If every day I could ride my bike down the country roads to Tandem Ciders, I think I would be the happiest girl in the world. The converted barn, which blissfully feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere, hosts hoards of happy locals, packed in to enjoy craft hard ciders brewed by a husband and wife duo. Cider is quite possibly the most refreshing thing ever on a hot summer day, but these Michigan apple varieties—some honey-sweetened and apple brandy-laced—were so crisp and flavorful, it truly tasted like I was smacking into a juicy piece of fruit. Simple snacks, like a hunk of raclette cheese paired with homemade pepper jelly and “pickley delights” were the perfect rustic-chic accompaniment to a laidback yet artfully tasteful experience.
A few hours here made me seriously think about throwing in the New York towel and becoming a regular at my new favorite bar. Who knows, maybe someday.