22 Best Restaurants in Novi, MI
This article was written by local contributor Steven Pearson & edited by the Travel Lens team.
From cozy cafes to upscale dining, there's a little bit of everything to satisfy every palate in Novi, Michigan
With so many options, it's easy to see why Novi is a food lover's paradise.
In this article, I'll be sharing with you my personal favorite dining spots that you simply cannot miss when visiting our lovely city.
So, let's dive into the best restaurants in Novi, Michigan, and indulge in some mouth-watering dishes!
Spicy Slices
I can't believe it took me so long to finally try out Spicy Slices!
This fantastic pizza spot is now one of my all-time favorites in the area.
The Butter Masala pizza blew my mind with its unique and delightful flavor, but honestly, all the pizzas we tried were top-notch.
The atmosphere at Spicy Slices is as amazing as the food itself.
The restaurant is always spotless, and the service is genuinely impressive.
I recommend stopping by Spicy Slices on a Saturday, as we didn't have to wait long at all for our pizza.
They also managed to cook a delicious 16-inch pizza in less than two minutes!
Chopped Olive Modern Mediterranean
Every time I crave Mediterranean food, I don't have to look further than Chopped Olive in the Novi area.
As a frequent visitor, I can't help but rave about their amazing wraps and bowls.
The Chicken Shawarma Bulgur Bowl and the Vegetarian Salad Bowl are some of my all-time favorites, they are so full of flavor and always satisfying.
I love the fact that they offer a contemporary counter-serve experience, which makes it the perfect place for a quick stop for a healthy meal.
The customizable options for wraps and bowls are perfect for those days when I want to try something new and exciting.
The pickled cauliflower and turnips are always a delightful surprise, adding depth of flavor to the whole dish.
Chopped Olive's commitment to quality and taste has me wishing I could have it more often and bring my friends from out of town to enjoy this fantastic, modern Mediterranean cuisine.
In fact, I can't help but agree with the sentiment that they should franchise out because they are just that good.
YORI
The other night, I decided to treat myself to some delicious sushi at YORI, a modern nook offering Korean and Japanese dishes with an easygoing vibe.
I started off with their miso soup, which turned out to be the best I've ever had.
The menu had a great variety to choose from, including a wide range of Korean food options that I made a mental note to try on my future visits.
As a sushi lover, I couldn't resist ordering their salmon roll and salmon nigiri, and I was not disappointed!
The portion size was perfect, and the freshness and quality of the fish truly stood out.
Throughout the meal, the service was consistently amazing.
The fried foods were crisp and perfectly cooked.
Hotaru
Just last week, I had the pleasure of dining at Hotaru, a ramen restaurant located in my hometown of Novi.
I had been hearing great things about it from my friends and decided to give it a try.
After visiting their website to check out the menu and hours, I was excited to try their delicious ramen dishes.
The menu was simple and straightforward, making it easy to decide what I wanted.
I ordered the miso soup and chicken karaage as appetizers, which were both fresh and delicious.
But the star of the show was definitely their ramen.
I decided to go with the Chick chik ramen, and I was blown away by the rich and flavorful broth.
My friends who joined me also raved about their shoyu ramen.
The noodles in all of our dishes were cooked to perfection, and the portion sizes were generous.
We all left feeling satisfied and full.
The service was quick and attentive, and I appreciated the open kitchen layout, which showcased the cleanliness and skill of the chefs.
Ajishin
When I first discovered Ajishin, my taste buds were instantly hooked.
This no-frills Japanese spot has been my go-to place for years.
With its small, cozy dining room, it has become a favorite amongst us locals for the generous cuts of sushi and authentic Japanese dishes.
The food is consistently delicious, and I find myself driving the 40-minute distance just to indulge in a bowl of their mouthwatering noodles and sushi.
The prices have remained quite affordable, with most dishes under $10, making it a great spot for a budget-friendly yet satisfying meal.
One of my favorite dishes is the combo with udon and grilled fish, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful meal.
As for their takeouts, the packaging is meticulous, ensuring that my noodles remain fresh and unsoggy for the trip back home.
The Grand Diner
I can't help but feel nostalgic every time I step into The Grand Diner.
