Mealtickets News Archives | Page 2 of 2 | Traverse Traveler

Welcome Murdick’s Fudge Shoppe

Mealtickets Family Grows to Include Local Fudge Favorites

Have you ever seen molten chocolate cooked in a copper kettle, turned out on a marble slab and worked gently until it becomes rich creamy fudge? If not, we have the perfect place for you to watch it made. Murdick’s Fudge Shoppe, located in downtown Suttons Bay and Fishtown in Leland will welcome you with an open door and fabulous smells. Their recipes have been in the Murdick Family since the late 1800’s. Taste and you’ll see why it’s the best fudge in town.

Check out their Downtown Suttons Bay location, open February – December, and in Fishtown Leland from April – October. Shop online anytime at www.murdicksfudgeshoppe.com.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-06T15:55:26-05:00February 11th, 2009|Attractions, Leelanau, Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Welcome Knot Just a Bar

Omena Waterfront Restaurant Joins Mealtickets Family

Mealtickets is proud to welcome Knot Just a Bar to our display of card advertisers. Their beautiful views and casual family atmosphere make it a perfect choice for area visitors and locals alike. Located in the same building as Leelanau Wine Cellars the restaurant is an easy drive-to destination for a great meal, and possibly some wine tasting next door.

Their menu is filled with comfortable classics and Northern Michigan cuisine. But don’t let their stunning location fool you, the prices don’t reflect the view. Instead you’ll find a huge copper bar, complete with over 69 beers and a TV for watching the game. I often make a point to stop here on my way back from Northport in the summer to grab a lunch out on their deck overlooking Grand Traverse Bay.

So next time you’re taking a drive on M-22 on the Leelanau Peninsula, make sure to stop by Knot Just a Bar. On the weekends you’ll even be treated to some live entertainment, so sit back and enjoy. You can find more information about Knot Just a Bar on our Dining & Wineries page, or check out their website at www.knotjustabar.com.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-06T16:05:47-05:00January 27th, 2009|Leelanau, Mealtickets News, Restaurants|0 Comments

Welcome Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars

Unique Downtown Tasting Shop Joins Mealtickets Family

If you’ve yet to wander down the streets of Downtown Traverse City and wonder what “Fustini’s” is all about, then now is the time to discover it. A hidden gem, located on E Front Street between Cass and Union, Fustini’s window always proudly displays their namesake, large stainless steel Fustini’s filled with imported Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar infusions.

So, what’s all the fuss about? Come in and try for yourself. Fustini’s offers free tasting’s for their imported oils and vinegars, allowing you to create a blend that suits your tastes or cooking preferences. Personally I can’t resist a fresh baguette drizzled with Meyer Lemon Olive Oil and the 18 Year Aged Balsamic Vinegar. But that’s the beauty of this place….to each his own.

With extra virgin olive oil flavors like Persian Lime and Tangerine, and Balsamics infused with Oregano or Pomegranate, the resulting mixtures are sure to liven up your meals. Their products are tasted and bottled on site and can be shipped directly from the store.

Next time you’re looking for a unique hostess gift, or a great way to jazz up a marinade or salad dressing, stop by Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars. You’ll find their cards in our hotel displays, or check out our Attractions page for details including a map for their downtown Traverse City location. For more information, or to order their products online, check out their website at www.fustinis.com.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-06T16:07:28-05:00January 27th, 2009|Attractions, Mealtickets News, Traverse City|0 Comments

Welcome Leelanau Sands Casino

Leelanau Sands Casino Joins Mealtickets Family

Known to the locals by their location, Peshawbestown, the Leelanau Sands Casino is now a part of the Mealtickets & Unusual Ideas family of advertisers. Owned and operated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians the casino is the center of a thriving Native American culture on the Leelanau Peninsula.

The casino offers over 400 slot machines, tables games including poker and blackjack, roulette and craps, and even virtual machines. With live entertainment in the lounge and Bingo there’s always something happening at The Sands.

And when you get hungry be sure to stop by the Double Eagle Restaurant. Their buffet is sure to please, with delicious salmon, beef tenderloin and the new All-You-Can-Eat soup and salad bar. Make sure to save room for dessert!

