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Owners
Chris & Katie Bigelow
Julie Tebo & Paul Danes
Joe Meyers
intimate dining on the shores of crystal lake
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Rock’s Landing started life as a snack bar for Chimney Corners Resort. Once called the Beach Dining Room, it was built in the 50's by Jim Rogers Sr., and offered breakfast and lunch for both resort guests and the public before closing down in 2014. The space was used as a "clubhouse" for guests, but owners Jim & Mary Rogers knew it could be so much more. With water literally lapping inches away from the deck and incredible views, this was an unparalleled opportunity to offer guests a truly memorable dining experience as the only Crystal Lake waterfront restaurant.
Rock’s came to fruition when the Rogers teamed up with long time friends Steve and Kristin Tebo. Steve brought culinary experience from Chicago and envisioned an intimate dining experience within the sublime setting. The Tebo’s combined their efforts with family members Julie and Paul Danes, and the space was renovated with a modern kitchen and urban touches, while retaining the vintage character of the building. The deck space was enlarged and partially enclosed to encourage three season dining. Named for the Rogers men (nickname: "Rock"), Rock’s Landing is both an homage to the man who built the space, and as a symbol of our commitment to friends, the community and our northern Michigan lifestyle.
After years of enjoyment and devotion, Steve and Kristin passed the torch to Chris Bigelow, Katie Dorsey and Joe Meyers. Chris, a native of the Detroit area brings 12 years of restaurant experience and a love for Crystal Lake. Chris spent his childhood summers on the south shore of Crystal Lake and for the past decade worked as a therapist and mental health director for agencies in the local community. Katie, who has been laughing with and working alongside Steve for many years, has over 20 years of experience working in the restaurant industry. Owner and Executive Chef, Joe Meyers brings his culinary experience from Portland, Oregon. With a passion for local and sustainable foods, Joe creates flavorful dishes with a myriad of ethnic influences. Joe thoughtfully creates shareable, smaller plates of seafood, with fresh vegetables and "tapas" like entrées.
Paul Danes and wife Julie Tebo continue to uphold the Rock’s Landing standard and in partnership with Joe, Katie and Chris they hope to provide a space that brings laughter, connection and a one of a kind dining experience.
….you will likely see Steve and Kristin on their paddle boards, playing with their dogs or at the Chimney Corner’s BBQ.
