Did You Know?

There are lots of nationally known companies that got their start in Michigan. Did You Know? is a semi-regular feature highlighting some of these companies.

The Cheesecake Factory

It's hard to find anyone that has not heard of the Cheesecake Factory. Their cheesecakes are legendary and, from what I hear, the other food is great too! I will admit that I've never had any non-cheesecake selections. What can I say? Most people, though, don't realize that the origins of Cheesecake Factory lie in Detroit.  Evelyn Overton created the original recipe and owned a small cheesecake shop in Detroit in the late 1940's. With two small children, she and her husband, Oscar, gave up the shop and she made cakes for local businesses from her Detroit kitchen. In 1971, the Overton's moved to Los Angeles and opened a 700 square foot shop, The Cheesecake Factory. The rest, as they say, is history. There are now over 150 locations that offer a full menu and, of course, endless varieties of cheesecake.

Sadly, there is no Michigan location of the famous chain, but the next time you enjoy a bit of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake, remember that it got it's start in Detroit, Michigan!

Extreme Comfort Food at Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

As we get closer to the cool days of fall, I can't help thinking about a hot bowl of soup and a gooey, rich sandwich. Where do I go to satisfy the comfort craving? Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup! Several varieties of soup are made fresh every day, with tomato bisque always on the menu. A wide assortment of sandwiches and salads are also available. Try the pulled pork for a modern twist on the southern favorite. Or go traditional with a grilled cheese (you get to choose up to three kinds of cheese for your sandwich). Meatloaf, mac and cheese, and chicken pot pie are also available.

I highly recommend treating yourself to some gourmet comfort food at this really yummy Michigan restaurant!

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is located on Northwestern Highway in Farmington. Check out the menu here.

Hiller's Michigan Foods Fair

Hiller's is a Michigan-based grocery chain that is spearheading a campaign to support Michigan companies. Their circular highlights which products are from Michigan and how many people each company employs. Not only that, they are very fun store with lots of gourmet and hard to find items!

On March 21-22, 2009 from 11am until 4pm there will be a Michigan Foods Fair at the Union Lake Hiller's store on Commerce Road. Vendors will be offering samples of their products and people will be on hand to answer questions about supporting Michigan and what else you can do to help. Check out Hiller's website for more information.

Another awesome thing going on at Hiller's is the Hometown First program. When you spend $100 at Hiller's you qualify for a Hometown First card. There is a list of local businesses that will accept your Hometown First card as a coupon. The card is redeemable one time. There is a more detailed explanation here.

Please find your local Hiller's and check them out! You will find a great selection of products and you will be helping Michigan businesses-everybody wins!