Another day in Michigan, another magical meal. This one was from Martha’s Leelanau Table, an enchanting European-esque bistro in Suttons Bay. Maratha herself greeted us at the front door, wearing her signature red beret—very Parisian chic! After 20 years in the school food service industry, she opened this gourmet bungalow, complete with a whimsical garden patio, warm service, and incredible locally-driven cuisine. I devoured the artful three course tasting menu, which included a spicy watermelon gazpacho drizzled with creme fraiche, sauteed whitefish dusted with sesame seeds, and quite possibly the most beautiful thing I have ever laid eyes on—a big slice of We Be Jammin’ Lemon Cake with late harvest strawberry jam, lemon curd, and homemade strawberry ice cream. The cake is even more breathtaking once you learn it’s gluten-free. Magic, indeed.
