Goodale’s Bakery isn’t a well-known pasty stop unless I’m out of the loop. It’s a bakery in Grayling, northern Michigan just off I-75. Outside of local residents, I doubt many people stop on their travels for Goodale’s pasties.

However, I wonder if people should start seeking out these pasties. Goodale’s is more than just a bakery even though they have tons of options and some seating if you want to eat a pasty (or donut) immediately after buying. In addition to baked goods, they have hot food ranging from pasties and meatballs to chicken alfredo and mac & cheese. Conveniently, they usually post their menu to Facebook every day.

I stopped on a random Tuesday well before lunch time and it was still pretty busy, so I can imagine how many people visit in the middle of the day.

Most importantly, I was impressed by the pasty. I haven’t had many recommendations for Goodale’s and a lot of bakery pasties are ho-hum, but this one was a little more than that. Unsurprisingly, it’s similar to the one at Mr. Foisie’s, as the two are only an hour apart. I’m not sure why two random places in northern mid-Michigan have similar pasties, but that was my conclusion.

The handle on my pasty was massive and probably too big. I had a few bites in which the crust was the only thing and you can see in my picture that the handle was huge on the top. Fortunately, the crust was good. It had a solid flavor and while it was kind of soft, I didn’t have a problem with it, as is the case with most bakery crusts.

The insides were what closed the deal for me. The potatoes were sliced and diced, and the meat was interspersed throughout, though I could’ve done with maybe one or two more pieces. There were a few carrots, probably the same amount of rutabaga, and overall, this was an enjoyable experience. 

I always say how unpredictable Lower Peninsula pasties are, but this one hit the spot and is a place I’ll visit for pasties (and sweets) if in the area.

Taste: 4 (out of 5)
Crust: 3.5 (out of 5)
Pasty Presentation: 4 (out of 5)
The Shop: 3 (out of 3)
Would I come back for Pasties?: 2 (out of 2)

Total Pasty Rating: 16.5 (of 20 points)

(Reviewed Summer 2022)