Nestled in Metro Detroit, the city of Clawson, Michigan packs a surprising culinary punch for its small size. This tight-knit community is home to an eclectic mix of old-school eateries and inventive new hotspots. From classic comfort food joints that have been local staples for decades to creative chef-driven kitchens pushing the envelope, Clawson’s dining scene offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore a dozen of the best restaurants in Clawson, each beloved by families and savvy locals alike – that serve up hearty comfort and imaginative bites with genuine hometown flair. Let’s dig in!
Craving more options across the region? Explore our Top 50 Restaurants in Metro Detroit.
Noble Village Clawson, Facebook
Noble Village Clawson
Open: Mon-Sun (8am-8pm)
45 E 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 585-2314
Website: Noble Village Clawson
A Clawson institution for 40+ years, Noble Fish began as a tiny Japanese market with a sushi counter in the back, and it has since achieved near-legendary status among Metro Detroit sushi lovers. In recent years, Noble Fish expanded into Noble Village, a modern food hall concept that unites the beloved sushi bar with White Wolf, an artisan Japanese bakery and coffee shop. The result is a larger, sleek space where you can browse imported Japanese snacks, sip a matcha latte, and savor ultra-fresh sushi all under one roof. Don’t let the humble grocery origins fool you: the sushi here is top-notch and consistently ranked among Detroit’s best. Regulars rave about the quality – buttery sashimi, generously sized rolls, at prices that are incredibly reasonable. Whether you grab takeout or snag a seat in the new dining area, Noble Fish offers an authentic taste of Japan with a friendly neighborhood feel. It’s truly a must-visit for everything from a quick spicy tuna roll to discovering exotic grocery goodies you won’t find elsewhere.
Clawson Steak House
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-12am)
56 S Rochester Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 588-5788
Website: Clawson Steak House
Clawson Steak House is a living legend in town, a family-run supper club that’s been serving the community for over 50 years. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time (in the best way) with its retro throwback setting and nightly live entertainment on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Locals come here to celebrate special occasions over epic cuts of meat, think Prime Rib, porterhouses, and filet mignon, all prepared to classic perfection. The menu goes well beyond steak, featuring fresh seafood like pan-fried perch and lobster tails, plus chops, pasta, and more. With friendly service and a warm, old-school vibe, Clawson Steak House lets you treat yourself to a fine dining experience that’s comforting and unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where generations of Michiganders have made memories, and it remains the go-to spot for a great steak dinner in Clawson.
Three Cats Restaurant
Open: Tue (11am-3pm) | Wed-Thur (11am-3pm, 4-8pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-3pm, 4-9pm) | Sun (10am-3pm)
116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 288-4858
Website: Three Cats Restaurant
Housed in the renovated historic Clawson Theater, Three Cats brings a quirky, artsy charm to the local dining scene. This restaurant was created by the team behind the popular Leon & Lulu shop, so it doubles as a café and a mini boutique – you might browse greeting cards or Detroit-themed gifts between courses. The atmosphere is bright, whimsical, and uniquely Clawson. As for the food, Three Cats serves up American-style small plates and creative comfort dishes with seasonal flair. The menu ranges from indulgent brunch items (their house-made quiche and Benedicts are crowd favorites) to elegant dinner plates like seared scallops or inventive vegetarian options. Everything is prepared with a chef’s touch but in a laid-back style that keeps it approachable. You can pop in for coffee and a fresh-baked pastry during the day, or enjoy cocktails and shareables in the evening. With its mix of retro decor, boutique shopping and gourmet bites, Three Cats offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that perfectly captures Clawson’s creative spirit.
Noori Chicken & Pocha
Open: Tue-Wed, Sun (11am-10:30pm) | Thur (11am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-12am)
1 S Main St, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 850-7131
Website: Noori Chicken & Pocha
One of the newer stars on Clawson’s Main Street, Noori Chicken/Pocha is a Korean gastropub that has quickly become a go-to for bold flavors and late-night comfort food. “Pocha” translates to Korean pub, and true to form, Noori offers a fun, lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends. The menu is all about Korean street food favorites and crispy fried chicken with a creative twist. Their Korean fried chicken comes tossed in sauces ranging from classic soy-garlic to a spicy Yangnyeom glaze that packs a kick. Pair the chicken with an assortment of shareable bites like kimchi fries, cheesy corn, or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) for the full experience. Noori also features Korean-style bar snacks meant to be enjoyed with drinks, think soju cocktails and beer to wash down the heat. The portions are generous, prices friendly, and the vibe is upbeat and casual. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or just love great wings, Noori delivers a flavorful introduction to Korean comfort cuisine. It’s the kind of place where you can savor something new (Korean beef rib galbi with traditional banchan sides, anyone?) in a relaxed setting that feels right at home in Clawson’s downtown.
