Professor’s Pick: Betsy Rau

Editor’s note: This is one story in a series about professor’s favorite places to eat in Mount Pleasant.

Established in 1981, Freddie’s Tavern is the place to be, at least according to Betsy Rau, adviser of  “Grand Central Magazine” instructor in Central Michigan University’s journalism department.

Rau said if she is ever eating out in Mount Pleasant, you can be sure to find her at 705 S. Adams St., which is Freddie’s convenient location.

“I’ve been going to Freddie’s since before it was Freddie’s. It used to be EJ’s and that’s where I ended up getting asked out on my first date by the guy who is now my husband,” Rau said.

The authentic bar and grill atmosphere is just a part of the experience you’ll have at Freddie’s, Rau said.  She raves about Freddie’s staff, who have always addressed her by name when she visits. Rau said they are always very attentive and friendly.

Rau isn’t the only person who enjoys this restaurant, as reflected by the “People’s Choice Award” it has received seven years in a row for the best burger in town.

Rau suggests the Mushroom Swiss Burger and commends Freddie’s use of the buns from Robaire’s, a local Mount Pleasant bakery.  She also recommends the Salmon Cobb Salad, which she said is phenomenal.

While enjoying your Mushroom Swiss Burger, you might as well be in the best seat in the house, which, according to Rau, is the round booth that appears just as you enter the south doors.

Rau said she has enjoyed many visits to Freddie’s over the years, even bringing some of her classes there for a meal.

“There’s nothing like a great Freddie’s burger, onion rings and ice cold beer,” Rau said.