The Award Winning Restaurant in the Middle of a Corn Field

After graduating at the top of her class from the Culinary Institute of America and spending several years in Lake Tahoe, California, Shari Smith moved back home to mid-Michigan to open her own restaurant.  On Valentines Day 1990 Shari opened a fully remodeled Willard Hillton just outside of Auburn, MI.  Her goal was simple, to provide the tri-cities with the ultimate dinning experience, highlighting fine food, wine, and exceptional service.

Nearly Eighteen years later Shari has caught the attention of a national audience once again.  For the sixth year in a row, Shari’s Gourmet Dining has won The Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for its outstanding wine list.   

Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence looks to recognize a commitment to a fine wine list, filled with sufficient selections of better producers; along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style. A typical Award of Excellence wine list offers at least 80 selections, and Shari’s offers over 130.

In addition, Shari offers Wine dinners no less than twice a year. The wines and food she showcases at these dinners are those which Shari wants to familiarize her clientele with. Shari selects six to eight wines that she would like to feature for the upcoming menu, and pairs each wine with her cuisine resulting in an evening of exceptionally fine: wine, food, and dining experience for a very reasonable price

 Shari is now offering private wine and cooking seminars taught by her Sous Chef of 12 years and General Manager, Aaron Gaertner. Each class has a dedicated theme.  Please contact Aaron at 989-662-6621 or agaetner@sharigourmetdining.com for more information.

With the new award Shari and her staff have been reenergized to continue to build on being the Tri Citys top restaurant.