About

For years, we were known fondly as Bowers Harbor Inn. In spring 2010, we officially reopened as Mission Table at Bowers Harbor Inn. We still hold true to the basic ideology that made us one of Michigan’s most highly regarded culinary destinations for decades, but have focused & renewed our vows to our valued patrons:

  • With an awareness of our place in the community of the Old Mission Peninsula & Northern Michigan, we — the owners, chef & staff — take our inspiration from the land & waters that surround us.

  • Our menu features the best ingredients available from farms & fishermen, using the freshest products, honoring the seasons & supporting the agricultural economy of the region. These foods are used in ways both innovative & traditional to bring out their unique essences. Garnish & presentation are always secondary to flavor & quality.

  • Our service reflects the generosity of the land & the casual cheerfulness of the local people. Our service staff is chosen for their passion to serve others, & and remembers that gathering at the table with family & friends is a central human experience. We believe that, rather than being separate from kitchen & operations, service is the final part in the natural sequences from farm to harvest to kitchen to table.

  • The atmosphere is historic, warm & and inviting, a place where our guests can relax & feel welcome. A meal might include a breeze off the bay, a great sunset or a glowing fireplace, but it is always a genuine Old Mission experience.

Who We Are

The Team

EVENT CHEF – Ben Jakobcic

Born and raised in Royal Oak, Michigan; Ben has been working in professional kitchens for nearly 20 years now. He moved to Traverse City 10 years ago, cooking for Mission Table before focusing on Banquets. Ben is honored to have taken part in the making of so many important moments through his work here and uses it as inspiration to continue to hone his craft and help forge many more exceptional experiences. Ben’s dedication to the quality and consistency of the food prepared in The Peninsula Room is unparalleled.

GENERAL MANAGER - Jim DeMarsh

Jim DeMarsh is a Traverse City native where he & his wife are raising their two boys. He has been in the hospitality industry for nearly 20 years.

Jim graduated from Grand Valley State University with degrees in Business Administration & Finance. After a short stint in the banking world the desire for the human experience & interaction brought him to the hospitality industry, serving as General Manager of Grand Rapids’ Bar Divani for three years.

Jim joined our team in spring of 2009 where he has worked his way to his current position of General Manager. Jim exemplifies hospitality. He cares as much about our employees as he does our guest experience.

EVENTS DIRECTOR – Madi Liggett

Madi Liggett joined our team in 2021. Since then, Madi has married and welcomed their first child in November 2024. With a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Grand Valley State University, she’s pursued experiences across the hospitality field throughout our state, Mackinac Island, Saugatuck, and most recently Traverse City. She enjoys getting to know these Michigan coastal destinations and sharing that love with guests who are drawn here as well.

Her favorite part about hosting events is making each experience unique and memorable while simplifying the planning process for you. She also loves to see your personal style shine through in our space. In addition to helping our clients vision come to life, Madi also recaps the action on our social media platforms. She is an incredible asset to our team, and we look forward to you meeting her.