In a town where community, outdoor adventure, and tradition come together, few places represent the spirit of Lewiston quite like the Lewiston Hotel Bar & Grill. For generations, locals and visitors alike have simply called it "The Hotel" — a place where travelers unwind after a day on the trails, neighbors gather over a good meal, and stories are shared at the bar.
Today, Troy and Crissy are the proud stewards of this long-standing Northern Michigan landmark. After discovering the property in late summer of 2021, they officially took over ownership in the spring of 2022 — stepping into a legacy that stretches back decades and carrying it proudly forward.
The Lewiston Hotel Bar & Grill — a beloved landmark in Lewiston, Michigan.
A Historic Stop in the Heart of Lewiston, Michigan
The Lewiston Hotel's story begins shortly after World War II. In 1948, the business opened as the Neuenfelt Hotel, founded by Ruth and Herald Neuenfelt. At the time, Lewiston was growing as a destination for outdoor recreation — travelers heading north for fishing, hunting, and exploring the Twin Lakes area needed places to stay, eat, and gather, and the hotel quickly became one of those essential hubs.
Over the years, the property evolved along with the community. In 1971, Carl and Fran Hart took over ownership. The following year brought a significant remodel that expanded the lodging portion while creating a dedicated kitchen and restaurant area — transforming the space into the true hotel, bar, and restaurant combination it remains today.
In 2016, Mike and Meredith Lietzke purchased the property and officially gave it its current name: The Lewiston Hotel Bar & Grill. Through every change of ownership, one thing remained constant — a commitment to welcoming anyone who walks through the door.
With roughly 15 guest rooms, the hotel has hosted countless travelers visiting Northern Michigan for:
- Hunting seasons and wildlife watching
- Snowmobiling and ORV adventures on local trails
- Fishing and boating on East and West Twin Lakes
- Hiking, sightseeing, and mushroom hunting
- Community events like Timberfest and the Mushroom Festival
A Life Built Around Up North Michigan
For Troy and Crissy, Northern Michigan had been part of their lives long before they became hotel owners. They had been visiting the region for more than 30 years, spending time in areas like Grayling, Au Gres, and Mackinaw. Troy, an avid dirt biker, frequently explored the trails that wind through Up North Michigan.
Despite having friends and family nearby, the couple had never spent much time in Lewiston itself — until the opportunity to purchase the hotel appeared. At the time, Troy had just retired after a 30-year career as an engineer, while Crissy had spent many years as a high school English teacher for Toledo Public Schools, most recently at Woodward.
One personal coincidence made the story even more special for Troy: the hotel first opened on his mother's birthday — a detail that made the connection feel like it was meant to be.
Troy and Crissy — proud owners and caretakers of the Lewiston Hotel since 2022.
Belly up to the bar, then head to the backroom for pool and games.
Rustic Cabin Chic: The Lewiston Hotel Experience
If you ask Troy and Crissy how they'd describe staying at the hotel, the answer comes quickly: Rustic.
Troy describes the rooms as "Rustic Cabin Chic." Crissy puts it another way: "There is everything you need — and nothing that you don't."
The hotel's 15 guest rooms are intentionally simple, each offering a comfortable bed and private bathroom with a shower. Rather than competing with luxury resorts, the rooms are designed to serve as a launching pad for adventure — a place to rest between days spent on the trails, lakes, and forests of Northern Michigan.
Unlike many modern businesses, the Lewiston Hotel still operates under the rare model of having a hotel, restaurant, and bar all under one roof — meaning guests can grab dinner, enjoy the atmosphere, and stay the night without ever leaving the building. Located just a short walk from downtown Lewiston and close to major community events, it's the natural home base for anyone exploring Up North.
Spacious and comfortable.
Everything you need Up North.
Rustic Cabin Chic.
Compact and cozy.
Simple, clean, ready to go.
Well-kept halls throughout.
Thoughtful Upgrades for the Future
Since taking ownership, Troy and Crissy have invested significant time and effort into improving the property — always with an eye toward maintaining its character while making it better for guests.
One of the most substantial projects was a complete remodel and expansion of the kitchen. Drawing on his engineering background, Troy redesigned it for maximum efficiency. A new waitress station was also added, giving staff a dedicated space to prepare soups, salads, and table orders without interrupting the main cooking line.