This 1950s-style diner has been my go-to spot for years, and it never disappoints.
The retro space is always vibrant, with fun decor and an upbeat atmosphere that makes me feel right at home.
You can tell they genuinely want to make your dining experience the best it can be.
One of my favorite things about The Grand Diner is their variety of Greek-American dishes.
I can never decide between the Coney Island-style hot dogs or their flavorful gyros.
But no matter what I choose, the portions are always generous and satisfying.
Their breakfast menu is something I can't miss either.
The biscuits and sausage gravy are out-of-this-world delicious.
Plus, their prices are always reasonable, and it doesn't hurt my wallet when I decide to indulge in my favorite dishes.
I've been coming to The Grand Diner since 1999, and it never loses its charm.
No wonder it's loved by both locals and visitors alike.
La Vie Mediterranean Grill
I recently discovered the gem that is La Vie Mediterranean Grill in my neighborhood, and I must say that it has become a favorite spot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The casual setting and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect place for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner with friends.
They truly make you feel welcome, and their genuine warmth adds to the overall dining experience.
Their dedication to providing outstanding service is evident in every aspect of the restaurant.
As for the food, it is simply divine.
The falafel is hands down the best I've ever had, and the chicken shawarma bowl is a symphony of flavors and textures.
I love that they offer an array of fresh and pickled vegetables, which add a lovely tang and crunch to the dishes.
The hummus is top-notch, and the garlic sauce is addictive - I could probably eat it with a spoon!
La Vie Mediterranean Grill is not only a great spot for delicious food but also a fantastic value.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality of the ingredients and the care that goes into preparing each dish.
Whenever I'm in the mood for a taste of the Mediterranean, La Vie is my go-to spot.
Ardiana's Restaurant
I can't believe I've only recently discovered Ardiana's Restaurant, just around the corner from where I live!
This hidden gem is now one of my go-to spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The Greek-American fare they offer is absolutely incredible, with everything freshly made and top-notch quality.
What I love most about Ardiana's is the warm and friendly atmosphere.
One of my favorite dishes is their limoncello pancakes - they are truly amazing!
I have even ordered take-out from Ardiana's when I wasn't feeling well; their beef stroganoff and lemon Avgolemono soup are just the comfort food I need.
The family-owned business has a unique and charming diner-style setup, with beautiful seascape murals lining the walls.
The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable, making it a perfect spot for regular visits.
I can't wait to explore more of their dinner menu.
Benito's Pizza Cafe
Whenever I crave pizza, there's only one place that comes to mind - Benito's Pizza Cafe.
This regional pizzeria chain has never disappointed me with their flavored crusts and a variety of options, from thin crust to deep-dish pizzas.
I absolutely love their cheese bread, which is so good that it sometimes replaces the pizza itself on my table.
Their salads are always packed with fresh ingredients, making them a healthy and delicious choice.
I've also tried their wings, which were tender, falling off the bones, and full of flavor.
The delivery service is always on point, with my orders arriving within an hour, hot and fresh.
Their pasta, soup, and salad options cater to a wide range of tastes, so even my pickiest friends can find something they love.
Price-wise, Benito's is pretty competitive, similar to Papa John's, but with much better quality.
Plus, they have regular specials on their website, which is a nice bonus.
Penn Station East Coast Subs
I recently decided to give Penn Station East Coast Subs a try for the first time, and I have to say, I'm pretty impressed with their food.
I ordered a large Italian and a large chicken cordon bleu toasted sub online and picked them up at the store.
I'm not a huge fan of French fries, but their fries were hot, fresh, and quite addictive.
Their lemonade was also cold and delicious.
Big Tommy's Parthenon & Comedy Club
One of my favorite spots to dine and unwind in the area is Big Tommy's Parthenon & Comedy Club.
It has been my go-to place for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, boasting a generous menu of Greek and American classics.
I absolutely love their flaming cheese and baklava, for starters.
The Morrice salad, while not completely traditional, is incredibly satisfying with the chopped preparation.
My family and I usually order saganaki, skordalia, and sausage as appetizers, and we cannot get enough of their lamb and rice entrees.
