Elevate Your Evening: Where to Find the Best Fancy Dinners in Detroit

Why Detroit’s Fine Dining Scene is Perfect for Your Special Occasion

Looking for a fancy dinner detroit experience that matches your sophisticated tastes? Detroit’s culinary scene has transformed dramatically, offering everything from historic mansion dining to skyline steakhouses that rival any major city.

Top Detroit Fancy Dinner Options:

• The Whitney – Historic mansion with romantic ambiance and award-winning cuisine
• Highlands Detroit – 71st-floor steakhouse with spectacular city views
• The Apparatus Room – New American fare in the Detroit Foundation Hotel
• Joe Muer Seafood – Premium seafood with 90+ years of tradition
• Selden Standard – Creative small plates and seasonal cocktails

Detroit’s fancy dining establishments offer prix-fixe tasting menus ranging from $75-150 per person, with most restaurants requiring reservations and following smart casual to business casual dress codes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, entertaining clients, or simply treating yourself, the city’s upscale restaurants combine exceptional cuisine with unique Detroit character.

From The Whitney’s iconic mansion setting where Barbra Streisand once performed, to modern marvels like Highlands Detroit on the 72nd floor of the Renaissance Center, Detroit’s fancy dinner scene reflects both the city’s rich history and its exciting renaissance.

I’m Sean Swain, and my experience in Detroit’s hospitality industry through my limousine service and furnished rental business has given me insider knowledge of the city’s finest dining establishments, often coordinating fancy dinner detroit experiences for corporate clients and special occasions. My work with Detroit Furnished Rentals has connected me with travelers seeking both exceptional accommodations and memorable dining experiences throughout the city.

Detroit’s Top Fancy Dinner Destinations at a Glance

Detroit’s food scene is truly something special these days! It’s a vibrant mix, brimming with upscale dining spots that are just perfect for celebrating a big moment or simply enjoying a delightful night out. Whether you’re dreaming of dinner with soaring city views or a cozy meal in a historic setting, each restaurant brings its own unique flavor to the table.

To help you find your perfect fancy dinner detroit experience, we’ve put together a quick guide to some of our favorite spots. You’ll see what kind of food they offer, what the vibe is like, how much it might cost, and what makes each place shine.

Restaurant Name	Cuisine Type	Ambiance/Unique Feature	Price Estimate	Best For
Highlands Detroit	Steakhouse/New American	71st/72nd Floor City Views	$$$$	Views, Special Occasions
The Whitney	American	Historic Mansion, Romantic	$$$$	Romance, Historic Charm
The Apparatus Room	New American	Industrial Chic, Vibrant Bar	$$$	Business, Trendy Dining
Joe Muer Seafood	Seafood	Neat, Waterfront (some locations)	$$$$	Seafood Lovers, Clients
Selden Standard	New American (Small Plates)	Trendy, Seasonal, Creative Cocktails	$$$	Foodies, Casual Upscale
Mabel Gray	New American (Daily Changing)	Eclectic, Chef-Driven	$$$	Adventurous Diners
Marrow	Butcher Shop/New American	Intimate, Prix-Fixe, Local Focus	$$$$	Unique Tasting Experience
Freya	New American (Tasting Menu)	Scandinavian-inspired, Seasonal	$$$$	Immersive Dining
Oak & Reel	Seafood	Industrial-Chic, High-End Seafood	$$$$	Seafood Connoisseurs
Barda	Argentine	Wood-Fired, Authentic	$$$	Unique Flavors, Meat Lovers
Alpino	Alpine European	Sophisticated, European-inspired	$$$	European Cuisine Fans
Mad Nice	Modern Italian	Coastal Chic, Mid-Century Design	$$$	Stylish, Italian Cuisine
The Statler Detroit	European-Influenced	Classic, Entertainment District	$$$	Pre-Show Dining, Groups
Bohemia at The Detroit Club	Fine American	Historic Club, Neat	$$$$	Classic Fine Dining
The Caucus Club	Classic American	Historic, Iconic	$$$$	History Buffs, Business
Cuisine	French-American	Historic Home, Theater District	$$$$	Pre-Theater, Classic Cuisine

This table is just a taste of the incredible culinary journey that awaits you in Detroit. Get ready to explore!

