Royal Oak’s Culinary Scene: The 12 Best Restaurants for Every Taste

Royal Oak is a true culinary destination in Metro Detroit. Its downtown pulses with energy. Historic buildings house both long-standing traditions and new, ambitious concepts. Nostalgia and innovation often appear on the same menu. This creates a diverse and delicious dining landscape.

You will find community pillars. These are legacy spots that have shaped local tastes for decades. You will also find a new guard of modern, concept-driven restaurants. These spots bring global flavors and unique experiences. This guide helps you navigate the choices. We cover the definitive list of the city’s 12 best, helping you find the right food in Royal Oak for any occasion.

1. Redcoat Tavern

 The Undisputed King of Burgers

Stepping into Redcoat Tavern feels like entering a classic American pub. The spot has a “retro, red-booth vibe.” The dark, moody interior invites you to settle in. Redcoat Tavern has proudly served guests since 1972. The reputation here is built on perfectly executed simplicity.

The half-pound Original Redcoat Burger is a local legend. The burger comes with shredded lettuce, tomato, and a signature secret sauce. The Brasserie Burger is another top choice, featuring bacon, caramelized onions, and Swiss. Beyond burgers, you will find robust English pub fare like Shepherd’s Pie and British-style Fish & Chips.

2. D’Amato’s Restaurant

 Sophisticated Italian Charm

For over 25 years, D’Amato’s has been Royal Oak’s destination for elegant Italian dining. This is a chic eatery with an upscale, yet homey feel. Live music often enhances the experience, transforming dinner into a sophisticated evening out. The restaurant’s design is ideal for gatherings where conversation flows.

House-made pastas are a highlight. Try the Penne with “Mrs. P’s” Palomino Sauce or the Cavatappi with chargrilled chicken. Entrees like the Honey-Peppered Angus Beef Brisket also impress. The Sunday brunch, with its popular Bloody Mary bar, is a major draw.

3. Lily’s Seafood Grill & Brewery

 Fresh Catches and Craft Brews

Lily’s offers a cozy, relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The space is both welcoming and refined. Lily’s functions as both a casual neighborhood brewery and a destination for high-quality seafood dining.

The menu’s identity is a duality of fresh seafood and expertly crafted microbrews. The Cracker Crusted Great Lakes Whitefish is a lauded dish. Other popular entrees include the North Shore Seafood Pasta and Calypso-spiced crabcakes. The in-house beers are designed to pair with the seafood.

4. Ronin Sushi

 The Art of Modern Japanese Dining

Ronin presents a sleek and modern environment for experiencing sushi. The decor features heavy wood and leather, creating a contemporary and energetic vibe. With a dining area downstairs and a lounge upstairs, Ronin offers settings for a full meal or casual drinks.

The quality of the sushi is paramount. Fish is sourced from around the world. Signature rolls like the Cha Cha Roll (spicy tuna, shrimp, garlic aioli) and the Sea Monster Roll showcase the kitchen’s creativity. Starters are also impressive, especially the Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna.

5. Jim Brady’s Detroit

 A Nostalgic Taste of Detroit History

Jim Brady’s aims to “recapture the aura of Diamond Jim Brady’s,” a legendary Detroit restaurant from 1954. The Royal Oak location blends this history with a modern flair. The restaurant is warm and welcoming, with a relaxed, classic feel.

The menu offers decades-old Detroit classics. The restaurant is famous for its burgers, especially the “Charlie Brown Burger” with Swiss cheese and bacon. Other standout dishes include the French Dip and the Potato Crusted Whitefish. The happy hour (3-6 p.m.) is popular, offering half-priced appetizers.

6. O.W.L.

 24/7 Creative Comfort Food

O.W.L. brings “24 hours of sustenance” to the Woodward corridor. The setting blends a classic chrome diner vibe with mid-century modern elements. Patrons order from a chalkboard menu at the counter, creating a casual and efficient experience. This spot is a go-to for satisfying cravings at any hour.

The menu is a unique take on American-Mexican comfort food. The fried chicken is a unanimous favorite, particularly the Chicken Fried Chicken Sandwich. Other must-try dishes include the chilaquiles and the double-layer nachos.

7. Ale Mary’s Beer Hall

 A Beer Lover’s Paradise with a Chef’s Touch

Ale Mary’s is a modern gastropub, offering a lively environment for craft beer enthusiasts. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable. This is a “happy place” where patrons explore an extensive beer list and enjoy elevated pub food.

The menu goes far beyond typical bar fare. The Beer Cheese Burger is a standout. The restaurant is also a “vegan paradise,” offering a complete and separate vegan menu. Dishes like the “(V)ani,” a vegan Hani sandwich, are widely celebrated. The beer selection is a main draw.

8. Tom’s Oyster Bar

 A Royal Oak Classic for Seafood and Spirits

For nearly 25 years, Tom’s Oyster Bar has been a beloved downtown Royal Oak institution. The spot offers a comfortable and casual atmosphere. With distinctive chalkboard menus, Tom’s has the timeless feel of a classic East Coast oyster bar.

As the name suggests, oysters are the star, served fresh on the half shell. The menu extends to a wide range of seafood dishes, including Lobster Fries and a rich Lobster Bisque. Beyond food, Tom’s is legendary for its Spanish Coffees, prepared tableside.

9. Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina

 The Art and Science of Perfect Pizza

Bigalora is a contemporary Italian eatery specializing in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. The aroma of the wood-fired oven creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The space is perfect for a family dinner or a casual night out.

The pizza is the star. The dough is crafted with a unique biga fermentation process that takes 72 hours. The pizza then cooks for just 90 seconds in a 900-degree oven. This results in a perfect crust. Popular choices include the classic Margherita and the Bacco Sausage pizza.

10. Mesa Tacos & Tequila

 A Fiesta of Flavor on Main Street

Mesa is a vibrant, two-story restaurant on Main Street. The aesthetic is characterized by colorful decor and an inviting, lively ambiance. With balcony seating in a big, open room, Mesa is the place for a fun night out.

The menu is a “pop-Mexican” journey through authentic flavors. The restaurant is known for its extensive selection of about 100 different tequilas. The food menu features a wide variety of tacos, from classic Street Tacos to creative options like the Dynamite Shrimp Taco.

11. Cafe Muse

 Comfort Food with a Creative Twist

Cafe Muse is a cozy and inviting bistro with an intimate ambiance. The space is perfect for a relaxed brunch or lunch. The service is consistently fast and friendly. Cafe Muse is a charming restaurant with upscale food at a reasonable price.

The menu is “comfort food with a twist,” using fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients. The restaurant gained national fame when Esquire Magazine named its grilled cheese “One of the Best Sandwiches in America.” The Grilled 3 Cheese lives up to the hype, especially with added braised short ribs.

12. KouZina Greek Street Food

 An Authentic Taste of the Greek Isles

KouZina is a delightful gem that offers a vibrant taste of authentic Greek cuisine. The atmosphere is inviting and clean, complemented by charming outdoor seating. The staff is consistently friendly and attentive.

The menu is a celebration of Greek street food classics. The Original Gyro, available with lamb, chicken, or pork, is an award-winner. The restaurant is also renowned for its exceptional gluten-free pita. Other standout items include Souvlaki Plates and Greek Fries.

Royal Oak’s food scene offers a remarkable range of options for everyone. Now you have the list of the best restaurants in Royal Oak. The only thing left to do is explore.

Are you planning a visit? Make your trip simple and stay in the heart of the action.

Book your stay at the Hotel Royal Oak. You will be just steps away from these amazing restaurants. Walk to dinner, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and return to a comfortable room. Click here to check availability and book your stay today.