The Historic Depot Reborn: 7 Reasons Mountain Town Station Is Mid-Michigan’s Must-Visit Brewpub In 2025
Mountain Town Station Restaurant & Brew Pub in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, continues its reign as a culinary and craft beer destination, offering a unique blend of rich local history and modern, upscale-casual dining as of December 2025. This iconic establishment, housed in a beautifully renovated historic railroad depot, is more than just a place to eat; it is an immersive experience that celebrates Mid-Michigan's heritage while serving some of the region's best food and award-winning microbrews. The restaurant is a cornerstone of the community, consistently receiving high ratings for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly service, and commitment to quality ingredients, especially its famous hand-cut steaks and signature appetizers.
The success of Mountain Town Station is deeply intertwined with its dedication to being a community-focused, family-owned establishment, a philosophy championed by owner Jim Holton. The establishment has solidified its reputation as the area’s premier destination, successfully balancing the rustic charm of a historic setting with a sophisticated menu and a top-tier brewing operation, making it a mandatory stop for both locals and travelers exploring the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Biography and Profile: Jim Holton and the Historic Depot
The story of Mountain Town Station is inseparable from its visionary owner and the historic building it occupies. The location at 506 W Broadway St. in Mount Pleasant is a piece of local history, originally serving as the Ann Arbor Depot and a station for the Pere Marquette railroad line.
- Establishment Name: Mountain Town Station Restaurant & Brew Pub
- Location: 506 W Broadway St, Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
- Building History: Former Ann Arbor Depot and Pere Marquette railroad station.
- Founding Year: Opened in 1996 as Mountain Town Station Brewing Co. & Steakhouse.
- Owner/Mastermind: Jim Holton
- Other Ventures: Holton is a prominent local restaurateur, also owning Summit Smokehouse and Camille's Prime in Mount Pleasant.
- Recent Recognition: Jim Holton was honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) in 2023, highlighting his significant contribution to the industry.
- Cuisine Focus: Hand-cut steaks, award-winning ribs, American classic comfort food, and craft beer.
Holton’s transformation of the old train depot into a premier restaurant, brewery, and wine cellar in 1996 was a major revitalization effort, creating a space that honors its past while looking toward the future of craft dining.
The Award-Winning Brews of Mountain Town Brewing Company
The "Brew Pub" half of the name is powered by the Mountain Town Brewing Company, which has been a staple of the Michigan craft beer scene since the restaurant's opening. The brewery focuses on creating a diverse range of handcrafted beers, many of which are inspired by the local Mid-Michigan area and the building’s railroad history.
The Core Beer Lineup: A Taste of the Rails
Mountain Town Brewing Company’s core brands are year-round favorites that pay homage to the historic setting, offering a reliable selection for every palate.
- Train Wreck Ale: A flagship American Amber Ale, often brewed with a touch of maple syrup and honey for a unique local flavor.
- Iron Horse I.P.A.: A classic India Pale Ale, a bold and hoppy choice for IPA enthusiasts.
- Steam Engine Stout: A rich and dark stout, perfect for those seeking a deeper, more robust flavor profile.
- Railyard Raspberry Wheat: A refreshing, fruited wheat beer that is a popular choice, especially in the warmer months.
- Lazy River Lager: A light, crisp lager, offering a smooth and easy-drinking option.
- Summit 771: A Mid-Michigan Inspired IPA, showcasing local influence and flavor.
- Gambler's Golden Ale: A blonde ale that provides a lighter, yet flavorful, experience.
- Cow Catcher Red: An American Amber Red Ale, known for its balanced malty sweetness.
Seasonal and Specialty Releases: The Latest Updates
To keep the taproom experience fresh and exciting, the brewery frequently releases seasonal and specialty beers. Recent releases demonstrate a commitment to contemporary craft beer trends and innovative hop usage.
- El Idaho IPA: A juicy, non-hazy IPA that bursts with citrus and tangerine aroma. This beer highlights the use of modern hop varieties, specifically El Dorado, Idaho 7, and Idaho Gem hops.
- Wit Dream Belgian Wheat Ale: A light, refreshing Belgian Wheat Ale brewed with orange peels and coriander spices, typically released from February to August.
These rotating taps ensure that even the most frequent visitor to the Mountain Town Station Brew Pub always has something new and exciting to try, solidifying its reputation as a hub for craft beverage innovation.
The Menu: Why It's Mid-Michigan's #1 Steakhouse
While the craft beer is a massive draw, Mountain Town Station is equally famous for its food, particularly its status as Mid-Michigan's #1 Steakhouse. The menu is a comprehensive blend of upscale steakhouse classics and beloved American comfort food, all served in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Must-Try Signature Dishes
The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in its signature dishes, which utilize fresh, often local, ingredients. The focus is on generous portions and original, flavorful recipes.
- Hand-Cut Steaks: The cornerstone of the menu. They feature high-quality cuts of meat, perfectly grilled and seasoned.
- Award-Winning Ribs: A fan-favorite, slow-cooked to perfection and known for their fall-off-the-bone tenderness and rich sauce.
- Chicken Fettuccine: A creamy, flavorful pasta dish that is a top-seller and keeps diners returning.
- Mountain Town Salad: A generous, fresh salad packed with a variety of ingredients, often cited in reviews as an excellent, full-meal option.
Appetizers and Brewpub Favorites
The appetizer list is designed to pair perfectly with the brewery's selections, offering unique twists on pub classics.
- Mountain Town Onion: The restaurant's take on a blooming onion—a seasoned, fried onion flower served with a zesty dipping sauce.
- Beer Battered Shrimp Basket: A generous portion of white shrimp, battered and fried, a perfect companion to a crisp lager or IPA.
- Scotch Eggs: A unique offering of hard-boiled eggs wrapped in spicy pork sausage, deep-fried, and served with a house-made beer mustard.
- Coconut Shrimp: Six coconut-battered shrimp served with a sweet dipping sauce.
Beyond the meat and brew offerings, the menu is notably inclusive, featuring a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that every guest finds a satisfying meal. The full-service bar also boasts a vast Wine Shop selection, complementing the beer and steakhouse experience.
A Historic Destination for Every Occasion
The appeal of Mountain Town Station extends far beyond the food and drink. The atmosphere is frequently described as vibrant and fabulous, striking a rare balance between classy and casual. Located in downtown Mount Pleasant, the historic depot setting provides a unique and memorable backdrop for any occasion, from a relaxed dinner to a festive celebration.
The spacious interior, with its several cove areas and round tables, is ideal for large groups, while the commitment to friendly, excellent customer service ensures a consistently positive experience. Whether you are a railfan interested in the historic depot architecture, a craft beer enthusiast chasing the latest El Idaho release, or a family looking for the best hand-cut steaks and award-winning ribs in Mid-Michigan, Mountain Town Station remains a top-tier destination in 2025.
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