For more information and a map to their location check out our Attractions page.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-06T16:30:20-05:00November 20th, 2008|Attractions, Check This Out, Leelanau, Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Welcome Turtle Creek Casino

Traverse City Casino Joins Mealtickets Family

The Turtle Creek Casino, located on M-72 just east of Traverse City, is the newest advertiser to join our little card display. Their new state-of-the-art casino features all the gaming you could wish for, along with fabulous dining and entertainment options.

Bourbon 72 offers a casual dining experience with first class treatment. Dishes from Marinated Beef to Seafood are highlighted with Bourbons of all sorts. Reservations are not required, but if you have a large group they are recommended.

Turtle Creek is also home to the area’s newest nightclub, Level 3 Lounge. Dance the night away every weekend from 8pm – 2am. And when the weather’s warm check out their outdoor party deck.

For more information on Turtle Creek Casino and a map to their location check out our Attractions page.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-06T16:32:28-05:00November 20th, 2008|Attractions, Check This Out, Mealtickets News, Traverse City|0 Comments

Welcome Radish Restaurant

New Restaurant in Olde Town Joins Mealtickets Family

Salad lovers rejoice, there is a new place in town where you can get exactly what you want. Located in Olde Town Traverse City, on Union Street is a stylish new restaurant for the green at heart. With homemade soups daily and sweet treats too it’s a great stop for a grab-and-go lunch. The 60+ item salad bar is pay-by-the-pound and full of crispy fresh greens, veggies, fruits, beans, nuts and meats too. Their dressings are homemade as well.

For more info on the Radish restaurant and a map to their location check out our Dining page.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T11:48:10-05:00July 16th, 2008|Mealtickets News, Restaurants, Traverse City|0 Comments

Welcome Mistwood Golf Course

Lake Ann Golf Course Joins Mealtickets Family

If you’re a golfer and you haven’t taken the scenic drive to the village of Lake Ann for a round at Mistwood, perhaps it’s time you did. Rated “4 stars” by Golf Digest Magazine, and voted “Best Pro Am” by Northern Michigan PGA, Mistwood is known for it’s affordable championship golf.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the game, or just learning, Mistwood has something for everyone. And their par 3 “little nine” is a great way to get started. After a round be sure to enjoy lunch or dinner at the Sunset Bar & Grill. Sip a cold one on the deck overlooking the beauty of Northern Michigan and you’ll be glad you found this diamond in the….middle of Lake Ann.

For more information about Mistwood Golf Course, including a map to their off-the-beaten-path location check out their card on our Attractions page. And for all the details, or to book a tee time, check out their website here.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T11:50:29-05:00July 14th, 2008|Attractions, Benzie, Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Mealtickets Displays Visit Oklahoma

Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth Requests Meal Tickets Displays for Conference in Oklahoma City.

In June 2009 Traverse City will host the Mid-America Regulatory Conference at the Grand Traverse Resort. The conference is held each year, but the location always changes. The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth will present the conference next year and is responsible for it’s promotion. During a visit to Traverse City when scouting locations they discovered the Meal Tickets displays were a great resource for local information, and gave us a call.

The 2008 conference began this week in Oklahoma City. The Michigan DLEG is there along with 300 – 400 other guests from 15 other member states. We sent along with them displays and cards for promoting the Traverse Area to next year’s conference attendees. “I think (mealtickets) will give everyone an idea as to what is in the area and they can begin to collect the cards for the places that may interest them,” said DLEG organizer, Brenda Lampman.

Next year, when the conference rolls into Traverse City attendees will be prepared with dozens of ideas on where to go and what to do while there in town. And if they don’t remember to bring their cards, we’ll have a fresh display waiting at the conference here too.

Mealtickets cards are a great way to promote the area for upcoming events, conferences, family reunions, weddings and any other occasion which brings out-of-town guests into the Traverse Area. If you are interested in utilizing cards for your upcoming event please email Brandy Wheeler or call 231.275.6105.

The MARC is a regional organization of utility and energy regulatory agencies, in operation since 1956, with members from 15 states. They gather to discuss regulatory and policy issues affecting their states and the nation. For more information on their organization visit their website here.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T12:15:07-05:00June 16th, 2008|Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Thanks and Recognition

The launch of our new website has been exciting and chaotic. We’ve been busy welcoming many new clients this spring, with more on the way. In the midst of this activity I want to be sure to extend a few Thank You’s to some very important people, without whom these changes wouldn’t be possible.

