21 Best restaurants in Michigan [for 2023]
Are you planning a trip to Michigan and looking for some exceptional dining experiences? Then you’ve come to the right place! You will find many excellent restaurant options in Michigan, ranging from casual dining to fine dining establishments that offer a wide variety of cuisines to try.
We have listed down the best restaurants in Michigan for you in this article, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Best Restaurants in Detroit
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1. Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine
Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine is an upscale restaurant located in Detroit, Michigan that offers its guests the pleasure of traditional Cuban cuisine in a lively atmosphere. You’ll also love the menu at this upscale eatery that features classic Cuban dishes, such as ropa vieja, lechon asado, and arroz con pollo, among others.
You will also find a variety of seafood options here, making it one of the best restaurants in Michigan. Be sure to enjoy a robust cocktail program at the restaurant. You can also enjoy listening to live music during the week as well as salsa dancing.
2. Parc
Parc Located in Campus Martius Park, this restaurant is also popular for its chic and trendy atmosphere. This upscale eatery serves contemporary American cuisine to its guests, such as beef Wellington and roast duck, and much more.
The restaurant also offers a wide selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine. This is definitely the place where you enjoy your meal in a trendy environment.
3. Selden Standard
The Selden Standard is one of the hip and trendy restaurants located in Midtown Detroit, this upscale restaurant is known for its farm-to-table approach.
What’s great is that the restaurant is committed to sourcing its ingredients from local farmers and producers, and the chefs work closely with these suppliers to create dishes that highlight the flavors and qualities of each ingredient, which make your mouth water. Some must-try dishes include the wood-grilled octopus and pork belly.
4. Wright & Company
If you are looking for a cocktail bar that offers more than just great drinks, then Wright & Company is a great option for you. This is a classy and sophisticated restaurant located in the historic Wright-Kay Building, which offers its guests a wide selection of small plates, craft cocktails, and wines.
This hidden gem is not only a favorite among locals but also visitors who want to experience the best of the city.
Best Restaurants in Grand Rapids
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5. Wolfgang’s Restaurant
and eggs, and grilled chicken wrap. If you have kids with you then there are options like Pancake, and Chocolate Chip Pancake, for them.
6. Butcher’s Union
Butcher Union is a casual and rustic restaurant located in the Heartside neighborhood of Grand Rapids. At this eatery, you can enjoy craft cocktails and local beers alongside contemporary takes on classic meat dishes.
The menu at this rustic restaurant focuses on high-quality meats, including steak, pork, and chicken, as well as housemade sausages and charcuterie boards. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and seafood options, such as the quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables and the seafood linguine.
Butcher Union is a crowd favorite for its creative cocktails, which often feature great options like house-made syrups and infusions.
7. New Hotel Mertens
If you want to taste the wonderful taste of French cuisine, then the New Hotel Mertens is the place for you, where you will enjoy classic French dishes such as Clas au Vin and Beef Bourguignon. This historic eatery is located in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The new Hotel Mertens is also home to the award-winning French Brasserie, which offers classic French cuisine in a sophisticated and welcoming environment. Here you’ll find a wide variety of dishes, from traditional favorites like escargot and steak frites to more contemporary creations like duck confit burgers and vegetarian cassoulet.
In addition to its guest rooms and restaurant, the New Hotel Mertens also has a rooftop lounge and bar, wonderful for enjoying a spectacular view of Grand Rapids. The lounge is the perfect spot to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail or glass of wine while taking in the cityscape.
8. Leo’s
If you are a seafood lover then you can feel free to visit Leo’s and enjoy your favorite taste. This restaurant allows its guests to enjoy fresh seafood including lobster, crab, and shrimp as well as a variety of sushi and sashimi dishes.
You’ll also love the casual atmosphere of this eatery, where you’ll enjoy an array of classic favorites like crab cakes and lobster bisque to more unique offerings like grilled octopus and ahi tuna poke bowls in a casual atmosphere.
The experienced staff ensures that only the freshest and highest quality produce is served to you and the restaurant also features a large bar area where guests can enjoy a variety of signature cocktails, beers, and wines by the glass or bottle.
