20 Potential Michelin Star Restaurants in Michigan

20 Potential Michelin Star Restaurants in Michigan

Michigan is a state with a rich culinary tradition, from its famous Detroit-style pizza to its fresh-water fish. While there are currently no Michelin-starred restaurants in Michigan, there are a number of restaurants that are considered to be Michelin star worthy. These restaurants are known to offer outstanding cuisine, impeccable service, and an unforgettable dining experience. 

In this article, we highlight 20 Potential Michelin Star Restaurants in Michigan. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience for a special night out or you’re looking for a laid-back lunch spot to hang out with your friends, our list has you covered. Bring a hearty appetite and get ready to be blown away by these Potential Michelin Star Restaurants in Michigan.

1. Nourish Northern Michigan 

Nourish has a main mission which is to provide the Michigan community with whole-food nutrition. They use as many local sources as possible to create nourishing food and beverage options from scratch. They also support Michigan-made goods and products that they are proud to share.

Nourish is a gluten-free restaurant that helps meet the needs of people who are on special diets or those who simply prefer to eat healthier foods. Be warned that the foods are usually served plain and dry, but it’s been heralded by guests as one of the most nutritious places to grab a meal with food that tastes delicious.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS:  329 N Main St, Cheboygan, MI 49721, United States

CALL:  +1 231-268-3221

OPEN: Sun, Mon – Closed Tue – Sat 9 am -3 pm

RESERVATIONS: NOURISHNORTHERNMICHIGAN.COM

2. Polish Kitchen

Polish Kitchen is an eatery serving traditional, hearty Polish cuisine. It’s situated in a warm brick-clad building. Some of the most notable dishes are the goulash and pierogi. 

They also serve sides of kielbasa with Reuben-style dishes, pizza, and more. They also serve the best hunter’s stew and the portions are large and hearty. The food is a real value for the price.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 8418 M-119, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States

CALL:  +1 231-838-5377

OPEN: Sun, Mon – Closed Tue – Sat 10 am – 3 pm

3. Douglas Lake Bar & Steakhouse

Douglas Lake Bar & Steakhouse has a rich history of providing great food and service in a rustic log building overlooking Douglas Lake.​The two giant fieldstone fireplaces offer the perfect dining ambience during the spring and fall seasons. Summer guests enjoy dining on the lakeside patio or the screened-in porch.

They specialize in steaks and seafood with traditional menu offerings. While the prices are moderately high, the atmosphere, service, and quality of food are well worth a little extra. The wine list is extensive and the views are breathtaking. Reservations are highly recommended. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 11001 Douglas Lake Rd, Pellston, MI 49769, United States

CALL:  +1 231-539-8588

OPEN: Mon, Tue – Closed Wed-Sun 4:30 pm – 9 pm

RESERVATIONS: OPENTABLE.COM

4. Moose Jaw Junction

Moose Jaw Junction located in a beautiful country setting, on the snowmobile & ATV trail system, is famous for Fish, Burgers, Mexican Food, Pizza, and guests’ favourite beverages served in a warm rustic atmosphere.

This family restaurant features friendly staff and great service with outstanding menu items. They specialize in Friday night fish fry, burgers, a range of comfort foods, and Mexican main meals with a full bar.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 966 W Van Rd, Pellston, MI 49769, United States

CALL:  +1 231-539-8528

OPEN: Mon – Closed Tue – Thur, Sun 11:30 am – 9 pm Fri, Sat 11:30 am – 10 pm 

RESERVATIONS:  MOOSEJAWJUNCTION.COM

5. Bennethum’s Northern Inn

Bennethum’s warm hospitality is at the heart of everything they do. They strive to personalize your visit and attend to any special requests. According to them, their staff is their greatest asset and they continually work hard with them to create an extraordinary dining experience for each guest. 

From their signature classics to their upscale pub fare, they truly have something for everyone. Their menu changes monthly to incorporate seasonal and speciality items. They source locally but will never compromise quality for locality. The menu offers a variety of comfort foods, fresh salads, soups, appetizers, beer, and half-off cocktails during happy hour.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 3917 Old 27 North South, Gaylord, MI 49735, United States

CALL: +1 989-732-9288

OPEN: Sun, Mon Closed Tue – Sat 4-9pm

RESERVATIONS: OPENTABLE.COM

6. Pepe Nero

Pepe Nero is an upscale Italian restaurant with swanky décor. The chef specializes in serving authentic Italian cuisine. The location is a former chapel that was transformed into a high-end eating establishment. 

