Fodor's Expert Review La Cuisine Amical

Since opening in the mid-1990s, this has consistently been a go-to spot for fine French cuisine. Dishes are prepared in an open kitchen while diners sit among plants, statuettes, and wall hangings. Come summer, the patio beckons. Dinner entrées include honey-lemon-braised lamb shank or half a roasted chicken with herbes de Provence, while lunch offers choices like chicken potpie or croque-monsieur. Brunch is served on Sunday until 3 pm. The menu rotates with the seasons to ensure optimum freshness and also highlights northern Michigan producers. One of Traverse City's best wine lists is another highlight, wth choices ranging from a sparkling wine from nearby Lake Leelanau to a Malbec from Argentina; 22 wines are available by the glass.