dine around the clock
From quick and family-friendly to globally inspired to farm-to-table, the dining choices in Monroe County are diverse and flavorful.
Start off your day in Luna Pier at Gander’s Family Restaurant, a family-owned operation open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Gander’s is well known for its large homemade meals and its rice pudding. At the Public House Food + Drink in historic downtown Monroe, the menu offers fresh produce and local ingredients. Try the shrimp + grits, one of the popular breakfast staples. If something light is more your style, you’ll want to visit Agua Dulce Coffee & Tea Room in Monroe. Featuring fresh, locally roasted coffees, Agua Dulce takes pride in providing an exceptional taste experience for its customers. Along with baked goods, fruit smoothies are also available in numerous flavors. Also in Monroe, the Erie Bread Co. offers a variety of morning treats, including croissants, tortes, cinnamon rolls and sticky buns.
Mid-day meal options are plentiful in Monroe County. For barbecue enthusiasts, Smokehouse 734 in Temperance serves up sweet and savory Kansas City-style ribs, brisket, pulled pork and chicken. Along with its wood-grilled meats, the restaurant features pizza, tacos and chili. At Monroe’s Eureka Eatery, you can dine in or carry out a variety of fast and fresh classic sandwiches, as well as chicken tenders, salads and soup. If you’re feeling traditional, swing through Monroe’s Original Hot Dog Drive- In. Boasting a long history, the restaurant’s current owners have stayed true to their “hot dog stand” roots, serving hot dogs with various toppings, as well as salads, chips and root beer. New in 2021, Misty’s Plant Based Foods boasts healthy smoothies, food, parfaits and more. All dishes are handmade with fresh ingredients.
After a day of fishing, boating or beach fun, check out the area’s eclectic dinner scene. The Little Brown Jug in Maybee continues building on its four-decade tradition of great food, excellent service and vibrant nightlife. Luna Pier’s Chateau Louise has a storied past as a 1930s supper club that hosted big band entertainers including Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller. Nowadays, under new owners, the restaurant continues to serve the seafood and steaks that earned it a widespread reputation. Big eaters can try the half-pound Louise Burger or the one-pound Chateau Burger. Casual eateries include River’s Edge Pizza in Dundee, which offers hand-tossed pizza, burgers and pasta, and Luna Pier Beach Café, where customers enjoy lake views, tasty food, unique cocktails and live entertainment. If you’re in the mood for a brew, you’ll find several options, including Pavlov’s Brewing Company in Temperance. Try standards like the Submission wheat beer or the seasonal Ivan’s Reward, all brewed in house. Visit Carleton to feast your eyes on 32 Taps Tavern’s scratch inspired menu. Build-you-own-pizzas and juicy burgers fill you up while pours from Michigan breweries keep you quenched. Try the renowned perch and bluegill dinners at Great Lakes Eatery and Pub in Dundee. At Kiku Fusion Sushi & Hibachi in Monroe, you’ll find modern interpretations of classic dishes.