7 Michigan restaurants opening in 2026 that you’ll want to try
Get ready for a delicious 2026 with our roundup of new restaurants in Michigan.
You know the old saying: New year, new food! Okay, we might have just made that up, but the sentiment stands—and while Michigan already has countless amazing places to dine, there’s always room for more. Whether you’re a fan of steak, Greek cuisine, seafood, or something in between, there’s a soon-to-open restaurant coming to the Great Lakes State that you’ll want to try. Here are seven exceptional eateries opening in Michigan in 2026.
1. Coco’s Chop House
Location: Rochester Hills
If you’re a fan of upscale dining, mark your calendars for spring 2026, when Coco’s Chophouse is slated to open its doors in Rochester Hills. This Metro Detroit gem will take up residence in the former location of Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina and offer everything from house-made pasta to meticulously prepared steaks and seafood. The restaurant owners plan to focus heavily on reducing food waste in their new endeavor, so you can feel good about doing your part for the environment while digging in.
2. JD’s Stage Bistro
Location: Chelsea
Actor Jeff Daniels is one of Michigan’s true shining stars, and many Michiganders know that he runs the beloved Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea. In 2026, though, fans and foodies alike will have the chance to explore Daniels’ newest project: JD’s Stage Bistro. The space will serve food and drinks in an intimate venue that doubles as a live music space. We think it sounds like the perfect date night destination.
3. Umbo
Location: Traverse City
There’s no shortage of deliciousness in Traverse City, but there’s also always space for more. In 2026, Umbo will open its doors on Front Street in downtown TC, bringing with it a menu of seafood-based small plates and perfectly paired drinks. Caviar and oysters will steal the show, but everything at Umbo—much of which will be locally sourced—promises to impress.
4. Lee-Lee’s Crosswinds Café West
Location: Muskegon
The Muskegon County Airport (MKG) might not be as bustling as DTW, but it could earn a few brownie points with travelers in 2026 with the opening of a new restaurant. Lee-Lee’s Crosswinds Café West will bring a dining option to the terminal at MKG, featuring a menu of bistro-style fare and beverages to help visitors fuel up before their flights. It might not help with delayed flights, but it will certainly prevent your family from getting too hangry in the waiting area.
5. The Firebird Bar
Location: Grand Rapids
Grand Rapidians who are mourning the now-defunct Turnstiles on the city’s west side will be glad to know that the space will soon be reinvigorated. In 2026, The Firebird Bar will take up residence in Turnstiles’ former space, offering a country-themed experience complete with food, patio space, a game room, live music, and—of course—a full bar. We foresee lots of fun nights at the Firebird.
6. 54 South Restaurant and Lounge
Location: Monroe
Make your way to Monroe in the new year to experience an upscale vibe at 54 South Restaurant and Lounge, which is scheduled to open in November 2026. The restaurant’s owners say 54 South will have a speakeasy atmosphere and plenty of special events, including wine and bourbon tastings for beverage enthusiasts. Planned menu items include gruyere and bacon sliders, mac and cheese bites, and other small fare.
7. Two Sons Pizza
Location: Grand Rapids
Everybody likes pizza, right? Two Sons Pizza in Traverse City has long been a favorite spot for pie fanatics—and in 2026, the restaurant will move its Traverse City operation to Eighth Street, as well as open a new location in downtown Grand Rapids. The eatery will serve its beloved New York-style pizza alongside a menu of accompaniments like salads and baked sandwiches. West Michiganders might just have a new favorite pizza parlor to explore.
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