60+ Top Metro Detroit Restaurants for Business

(Updated February 2013)
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Restaurants are among the most difficult businesses to operate. In addition to creating, ordering, preparing, and serving memorable meals day in and day out, multiple tasks must be overseen and dealt with at a moment’s notice.

What’s more, consider the unpredictable nature of health inspectors, food critics, state and local regulators, suppliers, and distributors. A restaurant that operates on all cylinders is a rarity to behold. That’s one reason we strived to select 60 business-friendly restaurants in metro Detroit and Windsor where an executive or manager could feel confident hosting an important meeting, entertaining a client, or interviewing a top recruit.

Our criteria was straightforward. We selected restaurants that offer an environment conducive to a business luncheon or dinner amid a refined setting complemented by memorable cuisine. Most of the restaurants listed on the following pages offer private space where a confidential meeting or presentation can be conducted.

The list was put together with the entire region in mind, so while there are many fine eateries in Birmingham, Troy, and Ann Arbor, we didn’t select every establishment.

Rather, the list was formulated to assist, say, a businessperson in Grosse Pointe who is seeking a distinguished venue in Novi to host a private dinner for a group of Asian-based auto suppliers. Among the options are a top-notch sushi restaurant, an edgy bistro, an offering of northern Italian cuisine, or well-prepared steak and seafood.

We also provided a brief description of each of the restaurants. For ease of access, the eateries are alphabetized by the city in which they operate. In some cases, a restaurant chain may have multiple facilities, but for the purpose of serving businesspeople seeking fine dining options across the metro area, not all of the locations were included.

Other pertinent restaurant information includes the availability of valet service, Wi-Fi access, private room capacity, address, contact information, and meal availability. In turn, the reviews are anonymous and were compiled by our editorial team. DBusiness paid for all expenses, and advertising had no bearing on the final selections.

In addition, we asked restaurant critic and wine writer Christopher Cook to review the wine lists at each of the establishments. Cook has been the beneficiary of numerous awards for his writings and criticisms, both here and across the country, spanning more than two decades (he serves as the restaurant critic for our sister publication, Hour Detroit).

His reviews on the following pages span three criteria — price, variety, and originality. Each category was rated using a 20-point scale, with 20 representing excellence. An overall score (five being the highest) was compiled and listed, as well. He also provides commentary about each of the wine lists (pricing was judged by the bottle and by the glass).

And given the smoking ban in Michigan, we added a list of cigar bars in the region where patrons can enjoy a premium Davidoff or Montecristo with a glass of wine or spirit (the new law doesn’t allow for cigarette smoking in cigar venues).

We hope you find the listings a valuable resource. Bon appétit!

Listing of Metro Detroit Cigar Bars / Click Here


KEY:  $ = Average Price of Dinner Entrees

WINE REVIEWS: Each wine list is evaluated on three categories: Price, Variety, and Originality. Each category was scored 1-20 points

20 points = outstanding; 15 points = solid; 10 points = decent; 5 points = poor

OVERALL: Wine lists were rated overall on a 1-5 scale.  5 = excellent ; 4 = good;  3 = average; 1= poor

Ann Arbor

1. The Chop House

An elegant steakhouse destination featuring grain-fed beef like filet mignon — a great spot before or after a U-M football game.  322 Main St., Ann Arbor, 888-456-3463, D Mon.-Sun. $26, Meeting Room Capacity: 40, WIFI. Wine Review: Heavy on big prices and ripe reds: Penfolds Grange, Harlan Estate. But a well-priced second list. Price: 16, Variety: 14, Originality: 12, Overall: 4

2. Paesano’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

A cozy atmosphere featuring rustic Italian dishes with an emphasis on regional preparations.  3411 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor, 734-971-0484, L&D Daily, $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 65, WIFI. Wine Review: Not a long list, but Italian gems that nobody else has. Excellent. Price: 17, Variety, 16; Originality: 17, Overall: 4+

3. Zingerman’s Roadhouse

A down-to-earth setting, Zingerman’s serves fresh regional American foods. Entrees include roasted semi-boneless cornish chicken. 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor, 734-663-3663, L&D Daily, $26, Meeting Room Capacity: 120, WIFI. Wine Review: Super regional American food, but lacks on regional American wine. Heavy on California. Price: 17, Variety: 10, Originality: 16, Overall: 3.5

