7 Michigan Coastal Restaurants Serving Seafood Popular With Locals

Michigan may not border an ocean, but its lakeshores offer some of the Midwest’s freshest seafood and most memorable waterside dining.

From cozy shacks in quiet villages to lively city restaurants with busy patios, the state’s coastal towns bring seafood traditions to life with plenty of local flavor.

I’m sharing seven places where Michiganders themselves head when only lake-caught fish and unforgettable views will do.

Let’s experience Michigan’s best seafood through the eyes, and tastebuds, of locals.

1. The Deck Down Under (Jerome)

Locals love to say The Deck Down Under feels like someone plopped a coastal fish shack right onto a Michigan lake.

The first time I stepped through the door, the breeze carried a hint of fried perch, and the porthole windows made me feel like I’d joined a crew on an inland voyage.

The quirky, lived-in decor sparks plenty of conversation among diners who appreciate character over polish.

Fishing nets hang from the ceiling, and vintage nautical signs cover every available inch of wall space.

It’s the kind of place where you immediately feel at ease, whether you’re in flip-flops or fresh from a day on the boat.

Fish sandwiches are what keep regulars coming back week after week.

Each order features thick, flaky fillets and rolls that actually hold up to the generous toppings.

There’s nothing fussy about the menu, just simple, well-seasoned seafood and a side of fries that always arrive hot.

I spotted a family bringing in their own catch to get it cooked up, a tradition that’s generations deep here.

The staff treats everyone like old friends, remembering names and usual orders without missing a beat.

That kind of personal touch has become rare in today’s restaurant scene.

If you want a laid-back setting and a true taste of Michigan’s small-town hospitality, this is a local legend worth seeking out.

The portions are hearty, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere is pure lakeside charm.

Don’t expect white tablecloths or fancy presentations, just honest food served with a smile in a setting that celebrates Michigan’s fishing heritage.

Location: 11303 E Chicago Rd, Jerome, MI 49249.

2. Fishbone’s (Detroit)

Walking into Fishbone’s, the neon glow and lively hum instantly set the mood.

The place buzzes with city energy, from families out for a special dinner to friends gathering after work.

This is where Detroiters celebrate big events and everyday victories alike.

The seafood menu stretches from Cajun-spiced catfish to sushi rolls, but what stands out is how fresh everything tastes.

I tried a plate of blackened salmon that arrived perfectly cooked, with just the right kick of spice.

The staff knows the menu inside and out, happy to recommend pairings or share tips on house favorites.

Jazz notes float through the air, creating a soundtrack that feels distinctly Detroit.

The bar area stays packed on weekends, with bartenders shaking up creative cocktails that pair beautifully with the spicy seafood offerings.

It’s the kind of place where you can hear yourself talk but still feel the pulse of the city around you.

While there’s plenty for steak lovers and vegetarians, seafood rules the roost here.

The crab cakes are a particular point of pride, arriving golden and crispy with barely any filler.

Portions are generous without being overwhelming, leaving just enough room for one of their decadent desserts.

The inviting atmosphere, punctuated by attentive service, guarantees a meal that feels both relaxed and a bit special.

Fishbone’s isn’t just a local haunt, it’s a place that anchors the city’s seafood scene.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime regular, the experience delivers every single time with consistency that’s become their calling card.

Location: 400 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226.

3. The Sardine Room (Plymouth)

In downtown Plymouth, The Sardine Room brings a dose of elegance without losing its sense of fun.

The space feels polished but never stuffy, with big windows that let Main Street’s energy flow right in.

Diners here dress up or down, and everyone fits in.

One bite of the seared scallops, and I understood the local enthusiasm.

Menu highlights change with the seasons, so you might find lobster one visit and perfectly grilled octopus the next.

Presentation is always on point, every plate seems designed for both appetite and Instagram.

The chef clearly takes pride in sourcing quality ingredients, and it shows in every dish.

Fresh herbs garnish each plate, and sauces are carefully balanced to enhance rather than overpower the delicate seafood flavors.

You can taste the difference that attention to detail makes.

Staff happily share stories about where the day’s seafood comes from, and the vibe is both knowledgeable and approachable.

They’ll walk you through the wine list without making you feel intimidated, and they’re quick to offer substitutions for dietary preferences.

Service strikes that perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive.

It’s an ideal spot for a date night or a meal with friends who appreciate a little culinary adventure.

The atmosphere encourages lingering over multiple courses, savoring each bite and enjoying good conversation.

No surprise that locals mark it as a must-try for seafood with style, returning for anniversaries, celebrations, and those occasions when only something special will do.

Location: 340 S Main St, Plymouth, MI 48170.

4. Lily’s Seafood Grill & Brewery (Royal Oak)

Royal Oak’s food scene has a lot to offer, but Lily’s stands out by pairing imaginative seafood with their own house-brewed beers.

The building, painted in bold pink and green, signals you’re in for a cheerful experience before you even step inside.

Inside, crowds gather around steaming bowls of chowder and plates stacked with crispy fish.

I always appreciate the range, from classic sandwiches to specials featuring seasonal ingredients.

The craft beers, brewed on-site, add another layer to the meal, especially if you enjoy matching a hoppy IPA to your fish tacos.

