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Metro Detroit offers some of the best waterfront dining experiences. When the weather is nice, there’s not much better than enjoying a tasty meal with a view. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch with friends or a romantic dinner, Metro Detroit’s waterfront restaurants provide the perfect setting. Soak up the heat, enjoy the breeze, take in the views, and check out these spots…
OCTOPUS’ BEER GARDEN
152 North River Road, Mt. Clemens
Along the Clinton River, you’ll find Octopus’ Beer Garden, a haven for beer enthusiasts and those looking to savor delicious menu choices. The menu features your typical American cuisine, along with craft cocktails, 20 craft beers on tap, and more. Start with the Korean fried chicken wings, Magical Mystery mushrooms, or the crisp cauliflower, and then choose from handhelds like the pulled pork tacos and smoked brisket sliders, or the Cajun steak bites and coconut shrimp. This riverside spot has a great deck for diners, along with a yard equipped with firepits and picnic tables for your enjoyment. It’s a must-visit while open for the season.
CORIANDER KITCHEN AND FARM
14601 Riverside Boulevard, Detroit
Coriander Kitchen and Farm, located in Detroit’s Canal District, offers a unique farm-and-table dining experience. This restaurant features a menu that changes with the seasons, showcasing the best of its homegrown ingredients, fresh from its onsite farm. Diners can enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes in a serene garden setting, complete with views of the canal, boats passing by, and local wildlife. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and community makes it a standout destination for diners, but its waterfront views and greenhouse patio are the cherry on top.
THE BEACH TIKI BAR & BOIL
142 East Walled Lake Drive, Walled Lake
Indulge the experience of a tropical excursion without actually needing to leave Metro Detroit. The Beach Tiki Bar & Boil is best known for its tiki bar theme (as the name suggests), the fresh seafood boils, and of course the view of Walled Lake. You can find 40 rotating beers on tap, along with tiki-themed drinks and boozy frozen slushies that can be enjoyed indoors or out on the extensive patio by the shore. Even moving into the chillier seasons, waterfront dining is available here year-round with its enclosed/heated patios. Check out the weekend brunch, Friday and Saturday night live music sessions, and of course, the views.
MIKE’S ON THE WATER
24600 Jefferson Avenue, St. Clair Shores
Located on the Nautical Mile in St. Clair Shores, Mike’s on the Water is an experience like no other. Owner Mike Lefevre has coined, “Cool, Comfortable, Casual, Cozy!” which is the perfect description of this restaurant. Outside on the water, there is a deck and bar, as well as a rooftop deck with its own food truck. This spot is known for its lobster rolls and fresh catches, but you can find a variety of sandwiches, burgers, salads, and other seafood on the menu. The casual atmosphere is filled with nautical decorations and Mike’s treasures from his travels throughout the years, and everyone is greeted like family. Grab a seat outside and take in the views from Lake St. Clair at Mike’s on the Water.
4TH TAVERN LAKE HOUSE
4710 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford Township
4th Tavern Lake House offers a cozy atmosphere with stunning views of Crescent Lake. The menu features American classics from delicious burgers, sandwiches, and seafood dishes. The gluten-free menu is pretty extensive as well. Additionally, the Sunday Brunch is buffet-style, featuring an omelet bar, crepe and waffle stations, prime rib carvings, and options like scrambled eggs, bacon, and more. With its lakeside patio and friendly service, the 4th Tavern Lake House is perfect for a casual family outing or a relaxed dinner out.
WATERMARK BAR AND GRILLE
24420 Jefferson Avenue, St. Clair Shores
WaterMark Bar and Grille offers a contemporary waterfront dining experience with breathtaking views of Lake St. Clair. With live music on Thursdays through Sundays each week, there is great entertainment while you dine on fresh salads, seafood, and more, along with exceptional cocktails. Don’t forget to check out the specialty meals WaterMark is known for like the char-grilled octopus or the Tomahawk grilled pork chops with housemade garlic butter sauce. The stylish interior and expansive outdoor deck make it an ideal spot for any occasion, whether it’s Sunday brunch with friends or an evening out for two.
IT’S A MATTER OF TASTE
2323 Union Lake Road, Commerce Charter Township
For those seeking an elegant dining experience, It’s a Matter of Taste provides just that. Overlooking Union Lake, this restaurant is renowned for its exquisite dishes and exceptional service. From fresh seafood to perfectly cooked steaks, the menu offers something for everyone. Start with Prince Edward Island mussels or fried calamari, and check out the clam linguini, pan-seared grouper, or filet mignon with potato gruyere. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from their extensive list and take in the beautiful lake views while enjoying a dessert. This fine-dining restaurant also offers gourmet carry-out and has a stunning banquet space.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was authored by Briana Dixon.
