When it comes to dining, Michigan has no shortage of fantastic options. From BBQ joints to quaint hole-in-the-wall eateries, there’s something here in the Great Lakes State to satisfy every craving. When you’re searching for something out-of-the-box, though, there are a few delicious spots that simply must be explored. Here are 10 of our favorite unique restaurants in Michigan.

1. Golden Harvest (1625 Turner St, Lansing)
Golden Harvest Restaurant, 1625 Turner Rd, Lansing, MI 48906, USA
Yelp/Hasim Q.
Yelp/Ben C.
This Lansing gem is undoubtedly one-of-a-kind. With some of the quirkiest and most wonderfully overwhelming decor imaginable, you could visit Golden Harvest a hundred times and never see all it has to offer. Of course, its food is equally as fantastic, and there’s often a line waiting to get inside and chow down on Captain Crunch french toast or a massive breakfast burrito.
2. The Antlers (804 E Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie)
Antlers Restaurant, 804 E Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, USA
Yelp/MaryLou D.
Yelp/Eileen R.
For some, it may be a little too awkward, but if you don't mind being watched while you eat, The Antlers is a must-visit destination. This Sault Ste. Marie eatery is overflowing with taxidermy animals and other classic signs of the Upper Peninsula’s outdoorsy vibe. From fish to bears, there’s no telling what you’ll be seated next to — and the delicious food is just the icing on the cake! This is a bucket-list place for the hunter in your life, for sure.
3. Trattoria Stella (1200 W 11th St, Traverse City)
Trattoria Stella, 830 Cottageview Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684, USA
Yelp/Tristan H.
Yelp/Jennifer M.
Located in the lower level of a former psychiatric hospital, Trattoria Stella certainly boasts a unique atmosphere. But while some might be spooked by its locale, you can rest assured that your experience at this Italian eatery will be anything but scary. Indulge in farm-to-table dishes and delicious wine that will have you coming back for seconds in no time.
4. Chartreuse Kitchen and Cocktails (15 E Kirby St D, Detroit)
Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, 15 E Kirby St D, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
Yelp/Natalia G.
Yelp/Angela S.
If you love the color chartreuse, you’ll be right at home in this aptly named restaurant. Located in the heart of Detroit, Chartreuse Kitchen boasts some of the most unique and eye-catching decor imaginable, all while serving up food made with ingredients from local farms. From spare ribs to vanilla pudding, there’s something to satisfy every diner.
5. Pal’s Diner (149 Shoreline Dr, Muskegon, MI 49440)
Yelp/Josh S.
Yelp/Jann H.
Step back in time with a visit to this utterly charming vintage-inspired spot that was moved from Grand Rapids to Musekgon, which takes the classic diner experience to an entirely new level. With all sorts of 1950s-themed decor and classic diner food, you’ll almost forget you’re living in the 21st century. You can even enjoy a meal served in a vintage car-shaped cardboard container — talk about charming!
6. Pink Pony (7221 Main St, Mackinac Island)
Pink Pony, 7221 Main St #103, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
Yelp/Stella T.

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If you find yourself on Mackinac Island, a meal at Pink Pony should be near the top of your list. This beloved gem, tucked away inside the Chippewa Hotel, serves American classics with a bit of extra flair, and your taste buds will water as soon as you step inside. As if that weren't enough, Pink Pony offers some of the most gorgeous waterfront views on the island — what’s not to love?
7. Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen (54 S Main St, Village of Clarkston)
Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen, 54 S Main St, Clarkston, MI 48346, USA
TripAdvisor/Hezzy_t
TripAdvisor/Danielle S.
Located within a converted church, Clarkston Union is famous for both its fascinating locale and its unbelievable menu. This awesome Michigan eatery has garnered national attention for its mouthwatering macaroni and cheese, so you simply must give this dish a try during your visit. Friendly service and a unique atmosphere only add to the excitement of visiting this eatery.
8. Vinsetta Garage (27799 Woodward Ave, Berkley)
Vinsetta Garage, 27799 Woodward Ave, Berkley, MI 48072, USA
Yelp/Ben Y.
Yelp/Sujin L.
If you’re a fan of cars, Vinsetta Garage is the place to be, one of the most fun places to eat in Michigan. Located inside an actual former garage, there’s no shortage of automobile memorabilia and decor to keep you fascinated during your meal here.

