Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar: Our Top 10 list, plus honorable mentions and best of the rest

It took us 11 days and more than 2,000 miles to visit 42 of Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bars as nominated and voted on by the readers of MLive.

But we did it!

I would like to say, “It wasn’t easy,” but that wouldn’t go over well with the followers of our Michigan’s Best series who stop me in every town to ask, “How do I get a job like that?”

Call it a labor of love.

As with all of our searches, I continue to be in awe of our beautiful state, its people and the passion behind all those business owners, managers, bartenders and loyal patrons.

As a reminder, we were looking for neighborhood bars with some interesting history, a place where everyone knows your name or at least is willing to learn your name, a little character, decent drinks and possibly something to eat.

Joining me was Jessica Shepherd of The Saginaw News, who helped take notes and even volunteered to be my designated driver, if I needed one.

After visiting all 42 bars, here are the results:

Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar Top 10

1. Hoppy's Bar, 4780 M-28, Kenton, Upper Peninsula
When I called and told co-owner Jane Osinski that Hoppy's was nominated as one of best bars in the Upper Peninsula, she asked "why." I knew we had a contender. Then, once we visited the bar she co-owns with husband Fred for the last 18 years, we knew instantly it was Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar. A popular place among hunters and snowmobilers, many from neighboring Wisconsin, which is only 45 minutes away, Hoppy's is a haven for fun. It has food (you must try the Sloppy Burger with BBQ sauce, bacon, onions, Swiss cheese), sells Busch Light over other any other domestic and even allows patrons to paint tiles on the ceiling. If you run into Joe Urbis, a regular, who likes to hang out with Fred, ask him to do a shot of "Clown Oil." It's his name for Crown Royal Whiskey. "That's what you act like if you drink too much of it," he told Jessica. Oh, and you better be ready to take a little ribbing. Jane dishes it out all day long. Fred called her the "meanest woman in the Upper Peninsula." When she approached, he changed it to the "meanest woman in Kenton." Smart guy. From the bartenders to the regulars, to the food and fun, this is a neighborhood bar for everyone. By the way, the couple is building a gun shop right next door. Hoppy's has been around since 1946. Jessica said she hadn't laughed as much during the entire search as she did for the hour that we visited Hoppy's. And Jessica laughs pretty easily.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Yoopers shine during Upper Peninsula visits

2. Nancy Whiskey Pub, 2644 Harrison St., Detroit
Located in the North Corktown neighborhood, and just blocks from the old Tiger Stadium, Nancy Whiskey just oozes with charm, history and memories of a Detroit that once was. Named after a popular Irish song, Nancy Whiskey was originally a general store in 1898, and became a bar in 1902. Mlive Detroit writer Gus Burns noted that "the building's exterior maintains much of the original charm with a pillared roof and tiles that spell Digby, the last name of original owner, at the entrance." Owner Gerald Stevens bought the bar in 2005, and after a fire in 2009, he maintained the tin ceiling and a phone booth that Teamster Jimmy Hoffa used to use. Bartender Sheryl Grogan, who is Stevens' sister and who has worked at the bar since 1993, greeted us when we walked in with "initiation" shots of Tullemore Dew Irish whiskey. "The first one's on me," she said. By the way, Nancy Whiskey is the Detroit bar that was featured in a 30-second Long John Silver's TV ad, raving about its Friday fish fry. We were bummed to visit on a Tuesday afternoon. Jessica said she was likely more comfortable in Nancy Whiskey than any other bar she has stepped in for the first time.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour hits Detroit: Cadieux Cafe, Nancy Whiskey, Moose Winooski's

