Earlier tonight I met up with my old college roommates. It’s always so good seeing them and being able to have some time to catch up. We try to do a dinner at least once a month and when we do it’s typically in the Royal Oak area, good middle ground for all of us. We are always looking to try new spots but normally end up at one of our favorites. Tonight that spot was Bigalora. Considering I’m going to be putting on a swimsuit in just under a month for vacation and I gave up alcohol for lent; this dinner included less carbs and booze than our usual get togethers but was just as much fun.
Whether it is my monthly dinner with some of my closest friends or a date night, I love hearing about a new restaurant, new to the area or just new to me. In case you’re heading to Royal Oak for dinner anytime soon I thought I would share with you some of my favorites.
Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina
Bigalora – Every time I leave here I tell myself I don’t come often enough. They have Italian inspired food known for there brick oven pizzas but have a variety of different Italian dishes to choose from. I haven’t tried anything I don’t like yet! Oh and if you go on Tuesday you get 50% of all bottles of wine
Vinsetta Garage
Vinsetta Garage– Technically in Berkley but too good not to include in this list. The atmosphere is great, it’s like walking into an old garage. Variety of different food on the menu, one must have is the Mac& Cheese, whether you have it as a side car or your main dish, I would recommend not leaving until you tried it. Heads up they don’t take reservations and are always super busy, I would go early if possible or just go knowing you’ll have to wait. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse
Kyoto- Known for their sushi and hibachi you won’t leave here disappointed. The hibachi serving size is huge so expect to have enough for lunch the next day. One really cool thing this place does is have pictures of all of their sushi rolls, so you have an idea of what you’re getting yourself into. Am I the only one who gets terrified when they accidentally order a roll where each piece is the size of your face? If you go on Monday they have half off Sushi for dine in customers. Depending on what time you go on Monday there maybe a wait but it moves quick.
Redcoat Tavern
Redcoat– The atmosphere of this place is that of an old English pub which is pretty cool. When you walk in you will forget you are even in Royal Oak. This is another place where everything I’ve tried has been delicious but they are known for there make your own gourmet burgers. Busier restaurant for sure and they don’t take reservations. However they do accept a 30 minute call ahead to get you on the wait list. With that being said don’t leave the house without making that phone call!
Jim Brady's Detroit
Jim Brady’s- Newer restaurant to Royal Oak, I want to say it has been here for about a year now (maybe 2?) and became a fast favorite. American cuisine offering a wide variety of goodies. Women’s restroom is one of the cutest I’ve seen so don’t leave without checking it out! I’m aware of how strange that sounds but trust me once you see it, you’ll understand. Only downside about this place is if you are looking for a good carryout location this isn’t it, as they don’t accept carryout orders over the phone, you have to go in person to place your to go order. I guess good it’s an excuse to get out of the house!