Auburn Hills

4. Bluewater Bistro

A quaint, American eatery with creative dishes and an outdoor patio. Formerly named Bistro Bordeaux. 3315 Auburn Rd., Auburn Hills, 248-852-3410, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat., $16.50, Meeting Room Capacity: 60.   Wine Review: Short list, Lacks imagination, but decent prices. Price: 18, Variety: 8, Originality, 8, Overall: 2

5. Lelli’s

This intimate Italian restaurant is known for its filet mignon with zip sauce. Originally located in Detroit. 885 Opdyke Rd., Auburn Hills, 248-373-4440, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $30  Meeting Room Capacity: 70. Wine Review: Poor selection. High prices. Short list. Commonly available. Doesn’t even list vintages! Price: 10, Variety: 5, Originality, 3, Overall: 1

Birmingham

6. Big Rock Chop & Brew House

This Birmingham staple, set in a historic train station, offers an award-winning menu highlighted by unique steak and seafood offerings. 245 S. Eton, Birmingham, 248-647-7774, L&D Mon.-Sat., $22, Meeting Room Capacity: 400, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Extensive California list. Decent Italian. Price: 15, Variety: 17, Originality: 13, Overall: 4

7. Cameron’s Steakhouse

Executive Chef Alex Lucier brings his New York culinary experience — think bone-in ribeye and lamb chops. 115 Willis, Birmingham, 248-723-1700, D Nightly, $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 50, Valet. Wine Review: Covers the usual bases. Lacks much imagination. Pricey. Price: 10, Variety: 10, Originality: 8, Overall: 3

8. Forest Grill

Located in Birmingham’s Triangle District, the culinary team prepares charcuterie and traditional bistro dishes.  753 Forest Ave., Birmingham, 248-258-9400, D Mon.-Sat., $33, Meeting Room Capacity: Multiple Options, Valet. Wine Review: Nicely balanced worldwide wine list, all kinds of small producers. Great prices! Price: 20, Variety: 18, Originality 19, Overall: 5

9. Phoenicia

A unique and refined menu for Middle Eastern cuisine inspired by Old World Beirut. Owner Sameer Eid selects the finest cuts from each morning. 588 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 248-644-3122, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $22, Meeting Room Capacity: NA, WIFI. Wine Review: Variety rules on this moderate-size list that spans the globe and quality. Very good prices. Price: 16, Variety: 15, Originality: 13, Overall: 4

10. Rugby Grille

Tucked inside Birmingham’s Townsend Hotel, The Rugby Grille offers steaks, seafood, and rack of lamb. 100 Townsend St., Birmingham, 248-642-5999, B,L&D Daily, $38, Meeting Room Capacity: Multiple Options, Valet, WIFI, Wine Review: One of the best, long by the glass lists. Well-rounded international bottle list. A little pricey. Price: 12, Variety: 16, Originality: 17, Overall: 4.5

Bloomfield Hills

11. Andiamo Italia West

Popular year round, the Italian eatery offers a range of traditional dishes like ravioli and lasagna. 6676 Telegraph, Bloomfield Hills, 248-865-9300, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat. & Sun., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 130, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Basic wine list of Italian and U.S. “Reserve” list with gems like Solaia and Tignanello. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 12, Overall: 3

12. Northern Lakes Seafood Co.

A Matt Prentice restaurant featuring fresh seafood dishes highlighted by an array of shellfish. 39495 N. Woodward, Bloomfield Hills, 248-646-7900, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $22, Meeting Room Capacity: 30, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Dense list with new and old world gem after gem. Few lists boast this variety, plus low prices. Price: 20, Variety: 17, Originality: 18, Overall: 5

Canton

13. Antonio’s

Family recipes featuring authentic Italian cuisine like linguine primavera that truly reflects the old country. 2220 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton, 734-981-9800, L&D Daily, $14, Meeting Room Capacity: 160. Wine Review: Short list, not much variety or originality. Prices are good. Doesn’t list vintages! Price: 16, Variety: 7, Originality: 3, Overall: 2

Clinton Township

14. The Brewery Restaurant

A casual American restaurant featuring upscale, world-class cuisine including steak, chops, lake perch, frog legs, and tilapia. 39950 Hayes, Clinton Township, 586-286-3020, D Daily, $19, Meeting Room Capacity: 75. Wine Review: Short, well done, spans the globe with a handful of unusuals. Good pricing. Price: 18, Variety: 10, Originality 14, Overall: 3.5
Dearborn