Iconic Establishments with Timeless Elegance

Some restaurants just have that special something – the kind of fancy dinner detroit experience that makes you feel like you’re part of the city’s grand story. These are the places where every detail matters, from the historic architecture to the perfectly folded napkins. They’re the spots where Detroit’s past meets culinary excellence, creating memories that last long after the last bite.

Our guests at Detroit Furnished Rentals often ask about these legendary establishments, and honestly, we never get tired of recommending them. There’s something magical about dining where history lives in every corner. For a complete look at Detroit’s most distinguished venues, check out our guide to Upscale Dining Detroit.

The Whitney: A Historic Mansion Experience

Walking into The Whitney feels like stepping into a fairy tale. This 1894 mansion isn’t just a restaurant – it’s Detroit’s most iconic dining destination, where every room tells a story and every meal becomes an event.

The mansion’s grand architecture creates the perfect backdrop for a romantic fancy dinner detroit experience. Whether you’re planning a proposal, celebrating an anniversary, or just want to feel like royalty for an evening, The Whitney delivers that old-world elegance you can’t find anywhere else.

But here’s what makes it even more special: The Ghostbar. Yes, you read that right. This unique spot serves up their world-famous “Witching Hour Martini” and adds a playful twist to your evening. It’s the perfect place to start or end your night with a little mystery and a lot of flavor.

Don’t miss The Gardens either – when the weather’s nice, there’s nothing quite like dining al fresco surrounded by beautiful landscaping. It’s like having your own private oasis in the heart of the city.

The Whitney opens its doors for dinner seven nights a week, plus they offer Afternoon Tea on weekends and Sunday Brunch. With awards from Food & Wine Magazine, Michelin Detroit Green Guide, and countless local honors for being the “Best for Special Occasions,” it’s clear we’re not the only ones who think this place is extraordinary.

For the full story on what makes this mansion so special, dive into The Whitney Restaurant: Detroit’s Iconic Mansion Dining Experience.

Celebrated Waterfront Dining in Detroit

Detroit’s position along the beautiful Detroit River creates some truly spectacular dining opportunities. While not every fancy restaurant sits directly on the water, the best ones capture that waterfront spirit through exceptional seafood and sophisticated atmospheres that make you feel connected to the city’s maritime heritage.

When our guests want Dining With a View, we often point them toward establishments that have mastered the art of bringing the ocean to Detroit.

Joe Muer Seafood stands as the crown jewel of this category. For over 90 years, they’ve been flying in the world’s most exclusive seafood from every corner of the globe. Their commitment to sustainability and freshness is matched only by their elite culinary skills and impeccable service.

What sets Joe Muer apart isn’t just their incredible seafood – though their award-winning wine list (Wine Spectator Award of Excellence) certainly doesn’t hurt. They also serve premium aged meats and offer fresh sushi options, making it perfect for groups with different tastes.

The accolades speak for themselves: 14 straight years as HOUR Detroit’s Best Seafood Restaurant, plus recognition for “Best Restaurant to Take a Client,” “Best Restaurant with a View,” and “Best Special Occasion Restaurant” from the Detroit Free Press. Whether you’re closing a business deal or celebrating a milestone, this is where Detroit’s power players come to dine.

The Apparatus Room: A Fancy Dinner in Detroit’s Foundation Hotel

Housed in a beautifully restored historic firehouse, The Apparatus Room perfectly captures Detroit’s spirit of reinvention. This isn’t just hotel dining – it’s a fancy dinner detroit destination that happens to be conveniently located in the Detroit Foundation Hotel.

Executive Chef Rece Hogerheide brings a decade of culinary expertise to every plate, focusing on seasonal ingredients and locally sourced products that celebrate Michigan’s incredible food heritage. His New American fare tells Detroit’s story through bold, inviting flavors that bring people together around the table.

The vibrant bar scene here deserves special mention. Their cocktail program draws inspiration from the building’s rich history as a firehouse, with each drink crafted using classic techniques and telling its own unique story. It’s the kind of place where the bartender might share the fascinating backstory behind your perfectly mixed drink.

Reservations are strongly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. If you’re staying at the hotel, you can even enjoy their celebrated cuisine through in-room dining – though honestly, the atmosphere downstairs is half the fun.

