50 of the Best Locally Owned Restaurants in Michigan

Michigan has so many delicious and unique locally owned restaurants that we never answer the question “What do you want to eat?” with “I don’t know.” When I share my Michigan travel guides like my Photographic Tour of the Grand Hotel or a Guide to Festivals in Frankenmuth, I inevitably receive lots of inquiries about where the best restaurants in Michigan are, so it’s about time I compile a list of my favorites. I travel all over the state regularly for my blog, and I have my favorites in each city I frequent, but I make a point to try something new at least once a visit, so if you have recommendations for any of these cities, or others in Michigan, please leave a comment and let me know! My proclivity for restaurants with vegetarian options has influenced this list, and as a result every place listed below has a number of vegetarian and vegan options, however unless they are denoted as exclusively vegan or vegetarian, each has many choices for all diets.

* = Vegetarian Restaurants
+ = Vegan Restaurants

I’ve linked each restaurant’s menu to its respective title for your convenience, simply click the restaurant’s name to access its menu, see its hours, location, etc.

Have you tried any of these places? Which restaurants would you add to this list? Let me know in the comments below, and I’ll add them to the upcoming part II!

Asian Restaurants

Beijing Garden in Farmington Hills, MI
I love this restaurant because not only is the food made from scratch and phenomenal, but because it’s family owned and their entire family is involved in the process. Their son takes orders, the father and mother cook, and their young daughter greets diners as they walk in, they’re such a sweet family! We didn’t think they had much for vegetarians on the menu, but their son walked us through the menu and explained that they will happily customize any dish to fit our needs, or they’d make us something unique if we had dietary restraints. He went above and beyond when helping us, and for that alone they are one of the best places I’ve eaten in Michigan!
I Recommend:  Walnut Shrimp with Broccoli, Vegetable Lo Main, Vegetable Fried Rice, Vegetable Fried Dumplings, Buddhist Delight

Cherry Blossom Sushi in Novi, MI
A romantic sushi house in downtown Novi with lots of fusion rolls, and rolls inspired by local ingredients and events. The first time we visited the staff informed us that each of their signature specialty rolls tell a story, so be sure to ask about that if you stop in!
I Recommend: Pad Thai Noodles with Peanuts, Red Wings Roll, Sweet Heat Roll, Detroit Tiger Roll, Salmon Terriyaki

Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse and Hibachi in Ypsilanti, MI
This Japanese Steak House has fantastic salads, fresh, flavorful sushi, and great hibachi meals. Diners can either sit in private, curtained off tables, at booths, the bar, or around a hibachi to watch the chefs prepare the food.
I Recommend: Vegetable Hibachi Dinner with rice and vegetables, House Salad

Ju Sushi in Grand Rapids, MI
Ju Sushi uses the freshest ingredients we’ve ever tasted at a sushi joint, and they offer the most interesting twists on rolls, as well as classic rolls. Their noodle and rice dishes are also delightful!
I Recommend: Salmon Nigiri, Tobiko Don Dish, Seaweed Salad, Sweet Potato Roll, Fire Mountain Roll (it’s served on fire!)

Mama’s Thai Cafe in Grand Haven, MI
The food here is so good, we’ve made special trips to Grand Haven just to eat here!
I Recommend: Coconut Curry with Vegetables and Rice, Spring Rolls, Tom Yum Soup

Nee Hee’s Indian Vegetarian Street Food in Canton, MI*
We visited Nee See’s for the first time a few weeks ago and we’ve been back twice since. They have dozens of delicious street foods from all over North and South India, and it’s such a joy to be able to sample the flavors from a place we’ve yet to visit in person. Every time we visit we are transported to another world of flavor and contrasts, and it’s safe to say I’m addicted! I love spicy food, so I go for spicier items, but if you prefer something milder, you can stick with options that suite you best, because everything on the menu is color coded to indicate if it’s vegetarian or vegan, and how spicy it is. If you’re in the area I strongly recommend stopping by!
I Recommend: Raj Kachori, Szechuan Cheese Vada Pav, Vegetable Manchurian Gravy, Szechuan Potato, Dahi Puri, Dahi Samosa Chaat, Papdi Chaat

