Our Story

Built in the 1880’s as the Eastport Congregational Church, Torch Lake Cafe has been a vibrant part of the Eastport community for nearly 140 years. Having grown up on the banks of Torch Lake, Leanna Collins was a short-order cook, and her mother, Betty, a bartender in the building in the 1970’s.

When Collins and Jim Hettinger relocated to Torch Lake from Key West, Florida, they imagined the building as she once knew it; a warm, inviting place to gather with friends and family.

Flash Forward

The building was renovated in 2015 when the couple restored it, bringing back its unique craftsmanship with details like arched windows, restored original wood floors, its iconic bell tower, and adding a spacious wrap-around porch where guests can enjoy the fresh Michigan air.

Today, Jim and Leanna are proud to offer a true community restaurant where locals and visitors can gather for fresh, seasonal cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and a vibrant music scene.

Welcome to Torch Lake Café… We are excited to see you.