Best Restaurants in Ann Arbor
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9. Jerusalem Garden
Jerusalem Garden is a Middle Eastern restaurant located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, it offers a variety of dishes inspired by Mediterranean recipes for its guests, including Falafel, Shawarma, Hummus, and Baba Ghanoushh. And do not forget to taste salads, soup, and desserts.
Experienced employees here make delicious dishes with fresh materials with great love and you will also like the comfortable atmosphere here. Here indoor and outdoor seating facility is available, which makes it the best restaurant in Michigan. The Jerusalem Garden is a wonderful place to taste delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine
10. The Gandy Dancer
Gandy Dancer is one of the historic restaurants, housed in a beautifully restored 1886 train depot. In the restaurant, you will enjoy American favorites along with an extensive wine list.
This is the place where you can enjoy the spectacular view along with savoring the cuisine. This eatery also offers you a bar area where you can enjoy a variety of signature cocktails, beers, and wines.
The restaurant’s menu pays great attention to fresh and seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on seafood and steak dishes. Signature items here taste great, such as lobster bisque, jumbo shrimp scampi, and bone-in ribeye steak. Fret not if you are a vegetarian as this restaurant offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options and a selection of desserts made in-house daily.
11. The Earle
The Earl is a classic French and Italian restaurant popular for its wonderfully romantic ambiance, extensive wine list, and authentic European cuisine.
This restaurant is wonderful for a romantic dinner or special occasion celebration. You will also find a large bar area where you can enjoy a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines.
The menu is inspired by the culinary traditions of France and Italy, with a focus on fresh ingredients and classic techniques. You’ll find escargot, duck confit, and spaghetti carbonara as well as a wide variety of seafood and steak dishes here. Here too you’ll find a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options. And on certain nights you can also enjoy live jazz music.
12. Zingerman’s Deli
Zingerman’s Deli is one of the best restaurants in Ann Arbor, a crowd favorite for its delicious deli sandwiches and homemade baked goods. This upscale eatery prides itself on offering high-quality, made-to-order sandwiches that are made using the freshest, local ingredients.
And there’s a lot to be found here, including deli soups, salads, and baked goods, among many other food items. Zingerman’s Deli also has a robust online store, which allows customers to order their favorite deli items for delivery anywhere in the United States and is also known for its commitment to customer service and community engagement.
Best Restaurants in Traverse City
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13. Trattoria Stella
Trattoria Stella is a charming Italian restaurant, and you will surely fall in love with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is wonderful for an intimate dinner or a relaxing night with friends.
On the menu, at this restaurant, you will find authentic Italian cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant’s specialty dishes include homemade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and a variety of delicious seafood options that will make your mouth water. The eatery also caters to vegetarians with a range of vegetarian-friendly dishes on the menu.
The restaurant offers a variety of wines from around the world, including several Italian wines that pair perfectly with the restaurant’s cuisine. The knowledgeable staff can help diners choose the perfect wine to complement their meal.
14. The Pink Pony
The Pink Pony, considered very popular in the area, welcomes its guests with its waterfront location, excellent food, and lively atmosphere.
This is where you enjoy spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the harbor, along with some tasting. The comfortable and relaxed atmosphere of this restaurant also sets it apart from the rest.
You will find a variety of dishes to suit every taste on The Pink Pony’s menu. Guests won’t want to miss tasting the fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and delicious pasta dishes here. The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails, wines, and craft beers that you can enjoy.
You can expect fresh and delicious cuisine at this eatery and enjoy live entertainment, often played by local musicians during the summer season, creating a wonderful atmosphere.
You get both indoor and outdoor seating here, making it a great option for any occasion, from a romantic dinner for two to a group celebration.
15. Chianti
Chianti is a wonderful restaurant located on One Lakeshore Drive in the beautiful Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, offering its guests the culinary delights of American favorites.
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience in Chianti, you’ll definitely want to try the hand-crafted 5-course prix fixe menu.
This special menu is carefully prepared by Chianti’s experienced chefs, providing guests with a memorable dining experience. Here you’ll savor the seasonal flavors of Mackinac Island as well as Chianti’s impressive wine list while enjoying picturesque views.
