Jul 8, 2013 >> #5MinutesWith The owners of Local

Okay, we have a long list of things we loved from our recent Travel Issue featuring Harbor Country, Michigan (click here to see all our picks!). But two items on that list of loves? Supporting cute, local businesses and an awesome cheese and cured meat plate. And Boom! That’s exactly what you get when you visit Local. The shop specializes in sustainable foods and cured meats, and is owned by a charming husband and wife team, P. and E. Mullins, who have called Harbor Country home for three fun years. How charming are they? Read their answers to the G&F Harbor Country survey to find out:

Q: Why did you decide to open a business in Harbor Country?
A: Because we loved the area but we’re frustrated cooks shopping in the area. We knew we were amongst wonderful farms and a shop to access a lot of their wonderful products seemed like something that was much in demand.

Q: Favorite thing about Harbor Country?
A: The lake, the countryside, the proximity to Chicago.

Q: Funniest story about a Chicago tourist?
A: There were two customers in our shop and one mentioned he was from Chicago, the woman full of excitement said “No way! So am I!” (Like this was hundreds of thousands of miles away and a real rarity). He responded nicely saying “Oh cool, where abouts?” She answered “Winnetka.” 

Q: Favorite store?
A: Sojourn in Sawyer, MI

Q: Favorite restaurant?
A: For casual lunch and coffee, David’s Deli in New Buffalo is always a favorite. Nani’s Cafe in Union Pier is the best new addition to the area. For a nice dinner or brunch, Soe Cafe in Sawyer. The list can go on!

Q: Finish this sentence: “You haven’t really experienced summer in Harbor Country until you….”
A: Watch the fireworks on and around the 4th of July while swimming in the lake.

Q: Most stylish place in Harbor Country is?
A: Journeyman Distillery

And here’s a fun fact about Local: They opened on St. Patrick’s Day and there was definitely a lucky shot of whiskey shared before opening.

Visit Local, 424 E Buffalo St, New Buffalo, 269-231-5138, localnewbuffalo.com
See more of our Harbor Country favorites in the G&F Summer Travel series.

– KEVIN AEH