3. The Tap Room, 201 W. Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti
Before we arrived, owner Brian Brickley told Mlive/Ann Arbor News reporter Jessica Webster he was not fazed by a customer who stumbled out of the bar, saying he was from the future. "It's like the 'Star Wars' bar – there's people from every planet here," he said. That pretty much sums up The Tap Room, a bar that actually is separated into three parts and offers an environment for everyone. The main bar is long, with seating at the bar and at tables; the middle room is for the pool and retro video game players; and a third room offers a stage for music and a big screen for sporting events. We were watching a Monday Night Football game. I met a regular who says he comes in on open mic night to do his Elvis Presley impersonations. It has an extensive menu; we sampled the buffalo chicken quesadilla and a Chicago burger. Budweiser is the bar's top-selling beer. I stuck with Short's very popular Huma Lupa Licious. Located in a building that has been around since the 1840s, Brian and his wife, Lisa, have owned the bar since 1994. As a fan of football, live music and ambiance, Jessica said she wished she lived closer so she could spend some free time inside the Tap Room. 
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour takes in Aut Bar, Fraser's Pub and The Tap Room

4. Stan's Bar, 208 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake
We were first timers, and everyone knew it. "We were taking bets which door you would come in," said one regular. "The tourists come in the front door, and the regulars come in the back door. I won." Yes, we came in the front door, but it was only a matter of minutes before we were accepted by the locals, who were so proud of their little slice of heaven. First-timers get initiated with a mug of beer called the "Laker Liter" (I was drinking Sam Adams Oktoberfest on this night), and then later in the evening a Root Beer Barrel (a shot of root beer Schnapps inside a draft of Bud Light). But that wasn't the oddest thing of the night; I walked out with a dozen eggs. The gag has been going on for decades, according to owner Joe Stalec. Men say they're heading out to buy some eggs and stop at Stan's for a pint. The jumbo eggs are double yoked and only cost $1.50. Stan's has a limited menu, but we enjoyed the cheeseburger. Mama Mia's Pizzeria, located next door, was busy delivering pizzas to the bar. It smelled so good. Jessica said it is worth it to visit this place just for the interesting conversations you will have with the regulars.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Stan's Bar

5. Talley's Log Cabin Bar, 2981 County Road 612, Lewiston
Mlive's Jessica Shepherd said in her recap of Talley's that owner Bird Smith might be Lewiston's "most beloved" man. I couldn't agree more. Walk into this northern Michigan log cabin bar, and all the regulars sit at a U-shape bar with Bird holding center court. From his perch, he delivers beer, shots, inside jokes and his signature Talley Burger, which last year we declared one of the state's Best Burgers. It's a family affair. We saw his son Tyler, briefly; his wife, Moe, was busy passing out strawberry jam to customers. "Making jam is my therapy," she said. "I make jam and give it away." It's not a fancy place; it has a pool table and it's not common for families to come in for dinner. Bud Light is the bar's top seller. I enjoyed a Bloody Mary in a glass that said "Sweet Home Alabama." Sweet Home Alabama? "I think I got the glasses for free," he said. Talley's is just your classic neighborhood bar that knows how to laugh. Jessica was so enamored with the combined charm of Bird and Moe that she never wanted to leave. 
RECAP/PHOTOS: Three unique Northern Michigan bars show Gonzo a good time

6. Harry's Place, 404 N. Verlinden Ave., Lansing
Lansing was a magical day. It was Day 1 of our 11-day trip, so we were especially excited to get on the road and meet people. It all culminated in a visit to a packed Harry's Place, where a neighborhood group of more than 20 people greeted us when we walked in the door. This is a place that is certainly all about community. We met school teachers, a mechanic and members of the neighborhood association who talked about how owner Harea Bates has made this a special place. One patron even took us outside, in the dark, to show off a community garden. The food was fantastic, especially my favorite, the Greek pizza. The bar also offers a popular Friday fish fry. I liked the variety of beers, including a decent craft list that is generated by customers. "They tell me what they want and I tell my beer guys," said Harea, whose grandfather opened the establishment in 1921. I had a Rochester Mills Milkshake Stout. Jessica said she left with such a feeling of community that it nearly made her buy a house in the neighborhood surrounding Harry's on the spot.
RECAP: Pig Wings, popcorn and Greek pizza: Lansing highlights from Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour

