A Seafood Extravaganza at Lakes Restaurant in Troy

Last week my friend Courtney and I took a visit to Lakes Restaurant in Troy and as soon as we walked through the doors we knew this would be a night to remember. The menu offers seafood options that are classic yet inspired. The decor has a traditional nautical feel but is unique and fun at the same time. And the service is formal yet welcoming – making Lakes a perfect spot for all occasions.

One of our favorite parts about Lakes, formally Charley’s Crab, was the obvious pride they had in the history of the restaurant. We learned that part of the structure was the former living room from one of the most elegant mansions of Grosse Pointe, the Macauley Mansion, built in 1929. If you look near the bar, there are pictures of the room dating back almost 84 years!

Our dining experience at Lakes was beyond delicious and it all started out with our drink. We tried the Christmas Ale from Great Lakes Brewing Company and it was delish – the perfect holiday beer due to the subtle taste of nutmeg, cinnamon and honey. During the hours of 4pm-7pm beer ranges from $3-$5, liquor is $4 and wine is $5!

After enjoying our beer we were treated to a plethora of dishes prepared by the talented Executive Chef Mike D’Angelo. We tried the goujons of calamari ($9), braised beef poutin ($9), buffalo popcorn shrimp ($11), lobster potato skins ($12) and the chilean sea bass ($34)

Needless to say, Courtney and I were full and happy by the end of that meal. Every single dish we tried was seasoned to perfection and cooked flawlessly – not to mention the presentation was incredible. If we had to pick a favorite it would be chilean sea bass. This was the first time I ever had sea bass prepared with apple curry risotto, citrus vinaigrette, braised leek and shaved fennel – TO DIE FOR.

It is connected to the MET Hotel and you can easily spot it from the exit ramp of 75 and Crooks Rd. There is ample parking just a few steps from the door or you can enter through the hotel. The actual restaurant is huge – there is a large bar area, a stunning dining room and a private space upstairs, which is available for parties and events.

One of the things I like most about this restaurant is it’s versatility. The dining room is the perfect place for a business dinner or a date. The bar area is a great spot to have a casual meal with friends and the upstairs is ideal for a private party! As Courtney and I toured through Lakes Restaurant we kept repeating over and over….”this place is so unique”, “the decor is unlike anything else”, “this ambiance creates an incredible dining experience.” Lakes “feel” lives up to it’s name – they totally ran with the nautical theme and it works.