Stacks & Cordials
Open: Mon-Sat (10am-10pm)
1365 W Maple Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 439-0330
Website: Stacks & Cordials
For a delicious lunch or laid-back dinner, Stacks & Cordials has quickly earned a loyal following with its gourmet sandwiches and craft drinks. This modern deli-diner hybrid prides itself on stacking sandwiches high with quality ingredients – everything from thick-cut corned beef to crispy fried chicken, and pairing them with house-made sides and sauces. The menu features inventive creations like the “Suicide Stack” (a multi-layered tower of meats and melty cheese) that showcase the kitchen’s creativity. Even the vegetarian options, like the roasted veggie stack or a hearty falafel burger, are packed with flavor and texture. On the “Cordials” side, expect a full bar with a focus on craft cocktails, local beer, and boozy shakes to complement your meal (or to sip while watching the game on their TVs). The restaurant’s vibe is bright, clean, and family-friendly, equally good for a casual date night or bringing the kids after a soccer game. Everything is prepared fresh in-house, and it shows in the flavor and quality. If you love a great sandwich, Stacks & Cordials will likely become one of your Clawson favorites.
Biscuits & Gravy, Facebook
Biscuits & Gravy
Open: Mon-Sat (7am-3pm) | Sun (8am-3pm)
331 N Main St, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 291-5071
Website: Biscuits & Gravy
Craving an old-fashioned hearty breakfast or brunch? Biscuits & Gravy has you covered as downtown Clawson’s best brunch spot. This cozy eatery is a relatively new addition to the city, but it’s quickly become the place to start your day. As the name suggests, comfort classics are the star here – their flaky biscuits smothered in homemade sausage gravy are basically a must-try. The kitchen turns out all the breakfast favorites: fluffy pancakes and waffles, loaded omelettes, eggs any style with bacon or hash, and creative “griddle greats” like French toast casseroles. Portions are generous, prices fair, and everything is made fresh with obvious care. Despite the comfort-food focus, the menu is surprisingly huge, so there’s something for everyone (including lighter oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, and plenty of coffee options for your caffeine fix). The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, with a mix of counter seating and tables – you’ll often see families, couples, and regulars chatting with the friendly staff. On weekends there can be a short wait (a testament to its popularity), but it’s worth it to enjoy a warm, hearty meal that feels like home cooking. Biscuits & Gravy is a great addition to Clawson’s dining scene, bringing comfort food nostalgia into the modern downtown era.
Tavern on the Main
Open: Tue-Sat (11am-10pm) | Sun (12-9pm)
235 S Main St, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 588-1696
Website: Tavern on the Main
A fixture in Clawson for over 16 years, Tavern on the Main is the kind of friendly neighborhood bar & grill where everyone feels like family. It’s spacious yet cozy, with a classic pub atmosphere, plenty of TVs for sports fans, and a large outdoor patio that’s perfect for summer gatherings. The Tavern has built its reputation on serving crowd-pleasing comfort food with a twist. Their burger was voted one of the best in town, a juicy half-pound delight that you can get topped with creative extras, and patrons also love the hand-tossed pizzas, generous salads, and the mix of Greek and American entrées (a nod to the owners’ heritage). In fact, the kitchen is known for experimenting with new recipes and constantly adapting the menu to customers’ tastes, keeping only the favorites around. So while you can always get pub classics like fish & chips or a club sandwich, you might also find a new special like a Mediterranean pita or gourmet mac ’n’ cheese if it was a hit with regulars. The drink selection covers all the bases, from local craft beers to a decent wine list, plus fun seasonal cocktails. Whether you drop in for a casual lunch, dinner with the kids, or a night out watching the game with friends (complete with a 23 oz. draft beer in a football-shaped glass for good measure), Tavern on the Main delivers a reliably good time and a true local welcome.