15. Andiamo Dearborn

The Italian eatery offers a range of traditional dishes such as ravioli alla aldo and filetto di manzo. 21400 Michigan, Dearborn, 313-359-3300, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $24, Meeting Room Capacity 250, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Basic wine list of Italian and U.S. “Reserve” list with gems like Solaia and Tignanello. Has an additional list. Much more wide ranging and pricier. Price: 10, Variety: 17, Originality: 12, Overall: 3+
Detroit

16. Andiamo Riverfront

Located on the Detroit River in the Renaissance Center, this scenic eatery offers authentic Italian dishes, and numerous special events. 400 GM Renaissance Center, Detroit, 313-567-6700, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat. & Sun., $25, Meeting Room Capacity: 100, Valet, WIFI, Wine Review: Basic wine list of Italian plus U.S. “Reserve” list with gems like Solaia and Tignanello. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 12, Overall: 3

17. Coach Insignia

As the second highest restaurant in the United States, Coach Insignia offers panoramic views of Detroit and Windsor. 71st & 72nd floors, Renaissance Center, Detroit, 313-567-2622, D Mon.-Sat., $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 120, WIFI. Wine Review: Fabulous all around list from Sommelier Madeline Triffon, who sets THE gold standard. Price: 18, Variety: 20, Originality 20, Overall: 5

18. Cuisine

Set in New Center, this quaint French-American restaurant is located inside a residential manor.  670 Lothrop, Detroit, 313-872-5110, L Wed.-Fri. D Tue.-Sun., $25, Meeting Room Capacity: 200, WIFI. Wine Review: Brief list with much care, several gems and good prices. Price: 18, Variety: 20, Originality 20, Overall: 5

19. Giovanni’s Ristorante

Recipient of the 2001 DiRoNA award for being among the best restaurants in North America, Giovanni’s is a cozy Italian eatery. 330 S. Oakwood, Detroit, 313-841-0122, L&D Tue.-Fri. D Sat., $25, Meeting Room Capacity: 25, Valet. Wine Review: Solid for traditional Italian wines of all regions, balance well with its traditional menu. Price: 15, Variety: 14, Originality: 13, Overall: 4

20. Iridescence

Located atop of the stylish MotorCity Casino Hotel, Iridescence is a AAA Four Diamond rated restaurant that offers spectacular views of Detroit. 2901 Grand River, Detroit, 313-237-6732, D Tue.-Sun., $32, Meeting Room Capacity: 45, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Long list, low prices. Many to-be-expected wines and a few diamonds if you hunt. Price: 20, Variety: 15, Originality: 15, Overall: 4

21. Mosaic

Located in Detroit’s Greektown, Mosaic offers salmon tosca, cowboy steak, and roasted lemon chicken. 501 Monroe, Detroit, 313-962-9366, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Saturday, $21, Meeting Room Capacity: 30; Valet. Wine Review: Yawn! List plays it safe. All the usual suspects and high prices. Lacks imagination. Price: 10, Variety: 5, Originality: 5, Overall:

22. Roast

Tucked inside the refurbished Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, Roast offers roast beast of the day and bacon wrapped trout. 1128 Washington Blvd., Detroit, 313-961-2500, D Mon.-Sun., $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 56, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Astounding eclectic global list: Peter Franus Zin, all of Wyncroft’s wines, and Chateau Montus (southwest France). Stunning. Price: 16, Variety: 19, Originality: 19, Overall: 5

23. The Whitney

Detroit’s most iconic mansion, retains all of its charm and refinement while appealing to contemporary tastes with a more comfortable and welcome environment. 4421 Woodward Ave, 313-832-5700, D nightly Mon.-Sun., $35, Meeting Room Capacity: 400. WIFI

Farmington Hills

24. Café Cortina

This Farmington Hills restaurant may be the “best kept secret” in metro Detroit. With a garden that provides arugula, basil, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes for the Northern Italian cuisine. 30715 W. 10 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills, 248-474-3033, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat., $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 200,  Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Carefully selected, fairly extensive Italian-centric. A few price gems. Price: 18, Variety: 14, Originality: 14, Overall: 4

