Broasted Chicken rules!

I am a big fan of broasted fried chicken and found a good family owned place in Tecumseh called Country House Restaurant. Opened in 1966 this place is still good. Third generation owner keeps the tradition going strong. He even upped the game by adding alcohol and bringing in a local favorite called Dempsey's Pizza. They have charbroiled steaks and all-u-can eat fish fry's on Friday nights. The chicken dinners can be served family style or by the plate. They also have good sandwiches including burgers. Add Saturday specials like corned beef and cabbage or pot roast and a Sunday special of prime rib and you have some very good eating at a comfortable family owned local spot. Pies and cobblers for dessert round out this nice family restaurant. Check out the guide for more details.

New Spanish restaurant in Marshall

This place is right on the main drag in an old building with a high tin ceiling and brick walls. The unique Zarzuela Spanish Restaurant in Marshall will provide a special dining experience to those willing to try something new. Several sandwich, soup and salads for lunch using Spanish recipes and real Spanish ingredients. I had a serrano ham sandwich with 12 month aged manchego sheeps milk cheese. The dinner menu is larger with paella specials nightly. They also have some nice pastas like espagheti carbonara or pasta con gambas. Try the Spanish olives, almonds, cheeses and cured meats. If you like squid or gazpacho sevillano soup...they have it. The liquor license is on its way. Desserts are house made, as are many of their unique offerings. Check out the guide for more details.

Memphis style BBQ downtown

After spending a lot of time in Memphis, Mat Stedman learned to appreciate uncomplicated BBQ. He says "sometimes simpler is better". This place in downtown Jackson is called Mat's Cafe and Catering. You can smell the smokers going where the pulled pork is cooked for 12 hours then served on breads and buns baked in house. Great pulled pork sandwich! Make sure you grab a fork. Order at the counter then prepare to feast. Also known for their famous chicken gumbo. I also really liked the cornbread I got with my sandwich. Nice atmosphere, great food! Check the guide for more details.

Heading to Ann Arbor today?

Since 1911. Check out this historic bar and restaurant in Chelsea. The Wolverine Food & Spirits is a classic bar that also serves good food. Back in 1911 it opened as an all night diner for travelers and truckers using then major highway US 12. In the '60's started serving liquor by the glass and now is known for steaks, burgers and fish. They are especially known for their award winning flat iron steak(Michigan beef contest 2005). Fish specials daily. I had a burger and a bowl of their homemade chili and was impressed. Large menu has something for everyone, so take the whole family. Large screen TV's if you want to watch the game. If you are so inclined they do offer a liverwurst sandwich. Check out the guide for more details. Note: I don't suggest you wear all green if you visit today even though you would match the color of their awning??

Time for cider and donuts

Time for Cider and donuts at many locations throughout southwest and south-central Michigan. Our family tradition includes Crane's in Fennville and Verhage's in Kalamazoo. We have also visited Schultz Fruitridge Farms in Mattawan, Grandpa's in Coloma, Jollay Orchards near Coloma, Wick's Apple House near Sister Lakes and many others. What is better than fresh pressed cider and warm homemade donuts or a peanut covered caramel apple at this time of year. Check the guide under "cider mills" to find lots of great places for the whole family.

Try to find this one!

This place has been hidden away since 1978. Take a drive in the country to see if you can locate the Country Road Steak Barn. Between Butler and Girard. The building is an old pole building, the parking lot is gravel, the inside seems like most bars except it has a neat fieldstone fireplace to go with the pool table. It is the first time I have enjoyed an excellent prime rib dinner while watching people play pool. I would go back anytime for that prime rib as well as the salad bar or the soup. My wife had good tender and crispy fried chicken. Our other friend liked the prime rib as well as I did. They have other steaks, fish and chicken dishes. This is another one of the places that make this guide so useful.