Clarkston, Michigan, maybe a small town, but it boasts a big appetite for delicious cuisine and a vibrant restaurant scene that rivals many larger cities. From cozy cafes to upscale dining, Clarkston Michigan restaurants offer a variety of eateries that cater to every taste and occasion. In this article, we’ll explore some of the town’s most beloved dining spots, uncover hidden gems, and delve into what makes Clarkston a must-visit destination for food lovers.
The Heart of Clarkston’s Culinary Excellence
Union Woodshop: A Barbecue Haven
One cannot talk about Clarkston’s restaurant scene without mentioning the Union Woodshop, a place that has become synonymous with the town itself. This barbecue joint is not just a local favorite; it has gained national recognition, thanks in part to a visit from celebrity chef Guy Fieri on his show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The Woodshop specializes in slow-cooked meats, homemade sauces, and a cozy, rustic atmosphere that makes diners feel right at home.
Ruzena Morrill
8 months ago
I am emotioanl writing this. The Union Woodshop was absolutely one of the best places we have eaten and will go back again and again. My husband is a 100% disabled veteran and has an ADA licensed service dog. We have been illegal discriminated against with the service dog at various public places. The Union Woodshop was 100% in compliant and every single staff member was trained and completely ignored the seevice dog and made the meal better than we could have imagined. We drove 25 mins from one bad restaurant just to come back to the Union woodshop and I thanked the manager for the amazing restaurant, food, and staff that has us feeling comfortable and welcome!
Dani Ramsdell
8 months ago
Bartenders upstairs not very attentive. Had one drink, would have had more but apparently we were invisible to them.
Terry Cottle
8 months ago
Always a great place to stop. Best mac and cheese found anywhere.
Josh Anderson
8 months ago
The is become unconscionably expensive. Everything is à la carte. I don’t mind paying for great food but this is really just out of line. The good news is it isn’t always crowded anymore.
Hector Villarreal
8 months ago
Not what it used to be. A lot more expensive, different menu, and quality of food is not as good. Everyone's favorite appetizer used to be the burnt ends which were made with brisket and covered in bbq sauce, now they are dry chewy fatty pieces of pork that have no taste and even more expensive. They are letting their past popularity carry them while cutting costs and quality.
Guy Fieri feautured this place in his show a long time ago, I doubt he would do that today.
Thomas Moceri
8 months ago
Not worth the prices , small portions , a lot of money , what ever you do , don't order a drink or wine . The food is mediocre at best.
I will not be going back !
The Fed: Gourmet Dining in a Historic Setting
The Fed is a must-visit for those seeking a more upscale dining experience. Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s bank building, The Fed offers a menu that combines modern American cuisine with international flavors. The ambiance is as exquisite as the food, with the original bank vault serving as a unique backdrop for an intimate dining experience.
Ruzena Morrill
8 months ago
I am emotioanl writing this. The Union Woodshop was absolutely one of the best places we have eaten and will go back again and again. My husband is a 100% disabled veteran and has an ADA licensed service dog. We have been illegal discriminated against with the service dog at various public places. The Union Woodshop was 100% in compliant and every single staff member was trained and completely ignored the seevice dog and made the meal better than we could have imagined. We drove 25 mins from one bad restaurant just to come back to the Union woodshop and I thanked the manager for the amazing restaurant, food, and staff that has us feeling comfortable and welcome!
Dani Ramsdell
8 months ago
Bartenders upstairs not very attentive. Had one drink, would have had more but apparently we were invisible to them.
Terry Cottle
8 months ago
Always a great place to stop. Best mac and cheese found anywhere.
Josh Anderson
8 months ago
The is become unconscionably expensive. Everything is à la carte. I don’t mind paying for great food but this is really just out of line. The good news is it isn’t always crowded anymore.
Zachery Manes
8 months ago
The distinctiveness of this restaurant is inordinate. Astonishing atmosphere, passionate/knowledgeable staff, the food is unique and absolutely delicious. Definitely high on my radar. Thanks again!
Hector Villarreal
8 months ago
Not what it used to be. A lot more expensive, different menu, and quality of food is not as good. Everyone's favorite appetizer used to be the burnt ends which were made with brisket and covered in bbq sauce, now they are dry chewy fatty pieces of pork that have no taste and even more expensive. They are letting their past popularity carry them while cutting costs and quality.