Best Restaurants in Northern Michigan
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16. The Rowe Inn Restaurant
If you are looking for a casual and rustic dining experience in Northern Michigan, then you definitely want to visit The Rowe Inn. Located in the small town of Ellsworth, this luxurious restaurant offers the chance to enjoy amazing food along with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
You will find a variety of delicious dishes made from the freshest ingredients available on the menu of this eatery. Restaurants here specialize in French-inspired cuisine with a focus on locally sourced meats, seafood, and produce. Some of the most popular dishes here include Seared Duck Strata with Cherry Demi-Glace, Pan-Seared Scallops with Bacon and Leek, and an Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb.
17. A Matter of Taste at Tapawingo
Tapawingo is known for providing a farm-to-table experience with live music for its guests.
The experienced staff here prepare delicious dishes for you using the freshest and highest quality ingredients. This eatery changes the menu frequently to reflect the seasonality of the local produce, so you can expect to taste something new and exciting here.
One of the most popular dishes here is the locally sourced whitefish, which is prepared fresh and in a variety of ways by the experienced staff depending on the season. The eatery also serves an array of other entrees that showcase the best of northern Michigan’s culinary offerings, such as Braised Beef Short Ribs or Pan-Seared Duck Breast.
Here you’ll also find an extensive wine list of both local and international wines, as well as craft beers and cocktails.
Best Restaurants in Kalamazoo
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18. Bell’s Eccentric Cafe
This fabulous cafe is renowned for its wide selection of craft beers including its famous Two Hearted Ale which has won several awards. In addition to beer, the menu at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe features a variety of American pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers.
If you are a vegetarian, don’t worry as there are vegetarian and gluten-free options available as well. You get both indoor and outdoor seating options and the atmosphere is eclectic as well.
The indoor venue features a large bar, a stage for live music, and a merchandise area where guests will enjoy its great ambiance along with some tastings. The outdoor beer garden is wonderful during the summer months.
19. Crow’s Nest
Crow’s Nest, Kalamazoo is a popular restaurant in Michigan, known for its diverse menus, such as burgers, sandwiches, and vegetarian options, here you will enjoy a series of American and international cuisine.
Here are classic dishes like breakfast menu pancakes and omelets, as well as breakfast burritos and more unique offerings like biscuits and gravy you cannot forget. Crow’s nest’s happy atmosphere makes it one of the best restaurants in Michigan.
If you are looking for a fun atmosphere with good food, drinks, and Kalamazoo, then the Nest of Crow is a wonderful option for you.
Best Restaurants in Troy
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20. Kona Grill
Best Restaurants in Lansing
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21. Soup Spoon Cafe
Soup Spoon Cafe makes a name for itself with its extensive menu that invites its guests to relish a variety of soups, sandwiches, salads, and snacks. You get indoor as well as outdoor seating in this wonderful cafe.
This wonderful cafe sources many of its ingredients from local farmers and producers, and you’ll find the menu changes frequently to reflect the season and availability of fresh ingredients.
Some of the cafe’s most popular menu items include seafood chowder soup, Jake’s Kickin’ Pastrami Grilled Shrimp Salad Blackened Tenderloin Salad, and many more. At Soup Spoon Cafe you get to enjoy a full range of non-alcoholic beverages along with a selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
FAQs
1. What is the most popular restaurant in Michigan?
It’s hard to pinpoint one single popular restaurant in Michigan, as the state is home to many great eateries. However, some of the most highly-rated restaurants include Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine in Detroit, Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor, and The Pink Pony in Traverse City.
2. What is a pasty?
A pasty is a traditional pastry that originated in Cornwall, England. It typically consists of meat, vegetables, and potatoes, and is baked in a pastry crust.
3. Are Michigan restaurants expensive?
The cost of dining at a restaurant in Michigan can vary greatly depending on the establishment. Some restaurants are relatively inexpensive, while others are more upscale and expensive. However, overall, dining out in Michigan is generally affordable compared to other states.
4. What is farm-to-table dining?
Farm-to-table dining is a type of restaurant that sources its ingredients directly from local farmers and food producers. This allows the restaurant to use fresh, seasonal ingredients and support the local community.
5. Are reservations recommended at Michigan restaurants?
It’s always a good idea to make reservations at popular restaurants in Michigan, especially on weekends and holidays. However, some restaurants do not accept reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.