Dixie Saloon where History and Beer make the Perfect Combination

A long impromptu drive North turned into dinner in Mackinaw City at the Dixie Saloon. The downtown was still all decked out for Christmas as it was that in-between time sandwiched between Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. The Dixie Saloon is at the very north end of downtown.

On the Road Again

Our holiday guests had left to trundle off to their own homes, and we were itching to get on the road ourselves. We found the Dixie Saloon and were surprised but definitely not disappointed at what we found inside. We love microbreweries, history, and good food, which all met for a great evening.

Arriving at Dixie Saloon

We parked downtown on the street and walked to the Dixie Saloon. The short, brisk walk was easy to manage in near-empty streets. The shops had all closed for the day, and only a few bars and eateries were open. The holiday lights shining in the dark made the downtown feel magical. The saloon is a remarkable building filled with windows and cedar walls and posts. It emits a rustic but refined air. I bet the views are amazing during the day.

A Bit of History

Since the near end of the 1800’s, the Dixie Saloon has stood as a landmark of the end of the Old Dixie Highway. The Old Dixie Highway ran the complete length of the United States Eastern coastline, stretching from Florida all the way up to Mackinaw City, eventually being replaced by Interstate 75. Travelers started the tradition of celebrating a journey’s end with good friends and good drink within the walls of the Dixie Saloon, then known as the Dixie Tavern.

dixiesaloon.com

Beer Surprise

We experienced two surprises while we visited Dixie Saloon. The first surprise involved beer. While looking at the reviews online, Gerret found a beer that he just HAD to try. We have been doing a lot of maritime tours lately, and he remembered seeing iron ore pellets in an exhibit. I promise this is relevant. Also, keep in mind that there are reusable metal “ice cubes” in drinks these days. While looking at reviews, he saw a photo of a beer that looked like it had iron pellets in the bottom. He was definitely on board with trying that. We ordered drinks, and he showed the waiter a photo of what he wanted. The waiter says, “Happy to Be Here,” okay. Gerret looks at the menu and finds that drink. Well, the balls in the glass are BLUEBERRIES! We laughed and then shared our story with the waiter. He laughed so hard he was crying, and then we watched the story spread from waiter to bartender and all around the staff. Pretty funny.

Sandwich Surprise

Our second surprise was about a sandwich. Gerret ordered a standard burger, which was very good. I really like fried pickles and blt sandwiches. Dixie Saloon has a Fried Pickle and Bacon Sandwich made like a grilled cheese. I had to try it. Oh. My. It was sooo good—one of the best sandwiches I have ever had. I encourage you to give it a try.

Enjoyable Winter Evening

We enjoyed our drinks, food, waiter, and atmosphere. Dixie Saloon is a great place to stop for a bite if you are in or passing through Mackinaw City. Visit on a winter night for a more personal experience as the crowds are light and the staff is happy to chat.

If you enjoy microbreweries, here are a few others we have tried.

• Gravel Capital Brewery
• Old Nation Brewing Company
• One Drop Brewery
• Water Tower Sports Pub (not a brewery, but has only Michigan Craft Brews on tap)