Les Cheneaux Culinary School Review: A Hidden Culinary Gem in Northern Michigan
There are meals you enjoy, and then there are meals you find yourself describing to strangers weeks later.
My Valentine’s Day dinner at Les Cheneaux Culinary School in Hessel, Michigan, fell firmly into the second category. If you’ve been searching for a truly special dining experience in Michigan, something beyond supper clubs and steakhouses, this intimate culinary school tucked along the waterfront of the Les Cheneaux Islands region deserves a spot at the top of your list.
What Is Les Cheneaux Culinary School?
Most people driving through the Upper Peninsula don’t know this place exists. That’s exactly what makes it special. Les Cheneaux Culinary School is a working culinary institution located in the charming waterfront village of Hessel, Michigan. But it’s far more than a cooking school, it’s a gathering place for serious food lovers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
It’s the kind of place that quietly punches above its weight, bringing globally-inspired technique and restaurant-quality menus to a part of Michigan most people only visit for the scenery.
(Spoiler: the food is worth the drive on its own.)
The Valentine’s Day Tasting Dinner: Course by Course
I attended the Valentine’s dinner, which was a five course tasting menu, and every single dish was better than the last.
Here’s what we had, and what made each course memorable:
Tom Kha Kai — Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
I’ve ordered Tom Kha Kai at Thai restaurants, and nothing has come close to this version.
The broth was silky and deeply aromatic, It’s the kind of soup that makes you slow down. You don’t rush through it.
Soba Salad — The Dish I’m Still Thinking About
Nobody walks into a tasting dinner expecting the soba salad to be the most memorable bite of the night.
This soba salad changed that for me. The textures were ideal: light enough to feel refreshing between courses, satisfying enough to stand alone. It was simple. It was perfect. I’ve thought about it since.
Pork Belly Bao — The Best Bao I’ve Ever Eaten
I’ll say it plainly: this was the best bao bun I’ve ever had. The bun itself was pillowy and airy with a faint sweetness. Every element in the bite balanced richness, softness, and a bright finish that kept it from feeling heavy. For a dish that sounds simple on paper, the execution here was extraordinary.
Poached South African Lobster Tail — Quiet Elegance
The main course arrived with no fanfare, and it didn’t need any. Poached South African lobster tail, buttery, tender, and perfectly cooked. Poaching preserved the lobster’s natural sweetness in a way that high-heat methods rarely do. This dish was refined and restrained, letting world-class seafood speak for itself.
It was the kind of course you eat slowly because you don’t want it to end.
Lemongrass Posset — A Perfect Finish
Dessert closed the evening with a lemongrass posset. Silky, aromatic, and just the right amount of indulgent. The citrus and lemongrass were present without being sharp, and the creamy texture felt luxurious without sitting heavy. It was a thoughtful way to end a meal that had taken you through bold, layered flavors all evening.
Why Les Cheneaux Culinary School Is Worth the Trip
What separates a great restaurant meal from a great culinary experience is intention. At Les Cheneaux Culinary School, every detail of these curated dinners feels considered. The progression of courses, the sourcing of ingredients, the way global techniques are applied without feeling out of place in a small Michigan waterfront town.
The atmosphere is intimate and warm. The chefs are genuinely talented. And the setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Les Cheneaux Islands, makes the whole evening feel like a special occasion even before the food arrives.
For anyone visiting the Upper Peninsula, this is one of the most underrated dining experiences in all of Northern Michigan.
Coming Up: Memorial Day Weekend Dinner
If you missed the Valentine’s dinner, the next opportunity is just around the corner. Les Cheneaux Culinary School is hosting another curated tasting dinner during Memorial Day weekend, and early word on the menu sounds just as impressive. These events fill up fast, the intimate format means limited seating. If you’re planning a trip to the Les Cheneaux area or looking for something special this spring, reserve your seat early. Register for the Memorial Day Weekend Dinner.
Where is Les Cheneaux Culinary School located?
The school is located in Hessel, Michigan, in the Les Cheneaux Islands region of the Upper Peninsula.
Is Les Cheneaux Culinary School open to the public for dining?
Yes, their curated tasting dinners are open to the public and held as special events throughout the year. Seating is limited.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes. These events sell out quickly. Check their website for upcoming dates and booking information.
Is it worth visiting just for the food?
Absolutely. The Valentine’s dinner was one of the best meals I’ve had anywhere, not just in Michigan. The Les Cheneaux Culinary School Restaurant opens Friday, June 19th for the season and I cannot wait to check it out.
10 Midwest Getaways to Melt Away the Winter Blues
Winter in the Midwest can feel long and gray, but the right getaway can make all the difference. From cozy small towns to scenic winter landscapes and vibrant cities, these Midwest winter getaways offer the perfect escape, without breaking the bank.
Whether you want snow covered charm, relaxation, or indoor culture, here are 10 of the best winter getaways in the Midwest.
1. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is magical in winter. Think snowy Lake Michigan views, cozy wineries, quiet downtown streets, and seasonal events.
Best for: cozy vibes, wine tasting, winter walks
2. Door County, Wisconsin
With fewer crowds and snow-covered shorelines, Door County becomes peaceful and romantic in winter. Many inns and shops stay open year-round.
