Traverse City is well-known for its cherry pie, fresh Lake Michigan fish, and vibrant farm-to-table fare—but when locals talk about hidden gems, the Boardman neighborhood always comes up. Nestled just southeast of downtown, Boardman’s quiet tree-lined streets mask a quietly booming food scene packed with flavor, variety, and local flair. Whether you’re hungry for artisanal baked goods, gastropub classics, classic American breakfasts, or a vegan taco from a food truck, Boardman has you covered.
The Beating Heart of Boardman: Clustered Eats Near Eighth Street
*Eighth Street*, bordered by Boardman Avenue and Union, is the main artery for dining in the neighborhood. Here, you’ll find an eclectic lineup that makes Boardman a true food lover’s destination—close to the bustle of downtown, but with a neighborly vibe all its own.
The Filling Station Microbrewery
Tucked inside a historic train depot at 642 Railroad Place, The Filling Station Microbrewery is a cornerstone of Boardman’s casual dining scene. Locals rave about their wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas—try the *Depot Supreme*, loaded with local sausage, peppers, and mushrooms. Pair it with a pint of in-house brewed IPA or the cherry cider for a Traverse City twist. The relaxed outdoor patio, overlooking the Boardman Lake Trail, is a summer favorite. Prices are moderate, with pizzas ranging from $14–$22 and brews averaging $6–$7.
Mundos Roasting & Co.
For coffee nerds, *Mundos* (720 E Eighth St) is a must-visit. This sleek café pours single-origin espresso and meticulously brewed pour-overs, while a menu of pastries, avocado toast, and hearty breakfast burritos feeds a steady flow of locals and laptop warriors. Prices are reasonable: expect $3–$5 for coffee drinks, and most breakfast items fall under $10. Don’t miss the cardamom buns—a cult favorite.
Rad.ish Street Food
If you’re craving plant-based, globally inspired eats, Rad.ish (818 E Eighth St)—an energetic café-slash-market—is your spot. Their menu pulses with inventive vegan fare: think jackfruit tacos, Korean BBQ tofu bowls, and “cheesy” potato nachos. The vibe is friendly and bright, and most dishes are under $13, making it a great stop for a casual lunch or a quick grab-and-go meal.
Totoro Sushi & Grill
For those nights when only sushi will do, Totoro (915 E Eighth St) delivers. Totoro draws a loyal crowd for its ultra-fresh rolls, spicy tuna poke bowls, and flavorful ramen. The setting is inviting—a blend of modern décor and cozy booths. Sushi rolls average $8–$15, with bento boxes and noodle bowls in the $12–$20 range. Try the Traverse City roll for a local twist.
Sweet Treats and Coveted Carb Fixes
Potter’s Bakery
A neighborhood staple since the 1920s, Potter’s Bakery (908 E Eighth St) is beloved for its nostalgic charm and unbeatable pastries. Their cinnamon twists are legendary, but don’t overlook the custard-filled long johns or classic cherry turnovers. This old-school bakery opens early and sells out of favorites by noon on weekends, so plan ahead! Most baked goods are under $4.
9 Bean Rows Bakery
Just a few steps west, 9 Bean Rows Bakery (820 E Eighth St) crafts flaky croissants, crusty sourdough, and French-style pastry. Grab a loaf to take home or sip a coffee at their small café tables. The bakery has a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, and their almond croissants and daily focaccia are perennial bestsellers.
Local Flavors and Crowd-Pleasing Classics
Oryana Community Co-op Café
Centered on the northern edge of Boardman at 260 E Tenth St, Oryana’s café is a haven for health-conscious eaters and local regulars alike. Choose from their enormous salad bar, hot bar, or deli case packed with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. The breakfast burritos and locally roasted Higher Grounds Coffee are day-starters, but don’t skip their oat bars and signature vegan “OMT” cookies. Entrees range $8–$12; grab-and-go snacks start at $2.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Eats
Boardman Lake Loop Food Trucks
During summer and fall, food trucks cluster near the Boardman Lake Loop trailhead off 10th Street and near Hull Park. Offerings rotate, but you might find:
- Tamales Yechua: Homey, hand-wrapped tamales and flavorful street tacos.
- Good on Wheels: Smash burgers, loaded fries, and the occasional fried chicken sandwich—ideal after a stroll or bike on the trail.
Old Town Corners
Just a quick walk northwest, the Boardman/Old Town border blurs near Union and 8th. Here you’ll find PepeNero (within The Village at Grand Traverse Commons), a romantic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and fine wine, and The Little Fleet, a buzzing food truck spot that overflows with everything from tacos to Vietnamese banh mi in summer.
The Boardman Food Mood: Why We Love It
What makes Boardman truly special isn’t just the diversity of eats, but its sense of community and creativity. Most establishments are locally owned, with menus that reflect the region’s agricultural riches and Traverse City’s adventurous palate. Prices are approachable—plenty of mid-range options, with enough affordable stops for students, cyclists, and families alike.
Hidden gems abound. On a sleepy Sunday, you might share a pastry at Potter’s, then wander Eighth Street for sushi or vegan tacos before sunset beers on the Filling Station patio. Or maybe you’ll chase bold cold brew at Mundos after a morning on the Boardman Lake Loop. Boardman is the kind of place where detours are always delicious, and the invitation to linger is always on the table.
So whether you’re a Traverse City local or just passing through, make time for Boardman. Your next favorite bite might be waiting around the corner—just ask a neighbor, and they’ll point you to something special.