Ray, Weigal, Traverse City Web Design

I contacted Ray with some big goals, and a fairly short timeframe. We wanted to redesign the website to allow total access on our end, include a photo gallery, blog and much more content. He worked with us through many, many changes. And we’re very happy with the results. If you’re looking for a web design firm, I recommend them highly. Thank you Ray!

Tammie Vogler, Concierge Collection

Tammie has been a valued friend and mentor since beginning this business in 2001. We continue to print our cards together, which helps keep costs low for all of our clients. She’s an important part of Our History and I want to thank Tammie for all the advice, support and friendship through the years.

Staton & Carol Lorenz

My parents, Staton & Carol, have been integral in the success of this business. Staton discovered the cards, and has recently hit the streets in a sales capacity, after retiring from his motorcycle career. As a mother of two very busy toddlers I wouldn’t be free to get my job done if it weren’t for Carol, super grandma, who takes the boys on a regular basis. I’m grateful for their support and encouragement.

Thanks everyone, including those friends, family and businesses whom I haven’t mentioned by name. And now…on with the show!

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T12:42:17-05:00May 15th, 2008|Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Welcome Wilderness Crossings

Mealtickets is proud to welcome Wilderness Crossings to our little card family. If you haven’t heard the buzz about Traverse City’s newest attraction, then let us be the first to fill you in. Located near Chums Corners, on US 31 is 34,000 square feet of family fun. There is so much to do at Wilderness Crossing you’ll need to plan on plenty of time to explore.

The fun begins with 16 lanes of state-of-the-art bowling, an arcade, laser tag and cosmic golf. While they do have a snack bar service, there is also a full-service restaurant and sports bar know as the Wild Pony Lounge. And believe it or not, the entire facility is 100% smoke free.

Parents, bring the kids and let them explore while you enjoy a relaxing meal in the restaurant. Or bring in a group for a birthday party or corporate event. They even offer the option of private bowling lanes, a conference and banquet room for meetings and events.

For more information on Wilderness Crossings, including our custom map to their location, check out the card on our Attractions page. To get all the details you can visit their website here. But most importantly, stop in and check it out!

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T14:19:37-05:00May 15th, 2008|Attractions, Mealtickets News, Traverse City|0 Comments

Welcome The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Mealtickets is proud to welcome The Village at Grand Traverse Commons to our family of advertisers. If you always driven past the big stone pyramid at the corner of Division and 11th Street, but you’ve never ventured in, now is a great time. The redevelopment of the former State Hospital grounds has uncovered a treasure just waiting to be discovered.

Sometimes known as Traverse City’s Central Park, The Village is one of the largest historical rehabilitation sites in the country. Dozens of businesses have already opened, with more on the way. You could spend the day, or a few hours, it’s up to you. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping, a wine tasting, dining or just a stroll through the grounds, The Village is the place to go. And with new businesses opening all the time, as well as concerts, events, and even a farmers market, there will always be something new to discover.

For more information on The Village check out their card on our Attractions page. The visit their website click here. We’ll do our best to keep you posted on what develops right here on the blog.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T14:24:25-05:00May 13th, 2008|Attractions, Mealtickets News, Traverse City|0 Comments

Welcome Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre

We are proud to welcome the Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre into our family of card advertisers. When it comes to Unusual Ideas there’s no comparison to the nostalgic experience of a drive-in movie. The Cherry Bowl, located on US 31 in Honor, has been in operation every summer since 1953. Families line up by the car load waiting for the gates to open because they know it’s not just about the movies. There’s so much to enjoy at the Cherry Bowl.

Come early to pick your spot. The kids will quickly discover the 50s style mini-golf and the playground complete with slides, sandbox and the old-fashioned favorite: concrete tube. If you missed dinner, or are ready for a snack you’re in good hands. The diner serves every appetite, from broasted chicken or BBQ ribs to hot dogs, popcorn and ice cream. There’s also shopping next door at the Cherry Bowl Gifts and Goodies that you won’t want to miss.

