Clarkston is a city in Oakland County, Michigan in the United States of America located in the northern suburb of Detroit and considered the smallest city by land area in the state of Michigan.
Clarkston is a city surrounded by Independence Township but administered independently since its incorporation in 1992, and as of the 2010 census the city had a population of 882.
Do not be fooled by the small population or land area, food enthusiasts will surely want to check out the top Clarkson restaurants that promise an indelible dining experience.
The city attracts people from far and wide with the Taste of Clarkston festival which features food and drinks samples from all the restaurants, eateries, and bars in the area.
Many people stay behind to properly visit each restaurant to have a wholesome experience as they enjoy the sites and engage in other explorative activities the city has in abundance.
To point you in the direction of these incredible restaurants, here is a list of the best restaurants in Clarkston, MI.
Best Restaurants in Clarkston
1. Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen
Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen is a beautiful American restaurant in Clarkston offering handcrafted American grub, craft beer, assorted wines, and spirits.
This restaurant is one of the top restaurants in Clarkson, MI and it is unarguably so because it gives residents and visitors a cozy spot with wood tables and antique pews to sit in, it is located in a repurposed church building that moved to a new area.
Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen gives customers a reason to rush down to Clarkston for a dining experience that is well worth the trip. There is a spacious private room and a bar area which is a great option for holiday parties or birthdays.
At Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen, there is an impressive collection of tasty dishes like Chocolate Cake Slice, Cigar Box Salmon, Red Wine by the Glass, Lamb Shank, Platano Con Cajeta, Stuffed Roughie, etc.
Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen is open from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 54 S Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-620-6100.
2. Union Woodshop
Union Woodshop is a historic restaurant located in downtown Clarkson, Michigan where it all began for the Union restaurants. This restaurant serves a slow-smoked BBQ, wood-fired pizza, and a variety of craft beers.
Upon walking in, the bar is located to the right and the open wood fire grill is straight ahead, customers love sitting in the room away from the bar because it offers a quieter atmosphere.
Every dish has its unique flavor and there is something for every type of eater, all the meats are cooked to perfection, add that to the incredible service and you get yourself a worthwhile dining experience.
The menu offers tried and trusted options which include Sangrias, Beef Wellington, Medallions, Rib with Sweet Potato, Crème Brûlée, Camarón En Salsa, etc.
Union Woodshop is open from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 11:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 18 S Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-625-5660.
3. The Fed Community
The Fed will always hold a special place in the hearts of the residents of Clarkston, it is recognized among the best restaurants in the Clarkson, MI due to its locally sourced American fare and unique appearance.
This restaurant has a one-of-a-kind look and feel, it doesn’t try too hard to impress but it is quite impressive, there is a bank-like vault in the middle of the restaurant that is a private dining area.
There is a see-through glass floor section that permits customers to see the basement bar, the bathrooms are clean and the outdoor area is properly shaded.
If you happen to visit the restaurant, you will find bright menu offerings like Sangrias, Beef Wellington, Asparagus, Cucumber Basil Mule, Ora King Salmon, Pan, Creme Brulee, Roasted Beet Salad, etc.
The Fed Community is open from 4:00 pm – 1:00 am on Mondays through Sundays.
Address: 15 S Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-297-5833.
4. Honcho Latin Street Food & Coffee
Honcho Latin Street Food & Coffee is a fantastic Eatery, bar, and coffee shop in the heart of Clarkson, it is one of the best Clarkson restaurants that customers do not hesitate to patronize.
The dining experience offers a snow globe eating arrangement outdoors just beyond the garage-style doors and multiple windows that allow for great lighting.
This creative milieu is an accommodating spot for a Pre-wedding photoshoot, a lunch meeting, an evening dinner date, or just a simple coffee time with friends or family.
Honcho Latin Street Food & Coffee is always ready to satisfy your taste buds with dishes like Lobster Bisque Soup, Tomato Beet Salad, Russell Reserve Single Barrel, etc.
Honcho Latin Street Food & Coffee is open from 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 3 E Church St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-707-3793
5. Old Village Café
Old Village Café is a long-running American restaurant with tons of experience and expertise in creating sumptuous meals located a mile away from Downton Clarkson.
This restaurant is one of the top restaurants in the city with a warm neighborly vibe inviting you to return often for an excellent traditional breakfast of American comfort food.
