“MI Great Plates” is your passport to Michigan‘s vibrant culinary landscape, showcasing the hottest restaurants, food and beverage-focused brands, and the passionate people behind them. Hosted by Justin Near, the region’s top food and beverage publicist, this monthly show explores the state’s booming food scene, where new delights pop up weekly and reservations are a coveted prize.

With exclusive insights from hospitality-driven news media and food influencers, “MI Great Plates” brings you the stories, flavors, and trends that are transforming Michigan into a foodie paradise. Tune in at 8 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month to experience the culinary magic that makes Michigan a great place to eat!

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ABOUT THE HOST:

JUSTIN NEAR

Justin Near is a public relations and crisis communications executive and president of Near Perfect Media, a prominent Michigan-based strategic communications firm. With more than two decades of experience, he serves as a trusted advisor to many award-winning restaurants, chefs, hotel groups and food-driven brands across the U.S.

Justin has helped launch more than 250 restaurants and is widely recognized as a leading authority in hospitality-focused public relations. His long-standing relationships with chefs, restaurateurs, media and food influencers have played a meaningful role in elevating Michigan’s culinary profile and shaping its modern dining scene.

As host of “MI Great Plates,” Justin brings an insider’s perspective to conversations about food, entrepreneurship and the people behind Michigan’s most compelling hospitality brands, and his background in storytelling and strategic communications allows him to spotlight the innovation, passion and personalities that define the state’s food scene.