(231) 237-9016
103 Park Ave., Charlevoix, MI 49720
We heard that the chef over at Roquette Burger Bistro was a real nice guy and that he was making incredible, fresh, local foods. So we set out to find him. It was easy. He’s right downtown.
Paul Ramey has created a sophisticated little place that takes the term burger joint to a whole new level. It’s actually a gourmet, locally sourced burger bistro with a creative flare and flavors that will bring you back for more, more and more. Paul is an admitted food geek and his passion for food totally shows. He came from the iconic Michigan preserves producer American Spoon. There he learned that simple ingredients treated properly make the best food.
Paul started growing a leafy salad green called arugula (roquette is French for arugula), craved a good burger one day, took a leap of faith and is now serving so much more than these marvelous meat sandwiches. He visits local farms almost every day, finds fresh ingredients and is making some sensational dishes in a kitchen so small, everything (including his homemade catsup) is literally within arm’s reach.
Paul is fascinating to talk to, a blast to watch create in the kitchen and has made such a great impression in Charlevoix that people are coming from near and far to sample his high-brow chow. We had a great time at Roquette Burger Bistro and some awesome food. This new foodie movement sure has made producing this show a fulfilling experience, with the emphasis on both full and filling.
Note: Last we heard, Roquette Burger Bistro was changing its focus to a gourmet BBQ joint. The new name will be “SOW – Smoke On The Water” and they will still serve the Bacon Jam Burger, Wild Mushroom Burger and Truffle Fries. The restaurant will continue to source locally and serve incredible edibles. They’ll just be doing it barbecue style!
sow-bbq.com/