7. The Red Baron, 2495 S. Center Rd., Burton
Add one more place to your list of the state's best craft beer bars. The Red Baron is located in one of the most unassuming areas, but delivers an impressive list of 56 taps. And they brew their own beer. I loved the Sgt. Stadanko IPA, brewed by owner Bill Gravanis, who owns the bar with two brothers and a cousin. They purchased the bar in 2006 and immediately turned it into a craft beer lover's dream. Add a decent food menu (I recommend the Twisted Chicken sandwich), domestic beers and retro drawings of a red baron mascot, and you have a bar that is for everyone. Jessica's favorite thing? The bar offers up "pints to go." That means, at the end of the night when you want just one more beer, you can purchase a pint of any of the 56 beers in an adorable Red Baron glass and enjoy it once you get home.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Burton's Red Baron is the relaxed hangout where people look out for each other

8. Louie's Trophy House Grill, 629 Walbridge St., Kalamazoo
It supports live music, the regulars come in for cheap drinks, and the food is deep-fried and delicious. Is there anything more you want from a neighborhood bar? Oh, you want character and characters? Well, at the end of the bar is a regular by the name of James "Sarge" Dumont, who has been hanging out at the bar since 1954. He is proudly wearing his Louie's suspenders that were given to him by the staff. And there's a big Moosehead at the back of the bar where people pose for pictures. And that's not all! A group of customers offer me some of their pizza, which I tried of course. The topper was the Bump and Wash – that's a shot of house whiskey with PBR on draft – for only $3. Jessica said the regulars were ready to chat about their neighborhood bar, as well as just about any topic you could imagine.
RECAP/PHOTOS: MLive visits Kalamazoo's oldest bar - Louie's - in search of Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar

9. Duffy's Food & Spirits, 751 N. Waterloo Ave., Jackson
You know you're in a neighborhood bar when you and the locals are watching re-runs of "Bonanza." (Oh that Hoss is always getting into trouble.) This tiny bar in Jackson originally opened as a grocery store and eventually became the Casino Beer Garden in the late 1930s. In the late 1980s, owner Brian Duffy changed the name and current owner Mike Richards and his staff have embraced its history as a no-frills, come-as-you-are watering hole. Daily food and drink specials include $1 cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon, Genny Light and Natural Light, $1.50 burgers on Mondays and $1 sloppy Joes on Wednesdays. Chef Ali Burton brought out a sampler of popular favorites, including pizza and its signature grinder sandwich. We decided to toss back a couple shots, including its very popular breakfast shot – a shot glass with Jameson's Irish Whiskey and butterscotch mixed together, and a second shot glass with orange juice -- all chased with a piece of bacon. Jessica asked if anyone could feel more comfortable in a neighborhood bar. Her conclusion is, "probably not."
RECAP/PHOTOS: Gonzo gets taste of Jackson bar scene

10. Big Ugly Fish, 1418 State St., Saginaw
Sometimes you find a place that offers a genuine atmosphere, as well as plenty of laughs, a game of pool and a killer jukebox. When you factor in an owner who has a sense of humor, you really don't mind that the only thing to munch on is popcorn. Big Ugly Fish owner Mike Hanley is that guy. On the night we were there he passed out tickets to give away a door prize. The winner walked away with a huge tomato. The rustic, Northern Michigan theme and unique name make it a comfortable place to unwind and meet friends. His jukebox has somewhere around 2,000 songs. They make their own Bloody Mary mix and offer at least one hard-to-find, craft beer on tap. I had the Hacker-Pschorr Hefe. Jessica especially likes the clever, ever-changing sign at the Big Ugly Fish. It currently reads, "Education is important but cold beer is importanter."
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour brings Gonzo to Sanford, Saginaw for perch, hot dogs and a frightening fish

