Excellent fresh food. Servers are good. The kicker is that it's located in the old state psychiatric hospital, not a place you'd usually dine in. read more

The food was very good, the service was good. Our server, Dylan, was friendly, helpful and brought items out in a timely manner. The regular coffee was delicious, the stuffed French toast was delicious, the eggs benny was okay, but we would try the omelette next time. The only thing we did not like was the sausage patties. The sausage was good quality but way too sage in it--it overpowered the fennel and other spices in it. I would try the sausage links next time to see if they are less packed with sage. And you definitely need reservations. They say they are recommended, they really should be required on the weekends and peak tourist season. read more

This place is great. The omelettes are so good. One of the best Bloody Marys I've ever had. The fennel and sea salt toast is a must try.

Came here on a Saturday and it was pretty busy. Took 30 minutes to get a table, that's ok we can deal with that. We have been sitting at the table for 1 hour waiting for two breakfast plates to come out. They are busy but waiting over an hour for breakfast seems wild. I think they over seat and get the waitlist jammed up way more than the kitchen can handle. Toast was cold and a disappointment. Waiter was nice , host was nice , food was ok. Wish we were warned that breakfast would be a 1.5-2 hour process. read more

See all

Excellent restaurant! We just had Crab Benedict which was delicious and abundant! This restaurant runs like a well- oiled machine. It is not large, has many people working there and is totally efficient! It's located in a beautiful old brick building that adds to the ambiance plus when you're done eating, there are great little shops all around. I highly recommend this restaurant as you will not be disappointed. We eat here quite often and will be back again!! read more

Really cool brunch place in the asylum! The restaurant is small so I don't think the reviews of the large crowds realize that. It's a very small space but they do their best and you can see the staff make your food. Everything was great and I would go back! read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Hallway - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

See all

This brunch spot was the last stop on my Traverse City weekend! The location is unique, as it is located in the basement of an old mental hospital that has been refurbished with shops and restaurants. It has a beautiful brick interior which makes the space unique and quite cozy. There are two parts to the restaurant, a back seating area and a hallway seating area. I made a reservation for Sunday at 11:30am which I'm thankful I did as I overheard the hostess say the wait was over an hour to another party checking in. Our waitress was super friendly and took our order shortly after we sat down. The biggest downside to this experience was how long it took for our food to come out. It took 45 minutes for my group to get our food and when it did come out there was an error with one of the dishes, so it had to be sent back. Due to this error that group member ended up waiting close to an hour for their food, which was disappointing. Although the wait was long we all throughly enjoyed our food. I ordered the western omelette with fruit and rye toast, all of which were flavorful. The portions sizes were great for 1 person as well. Overall I had a good experience but would caution anyone going to allow ample time for the meal! read more

See all

The wait on a Wednesday morning was almost an hour so put in your name in then go explore!!!! Lots of variety on the menu! Service was great! The gazpacho was full of fresh chunks and was delicious. The crabcake Benedict was TINY, but very flavorful and the fruit salad on the dish was fresh. read more

See all

I would give this zero stars but it don't let you. I ordered a western omelette and it was completely very raw. We told waitress a she said oh but didn't take the plate left it there. The cook made a new one and waitress and everybody was in hurry to close so she asked me to take it to go even though we arrived 15-20 mins before they closed. Then instead of removing it from bill like most restaurants she gave us $3 off our bill. very rude they rush you to hurry and eat and to go they bring you raw food or condiments that were wrong and not what you asked for. Then to push you more out the door they bring you your bill and every 2 seconds come to see if you hurried and paid yet. I will never come here again. read more

Great food and located in a historic landmark, that being the old & renovated traverse city insane asylum. Their decaf coffee is delicious! And their baked oatmeal with berries tastes like a dessert. It's sweet and tart and moist - right out of the oven. Their staff is pleasant and attentive, always filling coffee mugs before having to ask which is very nice. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Baked oatmeal with berries and yogurt - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

