Lake Street Emporium

8687 Lake St, Port Austin, MI 48467, United States
+1 989-738-8412
$$$ Cafe
(77 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

Welcome to the delightful Lake Street Emporium, a charming cafe located at 8687 Lake St, Port Austin, MI 48467. This spot is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Port Austin, where the inviting atmosphere and delicious food invite you to linger a little longer. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Lake Street Emporium promises a unique experience that will tickle your taste buds and lift your spirits.

The cafe features a menu bursting with flavor, highlighted by an array of sandwiches that are perfect for lunch. Customers rave about their varied offerings, particularly the turkey and cheese panini, which is both hearty and satisfying at a reasonable price. For those craving something classic, the Ruben sandwich has garnered applause from visitors like Chris, who noted its exceptional taste. Don't miss out on Ben’s recommendation to try their mouthwatering cheeseburger—perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, it reminds you of a home-cooked meal from your childhood.

The ambiance of Lake Street Emporium is equally inviting. You can choose to sit at the cozy tables or enjoy the nostalgic experience of grabbing a seat at the old-fashioned soda fountain counter, with its charming swivel bar stools. This creates a warm, community-fueled atmosphere where you can chat and connect while savoring your meal. The friendly and attentive staff, including Cheryl who’s noted for her welcoming demeanor, makes every guest feel like part of the family, enhancing the overall experience.

And it doesn't just stop at food—Lake Street Emporium also houses a delightful gift shop filled with unique treasures and souvenirs. While some items may lean towards the pricier end, the distinctive offerings make for perfect mementos of your visit. Whether you walk away with a trendy sweatshirt or a handcrafted item, you'll surely leave with a piece of Port Austin to remember your trip by.

While the cafe shines in so many aspects, there have been occasional reports of slower service for certain items, like the malt shake that took a bit longer to arrive. However, this minor hiccup doesn’t overshadow the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the food quality and overall experience.

If you find yourself in the picturesque Port Austin area, make sure to stop by Lake Street Emporium. It’s more than just a cafe; it’s a beloved community hub where delicious food and great company come together. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch or picking up a thoughtful gift, you’ll undoubtedly find a welcoming atmosphere and memorable flavors that will have you returning time and again.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sunday

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

77 Reviews
Tamie and Tony Rowe

21 Sep 2025

Friendly staff, stopped for lunch at cafe . They have tables but also an old fashioned soda fountain style counter with swivel bar stools. Excellent sandwich selection . We had the turkey and cheese panini lunch special. Tastes great and price was reasonable. Cafe has a gift shop attached to it. Some things in gift shop were pricey ( however they were also unique ). Touristy sweatshirts were good quality for the price.

Chris Thuemmel (Arkador)

19 Sep 2025

We enjoyed our lunch stop mid week. My wife raved about their Ruben sandwich. Staff was very friendly, and the kids loved their milkshakes.

Brittany Campbell

14 Sep 2025

Cheryl behind the deli counter was wonderful and so friendly. Food was delicious and the prices were fair. Great random stop on our trip to Port Austin. Will definitely be back!!!

Marilynn Miller

05 Sep 2025

4 stars for the diner ONLY. I saw tuna melt on the menu and didn't look any further for lunch. The sandwich tasted great and I enjoyed sitting at the counter and chatting with an old friend. The gift store I wouldn't have bothered to review/rate at all. I was in the area and able to meet with a good friend I hadn't seen for years for only a few hours. I thought we could catch up while I shopped for a birthday gift for my son. At one point while browsing the gift store, we got caught up in a serious conversation and, although we were being careful not to block the aisles (the store was pretty much empty) and I don't think we were giving off any shoplifting vibes at all (no large bags, not standing close to merchandise), the owner tried to politely shoo us along after a few minutes. I didn't go to the diner so much for the food but for the opportunity to chat with an old friend. I was happy to have a good sandwich while I did that. I didn't go to the gift store so much knowing it would have something I wanted but on the chance it would have something I wanted and I could chat while I looked. After reading other reviews of this place (at a variety of sites), I guess the slight vibe I got to shop or move on was consistent with a few other peoples' experiences.

Ben Caruso

05 Aug 2025

The food was SUPER DELICIOUS! The Cheeseburger was prepared exactly how I would've cooked it at home! The Ham and Swiss Panini was prepared perfectly too. Try some yummy Onion Rings if you'd like as well. The hostesses are friendly and helpful! This is a beautiful Restaurant and a super Gift Shop! Come on in and enjoy!

Valerie Victoria

08 Jun 2025

Food was pretty decent, the malt shake took forever, it arrived well after we were done eating.

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