Everyone deserves to feel like a superhero now and then, don’t they? Well, this comic book-themed restaurant in Michigan is the perfect place to do just that!
Bob’s Bullpen’s claim to fame is that it’s Northeast Michigan’s largest selection of new and used comics. Not only that, it also has an arcade with cabinet-style video games and modern consoles alike. Most importantly, this Michigan mecca for comic book lovers is home to a cafe with better food than you’d expect from a comic shop!
The comic book-style theming begins before you even walk through the door at Bob's Bullpen in Alpena, Michigan. The cartoony logo on the front window lets you know you're on a true comic lover's journey.
One of my favorite fun facts I learned about this comic book restaurant in Michigan is that it opened back in 2015 on one of the most important days of the year: Free Comic Book Day.
If you've never experienced a Free Comic Book Day, Bob's Bullpen in Alpena, Michigan is an excellent stop for first-timers. Taking place on the first Saturday of every May, Free Comic Book Day releases special free issues as a way to get more people interested in reading comic books.
It worked for me. Free Comic Book Day has turned into one of my favorite days of the year. Of course, I always end up buying other books, too - something I'd have no trouble doing at this massive comic shop.
Advertisement
In addition to a gigantic selection of new and used comics, Bob's Bullpen in Alpena, Michigan also has a pretty incredible arcade. Featuring both current console systems and throwback cabinet-style games, it's an easy place to kill a few hours.
One of the best parts of the arcade portion of Bob's Bullpen in Alpena is this deal: If you order one of the comic book restaurant's meals, you'll get free play in the arcade for the rest of your visit. Sounds like a a fun afternoon, doesn't it?
Imagine working up a sweat playing a heated game of Foosball with one of your buddies. You win, of course.
Then you pile into the booth pictured below and finish the meals you ordered earlier, having worked up an appetite. Winning burns a lot of calories, you know?
In all truthfulness, it doesn't matter who wins or loses - it's about having fun and making a connection. And, if you're at Bob's Bullpen, taking in some incredible comic book art and enjoying a meal!
The menu at this comic book restaurant in Michigan features handheld favorites like pizza and nachos. However, there is a section of the menu that features something I've never heard of before:
A Vienna sausage dog! These hot dog alternatives are locally made, low-smoked, curved thin sausage. Before you ask... yes, it has a snap to it when you bite in!
Bob's Bullpen in Alpena, Michigan features 12 different preparations for this unique weiner. On my first visit, I'll be wrapping my lips around a Chicago Vienna - gotta love that poppyseed bun, you know! Another place Bob's Bullpen shines is in their beverage selection.
Sure, they have the traditional options of Pepsi products, but they also have some unique drinks, including some video game-themed energy drinks. Bonus: if you want to take a breather from the comics and gaming side of things, you can enjoy your drink and meal outside!
Next time you’re in Alpena, Michigan, and want to feel like a kid again, stop at Bob’s Bullpen Comic Superstore. You could easily while away an afternoon at this comic book restaurant in Michigan.
One final tip we’ll leave you with? Bring a reusable bag with you – you’re gonna wanna buy stuff. And comic books can get heavy, y’all. Here’s a bagwe’re currently loving.
Have you been to a Michigan restaurant with a unique theme? We’d love to hear about it!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.