Bowler Man Confections: A Michigan City Gem

 

It was only a couple weeks ago that I first learned of Bowler Man Confections and low and behold the other day I was gifted with a gift card to this fine establishment. Although I live and work in Michigan City I had no idea that this gem of a place existed! Because I am like a kid in a candy store with a nickel in my pocket ready to spend, I had to use my gift card before too much time passed. I literally planned my entire day around my sojourn to the Uptown Arts' District located on Franklin St., in Michigan City. Just down the alleyway of the ArtSpace building sits this humble establishment. It is a lively, friendly place with evidence of "Santa's Culinary" elves working around the clock to fill the orders. As their website claims, it is "...Hidden In The Ally Of The Artspace Building 717 Franklin St. Michigan City, In 46360"

I had the pleasure of speaking with the pastry chef and owner of the Bowler Man aka Michael who shared that he has been a pastry chef for many years including many of those years as the head pastry chef at Four Winds. Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of eating at Four Winds knows this is no easy feat and the quality is well known. Today he proudly makes culinary delights such as house made croissants, chocolates, highly regarded carrot cakes, cookies and other amazing bakery treats including savory items such as galettes and quiches. Michael shared that Saturday mornings are a very special time and it is important to remember that if you don't get there quickly you will not get! They cannot keep their cases filled with savory and sweet treats. 

What is a truly amazing sign of quality? Word of mouth! There has been very little advertising. Small crew Mike, (Michael) Amanda, and Arthur keep patrons happy and that happiness is spread by word of mouth and by the gastronomical joy that they deliver on a regular basis. 

Although it is too late to get in on the Christmas ordering, orders are being taken for the New Year's weekend. Bowler Man Confections is not just a holiday experience, it is a year round celebration where only the finest delicacies will do! 

Bowler Man Confections 

717 Franklin St

Michigan City IN 46360

Catalpa Review by guest John B. Boss (06/22/2021)

Catalpa Review by John B. Boss

Less than two short hours from Chicago via the skyway is a charming getaway called the Catalpa Vacay Rental in Michigan City Indiana. Less than 10 minutes from Dunes Beach this charming and exquisite 3 bedroom and two bath home is the perfect destination for up to 6 guests. With a private drive and plenty of on-street parking, it is the perfect getaway. The lovely hosts Steve and Mary Champagne of Artsees Diner fame have tastefully decorated their home with warmth and fine attention to detail. Every wall and corner is covered in stunning blue, teal and seafoam decor which left a relaxing lakeside feeling during our visit. Each of the three themed rooms was adorned with one-of-a-kind furniture from local artist Marissa Rapier of Risscycled. We enjoyed a tropical, a Puerto Rico, and a Beatles-themed bedroom. All three rooms and surrounding decor reflected the host’s love of travel, music, and nature. The rooms provided a cozy and restful respite after visiting the many nearby attractions which include Canada Park, which was just down the street; and Blue Chip Casino, Friendship Botanic Gardens, St Julian Winery in nearby Union Pier, and of course the fine and friendly dining at Leed Public House.This one-of-a-kind vacation home has its own washer and dryer, superb WiFi, large television, and a fully stocked kitchen with everything need to entertain right down to the cake pans and platter. Each guest is treated to a bottle of Champagne from St Julian Winery and fresh breakfast muffins from Al’s Grocery. If the home isn't enough Le Garden de Champagne is a sight to behold. This on-site garden and venue is the perfect outdoor location for your personal stay or gathering under 25. The garden which is highlighted by a thriving Catalpa tree and over 30 varieties of plants is absolute perfection. The garden has plenty of tables, chairs, and of course umbrellas to comfortably host a small birthday, shower, wedding, or meeting. It also has a grill and performance spaces. Catering, wedding services, and entertainment are available for an additional charge. Evenings are the best at Catalpa. We took advantage of the fire pit and enjoyed a stunning array of lights which provided the perfect backdrop for the final evening of our stay. Steve and Mary are the perfect hosts making themselves available and assured our stay was a veritable treat. One of my guests broke a heel and Mary quickly came to the rescue with her glue gun. Everyone is welcome and loved at Catalpa. Everyone is family at Catalpa. It was a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chicago. Thank you, Steve and Mary. We’ll be back.

Link to Catalpa