Their pasta dishes are also a must-try!
The comedy club aspect of the venue makes it a unique dining experience.
The comedians are consistently entertaining, and the shows provide a much-needed break from the daily grind.
China Cafe
I stumbled upon China Cafe during a rough day, and to my surprise, it turned out to be an absolute gem!
My favorite dish is their Spicy Hawaiian Sweet & Sour Shrimp - not too spicy, but you can ask for extra spice on the side.
The portions are generous, and I always end up sharing with my dining partner and taking some home in their adorable take-out boxes.
The Hong Kong Short Ribs come with a mouthwatering salad and trust me, I'm not usually a fan of salads.
Just be aware that you can't make reservations here, and there can sometimes be a wait time of around 25 minutes or more.
But it's definitely worth the wait!
Fumi Japanese Restaurant
I recently dined at Fumi Japanese Restaurant, and I couldn't help but share my delightful experience there.
To our surprise, the restaurant was more spacious on the inside than it appeared on the outside.
The cozy ambiance made us feel right at home as we enjoyed our meal.
I was thrilled to see a wide variety of options on the menu.
I ordered the yakisoba, which was cooked to perfection and served with a side salad and green tea.
My friends, who are fans of Japanese cuisine, were equally impressed with the authenticity of their dishes.
One thing that stood out was that it wasn't crowded, which added to the relaxing atmosphere.
The diverse menu offered plenty of choices, and we're all eager to go back soon to try out more dishes.
Sizzle It Asian Bistro
I recently dined at Sizzle It Asian Bistro for the first time and was amazed by the food and service.
I opted for the Sizzle It Entrée, which is served on an iron skillet.
The portion size was slightly large for a lunch meal, but that just meant I had tasty leftovers for dinner!
I was surprised by how quickly the food came out!
I tried their signature dish of customizable stir-fry, which is brought to the table sizzling hot and ready to be cooked.
I even had the option to choose brown rice as a healthier alternative!
Not only did I thoroughly enjoy my meal at Sizzle It Asian Bistro, but I was also pleased by the large portions, cleanliness, and excellent service.
Maisano's Italian Restaurant
I've been a regular at Maisano's Italian Restaurant for over a decade now.
Whenever my friends come to town, I make sure to bring them to this hidden gem in Novi.
Nestled in a strip mall, it may not look like much from the outside, but trust me, the food and atmosphere inside are not to be missed.
The restaurant is small and cozy, with tall booths that create an intimate setting for a romantic dinner.
The menu offers a variety of pasta dishes, fish, and other Italian entrees that never disappoint.
One dish I just can't resist is the Tenderloin Tips Gnocchi – it's simply divine!
In all these years, the service has always been excellent.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Ken Ken Sushi (Farmington Hills)
Ever since I discovered Ken Ken Sushi Asian Cuisine, I've been hooked!
I've been to my fair share of sushi restaurants, but Ken Ken Sushi takes the cake by far.
Their salmon dishes are to die for - the Sake-don, salmon dream roll, and torch salmon are my go-to options.
The freshness of the fish and the beautiful presentation makes for an unforgettable dining experience.
The service at Ken Ken Sushi is always top-notch, and I love the little touches they add, like the complimentary fruit dish at the end of the meal.
It's clear that they put a lot of thought and effort into their work, and it makes me feel valued as a customer.
I've been coming here multiple times a week since they opened, and I've never been disappointed.
Not only is the food incredible, but the atmosphere is perfect for any occasion.
One of my favorite parts of the meal is the hot green tea they serve - it's the perfect complement to the sushi.
Next time, I'm excited to try their cold tea!
Recipes Restaurant (Farmington Hills)
One of my favorite places to dine in the city is Recipes Restaurant.
Every time I visit, the customer service is always top-notch – friendly, and efficient.
The food plates always arrive hot, tasty, and full of flavor.
The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
I especially appreciate how they support local artists by displaying their works!
Wait times at Recipes Restaurant are not long at all, even when there is a line – usually, it's just a 15-20 minute wait.
The food is consistently delicious, and I can't get enough of their classic American breakfasts, as well as the Asian and Spanish options they offer.
