Michigan, a state known for its picturesque landscapes and vast Great Lakes, is also home to some of the finest steakhouses that have carved a unique niche in the culinary world. Food enthusiasts venturing to Michigan can indulge in these tantalizing steakhouses that boast remarkable menus with steak cuts of the highest quality, and succulent seafood, among other offerings.
These exceptional steakhouses are not only celebrated for their carefully crafted dishes but also for their unforgettable dining experiences. Diners can savor a variety of juicy steaks while basking in the warm, inviting atmosphere. Attention to detail spills over into their extensive wine lists and mouth-watering dessert selections, making these gastronomic lighthouses among Michigan’s must-visit destinations.
Key Takeaways
- Explore top-ranked Michigan steakhouses for their remarkable menus and high-quality steak cuts.
- Savor memorable dining experiences with welcoming atmospheres and impressive wine selections.
- Discover an array of delectable offerings from signature dishes to indulgent desserts during your visit.
Top Steakhouses in Michigan
Michigan is home to a variety of excellent steakhouses, offering unique dining experiences and high-quality beef. In this section, we will explore some of the top steakhouses in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Traverse City, and Harbor Springs.
Detroit Steakhouses
Capers is an east-side institution with a casual setting for enjoying a swimming pool-sized margarita and a steak. Sold by-the-ounce, the beef is cooked to the customer’s specifications.
Another Detroit Steakhouse – brief description of the second steakhouse in Detroit.
Ann Arbor Steakhouses
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First Ann Arbor Steakhouse: Brief description of the first steakhouse in Ann Arbor, including its specialties and atmosphere.
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Second Ann Arbor Steakhouse: Brief description of the second steakhouse in Ann Arbor, including its specialties and atmosphere.
Traverse City Steakhouses
At Chef Tom Kelly’s Steakhouse, you can savor some of the finest steaks Northern Michigan has to offer. Their amazing 24 oz. Porterhouse is a must-try.
Crazy Horse Steak House-Saloon in Holland is raved about by locals for their delicious cuts of meat, including prime rib and pulled pork. This place is not to be missed when in West Michigan.
Harbor Springs Steakhouses
Vernales Restaurant is known for providing customers with top-quality beef and was once awarded the number one steakhouse in Michigan. Located in Harbor Springs, Vernales features all-American Wagyu beef at affordable prices.
Steak Cuts and Quality
When it comes to finding the best steak in Michigan, understanding the types of steak cuts and their quality is crucial. In this section, we will discuss USDA Prime steaks, Wagyu beef, and dry-aged steaks, shedding light on their distinct characteristics and what makes them stand out.
USDA Prime Steaks
USDA Prime steaks represent the highest quality beef available in the United States. These cuts exhibit excellent marbling, ensuring a tender, flavorful, and juicy dining experience. Approximately 2-3% of all beef produced in the country falls into the USDA Prime category, making it a prized and sought-after product. Some of the well-known steakhouses in Michigan, such as Crazy Horse Steak House-Saloon in Holland and Boone’s Prime Time Pub in Suttons Bay, likely feature these top-quality steaks on their menus.
Wagyu Beef
Wagyu beef originates from Japan and is renowned for its exceptional marbling and rich, buttery flavor. Wagyu cattle are bred to produce intense, fine-grained fat intramuscularly, resulting in a unique texture and taste. Its popularity extends beyond Japan, and many high-end steakhouses around the world, including those in Michigan, may offer this luxurious beef to discerning diners.
Dry-Aged Steaks
Dry-aged steaks are known for their intense flavor and tender texture, achieved through a carefully controlled aging process. The beef is typically hung or placed on racks in a specialized room with precise humidity, temperature, and airflow conditions for an extended period, usually between 28 and 60 days. As the meat ages, it loses moisture, and its flavors concentrate. Additionally, the natural enzymes in the beef break down its connective tissues, resulting in enhanced tenderness. Several steakhouses in Michigan, such as The Grill House in Allegan or Foggy’s Steakhouse and Lounge in Christmas, may offer dry-aged steaks to cater to customers seeking this unique and rich-tasting beef.
Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights
Prime Rib
Vernales in Harbor Springs offers a popular signature seasoned ribeye, a broiled 16 oz. cut of prime rib with a unique blend of seasonings. This prime rib dish stands out in Michigan’s steak scene.
New York Strip
Crazy Horse Steak House-Saloon in Holland is a place known for its quality cuts of meat. Their New York Strip steak has been praised by locals and is definitely a dish to try while visiting West Michigan.
Filet Mignon
Iridescence, located in Detroit’s Motor City Casino, is renowned for its outstanding steaks. Their filet mignon is a must-try dish, perfectly showcasing the tenderness and flavor of this cut.
Chateaubriand
Chef Tom Kelly’s steakhouse in Northern Michigan offers a delectable 24 oz. Porterhouse steak, which can be an exquisite way to experience chateaubriand. It’s a cut worth seeking out when looking for premium steak in the area.
Tomahawk Ribeye
At MLive’s Michigan’s Best Steak contest, the crispy Brussels sprouts served with walnuts, bacon, and a balsamic sauce at C.F. Prime were a standout appetizer. Alongside such delicious starters, their Tomahawk Ribeye dish is a definite menu highlight.
These dishes and menu highlights showcase some of the finest steaks Michigan has to offer, from prime rib to the flavorful Tomahawk Ribeye. Steak enthusiasts will surely enjoy exploring these signature dishes throughout the state.
Seafood and Other Offerings
At some of the best steakhouses in Michigan, you’ll not only find mouth-watering steaks but also an impressive range of seafood, appetizers, and other dishes to suit different tastes. Let’s explore some of the highlights offered at these establishments.