25. Hong Hua

With more than 80 years of combined experience, the chefs at Hong Hua offer guests authentic Chinese cuisine like Peking duck in an upscale setting.   27925 Orchard Lake Rd., Farmington Hills, 248-489-2280, L&D Daily, $13, Meeting Room Capacity: 200. Wine Review: Chinese food with a good wine list and low prices? Yes. Château Pesquie Rhone and Morgan Chardonnay. Price: 20, Variety: 10, Originality: 10, Overall: 3.5

Grosse Pointe Farms

26. The Hill Restaurant

The award-winning restaurant offers classic American fare prepared with premium ingredients, including numerous meat and seafood choices. 123 Kercheval, Grosse Pointe Farms, 313-886-8101, L Mon.-Fri. D Mon.-Sat., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 60, Valet. Wine Review: Small list with a handful of rarities and gems. Good prices. Price: 18, Variety: 16, Originality: 15, Overall: 4

Grosse Pointe Woods

27. Bucci Ristorante

The open-kitchen concept melds well with an appetizing, mostly Italian, presentation. 20217 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods, 313-882-1044, D Tue.-Sun., $18, Meeting Room Capacity: 20, WIFI. Wine Review: Not very long but loaded with originals, average prices. Price: 16, Variety: 17, Originality 17, Overall: 4

28. Da Edoardo

Family-owned by the Barbieri family for over over 25 years, Da Edoardo offers rich Italian cuisine like fettuccine alfredo. 19767 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods, 313-881-8540, D Daily, $20, Meeting Room Capacity: 40. Wine Review: Mostly Italian. Prices lead the way here, fabulous, but not much variety. Price: 20, Variety: 10, Originality: 8, Overall: 3

Keego Harbor

29. Jeremy

Jeremy delights the taste buds with contemporary American fare. 1978 Cass Lake Rd., Keego Harbor, 248-681-2124, D Tue.-Sun., $22, Meeting Room Capacity: 100, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Good list. Well organized. Takes you through world regions with small, smart selection from each. Price: 14, Variety: 16, Originality: 14, Overall: 3.5

Livonia

30. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse

An ideal setting to entertain clients, the restaurant offers award winning steak and seafood. 17400 Haggerty, Livonia, 734-542-9463, D Nightly, $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 60, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: By-the-glass list is long and varied. Bottle list is weak other than a couple of gems. Price: 10, Variety: 5, Originality: 4, Overall: 2.5

 

Novi

31. Gengi Japanese Steakhouse

A unique Asian setting filled with moveable teppanyaki tables where diners or a chef can prepare a certain style of Japanese cuisine on a flat, inset stainless steel grill, while being surrounded with scenes from a Japanese village on the surrounding video walls. 27145 S. Karevich Dr., Novi, L&D Daily, $35, Meeting Room Capacity: Multiple Options

32. Godaiko

The restaurant fuses upscale Asian dining with a spacious and open atmosphere. 44175 W. 12 Mile Rd., 248-465-7777, L&D Daily, $20, Meeting Room Capacity: 20. Wine Review: Hard to believe this extensive list is at a Japanese-Asian fusion restaurant. Price: 18, Variety: 20, Originality: 15, Overall: 3.5

33. No. VI Chop House & Lobster Bar

Serving prime steaks and seafood in an elegant setting, this Novi establishment is known for its live Maine lobster. 27000 Sheraton Dr., Novi, 248-305-5210, D Daily, $26, Meeting Room Capacity: 50, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Extensive wine list with a good line up of big reds from Italy and California. Eclectic white also. Price: 18, Variety: 16, Originality: 17, Overall: 5

34. Steve & Rocky’s

Opentable.com’s Diner’s Choice Winner for 2009, chefs Steve Allen and Chuck “Rocky” Rachwitz offer local American fare favorites. 43150 Grand River, Novi, 248-374-0688, L Mon.-Sat. D Daily, $20, Meeting Room Capacity: Multiple Options, WIFI. Wine Review: Low pricing (most range $20-$50) drives this list. Better than average selections selection. Price: 16, Variety: 12, Originality: 18, Overall: 4

35. Toasted Oak Grill & Market

Located in the newly renovated Baronette Renaissance Hotel next to Twelve Oaks Mall, the upbeat restaurant offers an array of steak and seafood. 27790 Novi Rd., Novi, 248-277-6000, B&L Mon.-Sat. D Mon.-Thurs., $19, Meeting Room Capacity: 25.Wine Review: Retail price plus $7 get you a bottle in the restaurant. High marks for imagination. Well-rounded list. Price: 20, Variety: 15, Originality: 20, Overall: 5