The decor at Recipes Restaurant is fresh and modern, making it feel upscale, which is a pleasant surprise given the affordable prices.
I remember trying the daily special breakfast, a BBQ pork hash with two eggs and toast, and it was absolutely delightful.
The hash was house-made with smoked pulled pork, and it was incredibly tasty.
My partner had a club sandwich that came with fries and pickle spears as part of the price, which is pretty rare these days.
Upscale Cuisine (Farmington Hills)
I recently decided to give Upscale Cuisine a try, as I've heard mixed reviews from friends and coworkers.
When I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the spacious and warm dining area.
The restrooms were spotless and fully stocked, which is always a good sign for a restaurant.
I ordered the steak and shrimp hibachi entrees with stir-fried veggies and sides of mac & cheese and mashed sweet potato.
I also tried the chicken hibachi and chicken alfredo on a separate visit, and I have to say, the alfredo was absolutely fantastic.
Steven Lelli's Inn On the Green (Farmington Hills)
I recently decided to treat myself to a night out at Steven Lelli's Inn On the Green and was truly impressed by the sumptuous Italian chophouse.
Located at a beautiful golf course, it's known for its minestrone soup and elegant ambiance.
The moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the mix of traditional steakhouse charm and modern sophistication.
The food was simply incredible.
I tried the pesto bruschetta, filet, and salmon, all of which were beautifully presented and full of flavor.
One of the aspects that stood out during my visit was the dim, intimate lighting that evoked a sense of old Hollywood glamour.
It truly added to the overall experience and made me feel like I was part of a classic film.
Toria (Northville)
One of my favorite places to dine in town is Toria.
This trendy restaurant offers innovative takes on traditional British dishes, and I have never been disappointed with my meal choices.
The atmosphere is really fun, and they have really good drinks too.
I remember going there on a Sunday, which was their roast day.
My partner got the ribs, which he absolutely loved, and I got the vegetarian lasagna, which was also amazing.
The service at Toria is generally excellent.
They check in with you regularly, making sure you're enjoying your meal and drinks.
I highly recommend trying The Victorian drink, as well as their risotto.
The scallops are seared to perfection, and everything is seasoned just right.
New Bangkok Cuisine (Northville)
Just recently, I discovered New Bangkok Cuisine near my office and decided to give it a try for lunch with a coworker.
What I appreciated the most was how quickly our orders were served, as my lunch breaks are often limited.
The food, of course, was fantastic!
I ordered the yellow curry, and I absolutely loved it.
The Siam Rolls appetizer was a perfect addition to our meal – crunchy, savory, and well-complemented by the sweet chili sauce it came with.
Even the small salad that came with our dinner entrees was delightful, featuring a delicious homemade dressing made with fish sauce and soy sauce, among other ingredients.
One of the standout dishes for me was the Pad See Ew with tofu.
The thick tofu they used tasted so substantial and satisfying.
My coworker opted for the curry noodles with medium heat, and they were incredibly saucy and flavorful.
The Lava Grille Northville (Northville)
Ever since The Lava Grille Northville opened, I've been a regular at this amazing Lebanese restaurant.
Last Saturday, I decided to visit it with my friends.
We were excited to try their food, and the ambiance was quite inviting.
We ordered drinks and chatted away as we waited for our meal.
I must say, their food was totally worth the wait!
We had large portions of delicious, authentic Lebanese cuisine that left us all satisfied.
The Lava Grille has quickly become my favorite spot for a hearty meal.
Another memorable experience was when I visited on a busy Friday night.
They informed us of a 45-minute food delay but kept us engaged with appetizing appetizers and refreshing cocktails while we waited.
The food was, as always, authentic and delicious.
I've enjoyed dishes like chicken kabob, beef tenderloin kabob, hummus, and fattoush.
However, spicy potatoes are a must-try!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, having lived in Novi for quite some time, I can confidently say that the culinary scene here has something for everyone.
From Mediterranean flavors at Chopped Olive to the delightful sushi at Ken Ken and YORI, there is no shortage of diverse and delicious options.
So, go ahead, treat yourself to a night out, and experience the best that Novi has to offer – your taste buds will surely thank you!
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