Five Michigan Restaurants Worth the Drive

This hidden gem is tucked behind the Morning Post on Grand River Avenue in East Lansing. D'Nulffos offers prime steaks and seasonal seafood paired with craft cocktails or wines and served with the utmost attentive service. It's the perfect spot for a dinner before a Wharton Center performance, a date night, a special celebration, or just because you deserve it. If you’ve been searching for upscale dining in East Lansing, you’ll find refined cuisine, an elevated atmosphere, and genuine hospitality here. Why Go: With the feel of a cozy speakeasy, this restaurant's attention to detail is top-notch, whether you're stopping in for a hand-crafted cocktail at the bar or looking for a full-service dining experience.

This popular upscale bistro aims to serve French-American-inspired cuisine from the exciting to the familiar. Lansing movers and shakers choose EnVie for entertaining business associates, while locals enjoy special occasion dinners. Find a rotating menu featuring starters like cassoulet, oysters Rockefeller, and smoked white fish pâté. Mains include: duck benedict, seafood risotto, and lamb, plus inventive scratch-made cocktails and an extensive wine list. Why Go: All of the food and even the tonic, bitters, grenadine, and juices for the cocktails are all made from scratch.

As the name implies, this BBQ joint caters to carnivores and unapologetically doesn’t offer any vegetarian options. Think you’re the ultimate carnivore? Take the Ultimate Carnivore Challenge by devouring an 18-layer sandwich, one side, and made to order mac-n-cheese all within 45 minutes. Winners find glory with a free meal, t-shirt, a beer and photo on the Wall of Carnivores. With Rock n Roll inspired décor, six tasty BBQ sauces, a patio with views of Old Town's foot traffic, the slow-smoked, flavorful, and butter-soft meats steal the show. Why Go: MEAT has consistently been named best in the state for its mac-n-cheese and hand-crafted Bloody Marys. Plus, it's been featured on the Big Ten Network’s Campus Eats AND Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

The People’s Kitchen is a must-visit culinary gem located on Michigan Avenue, halfway between the State Capitol and Michigan State University. Find an atmosphere that blends industrial chic and artistic flair, plus an inventive take on comfort food. This restaurant offers an ever-changing menu packed with vibrant dishes, creative presentation, and handcrafted drinks. Whether you’re dropping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find something delicious for every occasion in a lively, welcoming space. Why Go: Every plate at The People’s Kitchen reflects a playful yet refined approach to flavor. Locally sourced ingredients and culinary craftsmanship shine through, whether you’re savoring the signature brunch creations or enjoying dinner and drinks with friends.

The Soup Spoon Cafe was created with the vision of fresh, local, and chef-inspired dishes served in a cozy and comfortable setting. This scratch kitchen offers vegan and gluten-free options and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy daily homemade soups (including the popular soup flight), gourmet sandwiches, and an extensive breakfast/brunch menu featuring creative scrambles and Bennies (like the Schnitzel Benny). The diverse, chef-driven menu includes lunch and dinner items like Lamb Sliders, Voodoo Pasta, and other fresh entrees. The full bar serves up handcrafted cocktails, boutique wines, and 12 draft microbrews. Why Go: Consistently great quality and locally sourced food without exorbitant prices make this a Lansing favorite.