Every night is a double feature, and every movie is family friendly. For more information on the Cherry Bowl check out their new card on our Attractions page, or click here to visit their website. Their feature information hotline is 231.325.3413. We’ll be posting the current movies on our website so check back here to see what’s playing this weekend.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T14:28:42-05:00May 8th, 2008|Attractions, Benzie, Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Welcome Right Brain Brewery

Meal Tickets & Unusual Ideas is proud to welcome Right Brain Brewery to our family of card display advertisers.

If you haven’t wandered into the warehouse district in downtown Traverse City lately you’ve been missing out on one of TC’s newest hotspots. Right Brain Brewery, located on Garland Street and next door to the Salon Saloon, has become a favorite destination among locals. Expect to find 9 to 15 hand-crafted brews on tap, a comfortable urban atmosphere where the air is free of smoke, and you can bring in your own food.

Whether you’re just passing through and looking for a growler to-go, interested in sampling brews from Traverse City’s only micro-brewery, or ready for a long-term commitment with a membership, Right Brain Brewery is the best place to stop.

Check out their card in our displays, and on our website, located under Attractions. And watch for postings right here to keep you up-to-date.

For more information on Right Brain Brewery, click here to visit their website. Stop in and tell Russell we said Hi!

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T14:37:52-05:00May 5th, 2008|Attractions, Mealtickets News, Traverse City|0 Comments

Russ Cole Named Hotelier of the Year

Our congratulations go out to Russ Cole, general manager of the Best Western Four Seasons Resort in Traverse City for his recent honor as 2008 Hotelier of the Year. The award was presented by the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association at their Driving Tourism 2008 conference in Grand Rapids.

For information on the Best Western Four Seasons Resort check out our Traverse City Lodgings listing or visit their website at traversecitylodgings.com.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-09T14:44:31-05:00May 1st, 2008|Lodging, Mealtickets News, Traverse City|0 Comments

Welcome, Learn Great Foods

This month Meal Tickets & Unusual Ideas is proud to welcome Learn Great Foods to our family of card display advertisers.

Starting in May and running through the fall harvest in October, Learn Great Foods will take you on a culinary adventure through Leelanau County. Tours begin and end at Sweeter Song Farm, a CSA organic farm. From there you will visit two food stops, enjoy a cooking demonstration back at the farm and end with a delicious organic gourmet dinner. Tours are $95 per person.

It’s a great adventure for foodies of all ages, and a fun alternative to sightseeing and wine tours.

Check out their card in our displays, and on our website, located under Attractions. And watch for postings right here regarding tour schedules and availability.

For more information on Learn Great Foods, click here to visit their website.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-10T08:46:10-05:00April 7th, 2008|Attractions, Check This Out, Leelanau, Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Mealtickets Opens the Door to Hotel Advertising on the Web

With the renovation of the website Meal Tickets & Unusual Ideas® will finally offer advertising opportunities to area resorts. The unique card displays have always featured restaurants, activities and destinations in an effort to provide visitors with a great selection when they arrive in the area. But what about when they are planning their trip? One of the goals for the new website is to provide potential Traverse Area visitors with information before they arrive. And possibly the first decision they make is where to stay.

The new website provides area hotels, motels, and resorts of all sizes the opportunity to advertise with a banner ad on Mealtickets.com. When placed, an ad will appear on several pages throughout the site, thus increasing the exposure. More than 70 locations already receive advertising exposure on the website within the lodging listing. The banner ads will increase their visibilty and allow for the promotion of seasonal packages or special rates.

For more information on advertising with Meal Tickets & Unusual Ideas® visit the Advertise with Us page or call 231.275.6105.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-10T08:54:29-05:00March 10th, 2008|Lodging, Mealtickets News, Services|0 Comments

Welcome, and Stay Tuned

The Meal Tickets & Unusual Ideas® website is evolving into an interactive resource for Traverse Area visitors. Our newly designed site now features news updates in blog format, which will also be available by RSS feed. This is our way of bridging the gap between the local businesses, area hotels and the visitors who wish to learn more about them. We hope you stop by often to see what’s new with your favorite restaurants, attractions and activities in the Traverse City region.

By Brandy Wheeler|2020-01-10T08:58:35-05:00February 20th, 2008|Mealtickets News|0 Comments