One World Asian Grocery Store and Sushi in Novi, MI
I frequented one world’s grocery store for my Asian cooking at home, yummy Japanese Snacks, and excellent take away sushi from their take out cases before I ever noticed that there was a restaurant inside. Assuming that area was the kitchen because it’s so small and tucked away, I’d never paid much attention to it, until I moved out of someone’s way and stepped back there. It’s now my favorite place to get sushi!
I Recommend: Salmon Bowl, Tempura Roll, Miso Soup, Udon Soup, Red Wing Rolls

Rak Thai in Grand Rapids, MI
This is some of the best Thai food I’ve ever had, and I really love Thai food. Actually, if you can’t tell by this list, I love all Asian foods, but I digress. The staff are so friendly and attentive, and they’re one of the few places in the area that serves delicious bubble tea, which is particular delightful when the temperatures rise.
I Recommend: Lemongrass Soup, Cheezy Noodles, Pineapple Fried Rice (served in half a pineapple), Peanut Noodles, Bangkok Tango, Taro Bubble Tea

Shiro Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar in Novi, MI
Shiro (which means white in Japanese) is located inside an old white manor home in Novi. The building itself is worth the visit, and the food is phenomenal!
I Recommend: Shiro Salad, Tunapeno, Chilean Seabass, Fried Mushroom Roll, Hawaiian Roll, Amor Roll, Crème Brûlée, Nutty Monk Coffee

Thai Orchid in Petoskey, MI
The food here is always fresh, flavorful, and arrives very quickly, which is why it’s one of my favorite places to eat in Petoskey. They have strange hours and aren’t open very often, so be sure to check their hours before heading over. Closed Sundays.
I Recommend: Glass Noodle Spring Rolls with Cabbage and Carrots with Plum Sauce, Pad See-EwEw with Vegetables, Pineapple Curry, Sweet Sticky Rice with Banana and Red Bean steamed in Banana leaf

Tofu House in Farmington, MI
I LOVE Tofu House! It’s connected to another restaurant called Sushi House, which is delicious too! They have a huge menu and everything we’ve gotten there has been incredible.
I Recommend: Vegetable Donburi, Tuna Roll, Fuji Roll, Avocado Salad with Sesame Dressing (I could drink this dressing – it’s that good!), Hana Awaka Sake

Tumerican Organic Indian Food in Novi, MI*
Their menu is a bit confusing if you’re not familiar with Indian food, so feel free to ask for a recommendation from the staff. They are so kind and helpful, the lady who helped us order even came over and showed us the proper way to eat samosas (it’s evidently not with a fork and knife like I was doing haha).
I Recommend: North Indian Sampler, South Indian Sampler, Samosa

Wasabi Korean & Japanese in Detroit, MI
Detroit has so many great restaurants and Wasabi Korean & Japanese is no exception.
I Recommend: Agadashi Tofu, Tuna Tataki, Sundoobu Chike Soup,  Tofu Dolsot Bibimbab, Salmon Lunch Box

Yee Siang Authentic Chinese Dumplings in Ann Arbor, MI
Their dumplings are out of this world! They offer steamed or fried dumplings, among lots of other tasty noodle dishes, soups, buns, and Chinese foods. Be sure to ask for each of their dipping sauces!
I Recommend: Mushroom and Cabbage Dumplings. Ask for half fried and half steamed to try different styles! 

Breakfast & Brunch

Breakfast Club in Farmington Hills, MI
There are so many options at the Breakfast Club, and all of them are great! This is the perfect European style breakfast and brunch spot, and they have a rotating specials board, so there’s always something new and tasty to try. At the end of your meal, they bring everyone a chocolate covered strawberry for dessert!
I Recommend: Santa Fe Eggs Benedict, The Fluffy with mushrooms sans meat, Baked Berry French Toast, The Greasy Spoon 

J. W. Filmore’s Family Restaurant in Petoskey, MI
A very close second for my favorite breakfast place in northern Michigan, and home of the very best French toast I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating is J.W. Filmore’s Family Restaurant. This is a more casual dining experience than many other places on the list, and is perfect for large groups, or families with children. We’ve never had to wait very long to be seated, and the staff always go above and beyond to make diners feel happy.
I Recommend: French Toast, Swiss Scramble, Fresh Fruit

