As I stepped in the door of the Blue Plate Café in Union Pier, Michigan, a lively kitchen, friendly staff, full tables, and the delicious aroma of fresh-baked goods greeted me. Blue Plate is owned by Linda Beck, a longtime lover of southwest Michigan. Originally from Ohio, Linda and her husband, Howard, used to vacation in Michigan on weekends. Fourteen years ago when a piece of property opened up, she knew she wanted to start a restaurant. Such was the birth of the Blue Plate Café.

The word “colorful” describes it mildly; while the outside of the building is painted in vibrant reds and greens, the...

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