For more insights into Detroit’s hotel dining scene, check out Central Kitchen Bar to see how these establishments are redefining what it means to dine well in Detroit.

Modern Marvels: The Best Spots for a Contemporary Fancy Dinner in Detroit

Detroit’s dining scene isn’t stuck in the past – it’s blazing new trails with innovative concepts that showcase what modern fine dining can be. These contemporary spots offer a fresh take on a fancy dinner detroit experience, featuring New American cuisine with creative twists, chef-driven menus that change with the seasons, and trendy atmospheres that capture the city’s energetic renaissance spirit.

What sets these modern marvels apart is their commitment to seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry. You’ll find open kitchens where you can watch talented chefs work their magic, creative cocktail programs that rival any major city, and dining rooms designed with a contemporary edge. These restaurants are perfect for food lovers who want to experience Detroit’s cutting-edge culinary scene. For a deeper dive into how the city’s food culture has evolved, check out our insights on the Detroit Culinary Scene.

Dining with a View: Detroit’s Skyline Experiences

There’s something magical about dining high above the city, watching Detroit’s lights twinkle below as you enjoy exceptional cuisine. For a truly memorable fancy dinner detroit experience, nothing beats the drama of a skyline restaurant where the view is as spectacular as the food.

Highlands Detroit takes this concept to new heights – literally. Perched on the 71st and 72nd floors of the GM Renaissance Center, this multi-concept venue offers one of the most breathtaking dining experiences in the city. The Highlands Steakhouse serves up premium cuts and sophisticated dishes while floor-to-ceiling windows showcase panoramic views of the Detroit River and city skyline.

What makes Highlands special isn’t just the elevation – it’s the complete experience. The restaurant features multiple dining concepts within the space, so whether you want a full steakhouse dinner or prefer to start with cocktails and lighter bites, you have options. The sheer drama of dining 700 feet above the city makes every meal feel like a celebration.

We’ve had many guests tell us that dinner at Highlands was the highlight of their Detroit visit. The combination of exceptional food and that incredible vista creates memories that last long after the meal ends. Just remember that popularity comes with a price – you’ll definitely want to book your reservation well in advance, especially for weekend evenings.

Critically-Acclaimed Small Plates and Seasonal Menus

Sometimes the most exciting fancy dinner detroit experience comes from exploring a menu full of creative small plates rather than traditional large entrees. This approach lets you taste more flavors, share dishes with your dining companions, and experience a chef’s full range of talents.

Selden Standard in Midtown has mastered this art. This critically-acclaimed restaurant focuses on seasonal small plates that are perfect for sharing and finding new flavor combinations. Their menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh and available, which means every visit offers something new to try.

The restaurant has earned nominations for the prestigious James Beard Award and consistently ranks among Detroit’s top dining destinations. What really sets Selden Standard apart is their creative cocktail program – these aren’t just drinks, they’re liquid art crafted with unique ingredients and sophisticated techniques. The open kitchen adds energy to the dining room, letting you watch the culinary team work their magic.

The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between vibrant and refined. You can feel comfortable whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to an exceptional meal. Given how popular it’s become, making reservations recommended is definitely wise.

Mabel Gray in nearby Hazel Park takes the seasonal concept even further with a daily changing menu. Chef James Rigato, who gained fame on Top Chef, creates dishes that reflect whatever ingredients are at their peak that day. This means no two visits are exactly alike – you’re always in for a surprise.

Freya offers yet another approach with their prix-fixe, five-course tasting menu that changes seasonally. Their Scandinavian-inspired approach brings unique flavors and techniques to Detroit’s dining scene, creating an immersive experience that tells a story through food.

These restaurants represent the best of Detroit’s modern culinary movement – creative, seasonal, and always evolving. They’re perfect for adventurous diners who want to experience what happens when talented chefs have the freedom to showcase their creativity.

Unique Culinary Trips for an Unforgettable Meal

Sometimes, a fancy dinner detroit isn’t just about delicious food; it’s about starting on a truly unique culinary trip! Beyond the classic fine dining spots, Detroit’s vibrant scene offers restaurants that transport you with global flavors, specialized concepts, and immersive experiences. These are the places that turn a meal into a memorable journey for your taste buds and senses. If you’re eager to explore more of Detroit’s diverse and exciting food landscape, you might even consider checking out some Detroit Food Tours for even deeper insights!