The brewing equipment sits visible behind glass, reminding you that this is a place where creativity happens in both the kitchen and the brewhouse.

Seasonal brews rotate regularly, giving regulars a reason to keep coming back to try something new.

The staff can guide you through the beer selection with genuine enthusiasm.

Lily’s stays lively without ever feeling rushed.

Staff move quickly, but there’s time to chat about the latest brew or the day’s catch.

The energy level picks up on Friday and Saturday nights when live music sometimes fills the space with even more vibrancy.

For visitors looking to mingle with locals and sample inventive seafood, this spot checks all the boxes.

The menu balances familiar comfort foods with adventurous options that push boundaries in the best way.

A Royal Oak favorite for good reason, Lily’s has built a loyal following by consistently delivering quality food, excellent beer, and an atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome from the moment they walk through that bright, unmistakable door.

Location: 410 S Washington Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48067.

5. Harbor House (Detroit)

Harbor House doesn’t go in for frills, and that’s exactly the appeal.

From the outside, the blue facade is easy to spot along the busy stretch of Gratiot Avenue.

Inside, the focus is on classic fish and chips, no-nonsense service, and prices that haven’t lost touch with reality.

I found the battered fish to be golden and crisp, the kind that flakes apart easily with a fork.

Portion sizes lean generous, and the tartar sauce tastes homemade rather than squeezed from a packet.

The coleslaw arrives fresh and tangy, providing the perfect cool contrast to the hot, crispy fish.

This is comfort food at its finest, the kind that reminds you why simple preparations often work best.

There’s no molecular gastronomy here, no foam or fancy reductions.

Just good fish, fried right, served hot.

Locals come back for comfort and consistency, often trading stories over lunch or a quick dinner.

The counter seating encourages conversation with strangers who quickly become friends over shared appreciation for quality seafood.

You might find yourself chatting with someone who’s been coming here for thirty years.

This is the kind of place where regulars nod hello and newcomers are treated like old friends by the end of the meal.

The walls hold decades of memories, and the staff moves with practiced efficiency born of years behind the same counter.

If you’re after authentic Detroit seafood with zero pretension, Harbor House is a safe bet that delivers every time.

It’s stood the test of time for good reason, remaining a neighborhood anchor in an ever-changing city.

Location: 440 Clinton St, Detroit, MI 48226.

6. The Cove (Leland)

The Cove sits perched above the Leland Dam, and the view alone is worth the trip.

Step onto the deck, and you’re greeted by Lake Michigan stretched out in front of you, boats bobbing along the water.

The restaurant itself feels like a blend of old fishing shanty and modern comfort.

I ordered the famous whitefish chowder, thick with tender pieces and a hint of smokiness that lingered perfectly on the palate.

There’s also the Chubby Mary, a local legend consisting of a Bloody Mary served with a smoked chub garnish.

It’s quirky, it’s Michigan, and it’s absolutely delicious.

The menu celebrates the state’s fishing heritage with dishes that let quality ingredients shine.

Fresh catches are listed daily, and the kitchen prepares them simply to showcase their natural flavors.

You won’t find overly complicated preparations here, just honest cooking that respects the fish.

Locals recommend grabbing a seat by the window if it’s chilly, or heading outside to watch the water on a sunny day.

The outdoor seating fills up quickly during peak season, so arriving early or making a reservation is smart.

Sunset dinners are particularly magical when the sky turns pink and orange over the water.

Service is upbeat and the staff know their seafood, often sharing tips on what’s best that week.

This spot captures both the spirit and the flavor of Michigan’s fishing heritage in ways that feel authentic rather than manufactured.

Don’t be surprised if one meal here turns into a new summer tradition, the kind of place you find yourself craving during long winter months and counting down the days until you can return.

Location: 111 W River St, Leland, MI 49654.

7. Mike’s on the Water (St. Clair Shores)

If you want to know where summer really starts in St. Clair Shores, locals will point you to Mike’s on the Water.

Tucked along the Nautical Mile, this place comes alive in warm weather with its open-air patio and steady parade of boats drifting past.

The energy here is infectious, with laughter carrying across the water and sunshine warming every table.

The lobster roll is a menu highlight, stuffed with sweet meat and served on a toasted bun that’s buttery without being greasy.

I noticed regulars pairing it with an ice-cold drink and plenty of laughter, settling in for long, leisurely meals.

The seafood arrives fresh daily, and the kitchen doesn’t mess around with unnecessary complications.

Beyond the lobster, the menu offers everything from shrimp baskets to grilled salmon, all prepared with care and served with classic sides.

The clam chowder gets rave reviews, rich and creamy with generous chunks of clam in every spoonful.

Appetizers are perfect for sharing, encouraging the communal atmosphere that makes this place special.

The staff keeps things breezy, never making you feel rushed even on busy weekends.

They move with practiced ease through crowded tables, balancing trays and remembering orders without missing a beat.

Their friendly demeanor adds to the relaxed vibe that keeps people coming back.

It’s the laid-back attitude and waterfront views that make Mike’s a must for anyone wanting to eat like a local.

Kids run along the dock, friends linger over one more round, and nobody watches the clock.

The scene, along with the seafood, is pure Michigan summer at its best, capturing everything wonderful about warm weather dining by the water.

Location: 24600 Jefferson Ave, St Clair Shores, MI 48080.