There is an outdoor patio that is cozy and is put to use by customers who want to eat their food while watching the traffic and the view is spectacular as the sun descends.
Old Village Café is responsible for providing some of the town’s delicious meal combinations which include Goat Cheese Pizza, Avocado Chicken, Fajita Nachos, Farms Chicken Fried Steak, etc.
Old Village Café is open from 7:00 am – 3:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 7:00 am – 4:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 8:00 am – 3:00 am on Sundays.
Address: 2 S Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-625-6211.
6. 5th Tavern Clarkston
For the love of exceptionally mixed cocktails, rare wines, a wide selection of meals on the menu, and an exclusive dining experience that you will not find anywhere else, 5th Tavern Clarkston is your top choice of restaurant to visit.
This restaurant is beautiful on the inside, the main dining room has a nice seating layout with chairs and tables facing the bar and stage area. The team is up to the task and it doesn’t matter if you choose to be indoors or outdoors, expect to enjoy fantastic friendly service every time you visit.
5th Tavern Clarkston has no shortage of finger-licking delicious meals on its menus like Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach, Sea Bass, etc.
5th Tavern Clarkston is open from 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 10:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 7228 N Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-707-6111.
7. Brioni Café & Deli
Brioni Café & Deli is a quaint quick bites venue enthusiastic about family, food, and coffee just North of downtown Clarkson offering deli sandwiches, soups, locally made bread, and several pastries.
You will truly appreciate this café for holding itself to a level of excellence that is above and beyond expectations, there are no strangers in this restaurant, only family and friends.
This intimate restaurant is one of the best places to eat Clarkston, MI with lots of colors, the interior is decorated with bright and colorful wallpaper featuring a detailed sandwich journey from start to finish.
Brioni Cafe & Deli has an extensive menu that caters to people of all ages which includes delicacies like Sticky Rice Bowl, Steak Tips Sub, Poutine Hash, PBR, Steak Sandwich, Chicken Salad, Chicken Bacon Ranch Flatbread, etc.
Brioni Cafe & Deli is open from 7:00 am – 4:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 7151 N Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-625-6181.
8. Deer Lake Back Court Restaurant
Deer Lake Back Court Restaurant is an indomitable restaurant that has been part of the founding businesses in Clarkson, it is one of the best restaurants in Clarkson, MI.
The entrance is on White Lake Road side under and overhand and opposite the Racquet club, it gets a good crowd and there is a live band entertaining customers every weekend.
Customers are always impressed with the see-through kitchen, they can watch the chefs do their magic and one particular chef is always inclined to put on a show for the customers.
The menu is easy to navigate with offerings like Avocado Salmon, Enchiladas Suizas, Fried Shrimp, Baby Back Ribs Rack, etc.
Deer Lake Back Court Restaurant is open from 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 6167 White Lake Rd Suite 1, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-625-8686.
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9. Bunkhouse Burgers
Do yourself a favor, the next time you are in Clarkston and you want to enjoy your favorite fast food, seek out Bunkhouse Burgers for an incredible dining experience you will find pleasing and worthwhile.
The restroom is behind the kitchen necessitating a walk-through, you will be happy to find that both the kitchen and the restrooms are clean and well-sanitized. The dining room as well as the outdoor seating has been upgraded to be on par with modern designs.
Bunkhouse Burgers has an outstanding menu that offers varieties of food and drinks like Chocolate Cake, Chicken Scaloppine, Sweet Tea, etc.
Bunkhouse Burgers is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 5890 S Main St, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 424-287-4377.
10. Sagano Japanese Bistro & Steakhouse – Clarkston
Sagano Japanese Bistro & Steakhouse is an interactive and intentional hibachi restaurant that can get very loud if all the grills have full parties as the chefs keep customers busy with light conversations.
There is a bar area away from the grills and a sitting area in between, it is a family setting perfect for picnics and a casual get-together of friends for a birthday or just a night of fun.
It is always a delight to watch the chefs handle meat at the grills, the skill, patience, and professionalism are top notch and the bartender brings his ace game with mixing dangerously delicious cocktails.
As one the top restaurants in town, it serves an array of tasty meals such as Grilled Salmon Fillet, Marinated Foie Gras, Steak, Tequila, Hand Dived Scallops, Lamb Rack, Tepache Kid, Marinated Pork Cheek, etc.
