Exciting Giveaway! Experience the Best of Traverse City with a Waterfront Stay & Dining at Local Favorites!!
I’m excited to announce an amazing new giveaway from 4GR8Food Group, a Michigan-based hospitality company owned and operated by my good friend, Jeff Lobdell. Jeff’s ventures include the beautiful Sugar Beach and Grand Beach Resort Hotels, both located on the waterfront in Traverse City. Jeff also owns and operates several beloved Northern Michigan restaurants, including Apache Trout Grill, West End Tavern, Boones Prime Time Pub in Suttons Bay, The Original Flap Jack Shack, and The Omelette Shoppe locations in Traverse City. Together, with his restaurant operating partner Scott Parkhurst and hotel director Heather Gates, Jeff’s team employs over 900 people in Traverse City and Grand Rapids!
In addition to managing these restaurants and hotels, Jeff has served as the Chairman of the Michigan Restaurant Association and is currently the Chairman of the National Restaurant Association. Despite his many commitments at the state and national levels, Jeff remains dedicated to his community. His restaurants host and contribute to more than 100 fundraisers each year, and he enthusiastically supports local schools both financially and through his volunteer efforts. A recent example of his team’s collective volunteer efforts was donating profits from all the restaurants on October 10th to Mercy Chefs and the North Carolina Hospitality Relief Fund to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
The Purpose of This Giveaway
The goal of this giveaway is to highlight and support the local ownership behind these restaurants and hotels. These properties aren’t just places to stay and dine—they are unique Michigan businesses with their own rich history and legacy. Some were built by Jeff and his family, while others were acquired from retiring owners who wanted their businesses to continue serving the community and employees they love.
We’re thrilled to share this opportunity with you! Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of Traverse City with a luxurious stay and unforgettable meals at these iconic local favorites.
The Giveaway Details
Now for the exciting part! We’re thrilled to offer a special giveaway that includes:
Two Nights at Sugar Beach or Grand Beach Resort
Enjoy an action-packed two-night stay at your choice of Sugar Beach Resort or Grand Beach Resort in Traverse City. Both properties sit along the beautiful East Bay and are close to downtown Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the region’s renowned wineries and breweries. These resorts offer:
300 feet of private beach frontage
Private balconies with stunning views
Heated indoor swimming pool and hot tub
On-site boat and jet ski rentals
In-room refrigerator, microwave, and coffee station
Complimentary Wi-Fi






A $500 Dining Experience
In addition to your two-night stay, you’ll receive a $500 gift card to use at any of the following Traverse City restaurants, including:
Apache Trout Grill – A top choice for its unbeatable waterfront location, hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and signature cocktails.
Boones Prime Time Pub in Suttons Bay – A favorite for locals and tourists alike, known for its steaks, Carlson’s whitefish, and mouthwatering burgers.
The Original Flap Jack Shack – A family-friendly breakfast and brunch spot famous for its made-from-scratch flapjacks, oven-baked pancakes, and classic egg dishes.
The Omelette Shoppe (Two Locations) – A Northern Michigan staple since 1975, offering an extensive menu featuring homemade rolls and breakfast classics.
West End Tavern – A must-visit spot with views of Grand Traverse Bay and Center Point Marina, known for its quality steaks, artisan pizzas, and gourmet burgers.






This giveaway is valid for stays in any month except July and August, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Traverse City during a quieter season and fully experience everything this beautiful region has to offer.
How to Enter
This giveaway is open to both free and paid subscribers! To enter, simply comment below with your email address. Paid subscribers get a bonus: you’ll receive a 5x multiplier on your submission, increasing your odds of winning! If you’ve been considering becoming a paid subscriber, now’s the perfect time. For just $30/year, you’ll gain access to every flight deal I publish, along with exclusive giveaways and increased odds in all promotional giveaways. The winner will be randomly selected on 11/1/24 and notified via email.
Buttercreamgal@gmail.com
ccarlier@umich.edu