Spring and Porter

Often I find myself trying to one up my past culinary treks with something new and exciting. I tend to gravitate to places based and meaningful reviews and or friend's advice. This time I used our friends recommendation. There's a common theme among good eats and to me that's a spartan menu. It makes sense if you think about it. Focusing on making a few things really well vs. making many things good is a better route IMHO. Spring & Porter isn't located in a particular trendy or fancy location, yet the offerings will treat your senses. The interior is well executed, but not overkill in luxury. I wanted to treat my wife to something special for her birthday. The menu selection was wide enough including land and water based proteins. I'm not a food critic by any means, yet I've been fortunate to experience Michelin level eateries and I thoroughly enjoy taking food focused trips sampling everything from roadside Tuk-Tuk kitchens to linen cloth tables with suit clad server restaurants. I found S&P to straddle the line between higher end chains like Ruth's Chris Steak House & Michelin 1 star contenders. I tried their venison steak and sampled my wife's Halibut. I was quite pleased with the attention to detail and subtle taste nuance extracted with precision prep. With our 8 year old in tow it was a little more challenging to get the full experience. The selection of deserts and appetizers was nice as well. Expect higher than average prices, but also prepare for something made with heart. The next time we're up north I'll try and to go again. I recommend trying this place.

We had a lovely evening for our anniversary. The staff treated us like friends. Our server offered to show us the wine cellar. The food was excellent. I love the atmosphere and cozy vibes. It was a great way to celebrate our four years together

This place is a vibe! Totally great for date night! Loved the salmon dish and the bread was delightful! High chairs are available for kids. Mocktails were top notch!

My first time there! The beef tenderloin was perfectly cooked! I’ve never had such perfect steak before! And the pumpkin cheesecake with apple cider drizzle...oh my gosh! The food is just amazing! The chefs did a fantastic job! Service was great! Everything came out in a timely manner! Highly recommend this place!

The food was excellent. The wedge salad had an added level of taste with the beets. The food came out warm and well flavored. There was a little wait between courses.

Everything about our anniversary meal was beyond expectations. Waiter was energetic informative and attentive. Every course was delightful and special. Wine specials were excellent. We will be back again for a special night out. Thank you for making our anniversary meal one to remember.

The meals were almost balanced perfectly which is a rare find in northern Michigan. The meal and experience overall was lovely. I came on a rather busy night with a reservation and was sat on time food and drinks came out relatively fast. My only complaint would be their side portions I understand it is a fine dining experience and portions are usually small, but in my opinion the protein portion to the starch and veg was a little off. All in all I would recommend a visit it’s a lovely establishment with great staff!

Everything we had was great, and the service was excellent. The menu is the perfect size and offers something for everyone We shared a seasonal spring greens salad and it was perfectly dressed, citrus-forward, and light - we thought about placing another order it was that good. My medium-rare beef tenderloin was seared well, and pink/red inside and cut like butter. The bordelaise-stle house sauce was rich and brought out the flavor of the steak. Sides were also excellent, fresh zucchini, mushroom, and peppers and a light mashed potato. My strawberry tiramisu was full of strawberries and soft/sweet mascarpone, and crunchy lady's finders sponge cookies. Another highpoint to an outstanding meal. Very friendly and attentive service, well-stocked bar, hushed restaurant (all quietly enjoying the company and the food) Recommended.