When it comes to great restaurants in Michigan, size doesn’t always come into play. After all, some of the most wonderful eateries in the Great Lakes State are tucked away within decidedly compact buildings – and the flavors they serve are enormously delicious. When you’re ready to check out some of the best tiny restaurants in Michigan, check out our seven favorite selections.
- Kate’s Kitchen
Google Maps
Google Reviews/Al Poe Located just steps from the Huron River in the town of Flat Rock, Kate’s Kitchen is a dream for those craving classic diner fare and wonderful baked goods. Kate’s features an unassuming atmosphere and a cozy in-house dining space where you’ll enjoy everything from omelettes to hearty sandwiches to homemade pie. No matter what you order, you’ll quickly feel at home here. Kate’s Kitchen, 26558 W Huron River Dr, Flat Rock, MI 48134, USA
- The Whitehouse Restaurant
Google Reviews/Cassie Wilson
Google Reviews/Jason Pulaski Since 1935, this tiny spot in Clare has drawn in locals and out-of-towners alike with its friendly service, timeless vibe, and – of course – mouthwatering burgers. Whether you drop by for a lunch date or snag a few delicious burgers for the road, it’s almost impossible to go wrong at this charming spot. Round out your burger order with a side of piping hot fries or onion rings – does it get much tastier? The Whitehouse Restaurant, 613 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617, USA
- Laura’s Little Burger Joint
Google Reviews/David Reifsnyder
Google Reviews/David Frieben While we’re on the topic of burgers, we’d be remiss not to mention Laura’s Little Burger Joint in Decatur. This compact roadside gem offers a no-frills dining experience that will keep you coming back time and time again. Laura’s burgers are fresh, sizable, and prepared right on-site, so you can count on a fantastically hearty meal when you stop by. Is your mouth watering yet? Laura’s Little Burger Joint, 47141 M-51, Decatur, MI 49045, USA
- Taqueria El Rey
Google Reviews/Erna LaBeau
Google Reviews/Ovidio Aldana When hunger strikes, it’s tough to beat the taste of tacos. Mexicantown in Detroit is home to plenty of fantastic and authentic eateries, but we’re particularly keen on Taqueria El Rey. This small eatery along Vernor Highway is known for its unassuming atmosphere and delectable grilled chicken – not to mention its perfectly crafted tacos. The eatery is cash-only, so don’t forget your wallet when you step inside. Taqueria El Rey, 4730 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209, USA
- The Chuckwagon
Google Reviews/Samantha Zizzo
Google Reviews/Jay Sorta The next time you find yourself on Mackinac Island, set aside time to visit The Chuckwagon. This tiny restaurant is a favorite on Michigan’s beloved car-free island, having served hungry visitors for six decades. When you stop by, you’ll appreciate a Western cowboy theme and some of the tastiest breakfast and lunch fare imaginable. From burgers to french toast, there’s something for everyone. The Chuckwagon, 7400 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
- Spanglish
Google Reviews/Stephen Girton
Google Reviews/Shannon Hutchinson If you’re looking for a colorful and vibrant place to dine, look no further than Spanglish. This Traverse City locale is small but truly mighty, featuring a vividly decorated interior and Mexican cuisine that will knock your socks off. There’s plenty to select from, though the tamales are an undeniable show-stealer at Spanglish. You’ll be counting down the days until your next visit as soon as you take that first bite. Spanglish, 1333 Yellow Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684, USA
- Fatzo’s Pizza
Google Reviews/Allayna Moore
Facebook/Fatzo’s Pizza Craving pizza? You don’t have to visit a massive pizzeria to find the perfect slice. Make your way to the city of Rockford and snag some flavorful fare from Fatzo’s Pizza, which sits within a small yellow building and offers a sense of timeless charm. Specialty pizzas are the name of the game here, but you can also dig into subs, unique breadsticks, pasta, burritos, salads, and more. Fatzo’s Pizza, 346 E Main St, Rockford, MI 49341, USA
Did any of your favorite tiny restaurants in Michigan make our list? Are there other small spots that should have been included? We always love to hear from our readers, so share your thoughts in the Facebook comments or make an official recommendation for future articles by filling out our nomination form here.
Google Maps
Google Reviews/Al Poe
Located just steps from the Huron River in the town of Flat Rock, Kate’s Kitchen is a dream for those craving classic diner fare and wonderful baked goods. Kate’s features an unassuming atmosphere and a cozy in-house dining space where you’ll enjoy everything from omelettes to hearty sandwiches to homemade pie. No matter what you order, you’ll quickly feel at home here.
Kate’s Kitchen, 26558 W Huron River Dr, Flat Rock, MI 48134, USA
Google Reviews/Cassie Wilson
Google Reviews/Jason Pulaski
Since 1935, this tiny spot in Clare has drawn in locals and out-of-towners alike with its friendly service, timeless vibe, and – of course – mouthwatering burgers. Whether you drop by for a lunch date or snag a few delicious burgers for the road, it’s almost impossible to go wrong at this charming spot. Round out your burger order with a side of piping hot fries or onion rings – does it get much tastier?
The Whitehouse Restaurant, 613 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617, USA
Google Reviews/David Reifsnyder
Google Reviews/David Frieben
While we’re on the topic of burgers, we’d be remiss not to mention Laura’s Little Burger Joint in Decatur. This compact roadside gem offers a no-frills dining experience that will keep you coming back time and time again. Laura’s burgers are fresh, sizable, and prepared right on-site, so you can count on a fantastically hearty meal when you stop by. Is your mouth watering yet?
Laura’s Little Burger Joint, 47141 M-51, Decatur, MI 49045, USA
Google Reviews/Erna LaBeau
Google Reviews/Ovidio Aldana
When hunger strikes, it’s tough to beat the taste of tacos. Mexicantown in Detroit is home to plenty of fantastic and authentic eateries, but we’re particularly keen on Taqueria El Rey. This small eatery along Vernor Highway is known for its unassuming atmosphere and delectable grilled chicken – not to mention its perfectly crafted tacos. The eatery is cash-only, so don’t forget your wallet when you step inside.
Taqueria El Rey, 4730 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209, USA
Google Reviews/Samantha Zizzo
Google Reviews/Jay Sorta
The next time you find yourself on Mackinac Island, set aside time to visit The Chuckwagon. This tiny restaurant is a favorite on Michigan’s beloved car-free island, having served hungry visitors for six decades. When you stop by, you’ll appreciate a Western cowboy theme and some of the tastiest breakfast and lunch fare imaginable. From burgers to french toast, there’s something for everyone.
The Chuckwagon, 7400 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
Google Reviews/Stephen Girton
Google Reviews/Shannon Hutchinson
If you’re looking for a colorful and vibrant place to dine, look no further than Spanglish. This Traverse City locale is small but truly mighty, featuring a vividly decorated interior and Mexican cuisine that will knock your socks off. There’s plenty to select from, though the tamales are an undeniable show-stealer at Spanglish. You’ll be counting down the days until your next visit as soon as you take that first bite.
Spanglish, 1333 Yellow Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684, USA
Google Reviews/Allayna Moore
Facebook/Fatzo’s Pizza
Craving pizza? You don’t have to visit a massive pizzeria to find the perfect slice. Make your way to the city of Rockford and snag some flavorful fare from Fatzo’s Pizza, which sits within a small yellow building and offers a sense of timeless charm. Specialty pizzas are the name of the game here, but you can also dig into subs, unique breadsticks, pasta, burritos, salads, and more.
Fatzo’s Pizza, 346 E Main St, Rockford, MI 49341, USA
Still feeling hungry? You might want to read about this hole-in-the-wall deli in Michigan.
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