Honorable Mentions
Aut Bar, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor
We received one of the warmest welcomes on our trip at the Aut Bar, a mainstay in Ann Arbor for its great menu, fantastic mixed drinks and inviting atmosphere. We loved the signs on mirrors and special menu, which included a Gonzo Burrito. How did they know I love carnitas? Even though it is a gay bar, the owners -- Keith Orr and Martin Contreras – make everyone feel welcome. I plan to return. Jessica just wants to hang out on their patio once summer returns.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour takes in Aut Bar, Fraser's Pub and The Tap Room

Cadieux Cafe, 4300 Cadieux Rd, Detroit
This Detroit mainstay offers it all – interesting food (mussels), an odd game (feather bowling) and vintage signs and décor that reveals its Motor City roots. The bar has been around since the early 1900s, and once served as a Prohibition-era speakeasy after being converted from a general store. The feather bowling, very similar to Bocce ball, is a big attraction with leagues, tournaments and rentals times. It's a worth a trip for the mussels alone. Jessica said she can't even imagine how much fun karaoke is at this place.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour hits Detroit: Cadieux Cafe, Nancy Whiskey, Moose Winooski's

Chet's Corner Bar, 1001 S. Madison Ave., Bay City
It was fun to see the community come out to celebrate the way owners Amber and Matt Czerwinski have resurrected the former Madison Pub and turned into a viable community bar. They've done it with decent drink specials, games such as darts, pool and shuffleboard and even trivia night. Their labor of love has paid off. The bar opened less than a year ago and has quickly gained a following. Chet's doesn't offer a food menu, but owner Matt has been known to order pizzas just for the fun of it (and to keep patrons from going elsewhere). On the night we were there he bought 20 pizzas and crazy bread. And everyone had plenty to go around. Jessica was just thrilled to see shuffleboard.
RECAP/PHOTOS: John 'Gonzo' Gonzalez hits 4 Bay City bars in search for the state's best watering hole

Henry's Never Inn, 74 National Ave., Rockland
It's a step back in time at Henry's Never Inn. This intimate diner/bar seems like the perfect setting for an episode of the former "Northern Exposure" TV show. When we walked in, co-owner Sally Gagnan was playing doctor, helping a visitor from Ohio who had cut himself. And Sally told how she was trying to get husband Henry to remove his photos of Marilyn Monroe from the bar top. (You will find more photos in the Men's bathroom.) We loved the food, including the tasty grilled ham and cheese sandwich on foot-long garlic toast. We had a Bloody Mary, which was tasty. Henry's even has margaritas on tap. We hear their weekend buffets are the best. The bar originally opened as The Sample Room in 1898. Jessica said this trip was more than worth it just to talk to Sally. She is one of the most entertaining people we met throughout the 11-day trip.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Yoopers shine during Upper Peninsula visits

Mustang Lounge, Astor Street, Mackinac Island
The Island is known for its lively party atmosphere during the busy summer season at multiple bars on or near Main Street, but once fall and winter come around, the Mustang Lounge is the neighborhood bar that locals call home. It has a not-so-surprising rustic, outdoors theme; and the kitchen stays busy, offering its trademark Mustang burger and other pub fare. As for drinks, the most popular is a "bomb," mixing any type of liquor with Red Bull. According to owner Tony Brodeur, the building dates back to the early 1800s and thought to be used as a fur trader's warehouse. It only closes its doors on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Jessica said Brodeur was inviting and created a comfortable atmosphere for customers,
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar: Mackinac Island ends our search on a high note

Old Dog Tavern, 402 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo
Owners Amy and Sean Smith have a good thing going. Even though Old Dog only has been open for four years, it is located in the cool, old Star Building, which housed the Star Paper Co. The bar has expanded to an outdoor area with exposed brick, and stage, as well as other rooms. The calling card is the decent tap offerings, some creative cocktails, a Bloody Mary bar and creative menu by Chef Eric Boodt, who made a tasty chicken pot pie that was baked perfectly with tons of flavor. It was also large enough to serve two people. Jessica said she wanted to go back for a concert to see the bar's outdoor venue in its full glory.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Old Dog Tavern