The prices are expensive, but it’s a place to experience fine dining at its best. The food and cocktails are rated as exceptional.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 700 Cottageview Dr Suite 100, Traverse City, MI 49684, United States

CALL:  +1 231-929-1960

OPEN: Sun, Mon – Closed Tue – Thur 4:30 – 9 pm Fri, Sat 4:30 – 10 pm

RESERVATIONS:  OPENTABLE.COM

7. Slabtown Burgers

Slabtown Burgers is one of the best Hamburger restaurants in Northern Michigan. The prices are reasonable and the servings are large. They specialize in handcrafted patties in a colourful dining room with a patio for eating outside when the weather is agreeable.

Although it’s a small restaurant it’s one of the more popular with friendly staff and enough food to fill you when you’re hungry. Visitors and locals give it high marks for friendly service that is fast with fresh food. One of the most popular options is the bison burger on a pretzel bun with grilled onions and cheese.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 826 W Front St, Traverse City, MI 49684, United States

CALL: +1 231-932-1760

OPEN: Sun, Mon – Closed Tue – Sat 11 am – 8 pm

8. Willow

Willow is an American-style restaurant that is known for its beautiful views and exceptional menu offerings. The chef uses local produce and offers some of the most unique combinations of vegetables including a salad with roasted cauliflower and other high-quality ingredients. 

Reservations are highly recommended because this popular restaurant fills up fast. Their cocktails are also highly recommended by both visitors and locals, so make sure to order one while there.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 129 E Bay St, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States

CALL:  +1 231-412-6032

OPEN: Sun, Mon – Closed Tue – Sat 11 am – 8 pm

RESERVATIONS:OPENTABLE.COM

9. Micheal’s Tavern and Steakhouse

Micheal’s Tavern and Steakhouse is a boutique steakhouse, in Indian River, the heart of northern Michigan. They have thoughtfully renovated a historic 1938 log building to a beautiful rustic chic atmosphere. Executive Chef Michael takes great care to provide guests with a dining experience like no other. Their menu will offer a selection of ala cart steaks, seafood, salads, and shareables.

They also offer an array of craft cocktails, beer, and an extensive wine selection. Michael and Maggie Wilp share a passion for quality food and service, and careful attention to detail, and are determined to treat every person that walks through the door as a welcome guest.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 4653 S Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI 49749, United States

CALL:   +1 231-238-2137

OPEN: Sun, Mon – Closed Tue – Sat 5-10pm

RESERVATIONS:  OPENTABLE.COM

10. Legs Inn

Legs Inn specializes in homemade Polish cuisine, but a variety of American dishes, including fresh, locally-caught Great Lakes Whitefish offerings can also be found on their menu. 

The Smolak Family and staff are dedicated to making your visit to Legs Inn a pleasant and memorable experience. And they hope you will return with family and friends for many years to come. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 6425 N Lake Shore Dr, Cross Village, MI 49723, United States

CALL:  +1 231-526-2281

OPEN: Wed-Mon 12 – 8 pm Tue – Closed

RESERVATIONS:  LEGSINN.COM

11. Rowe Inn Restaurant

Rowe Inn restaurant is a French establishment that serves foods with layered flavors for the most exquisite dining experience. The food is excellent but be prepared for high prices. 

The environment is elegant yet welcoming. The service is rated as top-notch. Guests strongly recommend the Morrell mushroom dishes and soups.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 6303 E Jordan Rd, Ellsworth, MI 49729, United States

CALL:  +1 231-588-7351

OPEN: Wed-Mon 12 – 8 pm Tue – Closed

12. Reflect Bistro

At Reflect Bistro, it is their culinary passion to serve eclectic food and drinks created seasonally by local Michigan farmers and brewers. Their team of farmers and small talented companies has provided them with the freshest bread, eggs, butter, vegetables, protein, beers and wines. 

Their goal is to share unique, farm-to-table creations with their guests. Since Michigan cannot produce all of the menu favorites, they pledge to source from sustainable respected suppliers.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 255 Munson Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States

CALL:  +1 231-778-9000

OPEN: Sun – Mon 7 am – 11 pm

RESERVATIONS: OPENTABLE.COM

13. Boathouse Restaurant

Nestled on the shores of beautiful Bowers Harbor the Boathouse takes full advantage of its delightful view of the docks and bay with wide-open windows and a summer deck. Indoors, the charming decor invokes a relaxed cottage atmosphere where both the casually and formally attired feel welcome. 

