Jean Kay's Pasties

Best pasty I’ve ever wrapped my mitts around, bar none. That crust was golden and flaky, but still sturdy enough to hold together—none of that crumbly nonsense that falls apart halfway through. Inside was packed fuller than a deer camp on opener, with perfectly seasoned meat and veggies that tasted like someone’s grandma’s been making these the same way for 60 years. Not dry, not greasy, just warm, hearty, and stick-to-your-ribs good—exactly what you want after a long day in the cold. This is the kind of pasty that makes you slow down, say “oh yah,” and wonder why you don’t live closer. If you’re anywhere near the UP and skip this place, that’s on you.

Filling out a review and it asked what I got? Breakfast, lunch, or dinner? I have had all 3, and they are all good. Eating one of their pasties is like eating a slice of America. They are so good it will make you want to chop down trees with an axe and build a log home to live in the U.P. forever. One bite and your hands will become strong, you will grow a beard and you will become proud to have a blue collar. They bring you joy and even nostalgia. One bite of these pastiesgives you the feeling of home, like the feeling you get after being in the lower peninsula and taking the Mighty Mac back to the U.P.

In the summer of 2017, I stopped in to get a vegetarian pasty during a road trip. We got in kind of late, and another restaurant we tried were all out of veggie pasties. This place took care of me. We ordered them to go, so we could not enjoy what seemed to be a cool vibe, but the pasty was so good, and I loved the jalapeño ketchup that I got to go with it. The workers were so friendly and helpful. If I ever end up in Marquette again, I am definitely stopping here for another pasty.

HEART. SOUL. LOVE…DESIRE. For me, it was love at first bite 🫶 For you, “So close you can almost taste it Release your inhibitions Feel the rain on your skin.” For you, it’s still “Unwritten” BTW: Another reviewer mentioned the owner’s hugs, and I concur. I felt like I was a Hershey’s Kiss melting into a warm bath. A warm bath containing onions, steak and potatoes, of course!

Definitely worth the hype and trying the UP favorite. Great flavor and I enjoyed the pasties. I wish they have smaller size for the savory flavors so we can try more than one flavor.