Recent Improvements Include:
- New booths throughout the restaurant
- Additional TVs for viewing games and events
- Updated flooring and finishes in hotel rooms
- Larger beds — most rooms now feature queen beds
- New carpeting and artwork
- Fully remodeled bathrooms with new tile and fixtures
About three-quarters of the hotel rooms have already been updated, with the remainder planned for the near future. Looking ahead, Troy and Crissy's next major projects include adding a roof over the patio and upgrading the building's electrical system — improvements that will eventually allow for modern conveniences like microwaves and mini-fridges in guest rooms.
The new waitress station.
New booths and warm atmosphere.
Plenty of room for the whole crew.
More Than a Business: A Pillar of the Community
While renovations matter, Troy and Crissy say the most rewarding part of owning the Lewiston Hotel has been becoming part of the community itself.
During a recent ice storm that impacted the area, many homes were left without power and water. In response, Troy and Crissy opened the hotel's doors to anyone who needed help. Over the course of two months, they provided more than 400 showers to community members who needed access to hot water — a moment they still speak about with deep gratitude.
They were equally moved by the way Lewiston residents and businesses rallied around one another during the crisis, offering food, warmth, and shelter wherever it was needed.
Crissy has also grown especially fond of the smaller communities within the larger Lewiston family — local clubs, snowmobilers, pickleball groups, and the hunters who visit each fall, her favorite season in Northern Michigan.
Great Food, Local Traditions & a Little Hidden Fun
No spotlight on the Lewiston Hotel Bar & Grill would be complete without talking about the food. Troy and Crissy recently introduced a redesigned menu — and both have their personal favorites.
- Troy's pick: The Diablo Burger — anything with the Diablo flavor profile tops his list
- Crissy's favorite: The Poutine Burger
- Seasonal tradition: Fish Fry during the Lenten season (with the regular menu still available)
- Weekly deal: All-You-Can-Eat Shrimp Tuesdays for just $20
Daily Features
Every day of the week brings a fresh featured dish — a rotating lineup that keeps things exciting whether you're a regular or visiting for the first time.
| Day | Featured Special |
|---|---|
| Sunday | Sliders & Coneys |
| Monday | Mexican Fiesta |
| Tuesday | Chef's Choice |
| Wednesday | Wings |
| Thursday | Gyros & Coneys |
| Friday | Perch Dinner |
| Saturday | Sliders & Steak |
Something delicious every day of the week.
The St. Patrick's Day Jiggs Dinner
Every year, one of the most anticipated traditions at the Lewiston Hotel is Troy's St. Patrick's Day Jiggs Dinner. Preparations begin three days in advance to ensure everything is done just right — and even the leftovers get a second life, often turned into sandwiches or soups. It's the kind of scratch-made, community tradition that keeps regulars coming back year after year.
Where's Woody?
For a little extra fun, the staff occasionally hides a Woody doll from Toy Story somewhere around the restaurant. Guests who find Woody are encouraged to tell Troy — though he jokes that he sometimes struggles to find him himself.
Upcoming Events
- 80's Themed Karaoke Night — last Saturday of March, complete with big hair, bright colors, and full costumes encouraged
- Trivia Nights — running approximately October through April, roughly six months of the year
Always something worth trying on the specials board.
Celebrating 135 years of Lewiston — a proud piece of local history.
Pick up a souvenir.
Take a piece of the Hotel home.
Complimentary coffee for all guests.
Stay Connected
Want to keep up with the latest specials, upcoming events, and weekly trivia questions? Follow along online to stay in the loop:
Weekly specials, upcoming events, and a trivia question every Wednesday — find it all on Facebook!
Carrying the Legacy Forward
From its beginnings in the late 1940s to today, the Lewiston Hotel Bar & Grill has remained one of Northern Michigan's most recognizable and beloved gathering places. Whether you're passing through Lewiston on your way to the trails, spending a week fishing the Twin Lakes, or just looking for a great meal and a cold drink, "The Hotel" is always ready to welcome you.
For Troy and Crissy, owning the hotel isn't just about running a business — it's about honoring a legacy while continuing to build something meaningful for the community. Visitors from across Northern Michigan, from Atlanta to Johannesburg and everywhere Up North, find a warm, rustic retreat here that's hard to find anywhere else.
Their passion for the community, the history of the hotel, and the people who walk through its doors is clear. And if their plans for the future are any indication, the next chapter of the Lewiston Hotel is just getting started.