Guy Fieri feautured this place in his show a long time ago, I doubt he would do that today.
Casual Eats and Sweet Treats
Honcho: Latin Street Food and Coffee
Clarkston’s culinary diversity is on full display at Honcho. This casual eatery serves up a fusion of Latin American street food alongside specialty coffee drinks. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch or a caffeine fix, with a menu that’s as vibrant as the colorful decor.
Schaefer Family
8 months ago
Great atmosphere. Breakfast, lunch or dinner this spot has it all. Great place to meet in the morning for a coffee and pastry. For lunch or dinner, there is usually something on the specials menu worth a try. Big fans of the honcho nacho. Don’t forget the donuts for dessert!
Keith Snyder
8 months ago
Very quaint place in downtown Clarkston.
Chelcie Bennett
8 months ago
We came here a party of 7-8 we sat in the igloo. It was awesome and intimate. It was such a beautiful place & the waitress was beyond kind. There is a cafe. My food was some of the best I’ve ever had. I also tried the chicken tortilla soup which was really authentic and fresh. I can’t say enough good things I will be back. Definitely friendly for all. Sweet potato taco and brussel sprout taco literally exceptional.
Vegan options !! just ask the wait staff
jessie bowersock
8 months ago
Tacos are good but not great. Chairs are not comfortable. Bar seating looked better. Pricing is good for the area.
Kayla Moberly
9 months ago
Everytime we have traveled to Honcho to enjoy their hospitality experience we have enjoyed every aspect of it. The coffeehouse is quick & delicious. I had their maple bourbon latte & my husband had the Mexican Mocha which had some really good heat. We enjoyed the coffee cake & sticky pecan roll - we did not know what type of brunch food they would be offering but were pleasantly surprised with their bakery case options. Definitely will want to try their homemade pop tarts & bagels next time we come to town! The venue is so fun a whimsical with a lot of mixed media elements making it exciting space everywhere you look. The Mexican food is absolutely nothing like you’ve had before. Definitely an instagram-able experience if you know what I mean 🙂
Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen: Comfort Food Classics
The Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen is another local institution known for its mac & cheese that has been dubbed “Michigan’s Best” by several publications. Set in a converted church, the restaurant offers a unique atmosphere to enjoy comfort food favorites and an extensive selection of craft beers.
Dan DiGregorio
8 months ago
A nice restaurant and bar in Clarkston. They have a wide variety of beer and wine, and a great food menu especially the Lobster Mac and Cheese.
Get the smoked chicken and spinach appetizer it was amazing. The bread baguette for any sandwich is almost to hard to bite into.
Dan DiGregorio
8 months ago
A nice restaurant and bar in Clarkston. They have a wide variety of beer and wine, and a great food menu especially the Lobster Mac and Cheese.
Nicholas Isles
8 months ago
The food was delicious. Wasn't neither busy nor particularly quick, but it gave us time to take in the unique esthetic. Price was right, $55 for two w/ two N/A beers. Was nice that they had 4 different N/A options; I had the Weizen and the IPNA, and both were tasty. The Jalapeño BBQ was really good and not spicy (a bit sweet); patato salad gourmet, Ruben with deli-cut corned beef. All real nice. Sorry, was talking to my hot date and not taking photos...
Really disappointed in this place. Roasted potatoes were so bad. You could bounce them off the floor. Cost $70 for 2 sandwiches. I won't be going back
Natalie Bartlett
8 months ago
Top notch Caesar salad. Hearty portions. The specials are always delicious too. 😋
Kruse Deer Lake Inn
Kruse & Muer Deer Lake Inn is a charming, delightful restaurant in Clarkston, Michigan. This American-style eatery offers a range of delectable dishes that are expertly prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients. The inn’s rustic and cozy atmosphere and its stunning views of Deer Lake make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner, family gathering, or a casual meal with friends. As part of the Kruse & Muer family of restaurants, Deer Lake Inn continues the tradition of providing quality food and exceptional service, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all guests.
Got stuck next to a private party that was clear olearing out and ended up almost surrounding our table. Food was good but took a long time to get main meal. You should move that paper cutter away from the tables....very poor location.
Donovan Cummins
8 months ago
Server said hello once and then disappeared. Two other tables sat later and placed orders before we saw her again. Probably a good place and other servers were active. Is what it is, we asked to pay for our drinks and left for more attentive service. Too expensive to settle.
