After we learned that my nephew would be released from the hospital today (Yay!) and that the iFarmer’s late afternoon meetings had been canceled (Yay!), we had a new set of get-out-of-town vacation goals.
We wanted to be on the road by 4:30 (iFarmer), without feeling rushed (VFG). We hit the 290 on-ramp at 4:29 and were across the border into Michigan within 100 minutes (which is the approx time we gave the kids). Not bad for rush hour in Chicago.
One of our goals on this trip, besides the change of pace and time together, is to experience new communities. So we want to try to skip the chain restaurants whenever possible and either buy local or check out local hangouts. We think we hit the mark with our first stop in New Buffalo.
If you ever want a fantastic, juicy burger and crispy homemade chips in under 100 minutes, check out Redamak’s. I agree with Future Farmgirl that the logo is “a little creepy.” The burgers will indeed haunt you. Mmmm, mmm good.
I wasn’t wowed by the kid shakes so I didn’t order one for the road. But my cheeseburger w/the works served in wax paper next to homemade chips smothered in cheese and bacon bits was worth the stop. I almost tried the breaded pork tenderloin. But I’m suspicious that anyone outside of Southern Indiana really knows how to make one.
Oh. And don’t forget to bring cash or be prepared to swallow the ATM fee with your beer. No credit cards accepted at Redamak’s. Has to be the largest family restaurant in a resortish area I’ve seen that’s still cash only.
We’re staying the night in Holland and will do a little Net research tonight before winding our way up the coast in the morning. We’re taking our time, planning to be in Traverse City by Thursday.
Virtual Farmgirl 