Sagano Japanese Bistro & Steakhouse – Clarkston is open from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 6545 Sashabaw Rd, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-625-6755.
11. Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse is an industrious Australian restaurant chain serving steak, seafood, and other homely Steakhouse fare in a comfortable setting. This makes it worth adding to your list of top restaurants in Clarkston, MI.
This restaurant has a constant flow of customers and it is never empty of people. It is more of a restaurant during the day and more of a bar at night and don’t hesitate to bring your friends for an awesome dining experience.
Outback Steakhouse provides affordable meals like Rib Eye Steak, Tiramisu, Wagyu Beef, Maine Lobster Tail, etc.
Outback Steakhouse is open from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 6435 Dixie Hwy, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-620-4329.
12. Mr. B’s Roadhouse
Mr. B’s Roadhouse is more than a restaurant, it is a combination of different worlds of deliciousness, patrons can order a variety of indigenous dishes like Mexican, Italian, Asian, American, and so on.
There is a separate menu for kids with healthy and yummy options that would keep them busy for a while, there are also several arcade and video games to engage them with while their parents enjoy dinner.
There are pool tables and trivia competitions for adults to engage in for fun and relaxation while they work off the calories and this restaurant is a place to go for a bite with friends and family.
There is no shortage of exciting meals on the menu and you will find favorites like Onion Rings, Pepperoni Pizza, Crispy Fried Pickles, Draft Beer, Lasagna, Sunshine Burger, etc.
Mr. B’s Roadhouse is open from 10:00 am – 11:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 10:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 6761 Dixie Hwy, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-625-460.
13. Pete’s Coney Island II
Pete’s Coney Island II is a beautiful family-owned and operated American staple in the Clarkston area that serves out tasty eats and has an inviting environment and a calm atmosphere that you must experience.
Breakfast is always spot on at this restaurant and its Coney dogs are guaranteed to please, it is one of the best Clarkson restaurants you will find that serves the best low-cost food anywhere in the area.
If you are into classic cars, the view is phenomenal, the walls are covered with classic car wallpaper and puzzles that keep patrons engaged long after their dinner is consumed.
If you are considering visiting this restaurant to explore its many options, consider trying out items like Desert Fire Pasta, Tortilla Soup, Supreme Pizza, Peach Blossom, etc.
Pete’s Coney Island II is open from 8:00 am – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 8:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 6160 Dixie Hwy, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-623-4300.
14. Uncle Peter’s Pasties
Uncle Peter’s Pasties is a unique restaurant and frozen food store that serves amazing, fat pockets of protein deliciousness stuffed with a huge variety of scrumptious fillings from beef and classic rutabaga to exotic Buffalo, bison, and venison.
This incredible restaurant offers warm, refrigerated, or frozen meat in addition to vegetarian and gluten-free pasties, customers can decide to have their orders to go or sit in the spacious dining area to enjoy a laid-back evening.
The outstanding menu includes mouth-watering classics like Marinated Foie Gras, Steak, Tequila, Hand Dived Scallops, Lamb Rack, etc.
Uncle Peter’s Pasties is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 6215 Sashabaw Rd, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346, United States. Phone: +1 248-804-5039.
15. Highland House Café & Carryout
Concluding this list of best places to eat in Clarkson, MI is Highland House Café & Carryout.
By day, most residents and visitors opt to cradle a cup of coffee and sit by the window in this intimate restaurant and watch the traffic.
By night, the bar and grill spring into action with several protein options and an assortment of wines and cocktails in addition to a live band that provides endless entertainment for customers who just want to eat, drink and relax.
Some of the delicious offerings on the menu include Jumbo Chicken Wings, Fried Pickles, etc.
Highland House Café & Carryout is open from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 9717 Dixie Hwy, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48348, United States. Phone: +1 248-620-8200.
Also check out our guide on restaurants in Monroe, restaurants in South Haven and restaurants in Tawas for a fun meal time in Michigan.
Plan a Trip to Clarkston
A trip to Clarkston is amazing especially when the trip culminates in several of the restaurants listed above.
Many of the attractions and culinary experiences are unique to the city and cannot be found anywhere else.
Visit Clarkston with your lover, or friend, or bring your family along to partake in the delicious offerings the restaurants in the city have to offer.