Pancake House in Bay Harbor, MI
This is hands down my favorite breakfast in northern Michigan. They have everything from pastries, pancakes, waffles, and other standard breakfast fare to house specialties, eggs Benedict, and incredible omelets.  In the summer the wait to be seated can exceed an hour, but we always put our name in and go walk along the water or explore the stores downtown while we wait, which makes the time fly by.
I Recommend: Peach Crepes with Whip Cream and Tropical Syrup (always request the tropical syrup!), Garden Dutch Baby, Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

Rochester Brunch House in Rochester,  MI
This is one of the best brunch spots in Metro-Detroit! Their food is out of this world, and they have the service to match!
I Recommend: Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, Dutch Puff, Veggie Omelette, Strawberry Cheesecake Waffle, Blueberry Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes

Windmill Restaurant in Holland, MI
My husband grew up in Holland, and so whenever we visit he likes to visit the windmill restaurant. It’s a small breakfast spot only open half the day located smack dab in the middle of downtown Holland, and it is always worth the trip. Occasionally the line is out the door when we arrive, but it always goes quickly. If you visit during Tulip Time or another festival, be sure to arrive early because it’s the most popular breakfast place in town! Pro-Tip: Order a cinnamon roll with your drink order, they sell out quickly!
I Recommend: Freshly Baked Cinnamon Roll (try it fried for out of this world flavor!), Pancake Roll-up with Powdered Sugar, Hash Brown Omelette, Bird’s Nest sans Bacon

Breweries, Pubs, & Winebars

Atwater Brewery in Grosse Pointe, MI
There are so many great restaurants to choose from in Metro-Detroit, but this is one of the best we’ve tried so far. Situated in an old church, this brewery is definitely a must-see if you’re in the area. I could have guessed that this place was once holy ground, because this food is absolutely divine! Fun Fact: You can watch employees brew beer while you eat!
I Recommend: Our Pretzels (it’s so big it comes in a pizza box!), Black Been Burger, Michigan Chopped, Yummy Falafel Fill, Veggie Pie, Vanilla Java Porter

Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids, MI
This brewery is all about sustainability, and is one of the first breweries inside a LEED certified building in the nation.
I Recommend: Beer Cheese, Pumpkin Pappardelle, Beignets, Vegan Eggnog Cheesecake

Grizzly Peak Brewery in Ann Arbor, MI
Grizzly Peak has a very warm and inviting atmosphere and is my go-to spot for comfort food when I’m in Ann Arbor. I always feel like everything here is made with care, and the staff are always super friendly and helpful.
I Recommend: Cheddar + Ale Soup, Crostini Trio, Wild Mushroom Burger, Truffled Mac & Cheese

Petoskey Brewery in Petoskey, MI
Although this brewery is not located downtown, it is worth the drive. They brew a number of their own beers on site, and serve many other state brews in addition to a great pub style menu.
I Recommend: Salty, Doughy Goodness, Parmesan Garlic Fries, PBC Brewhouse Salad

Prost Wine Bar and Charcuterie in Frankenmuth, MI
Prost was the subject of one of my very first blog posts when they first opened (you can read all about it by clicking here), and for good reason: it’s delicious! I’d never had a charcuterie board prior to dining at Prost, and I was missing out! Charcuterie Boards are a mixture of meats, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, dips, and breads that the diner can customize or select pre-arranged boards, and they’re fantastic! Prost is great about organizing food for those with special diets like vegan or gluten free, and those with allergies. The atmosphere of the restaurant is so cozy and friendly, my husband and I have spent hours enjoying our food, listening to live music out on their patio, and enjoying a nice glass of local wine. Did I mention they have amazing drink selections too?
I Recommend: Charcuterie Board, Vegetable Panini, Nightcap In Capri, and Pim’s Cup (Drink)