See all

Worth the wait! Breads, salads, eggs, exceptional! Went back twice on one visit. GF bread options are available. read more

See all

Service is efficient and quick, the outdoor seating area is peaceful and relaxing and the inside area is a bit louder and more energetic. Overall it is a nice feel. The food servings are enormous and if you are a lighter eater the entrees are shareable.. They serve Higher Ground drip coffee ( no espresso based coffee available here, sadly). The coffee is smooth and non-acidic. read more

See all

We made reservations for 12:15 but arrived ten minutes early. We could see an open two top so checked in but they said they couldn't seat us until 12:15. So we left and came back. When we returned, they seated another couple at the table we'd seen ten minutes previously and told us our table was still not quite ready. This seemed strange to us since I didn't understand what we couldn't have been seated in the open two top. Anyway, we did then get a table and I ordered an iced tea. I was impressed that the straw was paper but less impressed that it was a bit weak without any ice and was basically room temperature. I was never offered a refill. A little later I ordered a Bloody Mary which was good but too spicy for me personally. I ordered an omelette which comes with toast and either hashbrowns or fruit. I wanted the hash browns and fruit but that was an up charge. I love toast but could see it was two large slices which seemed a lot of carbs. The hash browns were good but not quite as crispy as other reviews said. I'd have like them crispier. My husband loved his red velvet pancakes. He ordered two over medium eggs on the side which came over easy, although that is very common at many restaurants. Overall, it's a cute place in the commons and the food is good. I wouldn't dissuade anyone from going if you're already in the area. But I wouldn't bother with a long wait read more

See all

Over an hour wait for mediocre food. The pancakes were cold, burrito was half empty, and they forgot my cinnamon roll entirely. Didn't include utensils in the take out bag. Not worth the hype. Used to love coming here with friends and family, but they fell off harder than BlackBerry when touchscreen was invented. Would not recommend :) read more

French ambiance! Bunker like setting! Great for brunch! Crab Benny was delish! Save some time to explore the premises! read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

The cutest little Brunch spot in Traverse City, in the Commons. The Eggs Benedict was excellent as was the Mimosa. Service was wonderful, very friendly and the food was brought out in a timely manner, hot and fresh, cooked to order. Look at those crispy hash browns.. This place is always busy so there will most likely be a wait time. Ours was 30 minutes, but there is so much to see at The Commons, it went by fast. Enjoy read more

See all

Came here with recommendations from a friend and we were not disappointed. For here right at nine as we were told if you don't have a reservation there can be a long wait. Thankfully we were seated right away and had the house of inside our outside. There was a lot of cool art to look at inside and the whole vibe of the place was really cool and quaint with the exposed brick walls. Got a Bloody Mary which was delicious and had a good amount of spice to it. Food was awesome, no one had a single complaint. Everything felt fair priced and portions were fine. Benedict's are a must as is the croissant French toast. Really fun place to walk around and kill some time, would love to come back for the farmers market as well. read more

See all

Honestly was pretty impressed with this place! It's located in the Village at Grand Traverse Commons which is an old hospital campus so the area and buildings are super interesting. We got there early enough on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend that there was parking available in the lot closest to where you enter but by the time we left it was packed! We also had to wait about 15-20 minutes for our table which was expected. You put your phone number in and they text you when your table is ready. They quoted it as a 30-40 minute wait but it was much less than that so that was nice. Once we sat down, we ordered mimosas. I had the blood orange mimosa and it was so tasty! Definitely hit the spot. My friend has a dairy allergy and they were very accommodating to make sure she could drink her cocktail. I had the house omelette as my meal which had crab, red pepper, green onions, and Gruyère. I thought it could have been seasoned a tad more but it was still tasty. The hash browns were cooked perfectly to my liking (extra crispy!) and the sourdough bread was fresh too. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - House Omelette - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

See all

Super cool place and the service was great. The red velvet pancakes and homemade cream cheese frosting were to die for.