Love timeless supper-club energy and old-school comfort? Check out our Iconic Metro Detroit Restaurants guide.
Woodpile BBQ Shack
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-9pm)
303 S Main St, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 565-8149
Website: Woodpile BBQ Shack
If the mouthwatering aroma of smoked brisket doesn’t lure you in first, the reputation of Woodpile BBQ Shack surely will. This casual joint has become a barbecue destination in Metro Detroit, and one of Clawson’s proudest comfort food offerings. The setup is simple, walk up to the counter, place your order, and prepare to feast. Woodpile’s menu focuses on authentic smoked meats, all cooked “low and slow” to tender perfection. Favorites include the Texas-style beef brisket (with a beautiful smoke ring), fall-off-the-bone St. Louis spare ribs, pulled pork, and juicy smoked chicken. You can get them by the platter or in sandwich form, piled high on a bun with house-made pickles. Don’t skip the sides either: the mac ‘n’ cheese, tangy coleslaw, and cheesy corn bake have earned their own fan followings. With picnic tables and a covered outdoor patio, Woodpile encourages a laid-back, roll-up-your-sleeves dining experience, it’s common to see families sharing trays of BBQ or friends grabbing takeout to-go for game day. Pro tip: come early, because once they sell out of a particular smoked meat for the day, that’s it! The folks at Woodpile BBQ are passionate about their craft, and you can taste it in every bite. It’s comfort food at its smoky, finger-licking finest, guaranteed to give you the happy “meat sweats” (as the Michigan Chews & Brews blog affectionately put it).
Renshaw Lounge
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-2pm)
210 E 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 616-3016
Website: Renshaw Lounge
Once a tiny hole-in-the-wall dive, Renshaw Lounge has evolved into one of Clawson’s favorite hangouts for food and fun. This bar and grill underwent an expansion, adding plenty of seating (including a nice outdoor patio) while keeping its no-frills, come-as-you-are vibe. It’s open late every night, so it’s a popular stop for a nightcap, but Renshaw also shines as a lunch and dinner spot, especially if you’re craving a really good pizza. In fact, many locals will tell you Renshaw serves some of the best bar-style pizza around: a thin, crispy crust loaded with quality toppings (ideal for sharing with friends over a pitcher of beer). The menu covers all the sports-bar classics: juicy grilled burgers, wings with a variety of sauces, loaded nachos, hearty sandwiches, and even a few Mexican and Middle Eastern inspired picks. The beer list is surprisingly extensive, featuring Michigan craft brews alongside the usual suspects. With plenty of big screens, it’s a great place to catch the Lions, Tigers, or Red Wings games with a lively crowd. But even on a non-game night, you’ll find regulars relaxing and families grabbing casual dinners, Renshaw is the kind of welcoming local joint that anchors the community. Come for the laid-back atmosphere, stay for the tasty comfort food and camaraderie that make Renshaw Lounge a true Clawson gem.
Whiskey Taco Foxtrot
Open: Mon & Sun (11am-9pm) | Tue-Thur (11am-10pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-11pm)
28 S Main St, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 629-7067
Website: Whiskey Taco Foxtrot
Don’t let the playful name fool you, Whiskey Taco Foxtrot (yes, “WTF” for short) takes its food and drink quite seriously. This trendy spot is a taqueria and whiskey bar serving up unique fusion tacos and artfully crafted cocktails in downtown Clawson. The interior mixes industrial-chic decor with warm wood accents, creating a hip yet family-friendly atmosphere. On the menu you’ll find an array of globally-inspired tacos that go way beyond your standard Tex-Mex. Picture tacos filled with Korean BBQ short ribs, Nashville hot chicken, crispy fish with mango salsa, or roasted cauliflower with tahini, each bursting with flavor and creativity. You can mix-and-match or opt for a platter; either way, be sure to try their freshly made chips with salsa and guacamole to start. As the name suggests, whiskey lovers have plenty to celebrate here: Whiskey Taco Foxtrot offers an extensive whiskey list featuring bourbons, ryes, and scotches, alongside a full bar of craft beers and inventive cocktails to complement the spicy and savory bites. Happy hour and weekly specials (like $3 taco nights or margarita deals) draw a crowd, and on weekends the place stays lively into the evening. The combination of tacos and tipples hits the spot whether you’re on a casual date or out with a group of friends. With its creative menu and upbeat vibe, Whiskey Taco Foxtrot brings an urban flair to Clawson’s dining scene while still keeping that friendly local touch.
