I had driven by this place since I came to live about 35 miles north of Elk Rapids. Located on US 31S, the Inn is the on the way to Traverse City from where I live. It's open from 7AM-8PM and serves down-to-earth homestyle American food. Breakfast ... more

I had driven by this place since I came to live about 35 miles north of Elk Rapids. Located on US 31S, the Inn is the on the way to Traverse City from where I live. It's open from 7AM-8PM and serves down-to-earth homestyle American food. Breakfast is served until 11AM, but can be ordered afterwards for an extra 75 cents. Smokers and non-smokers are placed in separate rooms and it works well. The 100-year-old building is very spacious and filled with local decor. I sat in a booth next to a photo of the Elk Rapids HS graduating class of 1898! The waitress that day was very friendly and efficient and gave good recommendations as to portion size and preparation time. The Inn serves lunch and dinner specials; those portions are HUGE. I had a very good Club sandwich which really hit the spot while my husband feasted on the liver & onion special. We were both very pleased. The piece de resistance here, however, is the homemade soup. I am NOT a soup lover by nature, but was tempted by the broccoli and cheese, offered in a cup or a bowl. WOW. It was tremendous. Just the right consistency, and very filling. My husband was pretty impressed, too. To my surprise, the coffee was Columbian and freshly brewed --- and pretty good! I had three cups! The meal for the two of us came to approximately $18 with tax (tip not included). Considering how much we inhaled that afternoon, it was money very well spent. The best time to come here is in the off-season when it's not crowded with tourists. We got to meet some very nice locals and had a pleasing little chat. A good time was enjoyed by all. less