Local Chefs Innovate Culinary Scene in Upper Michigan

Marquette, Michigan – Excitement is brewing in Upper Michigan as new culinary innovations and local business developments take center stage. Leading the charge is chef Mary Brady from Novi, whose recently released cookbook, “Looking Back, Cooking Forward,” is grabbing attention after being featured on the TV6 Morning News. Viewers were treated to tastings of dishes such as brown sugar-grilled salmon and caramel macadamia nut cookies prepared by chef Mandy Koskela.

In addition to Brady’s culinary contributions, Four Crows Creative, founded by Todd Johnson in Spring Lake, is also making waves. Johnson established this creative food venture following the loss of his wife to cancer, showcasing his resilience and commitment to the local food scene. Consumers can find products created by Brady and other local chefs on the From Michigan, With Love website or Facebook page.

Meanwhile, chef Michael Timmins of Horizon’s Steakhouse at Island Resort & Casino has advanced to the finals of Gaming & Destination Magazine’s Casino Chef Showdown. Timmins is competing with his signature dish, “Horizon’s Wellington,” which features tender beef filet, prosciutto, mushroom duxelles, and caramelized onions enveloped in puff pastry. He faces off against Chef Allison Spicer from Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in Mississippi, who is presenting a blueberry galette with almond frangipane, vanilla gelato, and blueberry compote. Voting for the Culinary King of the Casino title is currently underway and will remain open until Saturday, July 19, 2025, giving the public a chance to support their favorite chef while also entering a giveaway for prizes.

On another culinary front, Focus Restaurant Concepts is set to launch a variety of new products including frozen pasta meals from Mama Russo’s and new salsas from Border Grill. In a recent segment on Upper Michigan Today, Chef Nathan Mileski introduced viewers to Latin-inspired meals featuring Border Grill’s newest salsas. Also announced is the return of the beloved chicken tortilla soup, alongside other limited-time offers.

Further diversifying the local dining scene, Brooke Grondin operates the Girly Pop Dirty Soda Truck, which has garnered attention for its inventive soda combinations. Co-host Tia Trudgeon shared her experience at the Chef’s Table Dinner, hosted at Blue Mystique Inn in Manistique, showcasing the region’s dedication to unique dining experiences.

Food trucks remain a popular choice as well, with the well-known Burger Bus transitioning to a permanent establishment named Laker’s Burgers and Pizza in Marquette. Operated by Alayna and Michael Prahl, this restaurant serves a range of menu items, including the bestselling “Brand Burger,” which combines a beef patty with crunchy spinach, caramelized onions, roasted garlic mayo, and house-made pickles. The restaurant also offers various sandwiches, a fried chicken sandwich, and a falafel burger, along with an array of sides.

Your pizza cravings will also be satisfied with the introduction of specialty pies like BBQ chicken, Italian beef, and seasonal roasted vegetables. Patrons can choose from thin crust or hand-tossed options, all freshly made in the new pizza oven. Located at 2323 U.S. 41 in Marquette, Laker’s Burgers and Pizza welcomes guests every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Burger Bus food truck will continue to operate during warmer months, inviting customers to check the website for operational updates.

This dynamic culinary landscape reflects the creativity and resilience of Upper Michigan’s food entrepreneurs and chefs, as they continue to innovate and expand their offerings, bringing exciting flavors to the local dining scene.