Meh - nothing different than a typical Michigan Coney Island diner. In fact, those tend to be better because at least they offer a more expansive menu. Definitely not worth a wait. read more

Excellent food and very friendly service. Super cute restaurant with reasonable prices. We will be back next time we're in TC!!

My recent visit to Red Spire was, unfortunately, far from satisfactory. I waited an astonishing two hours and twenty-five minutes for my order, which is entirely unacceptable under any circumstance. What made the situation even more frustrating was the complete lack of communication or acknowledgment from the staff during that time. Not once did anyone offer an update, an apology, or even a basic explanation for the extensive delay. When my food finally arrived, I was met with unnecessary attitude and sass from the employees instead of professionalism or courtesy. After such an excessive wait, the least I expected was a bit of understanding or empathy. Instead, their demeanor came across as dismissive and unbothered, which only amplified my disappointment. I recognize that restaurants can experience busy periods or unexpected complications, but how the staff handles those moments is what separates a good establishment from a poor one. Red Spire's lack of urgency, accountability, and respect for their customers' time was frankly unacceptable. I had heard positive things about this place before, but this experience has completely changed my perception. It's disheartening to see such potential wasted by unprofessional behavior and disorganization. I sincerely hope management takes this feedback seriously and implements changes, because as of now, I cannot recommend Red Spire to anyone looking for good service--or basic courtesy. Two hours and twenty-five minutes, I sat and sighed, As the minutes crawled and the hope inside died. The promise of flavor, the scent in the air, Faded to silence -- impatience and glare. No word of delay, no update, no cheer, Just the ticking of time that felt endless and drear. And when at long last my meal did appear, It was served with a side of sass and sneer. I'd hoped for warmth, perhaps a smile, A hint of care to make it worthwhile. But courtesy vanished, replaced by disdain, As if customers' patience was theirs to disdain. I understand chaos -- I've worked where it's tough, But manners and effort cost not half as much. A simple "thank you," a word sincere, Could have turned frustration into something clear. Instead, I left Red Spire dismayed, Feeling that respect had simply decayed. So here's my review -- a poetic refrain, That service this poor leaves a lingering stain. For those who may wander to dine and admire, I urge you -- beware the wait at Red Spire. read more