Their talented culinary team pays attention to the entire plate, combining flavour, texture and presentation together so there won’t be a bite you don’t enjoy. Sunday brunch, cocktails by the fireplace, or dinner during their exclusive sunset views make your dining experience a memorable one. Every dining experience at the Boathouse is accompanied by gorgeous West Grand Traverse Bay and sunsets that make for an unforgettable evening.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 14039 Peninsula Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States

CALL:  +1 231-223-4030

OPEN: Mon – Fri 4-9 pm Sat, Sun 3-9 pm

RESERVATIONS: OPENTABLE.COM

14. Chandler’s A Restaurant 

Chandler’s A Restaurant is known for its sushi and New American-style dishes along with an extensive wine cellar that houses 4,000 bottles. 

Notable mentions include the meats and vegetable dishes that are locally raised and grown for the freshest possible healthy offerings. This is one of the most highly-rated sushi houses that also serves other choices.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 215 1/2 Howard St, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States

CALL:   +1 231-347-2981

OPEN: Sat, Sun 9 am – 11 pm  Mon – Fri 11 am – 11 pm 

RESERVATIONS:  CHANDLERSARESTAURANT.COM, OPENTABLE.COM

15. The New York Restaurant

The New York Restaurant is an eclectic eatery serving affordably priced American cuisine from local sources. The New York Restaurant is known for its amazing environment with delicious food and exceptional service. 

It’s housed in an elegant historic building. The menu offers a wide range of choices with the Beef tenderloin at the top of the most recommended list from locals.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 101 State St, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States

CALL:  +1 231-526-1904

OPEN: Mon – Tue Closed Wed-Sat 5 – 9pm

RESERVATIONS:  TOASTTAB.COM

16. Mission Table 

Mission Table has an ambience of the 1880s home that houses the upscale eatery is nothing short of magnificent. You will have an unforgettable dining experience. It opens seasonally to showcase local fare and craft spirits for guests. 

Their menu features the best ingredients available from local farms and fishermen, using the freshest products, honouring the seasons and supporting the agricultural economy of the region. In addition to dine-in service, guests may order their meal and beverage to-go to enjoy on their expansive lawn for a picnic. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 13512 Peninsula Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States

CALL: +1 231-223-4222

OPEN: Tue – Wed Closed Thur – Mon 12- 8 pm

17. Northern Oak Brewery

Northern Oak Brewery is one of the better places to get interesting and tasty craft beer. The atmosphere is casual and the beer menu is extensive. In addition to that, the service is top-notch, the prices are fair and the pulled pork flatbread is stacked high with tender delicious meat. 

There are plenty of snack and dinner options to choose from on the menu. Live music is also provided when restrictions do not prevent social gatherings.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 806 N Saginaw St, Holly, MI 48442, United States

CALL:   +1 248-634-7515

OPEN: Tue – Wed Closed Thur – Mon 12- 8 pm

RESERVATIONS: PLACES.SINGLEPLATFORM.COM

18. Crispigna’s Restaurant

Crispigna’s Restaurant is an affordable Italian restaurant in Northern Michigan. It’s one of the most highly recommended places to eat in Escanaba. The venue is known for its spaghetti and tender and flavorful meatballs. 

They offer a range of pasta dishes with your choice of red or Alfredo sauce, and meat speciality including beef steak tips, shrimp, chicken, and more. The salads are also appetizing. This restaurant plates large servings to fill you up.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1213 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829, United States

CALL: +1 906-786-1213

OPEN: Tue – Wed Closed Thur – Mon 12- 8 pm

RESERVATIONS: PLACES.SINGLEPLATFORM.COM

19. Vivio’s

Vivio’s is an authentic Italian restaurant that also serves a broad selection of American dishes. The restaurant is housed in a rustic building that was erected in 1939. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxing. 

This eatery is known for its extensive pizza menu, along with other Italian dishes, delicious vinaigrette, and signature cocktails. Vivio’s has been in business in Northern Michigan for decades and it is one of the most reasonably priced eateries in the area.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 4531 S Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI 49749, United States

CALL:  +1 231-238-9471

OPEN: Mon-Sun 4-10 pm 

20. Stafford’s Pier 

Stafford’s Pier is one of the most highly recommended seafood venues that offers an outdoor deck along with 3 indoor spaces to enjoy your dining experience. They offer your choice of dine-in, curbside pickup, or delivery. 

The restaurant gets high reviews for the atmosphere, the bar that offers a decent range of beer and cocktail options, the friendly and efficient waitstaff, and what some refer to as a 5-star experience. The views of the harbour are spectacular and complement the nautical theme of the restaurant.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 102 E Bay St, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States

CALL:  +1 231-526-6201

OPEN: Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri, Sat 11:30 am – 2:30 pm, 4 – 8:30 pm Wed, Sun Closed

RESERVATIONS: STAFFORDSPIER.COM

These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Michigan that are potential contenders for a Michelin star. If you are looking for a dining experience that is sure to impress, be sure to check out one of these restaurants.