Forrest, A Food Studio

Discovering Forrest, A Food Studio was like finding a hidden gem tucked away in Traverse City. Walking in, the ambiance immediately felt like a warm embrace, with a wall of coat hooks inviting us to get cozy and settle in. What struck me most was the communal spirit—individual parties seated together, fostering a sense of connection. The menu, a testament to simplicity and quality, showcased expertly prepared ingredients speaking for themselves. No need for elaborate explanation or instruction; each dish spoke volumes with its flavors and textures. And the wine pairings? Impeccable. They elevated each course, complementing the flavors in delightful harmony. And let’s not forget the gin martini—a true masterpiece, setting the bar high for libations. While Forrest may lean towards a splurge, it’s a treat worth the occasional indulgence. The passion of Forrest and Nicole for their craft is palpable, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Simply fabulous. Truly an exceptional epicurean experience. Gracious and knowledgeable hosts. Chef Forrest and lovely Nicole treat their guests like royalty. Forrest A Food Studio is a little gem tucked neatly into the quaint Old Town of Traverse City. Our visit with my daughter and son-in-law was their treat to me for my special day. And SPECIAL it was!

Had a wonderful experience at Forrest food studio! The food was plated beautifully and and had a unique taste. It was served at room temperature but I enjoyed the flavor combinations. It was difficult to have a conversation or hear, but otherwise great atmosphere. I enjoyed the wine pairing too!

We had an incredible experience at Forrest! Forrest and his wife were so friendly and welcoming, super knowledgeable with all the food and wine they were serving. The food was phenomenal, the wine was fantastic. The whole idea of what they're doing was just so cool and we had a really great time. Thank you!

While I haven't had the opportunity to experience the dinner menu....yet, I love stopping in to pick up a great bottle of wine! They have a small yet wonderfully curated selection of wines that I just can't find other places. Plus, Forest, one of the owners, is super knowledgeable about the wines and is always wanting to make a good suggestion. Now I just need to get some dinner reservations because every time I stop in it always smells amazing. Go check it out!

Forrest made us (a group of 10 adults) an awesome New Year's Eve meal! Lamb/beef meatballs and sausage flat bread appetizer, salad, steak and lobster mash potatoes, and a hazelnut monkey bread for dessert. He and his wife, Nicole, were a pleasure to work with, and they left the kitchen cleaner than they found it. Would highly recommend!

Local TC couple own /create/serve at this amazing restaurant. Fri and Sat night only. 20 customers for each seating (one seating a night). It feels like you’re invited into their kitchen for an exquisite meal. We ordered the “wine pairing “ for each course (four tastings) for an additional $45 pp. I felt they could have “topped off” our glasses or provided a full pour. I asked for a “splash more” of the red served with dinner and was surprised we were charged. That being said, I would return EVERY month as the menu changes each month. This place is booked ALL SUMMER but I put my name on a “notify” for cancellation and scored a rez for two.

Our family had the good fortune of obtaining reservations for the July 2024 menu. The food was truly amazing and out of this world! Each course was carefully prepared and explained by the husband/wife team who also were the hosts and servers! The courses were delivered in a communal setting where you got to make friends with other diners which was fun for us as out of town guests. We have been to some of the top restaurants in the world and live near Sonoma/Napa and this food stands out in quality and creativity with anyone! You have to try this place - just don't forget to get your reservation at 8am on the first of each month :)

I was so excited to check out Forrest, A Food Studio for my birthday dinner this year. They are a wine shop that hosts beautiful dinners with optional natural wine pairings. It's a very similar concept to Spencer in Ann Arbor, where I had a lovely birthday dinner a few years ago, so I was really looking forward to this experience. Reservations are required, and they open one month in advance, on the first of the month at 8:00 a.m. for the following month. When we arrived, I found our seat with a little name tag next to a delicious looking piece of bread. The menu changes each month, and the experience feels like a dinner party with friends. I appreciated that the plates were served individually versus family style. The August menu included: -rosemary focaccia with roasted garlic butter -hamachi crudo with pickled peach, cucumber, crispy rice, and white shoyu aioli -sweet corn ravioli with pecorino, pancetta, and chives -char grilled wagyu flank steak with summer beans, creamed leeks, and chimichurri -lemon bar with malted milk, blueberry, and thyme Each dish was presented by the chef, Forrest, and his wife Nicole. We opted for the wine pairings, which were delicious and unique. We got a discount on wine purchases and took home a lovely bottle of red wine that we tried. All the food was delicious, but my favorite parts were the crispy rice and white shoyu of the crudo, the sweet corn on the ravioli dish, the creamed leeks, and the freeze dried blueberry on the dessert. Everything was seasoned to perfection and I loved the attention to detail and the welcoming atmosphere. At $85 per person for the meal I thought the value was exceptional. I highly recommend Forrest, A Food Studio to any food and wine lover!