The unassuming general store in Michigan that secretly serves the best sandwiches in the state

By Lucas

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The unassuming general store in Michigan that secretly serves the best sandwiches in the state

What if the best sandwich in Michigan was hidden in plain sight?

The Old Mission General Store in Traverse City has a rustic atmosphere and mouthwatering sandwiches that locals rave about.

Consider this: you’re driving down the scenic roads of Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula, surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful vineyards.

The sun is shining, the breeze is perfect, and you think, “Life couldn’t get any better than this.”

But, my friend, it can.

The Old Mission General Store is just around the bend, tucked away like a hidden gem in your grandmother’s jewellery box.

Now I understand what you are thinking.

“A general store?” Really? Did I take the wrong turn and end up in 1892?

And to that, I respond, “I sure hope so!”

Because this isn’t your typical general store.

This is a portal to a simpler time, one in which the art of sandwich-making has not been lost to the ravages of time or the dangers of fast food.

As you approach this charming white building with its red trim and welcoming porch, you may feel as if you’ve stepped onto a movie set.

But don’t worry, this isn’t a Hollywood fabrication.

This is the real deal, people.

The Old Mission General Store has stood proudly since 1839, making it one of Michigan’s oldest continuously operating retail businesses.

That’s right, this establishment has been selling goods and feeding hungry travellers since before your great-great-grandparents were even a twinkle in their parents’ eyes.

Now, let us talk about the store itself.

As you enter, expect your senses to go into overdrive.

The creaky wooden floors beneath your feet tell stories from generations past.

The air is thick with the scents of freshly baked bread, aromatic spices, and a faint hint of nostalgia.

Everywhere you look, something catches your eye.

The walls are lined with shelves stocked with a diverse mix of modern necessities and antique curios.

You might find a jar of locally made jam nestled next to a tin of old-fashioned hard candies that your grandfather used to enjoy.

But, let’s be honest, you’re not here for the trinkets or the nostalgic trip (though those are nice extras).

You are here for the sandwich.

Locals whisper reverently about the sandwich, and tourists make detours just to try it.

Now, I’ve had sandwiches all over the world.

I’ve eaten bahn mi in Vietnam, croque monsieur in Paris, and lobster rolls in Maine.

But let me tell you about the sandwiches at Old Mission General Store.

They are in a league of their own.

What makes these sandwiches so unique, you ask?

Well, there’s more than one thing.

It’s the perfect storm of deliciousness.

First, there’s bread.

Ah, the bread.

Baked fresh every day, it has the perfect crust that crackles when you bite into it, revealing a soft, pillowy interior that begs to soak up all those sandwich juices.

Then there are fillings.

We’re talking about high-quality, perfectly sliced meats.

Crisp, fresh vegetables that snap when bitten.

Don’t get me started on the cheese.

It’s the type of cheese that makes you wonder if you’ve ever actually tasted cheese before.

But here’s the true secret: it’s more than just the ingredients.

It’s about the care that goes into making each and every sandwich.

The folks behind the counter are sandwich artists, not just sandwich makers.

They build each one with the same care and precision that a master craftsman would when making fine furniture.

Now I understand what you are thinking.

“Come on, this is just a sandwich. “How good can it really be?”

And to that, I say, prepare to have your mind blown, your taste buds tantalised, and your faith in humanity renewed.

Because when you take your first bite, something magical occurs.

Time appears to slow down.

The environment around you fades away.

It’s just you and this ideal combination of bread, meat, cheese, and vegetables.

In that moment, everything is fine in the world.

But the Old Mission General Store isn’t all about the sandwiches.

This place is a feast for both the eyes and the stomach.

Take a moment to look around while you wait for your sandwich to be prepared.

You’ll see antique tools hanging from the ceiling, old-fashioned candy barrels that will transport you back to your childhood, and enough knick-knacks to keep you entertained for hours.

And let us not forget about the drinks.

What’s the point of a perfect sandwich if it doesn’t go with the perfect beverage?

The Old Mission General Store has you covered there as well.

They have an impressive selection of local craft beers, which is understandable given that this is Michigan, where beer is taken seriously.

But, if you’re feeling nostalgic (and, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t be in a place like this?), how about an old-fashioned soda pop?

The satisfying ‘pop’ of opening a glass bottle of root beer feels just right in this setting.

It’s the perfect way to cap off your time travel adventure.

Now, I know some of you are thinking, “This all sounds fantastic, but I’m not just here for the food. “I want to have an experience.”

Buckle up, buttercup, because the Old Mission General Store delivers on that as well.

This is more than just a place to get a quick bite.

It’s a place to slow down, savour, and reflect on what life was like before we were all rushing around with our faces buried in our phones.

Sit in one of the rocking chairs on the front porch.

Take a moment to observe the passing of time.

Strike up a conversation with a local or another traveller.

You never know what stories you’ll hear or who you might meet.

If you’re lucky (or time your visit correctly), you might even see some live music.

Nothing fancy, mind you.

Just some locals playing songs that will make your toes tap and your heart sing.

But here’s the thing: the Old Mission General Store is more than just a tourist attraction.

It’s an important part of the community.

It’s where locals go to catch up on the latest news, get that one ingredient they forgot for dinner, or simply take a break from their hectic schedule.

What about the sense of community?

You can taste it in every bite of your sandwich.

It’s in the way the staff welcomes you like an old friend, even if it’s your first visit.

It’s in the way strangers strike up conversations while waiting in line, bonding over their mutual love of this small piece of paradise.

Now I understand what some of you history buffs are thinking.

“Tell me more about the store’s past!”

So strap in, because we’re about to take a quick trip down memory lane.

The Old Mission General Store has been around since 1839, which makes it older than 27 states.

It witnessed the return of Civil War soldiers, the transition from horse-drawn carriages to automobiles, and the birth of the internet age.

Throughout, it has remained a constant, a touchstone for the community.

During Prohibition, it served as a post office, church, dance hall, and even a hideout for bootleggers (according to local legends).

Today, it exemplifies the enduring spirit of small-town America.

It’s a place where the past and present coexist peacefully, where you can purchase a loaf of artisanal bread and a jar of traditional penny candy in the same transaction.

But enough of the past.

Let’s discuss your future.

Specifically, consider your upcoming visit to the Old Mission General Store.

Because, let’s be honest, after reading this, how could you not plan a trip?

It would be like discovering the existence of unicorns and then saying, “Nah, I’m fine.” I don’t need to see that.

So this is what you are going to do.

You’re going to get in your car, drive towards Traverse City, and follow the winding roads of the Old Mission Peninsula until you see that charming white building with red trim.

You’re going to walk in, take in the intoxicating aromas, and order the best sandwich you’ve ever had.

You’re going to sit on that porch, drink an old-fashioned soda, and let the stresses of the modern world fade away for a while.

And when you’re done, full of good food and good vibes, you’ll tell everyone you know about this mystical little spot.

Because of places like the Old Mission General Store.

They are rare.

They’re unique.

They deserve to be celebrated.

So, come down to the Old Mission General Store.

Come for the sandwiches, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with a satisfied stomach and heart.

Trust me; your taste buds (and soul) will thank you.

When you’re ready to embark on your sandwich pilgrimage, use this map to direct your path to culinary bliss.

Where: 18250 Mission Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686

Remember, in an age of fast food and chain restaurants, establishments like the Old Mission General Store are a rare find.

So take a bite out of history, savour the flavours of tradition, and make memories to last a lifetime.

Your sandwich adventure awaits!

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