Kick Off Your Summer at One of These Waterfront Eateries

Take in scenic views at these metro Detroit restaurants
976
Enjoy views of the Detroit River as you dine at Andiamo’s downtown location. // Photograph courtesy of Andiamo

Nothing screams “Michigan summer” quite like waterfront dining. As the weather gets warmer, consider indulging at one of these metro Detroit hot spots.

Andiamo Detroit Riverfront

With a romantic setting and an amazing view, Andiamo Detroit Riverfront is an ideal date night spot. The restaurant’s dinner menu is full of pasta dishes, veal, seafood, and steak, while the wine menu has everything from sparkling Champagne to full-bodied reds. Andiamo Detroit Riverfront, 400 Renaissance Center A-30, Detroit; 248-567-6700; andiamoitalia.com

The Beach Tiki Bar and Boil

Looking for a tropical vacation without leaving the state? Look no further than The Beach. This tiki bar-themed hot spot is a summer staple in the Walled Lake community. Serving up lobster rolls, pizzas, and its famous signature seafood boils, The Beach will leave you feeling full as you enjoy the view of Walled Lake. The restaurant’s balcony extends over the water with covered and uncovered areas, so you can enjoy the scenery no matter the weather. The Beach Tiki Bar and Boil, 142 E. Walled Lake Dr., Walled Lake; 248-669-3322; thebeachtikibar.com

It’s a Matter of Taste

For the more high-end palette, It’s a Matter of Taste combines quality ingredients, innovative menu options, and a gorgeous view of Union Lake in Commerce. Head to their balcony to enjoy the scenery while enjoying one of their dozens of bottles of wine. For dinner, indulge in seafood, steak, or both! It’s a Matter of Taste, 2323 Union Lake Road, Commerce; 248-360-6650; matteroftaste.net

Whitmore Lake Tavern

“Great food, reasonable prices” is the motto at Whitmore Lake Tavern. Overlooking Whitmore Lake and decorated with colorful umbrellas, the patio is a great place to spend happy hour. The restaurant offers different deals and specials every day, including $5 off pizzas on Wednesdays and beer-battered cod on Fridays, to name a couple. Whitmore Lake Tavern, 9839 Main St., Whitmore Lake; 734-449-5011; whitmorelaketavern.com 

The Waterfront Restaurant and Lounge

Located on the Detroit River, The Waterfront Restaurant and Lounge serves up delicious choices like Mahi Mahi, Chicken Parm, Perch Piccata, and Filet Mignon. The view of the river pairs beautifully with an ice-cold cocktail and a warm summer night. Boaters can also utilize one of the 20 docks that the restaurant supplies in partnership with the Motor City Marina. The Waterfront Restaurant and Lounge, 507 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte; 734-286-9042; thewaterfrontwyandotte.com

The Rattlesnake Club

Known for using locally sourced ingredients, The Rattlesnake Club is committed to fine dining. Located off the Detroit Riverwalk, the restaurant offers terrace wine tastings, small plate events, and cocktail hours. Standout menu items include the Rattlesnake Elixir cocktail, the Strawberry & Chevre starter, and Braised Colorado Lamb Shank. The Rattlesnake Club, 300 River Place Dr., Detroit; 313-567-4400; rattlesnakeclub.com

Sinbad’s Restaurant and Marina

Sinbad’s has been a hot spot for boaters for more than 70 years. Located off the Detroit River, the restaurant provides easy access for diners traveling by water or road. Best known for delicious cocktails and a wide array of seafood, Sinbad’s menu includes sandwiches like the BLT and Vegetarian Ciabatta, entrees like Rock Lobster Tails and Fresh Great Lakes Perch, and homemade clam chowder and chili. Boat parking is free for guests. Sinbad’s Restaurant and Marina, 100 St. Clair, Detroit; 313-822-8000; sinbads.com

Joe Muer Seafood (Detroit) 

Another hot spot overlooking the Detroit River, Joe Muer Seafood is known for its fresh dishes. The menu includes eye-catching items like decorative sushi rolls and hand-crafted, photo-worthy cocktails; modern classics such as the Lobster Corn Dogs and Spicy Tuna Tartar, and seafood staples like King Crab Legs and the Colossal Shrimp Cocktail. Joe Muer Seafood, 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit; 313-567-6837; joemuer.com 

Mike’s on the Water

“Where the East Coast meets the East Side,” Mike’s on the Water offers casual dining paired with a rooftop view of Lake St Clair. Mike’s on the Water has sold over 55,000 lobster rolls, which its staff keeps a tally of on the restaurant’s walls. Stop in for a roll, a beer, and a gorgeous view, all in one spot. Mike’s on the Water, 24530 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-872-2630; mikesonthewater.com