Fire-Fueled Feasts and International Cuisine

There’s something truly captivating about food cooked over an open flame, isn’t there? It’s an ancient technique, yet in Detroit, some restaurants are celebrating it with modern flair. If you’re dreaming of a fancy dinner detroit that offers a primal yet refined experience, you’ll love the spots specializing in wood-fired cooking and delicious international flavors.

Barda is a shining example of this, bringing authentic Argentine cuisine right to Detroit. Their secret? A strong focus on beef, expertly cooked over an open, wood-fired flame. This method doesn’t just cook the food; it infuses every bite with a unique depth of flavor, creating a truly sensory experience. The chefs at Barda want to do more than just feed you; they aim to immerse you in Argentine culture through every thoughtfully prepared dish. It’s an amazing choice for meat lovers and anyone looking for bold, distinctive international tastes in a sophisticated setting. Plus, the communal vibe often found in these places makes it wonderful for groups looking to share and explore together.

Exceptional Seafood and Chef-Driven Menus

We’ve already mentioned the fantastic seafood at Joe Muer, but Detroit’s fine dining scene also boasts another standout that takes a more contemporary, chef-driven approach to seafood. If you truly appreciate the freshest catches prepared with innovative techniques, then a fancy dinner detroit focused on the ocean’s bounty is an absolutely splendid choice.

Step into Oak & Reel, a restaurant that’s passionately dedicated to exceptional seafood. Their menu showcases a refined take on classic seafood dishes, featuring delightful items like plump raw oysters, perfectly roasted swordfish, and the delicate, flaky salt-baked branzino. The chef here has actually honed his skills in two Michelin-starred restaurants, bringing a truly high level of expertise and artistry to every single plate. The ambiance at Oak & Reel often features an industrial-chic decor, providing a modern and stylish backdrop for their exquisite offerings. It’s definitely a perfect spot for seafood connoisseurs looking for a refined and memorable dining experience.

Butcher Shop and Restaurant Hybrids

For a truly unique culinary concept that champions local sourcing and a “nose-to-tail” philosophy (meaning they use every part of the animal!), Detroit offers an intriguing hybrid that beautifully blurs the lines between a traditional butcher shop and a high-end restaurant. This innovative approach promises a deeply flavorful and thoughtful fancy dinner detroit experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Marrow, nestled in the charming West Village, is a prime example of this innovative concept. It operates as both a full-service butcher shop and a fantastic restaurant. This dual nature gives them unparalleled control over the quality and origin of their meats. On the restaurant side, they feature a wonderful prix fixe, five-course tasting menu that changes regularly, always highlighting seasonal ingredients and, of course, their incredible local meats and cheeses. This format encourages diners to trust the chef’s creative vision and start on a curated culinary journey. Marrow even earned a spot on Eater’s list of best new restaurants in 2019, solidifying its reputation as a pioneer in Detroit’s exciting dining scene. It’s an excellent choice for adventurous eaters who truly appreciate a deep connection to where their food comes from. For even more of Detroit’s finest dining experiences, you can explore our guide to Best Fine Dining Detroit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fancy Dinners in Detroit

We often get questions from our guests at Detroit Furnished Rentals about what to expect when planning a fancy dinner detroit. After all, you want everything to be just right for that special evening! Here are some of the most common inquiries, with our expert advice to help you prepare for an unforgettable meal.

What is the typical price range for a fancy dinner in Detroit?

When you’re dreaming of a fancy dinner detroit, it’s helpful to know what kind of investment you’re looking at. These aren’t your everyday meals, and the price reflects the amazing ingredients, the chef’s artistry, top-notch service, and that incredible ambiance.

Generally, for a true fine dining experience, especially if you opt for a special prix-fixe tasting menu, you can expect the food alone to cost anywhere from $75 to $150 per person. If you’re going a la carte, main dishes usually fall in the $35 to $65 range. That’s just for the food! Drinks add to the bill, with cocktails typically running from $15 to $25 each, and a nice bottle of wine can easily be $60 to $150 or even more.