Tap 30 Pourhouse in Petoskey, MI
Tap 30 Pourhouse gets its name from the 30 rotating craft beers that they offer on tap daily. This Pourhouse is unique because it features long tables with group seating, so you won’t be sitting next to just the people you arrived with. It’s a great place to meet new people and chat with those sitting around you, and it always seems like everyone is having a great time. Closed Mondays.
I Recommend: Pretzels with Jalapeño Beer Cheese, Cheese Pizza, Vegan Wrap with Marinated Tempeh Patty

 

Cafés

Roast & Toast in Petoskey, MI
The perfect spot for grabbing coffee, tea, pastries, soups, or sandwiches in downtown Petoskey, Roast & Toast is affordable, fast, and tasty. Fun Fact: The exterior wall is decorated with colorful mugs and plates!
I Recommend: Cinnamon Roll, Soup De Jour (Potato & Leek is my favorite!), Organic Decaf Coffee

Dinner Spots

Blue Smoke in East Jordan, MI
Gaze at the marina as you enjoy delicious meals, draft beers, and fun desserts. The last time we dined here we made a meal of the sides that they offer and it was scrumptious!
I Recommend: House Salad with Sherry Vinaigrette, Mac ‘n Cheese, Cornbread, Mashed Redskins Cream Corn

The Gandy Dancer in Ann Arbor, MI
The Gandy Dancer is a really lovely restaurant inside an old train depot in Ann Arbor, and is definitely somewhere worth dressing up for. My husband took me here to celebrate our one year wedding anniversary, and they had custom menus made fro us with our names on them, that wished us a happy anniversary, which we still have. The manager of the restaurant came out to wish us a happy anniversary and even shared some wisdom about married life with us, which was so sweet. The staff treated us like royalty and brought us a lovely dessert and drinks to celebrate our anniversary and it was one of the most special meals I’ve ever enjoyed. The food here is top notch and the staff go above and beyond to ensure their guests are happy with their experience, and as a result we visit at least twice a year. I highly recommend The Gandy Dancer for your next special night out!
I Recommend: Almond Encrusted Brie, Pear + Beet Walnut Salad, Oscar Topping, Applejack Sea Bass, Pecan Crusted Whitefish, Crème Brûlée

Kruse & Muer in Rochester, MI
Another great chance to get dressed up, Kruse & Muer is an elegantly nautical seafood restaurant and oyster bar. They put paper down on the table and serve bread and butter on the table which sounds messy but is actually a lot of fun!
I Recommend: Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Salmon Apricot Salad, Linguine Primavera, Red Wing Pizza

Irish Restaurants

The Curragh Irish Restaurant in Holland, Michigan
This lovely Irish Restaurant is a gem in Holland’s crown, because the flavors found here are unlike anywhere else in town. The food is fantastic, the drinks are refreshing, and there’s even an option to sit outside on the patio when the weather is nice.
I Recommend: French Countryside Salad, Curragh Veggie Burger, Fish Tacos, Blarney Mac ‘n Cheese

Lunch Spots

Chive Kitchen in Farmington, MI+
There aren’t very many vegan restaurants in the Farmington area, so I was excited to try this place when I was in town.
I Recommend: Vegan Reuben, Feijoada Brazilian Black Beans, Burger Cannellini-Seitan Herbed Patty, Michigan Chili Mustard-Cumin Aioli & Onions

Electric Cheetah in Grand Rapids, MI
Electric Cheetah specializes in macaroni & Cheese and Draft Root Beers, which is one of the best combinations out there! Although they do offer lots of other drinks and foods, it’s impossible to ignore their massive 30+ root beer selection. I don’t usually go for soda, but they have so many delicious varieties that I’ll make an exception. Fun Fact: The bathrooms are wallpapered with finished puzzles – it’s crazy!
I Recommend: Hot Pretzels, Baked Classic Macaroni and Cheese sans Bacon, Ole’ Mexican Quinoa Kurt, Dang Butterscotch Root Beer, Boylan Birch Beer

The GateHouse on Mackinac Island, MI
You can read all about why I love The Gatehouse restaurant here. We’ve eaten here twice in one day while on the island, it’s that good! I recommend eating on the patio if the weather is nice, because you can feel the breeze from the lake. If you’re avoiding gluten, they offer a gluten free menu – just ask.
I Recommend: Whitefish Sandwich, Sea Salt Pretzel Sticks, Gatehouse Wedge Salad