Of course, the decor is only half the appeal: Vinsetta Garage also serves up some of the most delectable charbroiled burgers imaginable, along with all sorts of other fantastic fare, including an assortment of french fry selections. Disco fries, for example, come with cheese curds, scallions, and mustard gravy. Tikka fries, on the other hand, feature mozzarella and fresh chicken tikka masala. There are always classic fries, too, if you want to keep it simple.
9. Lockview Restaurant (329 W Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie)
Lockview Restaurant, 329 W Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, USA
TripAdvisor/Chuck B.
TripAdvisor/Frederico J. R.
If you find yourself in Sault Ste. Marie, Lockview Restaurant is another must-visit spot. There’s something undeniably fascinating about the Soo Locks themselves, and this restaurant offers visitors the chance to dine just steps away from the locks. Opt for a seat on the second story of the eatery, where you can enjoy a view of the locks while dining on everything from Great Lakes whitefish to specialty sandwiches and burgers.
10. The Windmill (28 W 8th Street, Holland)
Windmill Restaurant, 28 W 8th St #220, Holland, MI 49423, USA
Yelp/Drew K.
Yelp/Joseph S.
Holland is one of Michigan’s most charming small towns, and it’s certainly proud of its Dutch heritage. When you’re looking to be fully embraced by the community vibe of Holland, stop into the Windmill Restaurant for breakfast or lunch. This always-bustling spot serves up breakfast classics in a cozy, friendly atmosphere — and you'll feel at home as soon as you arrive. Don't leave without indulging in a massive, sugary-sweet homemade cinnamon roll!
11. The Farm Restaurant (699 Port Crescent Rd, Port Austin)
The Farm, 699 Port Crescent Rd, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA
Yelp/Laurie P.
Yelp/Chris S.
This Port Austin eatery takes farm-to-table freshness to an entirely new level. Located within an actual farmhouse, this amazing spot has limited hours based on seasons and available produce, but don’t let that stop you from planning a trip. When you dine here, there's no telling what will be on the menu — from homemade soup to stuffed whitefish to delicious creme brûlée, you'll never leave dissatisfied.

Okay, Michiganders: we’d like to hear from you! Are there any other unique places to eat in Michigan that we should have included on our list? We’re always eager to hear your suggestions, so share them with us in the comment section below!

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More to Explore

Unique Restaurants In Michigan

AnneMarie | October 07, 2022

Are there any other unique Michigan restaurants? 

Why yes, there are! In Detroit, there’s a restaurant called Iridescence, which is fine dining paired with a casino environment and the most amazing Motor City views. And how often do you get to eat world-famous chicken? You’ll want to visit Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth for this. You may feel as though you have stepped out of America and into Europe. And these are just a couple of the other unique Michigan restaurants to explore.

What is the smallest restaurant in Michigan?

Of the tiny restaurants in Michigan, the smallest is probably Detroit’s Chickpea in the D, set up for orders to-go taken at the window. A couple of small tables, each with two chairs, are available if you’d like to eat there or sit while you wait on your order.

What are the most unique towns in Michigan?

Holland, Michigan, offers beauty, history, and a taste of Dutch culture to visitors from around the world. Its picturesque scenery is found at the public parks, beaches, the “Big Red” lighthouse, Windmill Island, and the tulip gardens. The best time to experience Dutch culture is during the Tulip Time Festival in May.

Another unique town in Michigan is the small town of Hell, near Detroit. Along with the abundance of hell-themed spots, the town has a lovely, quaint little chapel for couples who don’t mind getting married in …. Hell.

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