Quinn and Tuite's Irish Pub, 1535 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
Owners Bill Quinn and Rick Schall took over the former Pete Brown's Office in the late '80s and have made Quinn and Tuite's one of the area's most successful bars. Patrons are treated to regular concerts featuring some big names. One regular showed up with a handful of ticket stubs from all the great concerts. Quinn and Tuite's also is known for its burger, a perfect Guinness pour and unique Wednesday night experience when fans show up from as far away as Muskegon for sing-alongs. Jessica said Quinn and Schall, owners of the bar, are likely some of the nicest business owners you could meet in the state.
RECAP/PHOTOS: MLive visits the 3 West Michigan contenders for title of Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar

Best of the Rest
Dagwood's Tavern & Grill, 2803 E. Kalamazoo St., Lansing
Our first of 42 visits on the search for Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar was at Dagwood's, which quickly set the benchmark and standard. We couldn't ask for a better experience for a first visit. Co-owner Marji Cheadle was busy making fresh broccoli soup from her tiny kitchen behind the bar when we walked in, and she stayed there the whole time, frying burgers, cranking out orders of hand-cut French fries and talking to customers. Dagwood's is your classic, unpretentious, neighborhood bar where everyone is accepted. For $5 you can get a burger, fries and a beer. On Sunday's, you get Old Style beers for $1.
RECAP: Pig Wings, popcorn and Greek pizza: Lansing highlights from Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour

Peanut Barrel Restaurant, 521 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing
Local residents, college kids, professionals and all walks of life stop in daily to see owner Joe Bell and his hard-working crew at the Peanut Barrel, which offers a great selection of craft beer, specials and food items. (I suggest the Giant ¼ Hot Dog, with chili and cheese and locally made bun). While you're there, if you notice a group of men at the end of the bar, laughing non-stop, that's "The Choir." There are about 20 members, who range in age from 25-80, who stop in to drink Budweisers, an occasional craft beer and do shots of Peppermint Schnapps. Let's just say I became an honorary member that night. Official choir practice is on Wednesday nights. See you there!
RECAP: Pig Wings, popcorn and Greek pizza: Lansing highlights from Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour

Zoobie's Old Town Tavern, 611 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing
This mainstay in Lansing's eclectic Old Town neighborhood attracts a loyal, diverse crowd and offers an impressive list of craft beers, wine, liquors and mixed cocktails. Owner Aaron Matthews has captured the spirit of the area, offering a communal space of free thinkers and creativity. The menu includes feta dips, popcorn with truffle oil, soft pretzels and even a tasty Black N Bleu Burger. I was pleased to have a Kuhnhenn brewery Brewery DRIPA, an award-winning double rice IPA.
RECAP: Pig Wings, popcorn and Greek pizza: Lansing highlights from Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour

Logan's Alley, 916 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids
It's a "neighborhood" bar for Grand Rapids – Beer City U.S.A. But it's also a gathering place for third-shifters who gather at 8 a.m. to let off some steam and check out the bar's eye-popping craft beer menu. Founded in May 2000, the bar now offers 200-plus beers. I want to join the Around the World Club. But then I would have to check myself into rehab. The bar is a hot spot for special releases, events and members of the brewing community who want to try something new. Oh, and they have a great menu. I suggest the Smothered Tater Tots – with sour cream, bacon, scallions, and cheese.
RECAP/PHOTOS: MLive visits the 3 West Michigan contenders for title of Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar

Log Cabin Bar, 2401 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids
Even though it's easy to miss while you're driving on South Division, the Log Cabin Bar is a favorite neighborhood bar for those looking for a broad menu, decent drink specials, live music and fun. The bar has been in the family for 40 years and is owned today by Matt Potter and his step-mother Lisa Potter, who runs an efficient kitchen. They greeted us with a "Michigan's Best" cake. We had a great time.
RECAP/PHOTOS: MLive visits the 3 West Michigan contenders for title of Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar

O'Duffy's Pub, 804 W. Vine St., Kalamazoo
The winner of Kalamazoo's Best Neighborhood Bar poll, O'Duffy's is your classic Irish bar, founded 15 years ago by Jamie Kavanaugh and his late wife Kim Kavanaugh. You will love inviting atmosphere, classy décor and Celtic music. We were entertained by a group who just showed up to play for us and the crowd. I enjoyed a perfect pint pour of Guinness as well as the Michigan Limerick, made with New Holland Hopquilla, a flavored whiskey, lemon, salt and pepper syrup and bitters. The kitchen offers traditional Irish fare (boxty) and other items; it also serves the cozy upstairs restaurant Cosmo's Cuccina.
RECAP/PHOTOS: O'Duffy's Pub

The Mitten Bar, 109 W. Ludington Ave., Ludington
It's only been open for about three years, but Megan and Brian Josefowicz are serious about all things Michigan. The bar only offers Michigan craft beers, as well as Michigan-made spirits and it keeps growing every year. They even opened a newer place right next door called Barley & Rye, which offers spirits and some classic beers like Hamm's. Her grandfather opened the Sportsman bar right next door in 1955. All three are connected. There is a kitchen with several items, including the popular build your own burrito favorite; Brian is expanding to add more barbecue items.
RECAP/PHOTOS: The Mitten Bar

Marine Tap Room, 1983 Lakeshore Dr., Muskegon
Former Muskegon Mayor Steve Warmington keeps a tight ship at this neighborhood bar near the marina. He's so on top of it he asked me what I was drinking. "It's a margarita," I said. "I didn't even know we make margaritas," he replied. This place has a huge appetite for fun; longtime customers, a big menu despite its kitchen embedded behind the bar and inviting ambiance. Bartender Brook Dow got the whole bar to go outside and take a group shot. Fun.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Marine Tap Room

Roadhouse, 4112 Lansing Ave., Jackson
Like a lot of the bars we visited, this one is supposedly haunted. Several bartenders, who were having lunch, said they have felt the presence of a ghost. "I was walking through the kitchen and it stopped me in my tracks," said Ashley Roberts. Co-owner Aleksander Denda said a psychic reader once walked out one night because the presence was too much. We felt no ghosts, just genuine hospitality and a great working crew from the bartenders to kitchen staff. I would return for another Sticky Burger, which comes with peanut butter, grilled onions, barbecue sauce and bacon. They also just added breakfast. Co-owner Leah Denda's parents purchased the place in 1967.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Gonzo gets taste of Jackson bar scene

West Point Lounge, 1712 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson
A local, longtime favorite, the West Point Lounge is busy on golf nights, after big local sporting events and anytime someone has a craving for their great burgers. But there is nothing fancy about this place. "This is a domestic-beer, general-flavor bar," said Joe Lammers, whose grandfather, Russ Feight, was one of the original owners. "We don't have a big call for flavored vodkas or craft beer. We're still a down-to-earth vodka-and-tonic bar." Bartender Deanna Swank has been there for 48 years. But don't ask her what's on tap or what to drink: "I wouldn't recommend anything," she said.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Gonzo gets taste of Jackson bar scene

Fraser's Pub, 2045 Packard St, Ann Arbor
How often do you order a Violin Monster beer and the actual Violin Monster walks in? The street performer who inspired Arbor Brewery's well-known autumn ale beer sat down with us and even helped us "wolf" down a couple of Fraser's signature burgers. We loved the Smokehouse and Southwest burgers, both made with ground beef from Knight's Market and served on brioche buns. Owner Ron Sartori has a nice blend of food, spirits and beer. Don't be surprised to see some of the UM coaches stop in for a bite to eat.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour takes in Aut Bar, Fraser's Pub and The Tap Room