H.O. Rose Dining Room in Stafford’s Perry Hotel in Petoskey, MI
A quiet and intimate dining room situated inside the historic Perry Hotel in Petoskey, the H.O. Rose Dining Room is the perfect spot to snag breakfast or lunch whether you’re near the water or shopping downtown.
I Recommend: Lox, Roasted Julienne Veggie Wrap

Jockey Club on Mackinac Island, MI
Jockey Club is one of my favorite places to grab a drink on Mackinac Island because we’re able to watch carriages pass by, people watch, and enjoy being outside when the weather is nice. They have an indoor bar area as well that’s fully stocked and bartenders know all the best jokes!
I Recommend: Three Cheese Tortellini, Mixed Field Greens, Pecan Ball

Pink Pony on Mackinac Island, MI
With open-air seating, stunning lake views, friendly staff, and precious branding, on top of excellent food, it’s easy to see why Pink Pony was voted one of America’s Top 10 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining. In addition to serving food all day long, they have a gift shop, and they’re open longer than most other places on the island, often until 1:30 am. This is one of the cutest restaurants on Mackinac, and it’s definitely a must-visit!
I Recommend: Belgian Waffles with Strawberries, Eggs Benedict with Avocado instead of Bacon, French Toast, Whitefish Dip, Kale & Beet Salad, Honey Apple Brie Flatbread, Pink Lemonade  

Sava’s in Ann Arbor, MI
This is one of my favorite spots in Ann Arbor for innovative, fresh food that’s healthy and tastes fantastic too! They have lots of vegan and vegetarian options, as well as conventional food choices. The inside of the restaurant is gorgeously chic and a great place to meet up with friends in between classes or to discuss business.
I Recommend: Hippie Bowl, Rise ‘N Shine Orange Smoothie, Huevos Rancheros, Avocado Toast, Puffed French Toast, Ahi Tuna Poke, Fish Tacos, Sava’s Mac ‘n Cheese, Mushroom Spaghettini 

Small Plates in Detroit, MI
This is a great date spot or a place to hang out with friends, because the food is sized to share. My husband and I always order a few things and split them, and they’re always delectable.
I Recommend: Portobello Eggplant & Kale Sliders, Sweet Potato Fries with Thyme Honey, Lotus Flower Tuna, Baja Style Fish Tacos, Golden Beets, Chevre & Spinach

Mediterranean Restaurants

La Marsa Mediterranean in Farmington Hills, MI
The portions here are massive and delicious. We typically share a meal and a side and have enough left over for another meal or two!
I Recommend: Vegetarian Grape Leaves, Baba Ghannooj, Vegetarian Ghallaba, Koshary, Baklava, Omo Ali

NeoPapalis in Ann Arbor, MI
One of the best pizza restaurants on this list, NeoPapalis is the home of my favorite breadsticks in Michigan. I’m not saying I’d drive an hour just for these breadsticks, but I’ve definitely drive an hour out of my way just for these breadsticks. Pro-Tip: If you order over the phone, they will store your order information so if you’re like me and order their breadsticks once a month or so, you can just call and ask for what you ordered last time, which is really convenient!
I Recommend: Ranch Parmesan Breadsticks (you owe it to yourself to try these at least once!), Custom Salad (made to your liking)

PizzaPapalis in Detroit, MI
If you’re in search of delicious, deep-dish pizza, there’s no need to drive all the way to Chicago! Instead, head to Detroit and visit PizzaPapalis for Chicago-Style deep-dish served up with endless topping combinations. As with all Chicago-Style deep-dish pizzas, expect to wait around 45 minutes for your pie to bake. Trust me, it’s definitely worth the wait! Pro-tip: Park for free at the Greektown Casino and walk on over.
I Recommend: Vegetarian Deep-Dish with Pineapple, Mozzarella Sticks

