Bahia (pronounced: bah-Ee-ah, silent h) is a Spanish-inspired restaurant whose name in Spanish means Bay, which is very appropriate for Traverse City. Located on Union Street, they serve in a tapas-style. The restaurant is up-scale with a focus on the food. The beauty of Bahia is the intent is to try different food and share it with others. The food and conversation about the food become the focal point of the dining experience. While the menu will change, some of the more popular items include Ratatouille, Croquettes, Prawns and the Al Pastor served on a corn shell. And leave some room at the end for the Bunelos, the Spanish donuts served warm with powdered sugar and cinnamon caramel. It’s a great way to wrap up the meal.
Barrio brings a Mexican cuisine to downtown. This is a regional restaurant chain with 15 locations in Michigan and Ohio. Located on Front Street across from J&S Hamburger, Barrio has a youthful and vibrant theme. You can choose from daily specials or build your own tacos and choose from a long list of proteins and toppings. Just a warning that if you like highly processed guacamole that you can take in through a straw, you won’t find it here. The guac has big chunks of avocados that make it tougher to eat but is delicious. The menu has a nice selection of varied flavors, and many have a real spicy bite. While you are there check out a nice selection of margaritas.
The Tasting Room is located next to the Boardman River on Union Street. As of this writing The Tasting Room is waiting on its state liquor license, but that’s not keeping the kitchen from creating a wide assortment of salads, soups and sandwiches. Perhaps their signature menu item is woodfired oven baked pizzas. Build your own pizza or go with suggested creations like Spinach Artichoke, Margherita, Meatball Pie, or the Breakfast Pizza. The outdoor fireplace creates an atmosphere that is warm and friendly.
