Where to eat when you're tired of dining hall chicken and just need a good meal
Ann Arbor is packed with amazing food, and you’re definitely going to find your favorites, but figuring out where to go (and when to splurge) can take some time. That’s where this guide comes in.
I’ve broken things down into a few categories to make it easy, whether you're going out with your parents, meeting up with friends, or just need something quick between classes. From fancier sit-down spots to casual go-tos and late-night bites, this section covers all the essentials, plus a few underrated gems.
You’ll find places that are great for birthdays, date nights, takeout cravings, and yes, even those “I just need fries and a Diet Coke” moments. These are the spots I’ve loved (and returned to way too many times), and I hope they become part of your routine, too.
Come hungry! Let’s dig in.
Pricier (maybe a good parents weekend spot)
On Campus
Savas - "blends American classics with global cuisines"
Knights - Steakhouse
Downtown Ann Arbor
Mani - Italian
Miss Kim - Korean
Azalea - Korean/Japanese
Palio - Italian
Aventura - Tapas
Off campus
Webers - Steakhouse
Bigalora - Italian
Gandy Dancer - Seafood/steak/pasta
More Chill Vibe
On Campus
Pizza House - Italian (but kind of has everything)
Rich JC - BEST KOREAN FOOD IN THE WORLD!!! GET THE DOLSOT BULGOGI
Totoro - Sushi/Japanese
Mama Satto - Sushi/Japanese
Hola Seoul - Korean
Zingermans - sandwiches
Hopcat - Bar food
Lan City Noodle - Asian
No Thai - Thai
Amers - Deli
Downtown Ann Arbor
Pretzel Bell - Bar food
Jerusalem Garden - Middle Eastern
Taq - Mexican
Chapala - Mexican
The Hen - Breakfast/brunch/lunch
Fleetwood Diner - Breakfast (open 24 hours)
Frita Batidos - Cuban
Blue Tractor - BBQ
Jagged Fork - Breakfast/brunch/lunch
Off Campus
Anna's House - Breakfast/brunch/lunch
Ichiban - Hibachi!!
Grab & Go
On Campus
Bo's Bagels - Bagels & bagel sandwiches
Poke Poke - Poke
Bodega Bros - Sandwiches, salads, smoothies, etc.
Joe's Pizza - Pizza
M36 - Coffee & cafe food
Misfit - Coffee & cafe food
Sweetgreen - Salad
Downtown Ann Arbor
Blimpy Burger - Burger
Off Campus
Poke Fish - Poke bowls & cooked hibachi bowls
Biercamp - BBQ,, Brats