Mexican & Tapas Restaurants

Belt Line Bar in Grand Rapids, MI
Belt Line is a low-key Mexican joint that serves the best Margaritas in Grand Rapids. They’re seriously amazing, and the food is delicious too!
I Recommend: De Casa Plus Margarita, Prickly Pear Margarita, Black Raspberry Margarita, Rice & Bean Chimichanga

The Cantina in Charlevoix, MI
This bright and cheery Mexican restaurant is such a great spot to pop into in Northern Michigan. In the summer you can simply stroll up to the bar and order what you’d like to take with you, or enjoy your food and drinks on the patio or inside.
I Recommend: Papas Tacos, Camaron Tacos, Vegetarian Nachos, Chopped Salad, House Margaritas 

El Patio in Farmington Hills, MI
El Patio has the best taco salads I’ve ever had. Their salsa is incredible, the atmosphere is fun and inviting, and their margaritas are also delightful!
I Recommend: Bean & Rice Taco Salad, Mushroom Quesadilla, Salt Rimmed Margarita

Mi Zarape in Brighton, MI
Situated inside a strip mall Mi Zarape is an unassuming restaurant from outside, but inside the staff are jovial and the food is tasty and satisfying.
I Recommend: Vegetable Quesadillas, Vegetable Fajitas, Sopapilla, Flan

San Chez Tapas Bistro in Grand Rapids, MI
Tapas take on a chic new attitude in Grand Rapids at this restaurant. While it’s not required, we like to dress up and enjoy a nice multi-course meal. We each order a tapa to share, enjoy it, and then order more!
I Recommend: Croquetas de Patatas Con Queso, Patatas Bravas, Coles de Bruselas, Fabada Asturiana, Paella Verduras

Organic / Vegan / Vegetarian Restaurants

Chive Kitchen in Farmington, MI+
There aren’t very many vegan restaurants in the Farmington area, so I was excited to try this place when I was in town.
I Recommend: Vegan Reuben, Feijoada Brazilian Black Beans, Burger Cannellini-Seitan Herbed Patty, Michigan Chili Mustard-Cumin Aioli & Onions

Chomp in Rochester, MI
My sister took me here for lunch and I’m obsessed! It’s a small cafe and juice bar with lots of healthy options in the heart of Rochester.
I Recommend: Tomato Bisque, Truffle Fries, Veggie Quesadilla, Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla, Quinoa Bowl, Beet It Raw Juice, Corangeberry Raw Juice

Grain Train Organic Grocery Store & Cafe in Petoskey, MI
This organic grocery store offers a variety of pre-made foods like sandwiches, soups, salad bar, baked goods, and deserts that are perfect if you want something healthy and homemade on the go.
I Recommend: Mediterranean Sandwich, African Peanut Soup, No Bake Cookies, Kambucha 

Raw Organic Juice Bar in Novi, MI
This is the perfect place for a healthy shot of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. They also make smoothies, Smoothie Bowls, and make desserts from scratch.
I Recommend: Green Juice, Açaí Bowl, Homemade Granola Bar

Themed Restaurants

Mad Hatter Bistro in Birmingham, MI
I’ve posted about this restaurant before (read about it here), and it’s still one of my favorite places in Birmingham. As the name implies, it’s an Alice in Wonderland fantasy themed eatery with so many delicious options, no matter your taste. We build our trips to Birmingham around this restaurant!
I recommend: Unicorn Salad, Caramel Apple French Toast, Sticky Toffee Bun, Smoked Salmon Sandwich, Ahi Tuna Tartarre, Artichoke Dip, Down the Rabbit Hole, Bananas Foster Spiked Milkshake

More Michigan Travel Posts:
Photographic Tour of Grand Hotel on Mackianc Island
10 Best Places to Grab a Drink on Mackinac Island
Grand Hotel Mackinac Island Dining Options
Stunning Rooms and Suites at the Grand Hotel
Exploring Cranbrook House & Gardens Pt. I
Famous Works of Art at Detroit Institute of Art
Wine Tasting at Mari’s Vineyard in Traverse City
Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival Recap
Hot Air Balloons Over Bavaria
Tulip Time Festival Holland, MI
Sunset Over East Jordan

Thank you for reading! Let me know which restaurants I should try next!

xAnnie Fairfax
aka @AnnieWearsIt

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