Perry's Pizza, Facebook
Perry’s Pizza
Open: Tue-Thur (4pm-12am) | Fri-Sat (11am-12am) | Sun (11am-10pm)
665 S Main St, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 585-7023
Website: Perry’s Pizza
No comfort food tour of Clawson would be complete without Perry’s Pizza, a family-owned pizzeria that’s been dishing out delicious pies for over 40 years. Tucked in a modest storefront on the south end of Main Street, Perry’s is the definition of a local favorite. The pizza here hits that perfect spot between old-school and artisan: they do both hand-tossed round pizzas and Detroit-style deep dish, each with a satisfying balance of chewy dough, tangy sauce, and generous cheese. Regulars swear by specialty pies like the “Perry Special” loaded with pepperoni, mushrooms, green pepper and ham, but even a classic pepperoni or veggie will have you smiling. One item not to miss is their famous cheese bread, incredibly addictive and cited by some as the best in the area (it’s the perfect complement to a pizza night). Beyond pizza, the menu covers all the pizzeria staples: oven-baked subs, wings, pasta dinners, and fresh salads. It’s mostly carryout and delivery, though there are a few stools inside if you want to grab a quick slice on the go. The folks at Perry’s are always friendly and often know customers by name, it’s that kind of place. With affordable prices and consistently great taste, Perry’s Pizza is a comforting go-to whether you’re feeding a hungry family on Friday night or just craving a slice of nostalgia. After all, there’s something incredibly reassuring about a hometown pizza joint that’s kept the love (and cheese) flowing for decades.
Red & The Wolf
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-1am) | Sun (11am-10pm)
110 E 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (248) 439-9653
Website: Red & The Wolf
One of the newest arrivals in town, Red & The Wolf is already making waves with its “elevated Midwest” cuisine and creative spirit. Opened in late 2025 by a husband-and-wife team (including a Free Press “Chef of the Year” winner), this kitchen + bar reimagines comfort food with global influences. The menu is delightfully eclectic, you might find Peruvian chicken pizza next to Szechuan hot chicken bao buns, with a side of smoked ribeye chili. Somehow, it all works, and it’s earning Red & The Wolf a reputation for bold, exciting flavors. Importantly, they also cater to plant-based diners with a large selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, so everyone can enjoy something. The restaurant took over a historic downtown space (the former Zeoli’s Italian) and gave it a stylish refresh, creating a warm setting with exposed brick, ambient lighting, and a long bar perfect for sampling a craft beer flight or a Michigan cherry bourbon cocktail. Despite the finesse in the food, the vibe here is welcoming and unpretentious, it still feels like a neighborhood spot, just a bit more adventurous than the norm. The owners have deep local roots and are often on-site mingling with guests, which reinforces that community feel. With late-night hours on weekends and live music or special events in the works, Red & The Wolf has quickly become a must-visit for foodies curious to taste what’s new in Clawson. It’s exciting to see a local place push culinary boundaries while keeping a Midwest soul.
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Clawson’s restaurant scene is a testament to this little city’s big heart. From sizzling steaks and smoky barbecue to sushi, tacos, and everything in between, these twelve spots showcase the flavors and friendliness that make Clawson such a special place to dine. The next time you’re exploring Oakland County or looking for a family dinner spot, consider stopping by “The Little City with a Big Appetite”, you might just find your new favorite eatery on this list.
As lifelong locals will tell you, Clawson isn’t just a great place to eat; it’s a great place to live. If you’re curious about the community or thinking of making a move to the area, don’t hesitate to reach out for local expert advice. We’re passionate about our hometown and love sharing insider tips, whether it’s the best parks, schools, or a recommendation for dessert after that comfort-food feast. Enjoy your Clawson culinary adventures, and remember, a true Michigander knows that the best conversations (and connections) often start over a good meal. Bon appétit, and see you around the neighborhood!
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