Small Town, Big Taste: Michigan Drive-In Favorites

There are many names for small-town restaurant gems in Michigan. Recently, Michiganders picked their favorite drive-ins worth the trip.

I will share a link to this conversation where you can learn more or add your favorite to the list.

Drive-In Restaurants

Drive-in restaurants are scattered across Michigan. A small-town drive-in restaurant is a type of eatery where customers can order and receive food while remaining in their vehicles.

You may have seen these old carhop service restaurants in a TV show or movie, with waitresses on roller skates serving customers in their cars. The waitress puts a food tray on your window and takes your order.  These establishments serve classic American comfort food like burgers, hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes.

Read More: Michigan Sloppy Joe Goes Viral With French Tourist

I grew up at the tail end of the era of places like the old A&W restaurants, but there are still some hidden classics left in Michigan.

Michigan's Small-Town Drive-Ins Serve Big Flavor

Recently, a post was made on the Michigan Reddit page asking Michiganders to share their favorite small-town drive-in restaurant gems. Below are some of Michigan's favorite hidden gems.

Next time I get to Traverse City, I will make a stop at Don's.

Several posters commented on the Hi-Lite, and that is much closer than Traverse City.

I don't think I have ever been to Cheboygan, but I may have to stop by the next time I drive to the Mackinac Bridge

I originally posted about Clyde’s in St. Ignace and the response. That bison burger and whitefish sandwich sound like two great reasons to make the trip.

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If you have a hidden gem you would like to share, click here.

👇BELOW: 4 Iconic Drive-In Diners to Visit Across SW Michigan👇