Tasty Treats in Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan, is full of scenic drives, year-long activities and wineries, but it also has many places to pick up some tasty treats. Among them are a few unusual places that are definitely worth a trip. And, don't worry if you can't make it to this vacation spot on Lake Michigan, they all have websites to check out.

Cherry Republic
Bob Sutherland opened Cherry Republic in 1989 with the motto "Life, Liberty, Beaches and Pie." He has continued his dedication to the fruit through hundreds of products. If you love cherries, a visit to Cherry Republic is an absolute must. They have everything you could possibly think of made from cherries and a few things you could have never imagined in your wildest dreams (but can't stop thinking about when you taste them).

It's a tough chore to narrow down the best of Cherry Republic, but here's some things that you can't miss: Cherry Fudge Sauce, with a deep chocolate richness that will dress up any bowl of ice cream; Cherry BBQ Sauce, incredible over chicken; Cherry Salsa, dip in the pretzels or chips; Boomchunkas Cookies, chocolate chunks, cherries and nuts; and Wild Cherry Tea, to end your cherry-filled meal with.

You can find non-edible items at Cherry Republic, like lotions, clothing and candles. Most of their products can be purchased on their website, but you can't taste there. The Great Hall Retail Store is in Glen Harbor, just outside of Traverse City. It's filled with tons of samples and there is a Winery (with blends of cherry wine, of course) and Café on the premises. Other retail store locations are in downtown Traverse City and Charlevoix, Michigan.

Underground Cheesecake
The title says it all, this place is all about the rich and creamy cake. Located in Grand Traverse Commons, Underground Cheesecake began in a basement during the '80s when Lori Dawson and Mary Vickerman baked "underground" for friends and events. They are famous for two specialties they founded - Bitesize Cheesecake and Frozen Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake-On-A-Stick. If you prefer to eat yours with a fork on a plate, you'll have to choose from nearly four dozen flavors. Popular ones include Turtle, Key Lime, German Chocolate, Black Forest and Crystallized Ginger.

Cheesecakes can be shipped in the winter months. The rest of the year you'll have to make a trip to taste the treats of Underground Cheesecake, which include brownies and cakes, as well as soups and sandwiches. Visit their website for more information.

Morsels
Have you ever just wanted a "morsel" of dessert? Jeff and Misha Neidorfler heard your request and they've brought it to Traverse City. Morsels has bite-sized versions of some of your favorite (and soon-to-be favorite desserts. They are sold individually so you can enjoy a little ending to your meal or try more than one when you can't decide.

Making a decision is not easy when the choices include Velvet and Satin, a red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting; Ninja Turtle, a rich brownie with chocolate, pecans and caramel; Tall on Taste, a shortbread with raspberry and almond glaze; and Dulce de licious, a caramel cake with caramel topping.
The Traverse City, Michigan, location of Morsels is the first in what the Neidorflers hope will be many locations. In the meantime, you can order morsels by the dozen on their website.