This humble burger joint is the epitome of the town’s counterculture identity. The dizzyingly wide variety of combinations and the unique cooking methods are the antithesis of the gourmet burger chains that have proliferated across the country. While some label the burgers as laden with “grease”, the preferred term is “natural juices.”
Celebrity chef and Ann Arbor local Eve Aronoff opened her Frita Batidos as an ode to Cuban street food. The fritas (chorizo-based burgers) and batidos (tropical milkshakes) served in the stark-white dining room sets it apart from anything else in Ann Arbor — or the Midwest.
Spencer has wasted no time in putting its stamp on the local restaurant scene. The small space and casual atmosphere make it easy to miss. However, the commitment to seasonal, micro-local sources, and beautiful presentation has gained national attention. Be sure to dive into the spot’s carefully curated wine list, which gained Spencer a James Beard Award semifinalist nod in 2023 for Outstanding Wine and Beverages.
This Ann Arbor institution is considered to be one of the best delis in the country. Dozens of sandwich options all on house-made bread with top quality ingredients make it worth the wait and the price. Bakery and specialty items make it a food lover’s paradise.
The menu features innovative, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, small plates, and salads. The dishes are meant to be shared which, along with an open-concept dining room, gives Mani the liveliest and most energetic atmosphere in town.
Once an European-style deli and party store, York has become a vibrant community hangout with its spacious, art-filled wine garden and special events. In addition to their sandwiches and charcuterie, York also features local food trucks and is the home of Bao Boys and the original Ricewood.
Bellflower’s serves seafood-forward, New Orleans-influenced dishes in an unpretentious atmosphere that perfectly matches downtown Ypsilanti’s overall vibe. The dinner menu changes daily to take full advantage of best-available ingredients, while the lunch counter features locally-sourced salads and po’ boys served on the spot’s signature milk bread.
Since opening the doors of her eponymous restaurant in 2016, Chef Ji Hye Kim has gained national acclaim including two James Beard semifinalist nods. Miss Kim’s menu highlights local Michigan produce through approachable Korean comfort food like bibimbap and tteokbokki resulting in dishes that sing with deep flavors and freshness.
Knight’s is your textbook steakhouse with swimming pool-sized cocktails. While the restaurant has a flashier Liberty Street location in the vibrant downtown area, the original Dexter Avenue eatery’s historical charm makes it a classic.
This humble burger joint is the epitome of the town’s counterculture identity. The dizzyingly wide variety of combinations and the unique cooking methods are the antithesis of the gourmet burger chains that have proliferated across the country. While some label the burgers as laden with “grease”, the preferred term is “natural juices.”
Celebrity chef and Ann Arbor local Eve Aronoff opened her Frita Batidos as an ode to Cuban street food. The fritas (chorizo-based burgers) and batidos (tropical milkshakes) served in the stark-white dining room sets it apart from anything else in Ann Arbor — or the Midwest.
Spencer has wasted no time in putting its stamp on the local restaurant scene. The small space and casual atmosphere make it easy to miss. However, the commitment to seasonal, micro-local sources, and beautiful presentation has gained national attention. Be sure to dive into the spot’s carefully curated wine list, which gained Spencer a James Beard Award semifinalist nod in 2023 for Outstanding Wine and Beverages.
This Ann Arbor institution is considered to be one of the best delis in the country. Dozens of sandwich options all on house-made bread with top quality ingredients make it worth the wait and the price. Bakery and specialty items make it a food lover’s paradise.
The menu features innovative, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, small plates, and salads. The dishes are meant to be shared which, along with an open-concept dining room, gives Mani the liveliest and most energetic atmosphere in town.
What began as a noodle bar, featuring several kinds of East Asian comfort foods, now includes a full-on Korean barbecue section with tabletop grills and other Korean standards. Tomukun may be the best place to see townies and students dining in perfect harmony.
Sava’s occupies a prominent spot on State Street and in the hearts of many in the Ann Arbor area. Their Mediterranean-influenced menu is filled with well thought-out dishes using quality ingredients and refined techniques. The Capellini Marlon is as decadent as a pasta dish can be with its lobster, shrimp, and saffron butter cream sauce.
Ricewood has become an essential local dining spot for its rice bowls topped with a variety of Texas-style barbecue and spicy finadene sauce. The Maple Road location also features a rotating month-long special burger packed with novel layers of flavor that should not be missed. Previous specials included a reuben burger with a half brisket/half pastrami patty and the a burger topped with Swiss cheese, chili oil, smoked mushrooms, and arugula.
The best of Spain awaits diners at this gorgeous downtown spot. Chef Raul Cob has been recognized as one of the top paella chefs in the world and his team serves five different kinds of the popular rice dish. The menu also features an all-Spanish wine list that perfectly complements their full line of tapas, pintxos, and other Iberian delicacies.
Once an European-style deli and party store, York has become a vibrant community hangout with its spacious, art-filled wine garden and special events. In addition to their sandwiches and charcuterie, York also features local food trucks and is the home of Bao Boys and the original Ricewood.
Bellflower’s serves seafood-forward, New Orleans-influenced dishes in an unpretentious atmosphere that perfectly matches downtown Ypsilanti’s overall vibe. The dinner menu changes daily to take full advantage of best-available ingredients, while the lunch counter features locally-sourced salads and po’ boys served on the spot’s signature milk bread.
Since opening the doors of her eponymous restaurant in 2016, Chef Ji Hye Kim has gained national acclaim including two James Beard semifinalist nods. Miss Kim’s menu highlights local Michigan produce through approachable Korean comfort food like bibimbap and tteokbokki resulting in dishes that sing with deep flavors and freshness.
Ann Arbor’s Most Famous DishesBread & Rolls.Macaroni and Cheese.Pancakes.
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Bread & Rolls.
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Macaroni and Cheese.
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Pancakes.
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What to Eat in Ann Arbor, Michigan | Best Food + BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!
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