There was a time when finding international cuisine or plant-based menu items in northern Michigan was basically mission impossible. As the area’s status as a foodie destination has evolved, though, the selection of restaurants and dishes has diversified substantially. Today, it’s easy to find restaurants that suit virtually any diet and that span a huge range of food cultures from around the world.

That diversity of food options was the guiding light for an article in this week's Northern Express - sister publication of The Ticker - spotlighting northern Michigan’s most iconic, legendary dishes. The Northern Express team has been covering iconic local eats since 2018, and has had the opportunity to explore 19 favorite local dishes. Staff have dined out on burgers and sandwiches, directed attention to some of the area’s best chicken entrees, sipped on the region’s finest soups, and debated whether a particularly hearty Bloody Mary counts as a “dish.”

What the staff hasn't done much of - until now - is delve into northern Michigan’s increasingly adventurous culinary side. With that realization in mind, this week's installment features five dishes staff think everyone should try - whether they’re in your typical wheelhouse or not. What made the list? To find, check out the Northern Express online, or pick up a free copy on newsstands at nearly 700 spots in 14 counties across northern Michigan.