The Experience: J.W. Filmore’s is tucked back off one of the main roads in Petoskey, so it doesn’t call a lot of attention to itself. However, having been in business in that location for over 25 years, clearly they’re doing something right. They purchase Michigan-made products whenever possible, and put a strong emphasis on “good ole fashioned food and value combined with a comfortable atmosphere and an opportunity to share in good company.” That sounds pleasant enough for me to take the one-time Littlest Burgermeister on a Burger Adventure to this establishment.
Burger Ordered: Filmore’s Freedom Burger
The Taste: Filmore’s promises “The Best Burger in the Neighborhood,” and with Southwoods Restaurant nearby that can’t be considered true. However, what I like about this slogan is the word “Neighborhood,” because that’s what the Filmore’s burger tastes like – a burger from a neighborhood get-together. While it may not be a revolutionary burger, there’s something very familiar about the taste of the Filmore’s Freedom Burger, and it’s a comforting kind of familiarity. The Freedom Burger gives two options to add to the standard burger: the first choice is bacon, mushrooms, or olives, and the second choice is amongst American, Swiss, cheddar, or Monterey cheese. These are fine options in my book, as a bacon cheddar burger usually satisfies me, and this one certainly did that. The Freedom Burger also comes with a choice of fries or tater tots, and that’s somewhat rare up here, so I had to go with the tots. Of course they were delicious, aren’t all tater tots?
The Verdict: The burger was good, the tots were great, and the atmosphere was exactly what they promised. I felt very at home with the service, and the waiter culture was top of the line. They were very accommodating to my toddler and gave her special attention – even giving her a small bit of chocolate milkshake because she was behaving herself. These things go a long way for parents with small children, and ensures a return trip for the Zieglers.
J.W. Filmore’s is located at 906 Spring Street in Petoskey, Michigan.
