Yooper Eats & Drinks: Top 5 Must-Try U.P. Delights

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Yooper Eats & Drinks: Top 5 Must-Try U.P. Delights

So, if you’re headed to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, affectionately known as the U.P., you’re surely in for a treat because this place isn’t just about breathtaking landscapes; it’s also very much a culinary destination with flavors as distinct as its scenery. From hearty pasties that fuel outdoor adventures to local brews that perfectly cap off the day, the U.P.’s food and drink scene totally has something special to offer. We are talking about those things you absolutely have to try.

Upper Peninsula Food

1. The Mighty Pasty: A Yooper Staple

You’ve really got to begin with the pasty, it’s almost the U.P.’s culinary icon, and it’s definitely way more than just a savory pie that’s filled. Originating from Cornish miners who needed something really substantial to take down the mines, the pasty kind of became a complete meal encased in a pastry crust. Typically, you find them stuffed with beef, potatoes, rutabaga, and onion, but pretty much every establishment has its own take on this traditional dish. So, for an authentic taste, try it from a spot that’s been around for generations or look for one with some unique twists, very similar to adding local ingredients.

Yooper Staple

2. Whitefish: Fresh from the Great Lakes

If you’re in the U.P., then eating whitefish is more or less mandatory, like your initiation into Yooper culture because the fish, sourced right from the Great Lakes, is prepared in all sorts of awesome ways. You can get it smoked, pan-fried, or baked, and each preparation kinda highlights the fish’s delicate flavor. Some local spots just love to serve it up in a sandwich with simple toppings, or even transformed into a creamy, smoky dip that’s perfect with some crackers. It is that good! You should totally check out local diners and restaurants that pride themselves on sourcing their whitefish fresh daily.

Fresh from the Great Lakes

3. Thimbleberry Jam: A Taste of the Wild

Now, let’s talk about something pretty unique, Thimbleberry Jam, that is arguably something that truly embodies the spirit of the U.P and it’s very wild and free nature. Thimbleberries are more or less like raspberries, they’re a bit softer and tart, they grow wild in the Upper Peninsula and, that is something, they are notoriously difficult to harvest which kinda makes this jam that bit more special. It is great on toast, scones, or even as a glaze for grilled meats, the jam’s distinctive flavor provides a sweet-tart punch that’s really unlike anything else. It is totally a local delicacy.

Taste of the Wild

4. U.P. Craft Beer: Brewed with Local Character

You might think it’s just worth your time exploring the Upper Peninsula’s pretty booming craft beer scene, with breweries popping up all over the area because each place really brings something unique to the table, drawing influence from the surrounding landscapes and local ingredients. You might expect to find beers that taste kinda woodsy, that taste very fresh, utilizing everything, starting with maple syrup to locally-grown hops. You’ll have a wide selection from light, refreshing ales to dark, robust stouts so don’t you worry. Many breweries even name their beers after local landmarks or legends, adding more depth to your drinking experience.

Brewed with Local Character

5. Cudighi: The U.P.’s Spicy Sausage

Finally, you have just got to try cudighi, if you’re a meat fan, it’s kind of a regional sausage that has strong Italian roots and it’s typically seasoned with a really special blend of spices that gives it a distinct, tangy flavor. So, you usually find it served on a bun with mozzarella cheese and maybe a marinara sauce, often as a sandwich that will for sure fill you up. There’s often a big debate regarding who actually makes the “best” cudighi, asking a Yooper is for sure bound to get you a pretty passionate response. Grab one from a local deli or food truck.

U.P.'s Spicy Sausage

  • Pasty: Don’t leave the U.P. without tasting this iconic, savory pie that keeps you fuelled.
  • Whitefish: Straight out of the Great Lakes, enjoy the fish in various lip-smacking preparations.
  • Thimbleberry Jam: You have to try this tart and really rare jam. It’s an experience.
  • U.P. Craft Beer: From light ales to hearty stouts, very explore local breweries.
  • Cudighi: Have a flavorful sausage sandwich and dive into U.P. culture with all the locals.