So, for a full experience – think appetizers, entrees, desserts, a few drinks, and a standard 20% tip – a fancy dinner detroit for two can easily add up to $200 to $400+. For super special occasions or tasting menus with wine pairings, that number can climb even higher. It’s also good to know that many places automatically add a 20% gratuity for parties under nine people, and sometimes 23% for larger groups. Always check their policy, so there are no surprises!

Do I need a reservation for upscale Detroit restaurants?

In a nutshell: yes, absolutely! For most upscale and fine dining spots in Detroit, especially if you’re planning a fancy dinner detroit on a Friday or Saturday night, a reservation isn’t just a good idea – it’s practically a must. Popular places like Highlands Detroit, The Whitney, and The Apparatus Room are often booked solid weeks in advance, especially for those prime dinner times between 7 PM and 9 PM.

While you might get lucky with a walk-in at the bar area, or if someone cancels last minute, relying on that is a bit of a gamble. You definitely don’t want to leave your special occasion to chance! We strongly recommend using online reservation platforms like Resy (which is mentioned for Highlands, The Whitney, and Bohemia) or OpenTable to secure your spot. For those really sought-after restaurants, try to book 1 to 2 weeks ahead for weekend dinners. For weekday evenings, a few days in advance should do the trick. This way, you’re guaranteed the perfect table for your memorable evening.

What is the dress code for fine dining in Detroit?

The dress code for a fancy dinner detroit can vary a little from one place to another, but generally, you’ll want to aim for smart casual to business casual. Think of it this way: you probably won’t need a tuxedo or a ball gown (unless it’s a very specific event!), but it’s always better to be a tiny bit overdressed than underdressed.

Here’s a quick guide to help you out:

• Smart Casual: This is often the most common and safest choice. For men, think custom dark jeans or nice chinos paired with a collared shirt (like a button-down or polo). For women, blouses, stylish dresses, or smart trousers work perfectly. It’s best to avoid t-shirts, shorts, athletic wear, flip-flops, and anything with overly distressed denim.
• Business Casual: Many of the more traditional or higher-end establishments, like The Whitney or Joe Muer Seafood, prefer business casual. This means slacks or dress pants for men with a collared shirt (a jacket is optional but often a nice touch). For women, professional dresses, skirts, or pantsuits are ideal.
• Jacket Recommended/Required: It’s rare for a jacket to be fully “required” outside of private clubs. But if a restaurant “recommends” a jacket for men, it’s a good hint to wear one. It helps you feel more comfortable and blend in with the restaurant’s neat atmosphere.

When in doubt, always check the restaurant’s website or give them a quick call. Policies can differ! For instance, The Ghostbar at The Whitney might be a bit more relaxed, but the main dining rooms will have a more formal expectation. Dressing the part shows respect for the beautiful establishment and truly improves your own dining experience.

Conclusion

Detroit’s dining scene has truly come alive, changing into something special that rivals any major city. From our journey through these pages, you’ve finded how a fancy dinner detroit can mean so many different things – the romantic grandeur of The Whitney’s historic mansion, the breathtaking city views from Highlands Detroit, or the creative energy of modern spots like Selden Standard with their innovative small plates.

What makes Detroit’s fine dining scene so remarkable isn’t just the exceptional food – it’s how each restaurant tells a piece of the city’s story. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, closing a big business deal, or simply treating yourself after a long week, these establishments offer experiences that go far beyond just a meal. They’re creating memories in a city that’s refinded its confidence and culinary soul.

The diversity is truly impressive. You can start your evening with craft cocktails at The Apparatus Room, enjoy fire-grilled Argentine beef at Barda, or indulge in the freshest seafood at Oak & Reel. Each spot brings something unique to the table, literally and figuratively.

After spending an unforgettable evening at one of these exceptional restaurants, you’ll want somewhere equally comfortable to call home during your Detroit stay. That’s exactly what we provide at Detroit Furnished Rentals. Our pet-friendly furnished apartments come with fully equipped kitchens – perfect if you’re inspired to try recreating some of those amazing flavors you just experienced – and dedicated workspaces for when business calls.

We understand that a great Detroit experience doesn’t end when dinner does. It continues in a space where you can relax, reflect on your evening, and plan your next trip in this remarkable city. Find your perfect Detroit stay and let us help you make the most of everything Detroit has to offer.