Strongs Corner, Michigan

2,156 miles        

Apr 27 - Riding along highway, approaching the “populated place” of Strongs Corner, I find the Strongs General Store.  

Strongs Tavern & Gas

       

At the crossroads of highway M-28 & South Strongs Road is Strongs Tavern & Gas & Groceries, next to Strongs Motel.  (Across the highway is the Lumberjack Tavern.)

 

Strongs Motel -- & Tavern & Groceries?

I can’t find any information online about how this name was given to the place.  Since it appears that the tavern & motel for hunters is the core of the activities at this crossroad, I would guess that someone named Strong started selling liquor here, and a little community grew around that.

The place that entices me in is Roxane’s Diner.  The outside is plain & utilitarian, but don’t be fooled.  

Inside, the décor imitates a 1950s soda shop, with an emphasis on Coca-Cola.  (My research is inconclusive about whether it is called “soda” or “pop” or “soda pop” on the U.P.)  

smoked brisket omelet

The menu focuses on smoked meats & traditional Southern barbeque side dishes.  And pizza.  In fact, the atmosphere is not very Yooper except for the meatiness.  And catering to people who are on their way to somewhere else.  No pasties here.  Breakfast is served all day.

images: Google Street Views

diner:  http://www.yelp.com/biz/roxanes-m-28-diner-eckerman