The arrival of fall food invites us all to indulge in the coziest dishes, crisp apples, and steaming mugs of cider. After the rush of summer, fall returns to slow us down, settle us in, and stop to enjoy the scenery and savor seasonal tastes. Ann Arbor makes it easy to do this, with strong connections to local agriculture and chef-driven creativity throughout the town. Here’s how we’d plan a food-forward weekend trip.
Pro Tip: Check the Ann Arbor events calendar for upcoming food festivals and align your trip. It's a great way to jump right into Ann Arbor’s food scene.
Start Friday with a Local Food Icon
When you arrive, don’t waste any time and make your pilgrimage to Zingerman’s Deli. Step in and enjoy samples of bread, cured meats, cheese, and desserts, picking up something unique to your palate amongst the endless mouthwatering options. Don’t leave until you’ve ordered the city’s signature sandwich, the Zingerman’s Reuben: a true work of art.
Still hungry? Check out Agricole Farm Stop. Farm stops offer local producers more return for your purchase, so pick up some fresh apples or a seasonal snack to munch on throughout the day. On your way back in, pop into Social Vines, a new local winery and vineyard, to sample the local terroir.
Saturdays are for Cider (and Treats)
First up, head to RoosRoast to prepare you for a marathon day of deliciousness. With two convenient locations in the area, it’s easy to grab a local cup of joe; we’d recommend their popular ‘Lobster Butter Love’ roast. Now that you’re caffeinated, pop over to White Lotus Farms Cafe to continue the breakfast experience. Sourcing products from their farm just two miles down the road, the cafe features sweet and savory breakfast dishes and a plentiful pastry selection that truly shines. Whether you sit down for an omelette or pick up a famous seasonal croissant, you’ll be caffeinated, fed, and ready for what’s next.
What is next? Head to Wiard’s Orchards for a classic Ann Arbor agritourism experience: apple picking! With seven generations of family ownership, it’s no surprise that Wiard’s has perfected the best way to create lasting memories with your closest friends and family over food. Once you’ve picked your share of apples, make your way to the Country Store for a fresh apple cider donut or caramel apple to cap your experience. From there, check your watch and see how many more stops you can make on the Cider and Treats Trail: do you think you can fit in the ten other stops?
When it’s time for dinner, book ahead for reservation-only dinner service at Spencer, an intimate wine bar with a prix-fixe menu that showcases seasonal sourcing with artful dishes. Expect unique ingredients alongside comforting fall selections - and to be delighted with every course that comes your way. When dinner is complete, take a walk around the corner to Bløm Mead + Cider for a Pear Ginger Cider, Blueberry Maple Mead, or whatever’s new on tap. With the light, ‘sessionable’ options offered here, it’s a great way to end the night on a bright note.
Sunday: Brunch, Barns, and Bounty
There’s more to see before heading home! To start, indulge in the weekend brunch options at Dixboro House. This beautiful structure features touches of the original 1880s barn, and is just as impressive as the small plates, pizza, and other dishes offered for a slow, delicious morning. If in a hurry, The Boro just next door is a storefront serving coffee and pastries, and will serve up a more quick-service experience with the same level of quality.
Take the long way back into town to check out the good work at Growing Hope in Ypsilanti. With extensive programming, one of their goals is to offer tools and education so everyone can grow, prepare, and eat their own food. Their sharing garden exists to feed anyone in the community. Inspired? Consider reaching out for volunteer opportunities.
Before leaving town, stop in at one of the three Argus Farm Stop locations to do your Sunday shopping, all while supporting a multitude of local farms and food businesses. With an impressive array of produce options, cheese, proteins, dry goods, and local beverages, Ann Arbor will continue to be a part of your meal plan, even after your foodie weekend escapades.
So what are you waiting for? Find incredible fall flavor in Ann Arbor - and start here!
Ready to explore more farms and farmstops in Michigan? Browse the Local Food and Farms Directory for something delicious grown near you.