Oysters and Caviar
A number of steakhouses in Michigan pride themselves on their fresh and flavorful seafood options, with oysters and caviar often featured on the menu. Places like Sindbad’s Restaurant and Marina in Detroit offer a fantastic selection of seafood, including oysters on the half shell and caviar, allowing diners to indulge in these delicious options alongside their steak meals.
Salads and Appetizers
Before diving into the main course, Michigan steakhouses offer a variety of salads and appetizers to start your meal. Options like the classic Caesar salad, wedge salad, or fresh spinach salad cater to a range of preferences, while appetizers such as shrimp cocktail, calamari, and crab cakes tantalize the taste buds in preparation for the upcoming steak.
Quality Burgers and Pizza
In addition to steaks and seafood, some establishments include quality burgers and pizza on their menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone. For instance, Crazy Horse Steak House-Saloon in Holland is known not only for its prime rib and pulled pork but also for their delicious burgers. In other steakhouses, you may find gourmet pizza selections featuring various toppings and artisanal ingredients to cater to different tastes.
Dining Experience and Atmosphere
Fine Dining
In Michigan, steakhouses offer a variety of fine dining experiences with exceptional service and quality food. For instance, The Chop House in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids serves the finest USDA Prime beef, wet-aged for 28 days to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor. Alongside the exquisite beef, they also offer a selection of top-catch fish and premium seafood.
Casual Dining
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Vernales in Harbor Springs provides a unique experience where patrons can dine in ski gear, showcasing a departure from the traditional fine dining setting. Their menu includes delightful steak dishes that cater to various tastes, making it an inviting destination for everyone.
Another option is Crazy Horse Steak House-Saloon in Holland, which is known for its delectable cuts of meat, ranging from prime rib to pulled pork. A local favorite, this classic Michigan establishment is perfect for a laid-back meal with friends and family.
Sports Bars
If you enjoy your steak with a side of sports, Michigan has a selection of sports bars where you can cheer on your favorite teams while indulging in a mouth-watering meal. Places like Plank’s Tavern on the Water located in St. Joseph offer outstanding steak dishes alongside a vibrant atmosphere for sports lovers. With large screens, comfortable seating, and a wide selection of cocktails and beverages, it’s an ideal option for those looking for a lively dining experience.
Wine and Beverage Selection
Wine Cellars and Lists
Michigan is known for producing a variety of wine styles, from dry reds to sweet whites. Some popular grape varieties include cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, pinot blanc, pinot grigio, riesling, fruit wines, Marquette, Frontenac, Vidal Blanc, and ice wines. Given the state’s diverse wine offerings, it’s no surprise that the best steakhouses in Michigan are home to impressive wine cellars and lists.
At Vernales, recognized as the #1 Steakhouse in Michigan, you’ll find an extensive wine list to complement your steak dinner. Their wine selection has earned them consecutive Wine Spectator Awards, showcasing their dedication to offering a top-notch wine experience. Choose from an array of local Michigan wines and selections from renowned international wineries to enhance your meal.
Craft Cocktails
In addition to the exceptional wine selections, many of Michigan’s best steakhouses also offer a range of craft cocktails. These cocktails are crafted with both skill and creativity, allowing for unique pairings that can enhance your dining experience.
A classic margarita is always a great accompaniment to a juicy steak dinner. Made with tequila, lime juice, and a touch of orange liqueur, the refreshing acidity of a well-crafted margarita cuts through the richness of the steak, resulting in a perfect pairing.
Expect to find innovative spins on traditional cocktails as well, such as the use of local ingredients or the incorporation of Michigan-made spirits. These distinctive options provide a special touch to your dining experience, making the best steakhouses in Michigan stand out not just for their steak, but also for their thoughtfully curated beverage selection.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
While exploring the best steakhouses in Michigan, let’s not forget about the delightful selection of desserts available to bring a perfect end to a memorable meal. One such example is Boone’s Long Lake Inn in Traverse City. Known for its legendary prime rib, and aside from its savory steaks, it also offers a range of delectable sweet treats to round off your dining experience.
Another mention-worthy spot for desserts is Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids. Located in a converted chapel, this unique brewery boasts an excellent menu loaded with incredible steak dishes as well as a variety of mouth-watering desserts. By paying a visit, not only will you satisfy your crave for succulent steaks but also your sweet tooth with their delightful dessert options.
On a similar note, Diamonds Steak and Seafood in Howell, earns its reputation for its flavorful meals served in an elegant yet welcoming ambiance. This small-town gem is a great choice if you’re looking for a spot that provides a harmonious balance between appetizing steak options and scrumptious desserts selection.
Reservations and Dress Code
Reservation Policies
While it’s always a good idea to make reservations at popular steakhouses in Michigan, the reservation policies might vary for each establishment. For example, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse in Birmingham, Michigan offers restaurant-goers the option to reserve a table online. You can utilize OpenTable or visit the restaurant’s website to make a reservation, ensuring your spot and avoiding the wait.
Keep in mind that certain restaurants might not take reservations, or perhaps only accept them for large groups. It’s best to call ahead or visit their website for more information regarding reservation policies.
Dress Code Expectations
The dress code expectations at steakhouses in Michigan can differ, ranging from casual to business casual. For instance, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse in Birmingham has a business casual dress code, which typically means you should go with a collared shirt, dress pants or slacks, and dress shoes for men, while women can wear a blouse, skirt or dress pants, and dress shoes.
However, other steakhouses might have a more relaxed dress code, allowing jeans and casual attire. Make sure to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to get an understanding of their dress code expectations before your visit. This will help you dress appropriately and ensure a pleasant dining experience.