Lauren M.
Yelp
To say that we had a wonderful dining experience at Artisan in Delamar Traverse City is an understatement. For nearly a year, we have been looking forward to trying the new and highly-anticipated restaurant that was slated to open in what was formerly the Holiday Inn West Bay. On an occasion of drinks in late winter 2021, my husband and I were invited to preview the still-under-construction space where the general manager gave us details of the restaurant's layout and the features that would soon be completed.
Finally, after several months of Artisan being open, we made a reservation to celebrate an early Valentine's Day, and I can say with certainty that the restaurant more than met our expectations.
First, I want to say that a welcoming ambience and warm atmosphere is high on my list of must-haves in high-end dining--just below food quality and creativity. From the moment we passed beneath the glowing chandelier in the foyer, I could tell I would be in a place of true comfort while eating at Artisan. The overall design of the restaurant pulls you in while you enter, particularly the lighting and color choices. From the entryway, you can see a gorgeous bar, several varying styles of seating, and a beautiful fireplace with conversational couches.
We were taken to the second dining room, one that during the day would feature a beautiful view of the bay. Though it is separated by a wall, from our table, we could see through the glass partition and into the bar, which made the space feel larger. In the summer, the restaurant also has outdoor patio seating and an open concept from that second, beautiful room.
Beyond the service--which was superb in attentiveness and warmth--we enjoyed a truly delicious dinner. Our menu had a large section of Valentine's Day options with entrees that would satisfy any palate. I almost chose the gnocchi, but opted for the Scottish salmon from the regular menu while my husband chose the filet from the holiday features. After a shared Caesar salad and a helping of bread from Common Good bakery, our entrees arrived and we barely spoke a word until we'd cleaned our plates.
One thing I appreciate and often don't mention in reviews is portion size. The dishes at Artisan are absolutely perfect in size. Nothing remained when I'd finished (quite ravenously) my delicious salmon, and yet, I was satiated. My husband gleefully ate his filet while I occasionally dipped my fork into his truffle sauce--because honestly, who could resist? And after two cocktails, the bread, and the salad, we had had one of the best dinners we've ever had in Traverse City.
Being a resident and seeing new restaurants spring up across town opens the door for new dining experiences, and this one was one to remember. We can't wait to dine at Artisan again, encourage our friends to do the same, and even do a staycation at the hotel. Delamar has done an exceptional job redesigning the entire space to offer something that is updated without being cold and overly modern. The warmth radiating out of the hotel and restaurant would make anyone want to return, and we plan to do so soon!