Ambassador Restaurant

The Ambassador Restaurant is an iconic landmark and a true cultural legend in the city of Hancock, USA. Housed in a majestic historic building dating back to 1898, this family-owned establishment—affectionately known by locals as "The Ambo"—has been hospitably opening its doors to residents and visitors of the Copper Country for over 60 years.

The venue is famous for its unique vintage atmosphere, where classic woodwork harmoniously blends with elegant stained glass and breathtaking views of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge. It is more than just a bar; it is a living museum that preserves the spirit of a bygone era and the warmth of a family business passed down through generations.

The restaurant's main highlights are its unique cuisine and signature cocktails. Travelers from all over the country come here to taste the famous pizza, which has earned national rankings, and to enjoy the aesthetics of hand-painted murals that turn every visit into a captivating aesthetic adventure.

For your convenience, we have gathered the restaurant's essential contact information. The establishment provides an accessible environment for people with disabilities and has its own private parking lot.

The main reason to stop by The Ambassador is the chance to try the legendary pizza on a thin, crispy crust. Be sure to order the Mexican Tostada pizza: this unusual combination of pizza sauce, hot sauce, fresh lettuce, and tomatoes topped with two types of cheese has won the hearts of thousands of foodies. In addition to pizza, the menu features pasta, sandwiches, and fresh salads prepared using the Rossi family's original recipes.

An equally important part of your visit is sampling the signature 24-ounce "Fishbowl" cocktails. Choosing your perfect pizza and drink pairing is considered a bit of a personality test for every guest here. If you aren't planning a long sit-down meal, you can use the takeout service to arrange a picnic with a view of the canal.

Be sure to take some time to explore the interior. The walls are decorated with unique murals depicting gnomes and antique stained glass. Contemplating these works of art, combined with panoramic views of the city's historic architecture, creates a unique sense of comfort and a feeling of connection to the history of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The restaurant is conveniently located at 126 Shelden Avenue, right in the heart of Houghton. It is part of US Highway 41, so finding the establishment is easy—it is just one block east of the famous historic Portage Lake Lift Bridge.

For those traveling by car, there is a private paved parking lot with clear navigation. If you are staying in the downtown area, the walk to the restaurant will take only a few minutes. You can also quickly reach the location by taxi from anywhere in the city.

If you are arriving from another region, the nearest major airport is in Marquette, about an hour's drive away. It is worth noting that The Ambassador is considered a motorcycle-friendly spot, making it a popular stop during tours of the Keweenaw Peninsula.

The history of The Ambassador began on the first day of 1965, when husband and wife Joseph and Marion Rossi opened a small tavern. After moving from San Francisco in search of new opportunities, they transformed a modest bar into a gastronomic landmark specializing in pizza made from unique recipes. The building housing the restaurant was built back in 1898 and, during the Prohibition era, served as a home for a speakeasy known as the "Hole in the Wall."

The most remarkable feature of the interior is the antique gnome murals. These oil-on-canvas paintings were created by the artist Rohrbeck, commissioned by the owner of the local Bosch Brewery. During the years of alcohol prohibition, the paintings were removed and safely hidden, and it wasn't until the 1940s that they took their place of honor in the restaurant's halls. The murals tell an entire story: from the brewing process to a merry feast and the characters' subsequent hangover.

Over the decades, the restaurant has become an integral part of Copper Country culture. In the 1960s, they developed a special pizza recipe that eventually earned the establishment a place in the prestigious Pizza Hall of Fame. Since then, The Ambassador has remained true to family traditions, preserving the original recipes and the spirit of old America.

To fully enjoy the local flavors and take your time admiring all the details of the historic interior, we recommend planning 1.5 to 2.5 hours for your visit. This will be enough time for a full meal and to explore the murals and stained glass.

If you are planning a group gathering or want to spend the evening in a relaxed atmosphere sampling signature drinks, your stay might extend to 3–4 hours. The unique atmosphere of The Ambassador invites long conversations and leisurely relaxation surrounded by history.

The restaurant welcomes guests daily, offering lunch and dinner menus. From Monday to Thursday, the establishment is open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM; on Friday and Saturday, the doors are open until 11:00 PM. On Sunday, The Ambassador begins service in the late afternoon—from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Since hours may change during holidays or depending on the season, visitors are encouraged to check the official website for the current schedule before planning their visit.

Exploring the surrounding area after a delicious meal will help you dive deeper into the rich history of this region. Many historical markers and industrial architecture monuments are within walking distance of the restaurant.