Clio Roadhouse Bar, 2183 W. Vienna Rd., Clio
It's lively, fun and a little out of control, but in a good way. This is where we had one of the most memorable drinks on the trip, a $25 Bloody Mary that could feed a family of four. It had sliders, shrimp, veggies, olives, bacon and even a celery farm. You drink it with a beef stick straw. The bar also serves a diverse menu of nachos, burgers, deep fried pickle slices and more. This bar is for the whole family, complete with a game area and multiple TV screens.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar: Flint-area watering holes hold their own against the state

The Torch Bar and Grill, 522 Buckham Alley, Flint
A mainstay for the downtown Flint crowd for decades, the Torch is known for its basic bar food, drink specials, diverse crowd and for the oh so famous Torch Burger. The owners also offer a decent craft beer list. I had an Oskar Blues Brewery Old Chub, a Scottish ale they had on draft.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar: Flint-area watering holes hold their own against the state

Moose Winooski's, 38 S Main St, Clawson
It has a neighborhood feel with fun décor and a lively atmosphere. We actually loved the deep-fried Moose Wieners and tots. We were there on trivia night, which is very popular with the locals. But the coolest thing they do occurs at 8 p.m. each night. The wait staff passes out free shots to bar patrons, who pause whatever is going on to salute the troops.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour hits Detroit: Cadieux Cafe, Nancy Whiskey, Moose Winooski's

Sanford Lake Bar & Grill, 3770 N. Bailey Rd., Sanford
It's not often you find a bar that makes deliveries to the nearby lake in a golf cart. Owners Dick and Sharlyn Corbat run a great operation in this hidden gem. You will find great perch, a fantastic lobster bisque soup, fried chicken and my favorite, a pizza with a sweet red sauce and sesame seed crust. Plenty of drink specials, and even a few characters. We met a man at the bar who was proud of an elk he bagged years ago. The black and white photo is on the wall.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour brings Gonzo to Sanford, Saginaw for perch, hot dogs and a frightening fish

Mott's Place, 417 S. Michigan Ave., Saginaw
The perfect combination of great music, niche food and eclectic patrons, Mott's Place is definitely one of the fastest rising places in town. Owner Geoff Mott is new at the game, only opening about 5 months ago. But he features quality gourmet hot dogs (I recommend the Paradise and Taco Dogs) and a variety of drink specials. Make sure to get the Mott's Sauce, a shot that tastes like applesauce.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar tour brings Gonzo to Sanford, Saginaw for perch, hot dogs and a frightening fish

O'Hares Bar & Grill, 608 E Midland St., Bay City
This was our third trip to O'Hares, which has been a part of searches for Michigan's Best Burger and BBQ. And each time owner Peter Schuster does a great job of showcasing his quality menu. This trip was no different, introducing us to his new creation, a barbecue Bourbon burger. He also brought out his much sought-after deep fried Smores. We also did some tasting of the House Wine, which is a shot of Jagermeister.
RECAP/PHOTS: John 'Gonzo' Gonzalez hits 4 Bay City bars in search for the state's best watering hole

Stein Haus, 1108 N. Water St., Bay City
This sprawling operation features a bar, atrium, back patio and piano sing-alongs in a side room. But the main focus is on all the steins that decorate the room. People come in for a drink, sing with friends and get something to eat. You can't go wrong with a hearty Reuben sandwich or its signature Schnitzel. Oh, and you'll be impressed with the German beer selection, craft beer taps and bottles.
RECAP/PHOTS: John 'Gonzo' Gonzalez hits 4 Bay City bars in search for the state's best watering hole