Plymouth

36. La Bistecca Italian Grille

The Grille offers pollo picatta and an array of steak and seafood.  39405 Plymouth Rd., Plymouth, 734-254-0400, L Mon.-Fri. D Mon-Sat., $23, Meeting Room Capacity: 30, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Heavy Italian food. Heavy wines. List is split about 50-50 Italian and California. Many fruit bombs. Price: 17, Variety: 15, Originality: 12, Overall: 4

 

Rochester

37. Brookshire at The Royal Park Hotel

Brookshire features an extensive menu highlighted by steak and seafood. 600 E. University, Rochester, 248-453-8732, BL&D Mon.-Sat., $36, Meeting Room Capacity: 118, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Extensive list. Not much originality. Australian selection is best. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 10, Overall: 2

38. Rochester Chop House

The Kruse and Muer restaurant offers great, affordable steaks, chops, and seafood 306 Main St., Rochester, 248-651-2266, L&D Mon.-Sat. D Sun., $21, Meeting Room Capacity: 50, Valet. Wine Review: Round up the usual high-end suspects, make the list long, charge a lot. Lacks imagination. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 8, Overall: 2

Rochester Hills

39. Mitchell’s Fish Market

Fish so fresh, the menu is printed twice daily. The Rochester Hills location of the franchise. 370 N. Adams Rd., Rochester Hills, 248-340-5900, L&D Daily, Brunch Sun., $21, Meeting Room Capacity: 32, Valet. Wine Review: A couple of gems (white and red) do exist in an otherwise rather pedestrian list. Average prices. Price: 10, Variety: 8, Originality: 7, Overall: 2

Romulus

40. Dema

Located inside The Westin at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Dema offers a modern setting with an Asian flair. 2501 Worldgateway Place, Detroit, 734-229-6782, B, L&D Mon.-Sun., $13, Meeting Room Capacity: 10; Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Passable, disappointing for such a good hotel chain. Price: 10, Variety: 4, Originality: 5, Overall: 2

Roseville

41. Mr. Paul’s Chophouse

The family operated restaurant offers exceptional steak and seafood in a club-like setting. 29850 Groesbeck Hwy., Roseville, 586-777-7770, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: NA, Valet. Wine Review: Hang onto your wallet. Almost nothing under $50. Of 40 plus wines listed, nine are $100-$300 a bottle. And a poor selection. Price: 5, Variety: 2, Originality: 1, Overall: 1

 

Royal Oak

42. Andiamo Royal Oak

Quaint and memorable, this popular local franchise features authentic Italian cuisine like tortellini alla crema. 129 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 248-582-9300, L&D Mon.-Wed. D Sat.-Sun., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: NA, WIFI. Wine Review: Basic wine list of Italian plus U.S. “Reserve” list with gems like Solaia and Tignanello. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 12, Overall: 3

Southfield

43. Bacco Ristorante

Classic Italian cuisine meets contemporary ambiance. The restaurant boasts an impressive selection of authentic dishes. 29410 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield, 248-356-6600, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 70, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Deep, huge, best Italian list around. Yes, has rarities like Masseto and Sassicaia! Price: 19, Variety: 18, Originality: 20, Overall: 5

Sterling Heights

44. Andiamo Sterling Heights

A sister location of the popular local franchise, this airy and private location specializes in everything Italian. 14425 Lakeside Circle, Sterling Heights, 586-532-8800, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat.-Sun., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 50, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Basic wine list of Italian plus U.S. “Reserve” list with gems like Solaia and Tignanello. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 12, Overall: 3

Trenton

45. Fratellos

Offers a vast array of Italian dishes alongside the tunes of the babygrand piano. 4501 Fort St., Trenton, 734-692-1730, L&D Daily., $20, Meeting Room Capacity: 60

Troy

46. The Capital Grille

Located at Somerset North in Troy, the Capital Grill offers prime steaks and seafood. 2800 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 248-649-5300, L Mon.-Sat. D Daily, $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 60, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Most prices are high. Selection is pro forma. Price: 5, Variety: 10, Originality: 8, Overall: 2

