From immeasurable Michigan lore to a unique menu on campus, Mister Spots embodies what it means to be a Wolverine. This Ann Arbor landmark's story starts with two high school friends whose goal was to implement a restaurant in an opportunistic community, hence their decision to open up a permanent establishment in Ann Arbor after the Bowling Green location found great success, according to their website. 

The menu includes chicken wings, fingers, burgers, fries, shakes and most importantly… philly cheesesteaks. Cheesesteaks are not a common occurrence in Ann Arbor, immediately setting Mister Spots up to find success within the community. This singularity made it almost impossible not to want to try the philly, and boy it was the right choice. The 10” philly original comes complete with thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak, American cheese, and carmelized onions. It is a combination of simple yet complimentary ingredients that provide for an unforgettable sensation of flavor with every bite. The experience is further progressed by the smell of fresh steak, lingering over the sandwich like a heavenly cloud. However, the deliciousness and heavenly aroma wasn’t the only thing that influenced my experience. The atmosphere, convenience, and friendliness of the workers collaborated to make it more than worthwhile. (Full disclosure: I work there!)

When you walk in Mister Spots are surrounded by pictures and stories hanging on the walls, including but not limited to Michigan athletes like Tom Brady and Charles Woodson. The names speak for themselves but when you understand their relationship with Mister Spots, you understand why Mister Spots is THE place to be. In an interview, Keith McKendry, a co-owner of the Ann Arbor location discussed the history behind Michigan Football's connection with the joint. He says, “It started with Lloyd Carr. He gave the players 15 dollar meal cards every week. Funny enough, they only used them at Mister Spots” (McKendry). 

McKendry built relationships with many of the football players at that time, and still talks to them to this day. My favorite story, displayed on the wall next to autographed pictures of Tom Brady, describes his involvement with the establishment and shows the pure character of the Wolverine alumnus (source). It says that Brady commonly provided cheesesteaks for his offensive line, in order to show them how much he appreciates them for their hard work. That provision continued even after he joined the NFL. When he played games in Detroit, he would come to Mister Spots to show his fellow teammates, who aren’t natives to Michigan, what notable Ann Arbor food culture looks like, the story goes on to say (source). To be a part of that company is quite exhilarating. 

Spots also prides itself on convenience, a characteristic becoming increasingly important within the younger generation, according to their website. A characteristic that includes price, speed of service, location, and consistency. Rarely does Mister Spots lack any of these qualities. Food is cheap, relative to other fast food on campus, providing a full meal for under $20. Additionally, you can almost always count on getting your food within a 10 minute period, at a consumable temperature. 

Plus, Mister Spots' location is perfect for students, especially on gameday, located within the heart of off campus student housing, and on the route to The Big House. If your residence exists outside of the radius, they provide delivery with a history of exceptional experience and the mouth watering desire for more, according to Uber Eats reviews. What more can you ask for? Especially when there's only one place you get an authentic philly in Ann Arbor. 

As if the previous characteristics weren’t enough, Spots also has an amazing staff. The owner (when on the premises) commonly walks around to talk to customers, making them feel welcome, and accommodating any needs that they may have. The same hospitality is provided by the kitchen staff. They are frequently engaged with customers, maintaining their comfort, keeping them safe, and most importantly, keeping them satisfied. This level of treatment is significant when it comes to the customers interpretation of the restaurant, and in the last 37 years, the treatment hasn’t faltered. 

If you haven’t been to Mister Spots, GO! It feels great to be a part of a local establishment that gives everything to satisfy the community. Not only will you enjoy the food, but you will likely learn something about local history along the way, helping to create a meaningful experience for you and anyone else you bring along. There is no place on or near campus that has it better than Mister Spots, and there is no place in the country that has it better than Michigan. GO BLUE!