Did you know that your favorite bottle of wine doesn’t have to be enjoyed at home? Many restaurants offer corkage fees for little to no cost to enjoy that special bottle alongside their cuisine in a cozy, social setting. This allows you to pair your wine with a delicious meal while supporting local establishments, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Next time you go out, consider bringing that unique bottle from your collection to elevate your meal! Not only does this practice help you savor the flavors of your chosen wine with a meal tailored to your tastes, but it also opens up a world of wine pairings you may not have previously explored.  We’ve compiled a list of places in Traverse City and Detroit that offer you to BYO wine.

Traverse City: 

Amical: $20/bottle corkage

Slate: $20/bottle corkage

Sorellina: $20/bottle corkage

TC Burrow: $20/bottle corkage

Smoke and Porter: $20/bottle corkage

Detroit: 

Lena, 2720 Brush St. Detroit, $50

El Asador, 312 Springwells St, Detroit, $30

Adelina, 1040 Woodward Ave, Detroit, $25

Eddie Merlot’s, 37000 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills, $50

Cafe ML, 3607 W Maple Rd, Bloomfield Hills, $25

BYO Tips & Etiquette 

Once you’ve chosen that perfect bottle, remember you’re still dining out and therefore’ should follow the social etiquette. Here are some tips to dive into this delightful experience and enhance your next night out with a personal touch!

Do: 

• Check with the restaurant ahead of time to make sure the policy is accurate. 
• Ask how many bottles you are allowed to bring. Whether it be for a large group or trying multiple wines with different courses, you want to be prepared.
• Browse the wine list before you go- you don’t want to bring a bottle of wine that is already offered by the restaurant.
• Consider asking your server or the bartender if they would like to try the wine, it is often appreciated, especially if it’s a special bottle! 

Don’t: 

• Bring an already open bottle to a restaurant. 
• Assume that the restaurant staff does this often, it’s a common thing in big metro areas but less so in Northern Michigan.