Italian-inspired cuisine. Classic Irish fare. Spanish tapas. Authentic sushi. Asian-French fusion baked goods. Small plates packed with local flavors. Texas-style BBQ. Polish favorites.

This week's Northern Express - sister publication of The Ticker - is traveling around the world and across northern Michigan by exploring eight local restaurants to try this summer, each of which pairs perfectly with a warm evening, a breeze off the water, and a glass of the good stuff. From Spring & Porter in Petoskey to Patrick Doud’s Irish Pub on Mackinac Island, from The Social in Lake Leelanau to The Dojo in Traverse City, get inspired to take a road trip and find a new dining destination or rediscover a favorite in your own backyard this summer.

The Northern Express is available to read online, or pick up a free copy on newsstands at nearly 700 spots in 14 counties across northern Michigan.