Nathan Whitney
8 months ago
Amazing food!! Great service!!
The menu is diverse and changes over time. Five of us dined there and everyone was very pleased with their selection. The bread served before ordering was delicious as were my crab cakes. Prices and serving sizes are reasonable. Our waitress was very thoughtful and prompt. I tend to lean toward regional cuisine but Deer Lake Inn has a wide variety of great tasting food.
Jennifer Reid
8 months ago
First timer here, and everything was wonderful! Had the chicken cheese tortellini, and it was very flavorful. Will be back!
Update: while our dine-in experiences have been great, take-out..not so much..
There is ALWAYS something missing. Dressing, condiments, sides, something.
Most recently, the wife and I each ordered the Fish & Chips.. it was close to $50 out the door for two entrees, no extras. One of the containers had 2 tartar sauce cups and a coleslaw, the other just had 1 tartar sauce cup, no coleslaw. The fish was also inconsistent between the containers. There were some pieces of perch in both containers, one piece of cod in one and two in the other - the batter was also inconsistent...and barely any fries were included.. The Cod Dinner at Culver's is better and half the price. We won't be returning to Deer Lake Inn for take-out.
Original Review: The wife and I have frequented this restaurant since 2017. After a hiatus during covid, we returned with my parents last weekend. This was our first time on the patio and I recommend it weather permitting.
Our server (Eloise) was right on the ball and fantastic. The whole family ordered seafood entrees and my mother did not have leftovers, which I do not recall ever happening before.
Great food, staff and ambience. We will be back!
A Taste of Italy in Clarkston
Bologna Trattoria Clarkston: Authentic Italian Cuisine
Bologna Trattoria Clarkston is a renowned Italian restaurant located in Clarkston, Michigan. This restaurant is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, offering a wide variety of dishes that are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The menu at Bologna Trattoria Clarkston features traditional Italian dishes such as pasta, risotto, and tiramisu, among others. The restaurant is also praised for its warm and inviting atmosphere, friendly service, and excellent wine list. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a quiet dinner or celebrate a special occasion, Bologna Trattoria Clarkston offers a memorable dining experience.
Via Bologna was absolutely delicious from start to finish!! Everything was absolutely perfect. We had a wonderful experience, the service was amazing. Jaime and Danny were exceptional, making sure we were well taken care of and fed!! We already can’t wait to come back for more. Highly recommend!!
Natalie Bartlett
8 months ago
Was craving some meatballs and oh wow!! I've lived in Clarkston for almost 6yrs, i don't know why I waited this long to try Bologna. Incredible food and amazing staff! My new favorite Italian restaurant. 🙂
Natalie Bartlett
8 months ago
Was craving some meatballs and oh wow!! I've lived in Clarkston for almost 6yrs, i don't know why I waited this long to try Bologna. Incredible food and amazing staff! My new favorite Italian restaurant. 🙂
Chessa McCaughey
8 months ago
Tommy was wonderful! The staff was very pleasant and accommodating! The food is always delicious!
Excellent food and service and plenty of parking spots unlike the deer lake in
Great little place to get some really good food. Parking is easy. The waitress was fun and added to the experience. The price was a bit higher than a franchise casual restaurant, but it was worth it for the quality and quantity of the food.
Great hidden gem, will definitely go again.
Went again and food was great. However, it took quite a bit longer than we expected to receive our food after salads. Also the Cesar salad was not worth the price.
Still intend to go again.
The Impact of Local Restaurants on Clarkston’s Economy
The restaurant industry is a significant contributor to Clarkston’s local economy. These establishments provide employment opportunities and attract visitors from neighboring areas, boosting tourism and supporting local suppliers. Restaurants like the ones mentioned above have helped put Clarkston on the map as a culinary destination, which in turn has positive ripple effects on the community.
Conclusion: Savoring Clarkston’s Culinary Delights
Clarkston, Michigan, may be small, but its restaurant scene is rich in flavor and variety. From smoky barbecue to gourmet dining and casual cafes to authentic Italian eateries, there’s something to satisfy every palate. These establishments are more than just places to eat; they are integral to the community, contributing to the local economy and the town’s charm. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, dining in Clarkston is an experience that should not be missed. So next time you find yourself in this quaint Michigan town, indulge in the culinary delights that Clarkston offers.
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