Best for: cabins, lakeside views, winter relaxation
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago shines in winter with world-class museums, theater, restaurants, and a stunning snowy skyline—especially along the lakefront.
Best for: city escapes, food lovers, culture
4. Galena, Illinois
This historic town feels straight out of a Hallmark movie in winter. Expect charming streets, cozy inns, and rolling snowy hills.
Best for: romantic getaways, small-town charm
5. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Known as “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is cozy and festive all winter long. With charming shops, indoor attractions, and famous comfort food, it’s an easy winter escape.
Best for: festive vibes, comfort food
6. Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota
The Twin Cities embrace winter with heated skyways, great dining, museums, and outdoor skating trails for those who love cold-weather energy.
Best for: urban winter fun, arts, food
7. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva offers cozy resorts, winter hiking paths, spa experiences, and beautiful frozen lake views.
Best for: spa weekends, couples, relaxation
8. Saugatuck, Michigan
Quieter in winter but still charming, Saugatuck offers lakeshore walks, art galleries, and cozy stays with fewer crowds.
Best for: peaceful winter walks, art lovers, relaxing weekends
9. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is an underrated winter getaway with jazz history, barbecue, museums, and fewer crowds during colder months.
Best for: foodies, culture, weekend trips
10. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth in winter is dramatic and beautiful. Frozen Lake Superior, snowy cliffs, and cozy lodges create a memorable cold-weather escape.
Best for: winter scenery, adventure, photography
Why Midwest Winter Getaways Are Worth It
Winter travel in the Midwest often means fewer crowds, lower prices, and a slower pace. These destinations prove that you don’t have to escape the region to escape the winter blues, you just need the right setting.
9 Analog Hobbies to Replace Your Screen Time This Year
If you’re craving a slower pace and less screen time, analog hobbies are a beautiful place to start. These offline activities help you stay present, creative, and connected without notifications or endless scrolling.
1. Needlepoint
Needlepoint is rhythmic, calming, and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for quiet evenings and lets you create something tangible with your hands.
2. Taking In-Person Classes
Whether it’s pottery, cooking, art, or a language class, learning in person builds real connection and keeps you fully engaged in the moment.
3. Sending Snail Mail
Writing letters, postcards, or thank-you notes adds intention to communication and turns everyday thoughts into meaningful keepsakes.
4. Hand Embroidery
Hand embroidery is a slower, more detailed craft that encourages focus and creativity, ideal for unwinding without a screen.
5. Knitting or Crocheting
These classic fiber arts are repetitive, meditative, and practical. Bonus: you end up with something warm or giftable.
6. Reading Physical Books
There’s nothing like holding a real book. Reading offline improves focus, reduces eye strain, and feels far more immersive.
7. Baking from Scratch
Baking engages all your senses and rewards you with something delicious. It’s grounding, creative, and wonderfully screen-free.
8. Gardening
Whether it’s a full garden or a few potted herbs, gardening connects you to nature and teaches patience and care.
9. Puzzles
Puzzles improve concentration, give your hands something to do, and are perfect for evenings when you’d normally reach for your phone.
Replacing even a small portion of your screen time with analog hobbies can help you feel calmer, more creative, and more present in everyday life. You don’t have to quit screens you just have to give yourself better alternatives.
Love on a Budget: 19 Free Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag to be meaningful. Whether you’re saving money, avoiding crowded restaurants, or just prefer something more personal, there are plenty of romantic and fun ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day without spending a dime.
From cozy at home ideas to thoughtful gestures, here are 20 no-spend Valentine’s Day ideas that prove love really is priceless.
1. Cook a Romantic Meal Together at Home
Skip the restaurant rush and turn your kitchen into a date spot. Use ingredients you already have, put on music, and enjoy the process together, it’s half the fun.
2. Write Each Other Love Letters
Old school, heartfelt, and completely free. Write about what you love, your favorite memories, or what you’re excited about in the future.
3. Have a Movie Night with a Theme
Pick a theme: rom-coms, classics, or movies from when you first met, and create a cozy setup with blankets and candles you already own.
4. Go for a Scenic Walk
Take a walk through your neighborhood, a local park, or somewhere meaningful to your relationship. Bonus points for sunset walks.
5. Recreate Your First Date
Revisit where it all began, mentally or physically. If it was at home or a simple outing, even better.
6. Plan a Game Night for Two
Board games or card games you already have can turn into a surprisingly competitive (and flirty) night.
7. Make a Memory Jar
Write down favorite memories or things you love about each other on slips of paper, and give to each other as gift to look at later.
8. Bake a Valentine’s Treat
Embrace the sweet side of the holiday by whipping up a yummy treat, my favorites are heart shaped cookies and cupcakes adorned with pink sprinkles.
9. Watch the sunrise or sunset
When was the last time you woke up just to watch the sunrise or paused in the evening to take in the sunset? Celebrate Valentine’s Day by taking in one of the world’s natural masterpieces.
10. Watch the Stars
If the weather allows, step outside and stargaze. Even city skies have their charm when you’re together.
