Holiday Hills isn’t just a picturesque residential enclave perched above Traverse City’s famous blue waters—it’s also quietly cultivating a food scene that’s vibrant, diverse, and distinctly local. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing brunch, artisan pastries, upscale dinner, or crave-worthy comfort food, Holiday Hills offers an array of delights. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my favorite local finds—including hidden gems you’d miss if you only stuck to downtown. Hungry yet? Let’s dig in!
The Neighborhood Vibe: Laidback Charm Meets Local Flavor
Holiday Hills is nestled along the east side of Traverse City, with Mt. Holiday as a landmark and the intersection of Holiday Road and Five Mile Road serving as a delicious little epicenter. Thanks to its woodsy backdrop and suburban feel, dining here never feels rushed. Many spots are locally owned, meaning regulars are greeted by name—and newcomers quickly feel welcomed.
Café Culture and Perfect Pastries
Let’s start with mornings in Holiday Hills—because that’s when the aromas wafting from bakeries and coffee shops are truly irresistible.
- Breakaway Café & Bakery (Holiday Road & Five Mile Road): This friendly spot buzzes early, serving freshly brewed Higher Grounds coffee, hand-rolled bagels, and scones worth writing home about. Their cinnamon rolls practically melt in your mouth, and locals rave about their creative rotating quiches (the sun-dried tomato and goat cheese is a must). Prices are reasonable ($2-$8 for baked goods/breakfasts), and there’s plenty of seating, both inside and out—a perfect spot to start your weekend.
- Sunrise Brew (corner of Holiday Road and Pine Grove Avenue): A newer favorite, Sunrise Brew infuses a fun, beachy vibe into the breakfast scene. They specialize in locally roasted espresso drinks and breakfast sandwiches (the avocado BLT with a perfectly fried egg is addictive). Don’t miss their house-made muffins, especially the cherry-almond, as a nod to Traverse City’s tart cherry legacy.
Lunch and Beyond: Where Flavors Cross Paths
After a hike at Mt. Holiday or a round of disc golf, refuel at these neighborhood gems:
- East Bay Grille (just down on US-31 & Plymouth Road): Technically a few minutes down the hill, but worth the quick drive. Overlooking sparkling East Grand Traverse Bay, it’s perfect for lunch with a view. Their fish tacos, Michigan whitefish sandwiches, and locally sourced salads are fresh, flavorful, and highlight the best of northern Michigan produce. Prices range from $12–$20 per entrée, and their deck seating is prime in warm months.
- Hacienda Club (intersection of Holiday Road & Mt. Holiday Drive): This hidden Mexican gem is tucked near the base of the ski hill, serving up spicy carnitas tacos, bubbling hot enchiladas, and homemade salsas. The house margarita is legendary among locals, and the family-friendly vibe keeps it casual. Hearty lunches or dinner plates range $10–$17.
Cozy Dinners & Special Occasion Feasts
For evenings when you want to linger over dinner, several Holiday Hills eateries go all out with atmosphere and creativity:
- The Lookout (Hilltop at Holiday Resort): With its panoramic views over the trees toward Grand Traverse Bay, The Lookout is a favorite for date nights and celebrations. The menu is bold and seasonal: think local charcuterie boards, inventive pasta (the roasted garlic and wild mushroom tagliatelle is a star), and perfectly grilled steaks. Entrées run $18–$34, making it a splurge-worthy pick.
- Bella Luna (Holiday Hills Shopping Plaza, near Five Mile Road): Bringing upscale Italian to the neighborhood, Bella Luna features wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta, and a small but well-curated wine list. Regular specials feature seasonal ingredients—from morel mushrooms in spring to late-summer sweet corn. Their margherita pizza ($14) and seafood risotto ($26) are standouts.
Food Trucks and Takeout Treasures
Don’t overlook the ever-changing lineup of food trucks that pop up near the Holiday Hills Plaza or Park Place neighborhood green space throughout the warmer months. Rotating vendors serve up everything from smoked barbecue to vegan street tacos. Local favorite “The Green Spoon” food truck is known for their poke bowls and fusion banh mi, all under $12.
Sweet Treats & Hidden Dessert Finds
Craving something sweet after a day on the slopes or trail?
- Cherry on Top Ice Cream Stand (Holiday Road, near the bike path): Open seasonally, this retro-style stand dishes up Moomers Ice Cream (a Traverse City standby) alongside creative sundaes and floats using local sodas. Don’t skip the “Cherry Cheesecake Sundae”—it’s a quintessential taste of the region.
- Baker’s Hearth Confections (Pine Grove Ave.): This beloved home bakery isn’t flashy, but it’s famous for buttery shortbread, wild berry pies, and luscious flourless chocolate cake by the slice ($5–$7). Open select weekends—arrive early or pre-order; treats often sell out by midday.
Local Food Traditions Worth Knowing
Residents of Holiday Hills love to celebrate the region’s bounty—especially during late summer when roadside stands overflow with cherries, blueberries, tomatoes, and sweet corn. The area hosts occasional “Farmers and Artisan Markets” in the Holiday Hills Plaza, where you can snag local maple syrup, bread, and small-batch cheeses.
And, if you hear about a Friday night “Fish Fry” at the community lodge or a pop-up cherry pie bake sale, go! These are local-only events that let you taste Traverse City hospitality in every bite.
What Makes Holiday Hills Unique as a Foodie Destination?
Unlike busy downtown, Holiday Hills is all about unhurried meals, welcoming faces, and enjoying the woods and water with your plate. Restaurants, cafés, and bakeries here blend local ingredients with creative flair, and the food scene is always evolving. It’s a place where regulars chat with chefs, bakers remember your favorite order, and good food is truly part of community life.
So next time you find yourself in Holiday Hills, Traverse City, trust your taste buds—and your neighbors who know the best spots. You just might discover your new go-to dining destination.