Spike's Keg O Nails
Spike's Keg O Nails is a restaurant in downtown Grayling serving classic American food and drinks in a simple setting. The building features wooden walls, wooden ceiling beams, and plaid curtains, with a bar serving several local beers and a dining area with televisions.
The restaurant was founded in 1933 by Harold 'Spike' MacNeven shortly after Prohibition ended, with the name chosen through a local contest. The original building burned down years ago, and the current owners have run it since 2005 while keeping it true to its original character.
The name Spike's comes from the lumber industry that shaped the region, chosen after owner Harold MacNeven opened it in 1933 right after Prohibition ended. Visitors today see wood throughout the interior and notice the tradition of guests carving their names into the tables, making each visit feel personal.
The restaurant is located downtown at 301 North James Street and is easy to find near other local shops and attractions. It offers both dine-in and carryout options, with a Friday fish fry and year-round specials available to guests.
The famous Spikeburger with a third pound of ground beef is so popular that about 40,000 are sold each year. The place was also a favorite hangout for famous baseball players and boxers like Kid McCoy and Jack Dempsey who passed through the area.
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