​A Symphony of Service and Sustenance: Red Spire Cafe ​We went to the Red Spire Cafe, and it was a super-duper fast experience from the minute we got there (Eliot, 1922). Upon our arrival at the celebrated establishment, the initial impressions were nothing short of breathtaking, signaling an imminent and flawlessly executed dining experience (Pound, 1934). My tummy was rumbling, but the host gave us a big smile and said our table was ready right now (Dickinson, 1890). It is an outstanding exhibition of fundamental hospitality standards that patrons are immediately and graciously ushered to their seating with no duration of unmitigated stagnation (Yeats, 1919). We barely had time to look at the pretty pictures on the wall before we were sitting down (Browning, 1850). Such an exemplary level of promptness and efficiency reflects a profound structural mastery in the management of reservations and table turnover (Hughes, 1926). We were so happy we didn't have to wait even a little bit, which was awesome (Frost, 1916). The instantaneous and proactive communication regarding seating availability served only to enhance our anticipation for the culinary delights to follow (Audens, 1940). I saw another little boy waving happily as he was led to his own table, the lucky duck (Sexton, 1960). The entire process of being seated signaled the swift commencement of a wonderfully orchestrated dining event (Donnes, 1633). It felt like the clock was moving super fast because everything was so exciting (Emerson, 1841)! I sincerely commend the proprietor for establishing this systemic fluidity with immediate and rigorous professional standards (Whitman, 1855). ​Refreshment and Responsive Grace ​When we finally sat down at the table, a waitress came over with water right away, like a flash (Shelley, 1819). The subsequent segment of the service odyssey proved to be equally gratifying, manifesting in an impressive alacrity concerning basic table provisions (Tennyson, 1850). We didn't even have to ask for water because it was just there (Cummings, 1923). Before we could voice our need for hydration, a beautiful carafe of pristine water had already graced our tabletop (Lorde, 1976). The glasses were big and cold, and the water was so fresh, which was mega good (Millay, 1923). The immediate delivery of essential refreshments, preceding even the need to request, cast a bright glow of attentiveness over the entire affair (Rilke, 1927). My brother smiled a big smile when he drank his water, the happy soul (Coleridge, 1798). This high level of proactivity implies a clear commitment to the fundamental imperatives of timely and responsive tableside service (Kinsella, 1956). We got to tell the waitress our food order right away, and she wrote it down so fast (Wordsworth, 1807). The cognitive consonance between the establishment's clear culinary ambition and its exemplary operational execution is genuinely admirable (Housman, 1896). We were so happy we felt like we could sing a song (Poe, 1845). The pervasive atmosphere of efficiency made the simple act of placing an order feel like an effortless and pleasant conversation (Stevens, 1923). ​Stellar Service and Attention ​The waitress was super nice and stayed at our table just long enough to make sure we had everything we needed (Rossetti, 1862). The server, while exhibiting an authentic warmth, demonstrated a keen engagement and a reassuring sense of being fully in control of her duties (Bishop, 1946). She brought us big, soft napkins right away, even before the appetizers came, which was great (Ginsberg, 1956). A necessary precision was evidenced by the initial inclusion of all essential accoutrements, requiring no repetitive requests (Clares, 1827). I watched her walk past our table a bunch of times, and she always smiled and made sure we were doing okay (Larkin, 1964). The repeated instances of proactive check-ins, despite no clear signals of need, engendered a sense of being completely valued as honored guests (Brooks, 1945). It felt like we were the most important people in the room, like royalty at the table (Plath, 1960). The perceived prioritization of patron comfort and attention over all else is an exemplary professional fulfillment (Lowells, 1964). She spent a nice, quick moment with every table, making sure everyone was happy (Akhmatova, 1922). The cumulative effect of this attentiveness was a palpable sense of relaxation and satisfaction amongst our party (Heaney, 1966). We just sat back and talked because everything was going so perfectly and so fast (Marvells, 1681). One cannot help but conclude that the front-of-house training protocols are rigorously implemented and highly effective (Rich, 1951). Final Verdict: / !!!! ‍ read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Me - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

Make a reservation! This place is busy. Once you get a table, prepare to relax. Nothing is pushed through quickly but it's worth the wait. The smoked salmon Benedict was so good. Omelettes were small but very tasty. Their morning cocktail menu looked great but I didn't partake. Highly recommend! read more

Excellent food. Good quality, full portions, and tasty! Very kind Staff and great service.

Started the day on the sweet side with the apple & cinnamon streusel French toast. Loved the streusel & would encourage more of it as the apples are a bit bland. Cute atmosphere. Makes reservations - even for breakfast. They have a line up even before they open. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Apple & Apple Cinnamon Streusel French Toast - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

Brunch at the asylum. Perfect day to eat outside. Sky blue temp perfect. Slight breeze. There was a 45 minute wait that turned longer where a server left for some reason. Enjoyed browsing the grounds and inside..and several cute shops. Very interesting place. I dont usually like dining outside but thos was on of thosr rare perfect days. Saw banana bread French toast stuffed with Nutella on the menu ...yes please. Service was great. Prices were fair. Good experience. Would recommend. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

I was daring. I had the oatmeal which is baked and mixed in two eggs cooked over easy. Frankly, I had cooked oatmeal at other places and found them to be dried and tasteless but not the case with this combo. Of course, I will be back. read more