Coonan's Irish Pub, 1004 N. Johnson St., Bay City
The winner of Bay County's Best Neighborhood Bar poll, Coonan's Irish Pub lived up to expectations as a great watering hole/restaurant. The food was fantastic; including a killer Reuben sandwich and a tasty beef stew I would recommend to anyone. It's sure to warm your soul on cold winter's night. Just as impressive as the food was the bar's decent tap list; on this night I had Kuhnhenn Brewery's "Fluffer." Congrats to Kim Coonan and his staff for a great job.
RECAP/PHOTS: John 'Gonzo' Gonzalez hits 4 Bay City bars in search for the state's best watering hole

Hilltop Bar & Grill, 431 W. Mill St., Oscoda
It was my first trip to Oscoda, but not my last. The No. 1 reason I'll return is to hang out at the Hilltop Bar & Grill. Owner Adam Hume bought the vacant building about three years ago and now it serves up fantastic food -- locally-acquired whitefish, several sandwiches, hand-battered mushrooms, pickles and onion rings. But the signature, must-have item is the Tony Decker, a messy burger that could have contended for Michigan's Best Burger. It's a half-pound burger topped with American and Swiss cheeses, ham, onions and Thousand Island dressing. Yum.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Three unique Northern Michigan bars show Gonzo a good time

Keyhole Bar & Grill, 323 East Central Ave., Mackinaw City
Walk in and be wowed by the thousands of keys you will find in the restaurant/bar, which surprisingly has a lot of room once you start walking around. It's known for great food, and fun drinks. I suggest the Electric Slide, which is a mix of several liquors that's very colorful, and the wings, which are sweet with a little heat. We ran into customers from Holland, Grand Rapids, Detroit and several other Michigan cities. Owner Sharon Zulski has created a great environment for dinner and drinks.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Three unique Northern Michigan bars show Gonzo a good time

Rousseau Bar, 26137 Dishneau Rd., Mass City
Their sign proclaims: "It's never too far to the Rousseau Bar." It's for that reason owners Tom Cogswell and Angie Foley see the same customers year after year. When I first walked in I met family members from Roscommon and Kalamazoo who were celebrating a 14-year-old girl's first bear kill. Great food, atmosphere and even a lively cornhole tournament on the day we were there. Ask bartender Jenny Neumann to show off her orange "Rousseau Bar" suspenders and other merchandise.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Yoopers shine during Upper Peninsula visits

The Mosquito Inn, 39959 N. Hwy M-26, Toivola
Snowmobilers, hunters and local residents gather at The Mosquito Inn to eat dinner, have a drink and celebrate their unique community. We met owners Donna and Donald Jarman, who in between talking to us, kept customers happy with drinks and orders. Donald was busy in the kitchen, where he cooked up some of the best fried chicken I've ever had. In the men's bathroom I found football schedules for the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings. Now you know we're in the western half of the Upper Peninsula.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Yoopers shine during Upper Peninsula visits

Horn's Gaslight Bar, 7300 Main St., Mackinac Island
By day it's a bustling restaurant that serves popular Mexican food (I suggest the nachos or wet burrito), but by night it's another place on the Island that offers live entertainment, dancing and festive atmosphere. Owners Steven and Patti Ann Moskwa have maintained a longtime tradition, which dates back to the 1920s when Edward and Violet Horn first opened as a snack shop. Patti Ann's grandparents, Amos and Nell Horn, passed the restaurant on to her. The couple also owns the nearby Yankee Rebel Tavern.
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar: Mackinac Island ends our search on a high note

The Pink Pony Bar and Grill, 7221-105 Main St., Mackinac Island
What are you going to do if you're spending the night on Mackinac Island? "Pony Up!" The yacht races make this the official party stop, and that's because the Pink Pony offers a perfect combination of bar nightlife, food and live music. Despite its reputation of being a hot spot for tourists, it's not uncommon to see locals and seasonal workers stop in for a drink. The Pony is best known for a Rum Runner with a floater: A perfect summer drink
RECAP/PHOTOS: Michigan's Best Neighborhood Bar: Mackinac Island ends our search on a high note

John Gonzalez is a statewide entertainment writer for MLive.com. Email him at gonzo@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.