Mode's Bum Steer

We had heard great things and had high expectations. The atmosphere is more like an old run down bar than a nice restaurant. Usually that in itself doesn't bother me, as long as the service and food are good. Unfortunately, the food was mediocre and the service was terrible. I ordered my steak medium well and it came very well done. Our waitress was rude, and even aggresively pushed me back from the table to set my plate down like I was a child. She gave my husband the wrong beer, and when he tried to tell her, she snatched it out of his hand before he could finish telling her. These were just a few things that made our experience a disappointing one. She never checked on us and despite trying to get her attention for our bill, she kept ignoring us and we had to wait a ridiculously long time for her to bring it. If that was all, it would be bad enough, but we overheard her being rude to several other diners.
There is really not anywhere to stand if you are waiting for a table except in the vestibule. A gentleman was standing in the restaurant asking for a table and our waitress very loudly and repeatedly kept telling him to back up and get out, even though another waitress was standing in the doorway and he could not get by her. It was very berating and awkward for him and everyone watching. I could go into so much more detail but honestly, I think I've said enough. I can say for certain that I will not go back or recommend this place.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 2

Service: 1

Fabulous perch and steak! Superior service. I definitely recommend going to Mode's Bum Steer resturant.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wedge of Lettuce, Wedge Salad with Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing, Surf and Turf, Longhorn Steak Sandwich, Coleslaw

Modes Bum Steer in Traverse City is like stepping into the ultimate steak lover’s paradise – if you don’t mind a touch of quirky charm and a bit of “up north” nostalgia. Picture this: you’re greeted by a vibe that says, “Come as you are, but prepare to leave well-fed and a little more content with life.”

The steaks here? Absolutely on point. They’re the kind of juicy, flavorful cuts that make you feel like you’re doing something a bit indulgent – in the best way possible. Whether you like it rare or well done (but hey, don’t ruin it!), the chefs here know how to get that perfect sear.

And then there’s the atmosphere. Modes has a mix of rustic charm and cozy diner vibes, almost like that cool uncle’s cabin where the décor is retro but somehow still cool. The locals fill the place with friendly chatter, so don’t be surprised if you leave with a few new Traverse City stories – or maybe even a few new friends.

Service-wise, they’re the kind of staff who make sure you’re topped off and don’t rush you out the door, leaving you to soak in the experience as long as you need. And don’t forget to try the onion rings. They’re crispy enough to convince you that the humble onion was always destined for deep-fried greatness.

In short? Modes Bum Steer is a Traverse City classic for a reason. It’s a little slice of Americana, a lot of good food, and definitely worth the trip.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Atmosphere is very nice. Food is delicious. Some of the best coleslaw I've had. Perch is outstanding but small. Price per quality is good, but price per quantity is horrible. Great martini. Beer selection is poor. I expected more localized craft brews. Love this restaurant, but improvements can be made.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Service was awesome. Steaks were under seasoned, over cooked, and dry (asked for medium rare, got medium/medium well). Not worth the price at all, typical downtown TC shoddy food quality.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 5

We were told the food was great at this place. We were a bit disappointed. We ordered the prime rib sandwich, a regular burger and the seafood bisque - I will tell you the food did not sit well at all. We both experienced some gastric issues immediately after consuming the meal. We eat very clean / healthy - this was not a good meal at all. Our service was great and she was super nice and friendly. The atmosphere was very nice - old school feel. The food was the issue. Was wishing the food was better.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 2

Service: 4

We were very pleased with the steak dinners, and the service was friendly yet professional. A quiet inviting setting with great food! Will definitely be putting this on my list to revisit.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wedge Salad with Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing, Porterhouse

Traverse City Classic. Feels like you’re stepping back to the 1950s in some ways to a vintage classic steakhouse. Good-sized portions, great cocktails, friendly helpful staff who are experienced and knowledgeable. Getting a table can be tricky at dinner time most nights, though you can eat at the bar. One of my very favorite restaurants anywhere.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wedge of Lettuce, 4oz Filet with Shrimp

The food is fantastic. The service and and the staff and incredibly short and rude and act as if they cannot be bothered with you. After dining here twice and having the exact same experience I feel as though I’m qualified to say they can go screw themselves.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 5

Service: 1

Sitting on top of each other, everytis ale cart add on my girlfriends husband uses a walker and had to fold it up coming and going. His burger was served with burger missing. Expected alot more.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 4

Amazing food at what to seemed to be a local favorite & for us visitors. It was a cool, kinda simple, retro vibe. Food was suberb. It can be a bit loud, or tight spaced, but definitely still a great place!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wedge of Lettuce, Prime Rib Lobster Tail Special, Porterhouse

Very cramped- but that's why i sit at the bar. Otherwise there's little to complain about this place. They know how to properly cook a steak and the servers/bartender are elite level. Strongly recommend for a meat and potatoes dinner in

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Filet 8oz

Old School Steak House. We enjoyed the atmosphere, food and service. Order the Prime Rib and the Barley Soup.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Prime Rib Dinner

Classic old style steak house. Service was amazing. We both had steaks, and they were cooked just right.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wedge of Lettuce, Wedge Salad with Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing, Porterhouse, Prime Rib Dinner

Great steak, just needed more seasoning for me. I loved the drinks, appetizers, and salad.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wedge of Lettuce, Surf and Turf