in the U.S. One of my best personal experiences led me to an unassuming town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and to an establishment that I soon found is second to none, not just in Michigan, but possibly anywhere in the United States, or perhaps the world. The establishment is called the Fitzgerald’s Restaurant or simply “The Fitz.” The food is incredible, the beer list was one I didn’t think I’d find anywhere, let alone in the Keweenaw Peninsula, and the landscape is picturesque. Their deck extends onto the beaches of Lake Superior and is surrounded by the beauty of the wooded landscape. Sitting out there, having a couple rare European beers and a 5-year vertical of Bourbon County Brand Stout (back when it was even more rare) was absolutely incredible. The food matched perfectly, and I would say it didn’t disappoint, except that I didn’t have the expectation of being blown away by the cuisine, but I was. It exceeded expectations by a large margin and was absolutely exceptional. All in all, I believe The Fitz to be a superb establishment, not just for the U.P, but for anywhere food and drink is celebrated. A must stop if you ever find yourself in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
-Sawyer Stevens