11. Give Each Other a DIY “Coupon Book”
Offer free acts of love: back rubs, chores, movie picks, or breakfast in bed, no money required.
12. Do a Photo Color Walk
Use your phone to take pictures of items for each color of the rainbow…ROYGBIV.
13. Have a Dessert Night Using Pantry Staples
Cookies, brownies, or even toast with toppings, get creative with what you already have.
14. Read Together
Pick a book, poem, or even old love notes and read aloud. It’s intimate, calming, and underrated.
15. Make a Playlist for Each Other
Curate songs that remind you of your relationship or represent how you feel right now.
16. Do a Home Spa Night
Face masks, warm showers, massages, luxury vibes without luxury prices.
17. Plan a Future Trip (Just for Fun)
Even if it’s not happening soon, dreaming together is romantic and bonding.
18. Volunteer Together
If you’re able, spend time helping others, it’s a meaningful way to celebrate love.
19. Say “No” to Pressure and Do What Feels Right
Sometimes the best Valentine’s Day plan is simply spending intentional time together, no expectations, no spending.
Final Thoughts
Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much you spend, it’s about connection, presence, and appreciation. These no-spend Valentine’s Day ideas prove that romance doesn’t require a budget, just a little creativity and heart.
💖 Love doesn’t need a receipt.
Alphabet Dating: 26 Fun Date Ideas from A to Z
Alphabet dating is the ultimate way to keep your relationship fresh, exciting, and full of adventure. Each letter represents a unique date idea, encouraging couples to try new experiences together. Here’s a complete A-to-Z guide to inspire your next date nights!
A is for Arcade
Enjoy classic games, air hockey, and skee-ball while collecting tickets for fun prizes. Don’t forget to take silly photos and grab nostalgic snacks!
B is for Bowling
Strike up some fun at your local bowling alley. Challenge each other, share laughs, and maybe even celebrate a lucky strike with ice cream.
C is for Cooking Class
Learn a new cuisine together. Cooking classes are hands-on, interactive, and deliciously rewarding. Bonus: you get to eat your creations!
D is for Dualing Pianos
Enjoy a lively night of music, laughs, and sing-alongs as two pianists compete to play audience requests. It’s fun, interactive, and full of energy, perfect for a memorable and playful date night.
E is for Escape Room
Work together to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out. This is perfect for couples who love challenges and teamwork.
F is for Food Truck
Explore your city’s culinary scene by visiting different food trucks. Sample unique dishes and discover new favorites.
G is for Game Night
Host a cozy night at home with board games, card games, or video games. Add snacks and drinks for extra fun.
H is for Hiking
Reconnect with nature and each other by exploring a local trail. Hiking is healthy, relaxing, and offers beautiful photo opportunities.
I is for Ice Skating
Glide hand in hand on the ice, whether indoors or at a seasonal outdoor rink. Don’t worry if you’re clumsy, it’s all part of the fun!
J is for Jeep Adventures
Go off-roading or explore scenic trails in a Jeep or rental 4×4.
K is for Kisses Under the Blankets
Movie marathon wrapped in blankets with blankets forts.
L is for Laser Tag
Channel your inner child and compete in a fast-paced laser tag arena. Team up or go head to head for some playful competition.
M is for Museum Visit
Explore art, history, or science museums. It’s educational, inspiring, and gives plenty of conversation starters.
N is for Nature Walk
Take a leisurely stroll in a botanical garden, park, or along the beach. Notice the small things, and enjoy quiet moments together.
O is for Outdoor Movie
Watch a film under the stars at a drive-in or outdoor screening. Bring blankets, snacks, and enjoy a magical cinematic experience.
P is for Picnic
Pack a basket with your favorite foods, grab a blanket, and head to a scenic spot. Picnics are relaxing, intimate, and budget friendly.
Q is for Quiz Night
Test your trivia skills at a local pub or host your own quiz night at home. Fun, competitive, and full of laughs!
R is for Road Trip
Hit the open road and explore nearby towns or landmarks. Adventure, spontaneity, and new experiences await!
S is for Stargazing
Find a dark spot outside the city, lay down a blanket, and gaze at the stars. It’s romantic, peaceful, and awe-inspiring.
T is for Theater Show
Catch a play, musical, or improv show. Live performances create a shared experience and plenty of conversation afterward.
U is for Urban Exploration
Discover hidden gems in your city, murals, small shops, rooftop gardens, or quirky cafes. Perfect for couples who love adventure close to home.
V is for Volunteer Together
Give back to the community by volunteering at a shelter, food bank, or local charity. It’s meaningful, bonding, and fulfilling.
W is for Wildlife Sanctuary Visit
Explore a sanctuary and learn about the animals.
X is for Xtreme Adventure
Get the adrenaline pumping with activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, or bungee jumping. Extreme experiences build strong memories and trust.
Y is for Yoga Class
Take a couples yoga class to stretch, relax, and connect both physically and mentally. Bonus: it’s a calm and mindful bonding experience.
Z is for Zoo Trip
Visit a zoo, walking around, watching animals, and sharing fun facts creates a playful and educational date.
Fashion meets Food 