47. Mon Jin Lau

Offers Asian cuisine, a lengthy sushi list, and a lively atmosphere.   1515 E. Maple, Troy, 248-689-2332, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $12, Meeting Room Capacity: 60, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: All the great wine names worldwide are here. Not a huge list, but excellent variety and prices. Price: 18, Variety: 19, Originality: 20, Overall: 5

48. Morton’s Steakhouse

Offers an intimate setting of lush wood tones and unique caricatures. 888 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 248-404-9845, L&D Daily, $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 88, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: The Italian red list is outstanding. The rest of the selections are rather mundane. Expensive! Price: 10, Variety: 12, Originality: 7, Overall: 3

49. Ocean Prime

A contemporary version of an American supper club. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, 248-458-0500, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $38, Meeting Room Capacity: 60, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Better than average selection. Good emphasis on white and light reds. Price: 14, Variety: 16, Originality: 13, Overall: 3

50. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

With more than 40 years of rich history, Ruth’s Chris boasts an extensive offering of steak and seafood. 755 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 248-269-8424, D Daily, $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 60, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Huge list. Good prices. Mostly routine and costly wines. Where imagination lack, it makes it up in volume. Price: 19, Variety: 16, Originality: 8, Overall: 3.5

51. Tre Monti

A seemingly private Italian restaurant along Big Beaver, the restaurant offers a warm, casual décor. 1695 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 248-680-1100, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat.-Sun., $20, Meeting Room Capacity: 150, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Stick to the Italian
list. Skip the American. Pricey. Doesn’t list vintages! Price: 10, Variety: 8, Originality: 8, Overall: 2

Utica

52. Filippa’s Wine Barrel

A tradition in dining excellence for more than 30 years, Filippa’s offers quality steaks, seafood, and ribs. 45125 Mound Rd., Utica, 586-254-1311, L&D Daily, $18, Meeting Room Capacity: 120. Wine Review: Weak list for a place that uses “wine” in its name. Price: 10, Variety: 2, Originality: 1, Overall: 1

Warren

53. Andiamo Warren

The flagship location of a bustling Italian franchise. 7096 E. 14 Mile, Warren, 586-268-3200, L&D Mon.-Fri. D Sat.-Sun., $24, Meeting Room Capacity: 750, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Basic wine list of Italian plus U.S. “Reserve” list with gems like Solaia and Tignanello. Price: 15, Variety: 10, Originality: 12, Overall: 3

West Bloomfield

54. The Lark

A European-style country inn with dining room windows that shed light on the garden grown herbs, vegetables, and fruit that make up the French cooking techniques. 6430 Farmington Rd., West Bloomfield, 248-661-4466, D Tues.-Sat., $30, Meeting Room Capacity: 50, Valet, WiFI

Windsor

55. La Zingara Pizzeria Trattoria

Contemporary dining with a rustic Italian flare. Sisters Pina and Toni Maceroni moved to Windsor’s “Little Italy” to offer authentic cuisine. 769 Erie St. East, Windsor, 519-258-7555, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $18, Meeting Room Capacity: 45, Valet, WIFI. Wine Review: Rather ordinary list with only a couple of standouts. Price: 10, Variety: 11, Originality: 7, Overall: 2

56. Mancuso’s Trattoria

A casual, home-style trattoria offering a simplistic approach to fine Italian dining. 555 Erie St. East, Windsor, 519-254-6213, L Tue.-Fri. D Tue.-Sun., $14, Meeting Room Capacity: 70, WIFI. Wine Review: Mundane selection, other than Colio, a local winery known for whites. Price: 8, Variety: 5, Originality: 3, Overall: 1

Wixom

57. Volare Ristorante

Features refined dishes of authentic Italian cuisine. Seafood is delivered overnight. 49115 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, 248-960-7771, L Mon.-Fri. D Daily, $20, Meeting Room Capacity: 100, Valet, WiFI. Wine Review: Fairly standard Italian-dominated list. Some bargains, but also some high prices. Price: 15, Variety: 9, Originality: 16, Overall: 3

Wyandotte

58. Portofino

A  landmark for 30 years, the restaurant features authentic Italian cuisine and seafood. 3455 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte, 734-281-6700, L&D Daily, $18, Meeting Room Capacity: 200.  Wine Review: Wide ranging list — Austria, Spain, South Africa, French Jura whites, and Calabrian red (Italy). Price: 17, Variety: 16, Originality: 12, Overall: 3.5