East Lansing?

A dear friend just graduated from Michigan State and we'd like to buy her a gift certificate to the very best restaurant in the area. Suggestions greatly appreciated.

Bill/SFNM

Hi,

I asked someone who lives in Ann Arbor who didn't know, though asked someone from Lansing who suggested, 'Dusty's Wine Bar in Okemos.'

I have a query out to someone else, I will let you know. While someone commented Lansing is not much of a food town. I would think the locals, especially from the university, would support some fine(r) dining establishment. It may be contacting a random campus professional might reveal where to go. Perhaps a librarian, since they are in the reference business.

Regards,

I grew up in the Lansing area, and went to college in East Lansing, but its been over 15 years since I've lived in the area.

I do remember Dusty's Cellar being very nice, and Beggar's Banquet was a very popular place for professors, and for parental visits. The English Inn is in a small town outside of Lansing, but it is very, very nice. I'll be back to update if any of my friends who are still in the area can give me other recommendations.

A friend just reminded me of The Knight Cap. It has a very old school, Midwestern feel that could be fun. And, in small town just east of East Lansing, there is Red Cedar Grill. I always liked that place.


As a librarian, I'm not sure how I would respond if someone asked me for a restaurant recommendation. I think I would feel uncomfortable about it, because tastes are so different, and I wouldn't want to steer someone wrong.

merkay wrote:As a librarian, I'm not sure how I would respond if someone asked me for a restaurant recommendation. I think I would feel uncomfortable about it, because tastes are so different, and I wouldn't want to steer someone wrong.

How do you reach a random college professional to inquire the about the local restaurant scene? When I suggested that, I thought maybe a librarian may know the local scuttlebutt. Since they help people locate information, they may be willing to offer information on where to eat.

I know of at least one other librarian on this board as well as librarians in real life. Most have answered my query, so it was worth a shot.

In this case, Bill was looking for the best place in town. That is easier than my usual query, "What if you were gone for six months, where do you want to eat first though you'd not necessarily take guests?" I asked this before I ever heard of Calvin Trillin.

Regards,

Thank you, Cathy and merkay, for the great suggestions. We're going to go with Dusty's. Thanks again!

Bill

The most informed eaters on any campus are in the Philosophy
Dept, bar none. Call them and ask where the take their guests.
Ask who the dept foodies are and might you talk to them.
Trust me on this!

Geo