Sometimes you do judge a book by its cover. When it comes to restaurants, usually it's the food itself that keeps people coming back, but let's face it, the atmosphere matters too.

Cheapism set out recently to find the "Most Beautiful Restaurants in Each State" across America. They were looking for those eateries that "serve up a feast not just for the taste buds, but for the eyes, too". These are those places that "wow" you with their ambiance and create those special one-of-a-kind themes that tie it in with their food and cocktail menus. Not just those that are picturesque, but those that are unique.

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To dine at the top pick in Michigan you'll need to head to Traverse City. Cheapism selected the charming Trattoria Stella as the most beautiful restaurant in the Mitten State. Part of its originality and intrigue stems from the fact that it's located in the historic buildings formerly known as the Traverse City State Hospital, now called The Village of Grand Traverse Commons.

The architecture of the old world building combined with the lower level location of the legendary asylum adds a little allure to the restaurant. Cheapism writes, 

"You'll enjoy your stay in the grand Trattoria Stella far more than the original visitors — patients at an asylum that opened in 1885 — and eat better too. The restaurant serves delicious seafood and Italian fare, including pizza, in a series of small spaces defined by brick arches and tile. It's all as charming as the exterior is elegant, but the more superstitious diner may opt for a bright sunlit lunch over a candlelit dinner, considering Stella's reputation for being just a bit haunted".

Get ready to drool with menu selections such as Atlantic Calamari, Chicken Saltimbocca, and Maltagliati. Did we mention their amazing wine selection and delicious cocktails as well?

Check out the full list of "Most Beautiful Restaurants in Every State" here. 

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