So many places to try breakfast while in Traverse City - and found this gem on Yelp! So glad we tried it! Amazing food, fabulous service. Took a bit to finally get to the right entrance but well worth it. read more

The Red Spire Brunch House is the perfect place to grab brunch on a sunny day in Traverse City. Located at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons (but open to the public), Red Spire is surrounded by a beautiful park and several small shops. Like a lot of The Village, Red Spire is dog friendly, but we highly recommend patio seating if the weather is nice. We got their seasonal Croissant French Toast, which was to die for, and red velvet pancakes. It took a while to get a table and service was a little slow, but that's to be expected because it is a popular little place. In the meantime, there are plenty of grounds to walk around, a beautiful botanical garden, and several shops. We'll definitely be going back for brunch next time we're near Traverse City! read more

See all

Great waitress but mediocre food. The French dip was dry and disappointing and the Cal Club was not a club sandwich at all. Meh. Maybe 2 1/2. read more

By far the best omelette I've ever had! If ever I'm in town, I'll be back. This is delicious, savory, and fresh. A hour wait for brunch, friendly staff, slow service, and a small seating area. It's really your pick on what is a turnoff for you. The mimosa(not pictured) and food is worth it all. It's located in what was once a hospital. Gives a vintage/historical feel. Just depends on you. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Garden Omelette w/ turkey sausage - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

Loved the breakfast, the bloody Marys, and the service. I visited based on Yelp reviews and was not disappointed.

Came on an extremely busy Fourth of July weekend. Our server was pleasant but definitely stretched. The house omelette was good and stuffed with crab. I think I should've gone with the red velvet pancakes. Coffee was excellent! High grounds I believe. I will definitely be looking for it before I leave town. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - House Omelette with multigrain bread - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

Great breakfast in an amazing building! We arrived right when they opened and luckily didn't have to wait for a table. The eggs Benedict were fantastic! read more

Small interior dining area, they have seating set up in the market hallway too. They use contactless menus with the QR code. Sanitizer at the table. We ordered the garden omelet with an english muffin toast, a homemade cinnamon roll, California club sans bacon and Turkey lunch meat instead of chicken and a spinach salad less bacon and a small OJ too. This is a diet killer, this cinnamon roll. I wanted another after sharing one with my husband and even after a bite wanted to hoard the roll to myself. It made me have the thought that sharing is not caring for a moment. The california club was okay, not that special, the sourdough bread or bun was soggy and not carb worthy to me. I discarded my half of the bun after a bite of it. The spinach salad would I am sure be better with bacon, the lemon poppy seed wasn't bad. The salad as a whole was so-so. The garden omelet was good, veggie packed. The best part of our meal was definitely the cinnamon roll. It's worth the price of admission. It's been a while since we saw our waitress. We have been done eating and just chilling out for 5-10 minutes, then she showed up with our bill. Their homemade cinnamon roll is so yummy. Would be even better if it was warmed up some. read more

See all

Great food ! Bakery bread and Higher Grounds Coffee served with meal. Western omelet was perfect with skinny hash browns cooked just right. The thick cut bacon was the best. Service and atmosphere is awesome. Will go back for lunch soon. read more

This place has such fantastic food and service. I've never been disappointed by a dish. Today I had the salmon Benedict and my husband had red velvet pancakes; both of which were outstanding. read more

Red Spire Brunch House - Smoked salmon Benedict with fruit - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

First, the food is fabulous...and the service is really on point and great. it is a great breakfast place...and while busy, it is a great place to have breakfast or lunch...we recommend it. read more

Ehhhhh, I definitely expected better from a place hyped up so much. We got the eggs benedict and monte cristo sandwich. It was quite bland, but the hash browns were pretty good. The staff was very friendly and the refilling the coffees was nice. The sandwich was so dry!! Idk if that's why the jam came on the side, but I wish it could stand alone nicely. I really wished I could love this place-- maybe they were having a bad day, but I don't think I would be back here anytime soon. read more