Day 76: Day in Leland (Fishtown)

Day 76: October 2: I think the clock has been turned back. It feels like August; warm temperatures and clear blue skies. We can see people in bathing suits on the beach just beyond the marina, taking advantage of every last minute of warmth. Indian summer at its best! 

None of us wasted any time exploring; we were very surprised at the number of tourists, other than us, who were visiting the little gift shops, the Cheese Shanty, the Dam Candy Store or just walking around the docks, taking in the view of the lake on this gift of a day. Behind the docks where the small shops stand is a dam; and yes salmon were trying their best to swim upstream. The dam was built in 1854, raising the water level in the Leland River (formerly known as Carp River) and on Lake Leelanau as much as 12 feet. Since the dam prevents boat traffic from passing, launches are available on both sides of the inlet. 


Parked in front of The Cove restaurant was an amphibious car, owned by The Cove's owner, Rick. What a beauty. It was fun seeing her floating by the boats in the morning.

We texted Sean in the morning, letting him know that the 8 of us would be heading to the restaurant at around 6:00 pm. When we showed up we were taken to our table by the window, overlooking the river. We couldn't help but admire the collection of antiques and memorabilia that decorate the restaurant; old engines, props, oars, waterskis, lanterns and more. Rick must be a very interesting guy. 


As soon as we were seated our waiter, Cory, immediately brought over a couple of appetizers including some delicious smoked fish paté. We ordered drinks and were then surprised when Cory brought John and me The Cove's signature drink "Chub Mary". A take off on a Bloody Mary, it includes horseradish infused vodka and a big fat chub which is akin to a large smelt or sardine. You have to peel the fish and then pick out the meat; it was delicious if you like smoked fish. It was a very strange experience having a fish stuck in my drink but I have to say it was very good!




We all ordered a fish dinner prepared differently; fish n chips, fish with onions and peppers and fish stuffed with lobster. Rick stopped by to chat; he was heading out to launch the car and take a few people for a ride. Being seated near the window, we were able to snap a shot of him and guests cruising by. I also took a picture a bit later, catching the sunset turning the sky into a masterpiece. 


More memories were made tonight and once again I want to thank Doug Amaral for ensuring we stopped by Leland and The Cove. As is normal for him, he showed off some love to "Traveling Westporters"! To top it off, our entire bill was "on the house". My Looper friends were completely taken aback and grateful. 











Comments

  1. Joanne StokowskiOctober 5, 2023 at 5:32 PM

    Looks delicious! Both the food and your adventure!

    ReplyDelete

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