The village of Lake Orion is just a short jog up I-75 from the metro Detroit area, but it feels like an “up north” getaway. Although the town is small, it packs a punch with a number of food and drink establishments in the downtown area that are worth checking out.

CJ’s Lakeside Grill

CJ’s Lakeside Grill has been serving hungry patrons since 1997. This no-frills family restaurant is popular for breakfast, but also serves hearty lunches and dinners.

If you’re a big fan of omelets, CJ’s has over twenty of them that are sure to please. The Veggie Beef eats like a cheesesteak with its combination of roast beef, green peppers, onions, tomatoes, plus gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Turn any omelet into a skillet to get potatoes in every bite. 

Burgers, sandwiches, and salads make up the bulk of CJ’s lunch menu, while hot plates of homestyle goodness are popular for dinner.

CJ’s Lakeside Grill is located at 21 W Flint St, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

Fork n’ Pint

A cold beer deserves a delicious bite. Fortunately for hungry patrons, the food holds its own against Michigan brews, handcrafted cocktails, and signature mules at Lake Orion’s Fork n’ Pint.

Pair your potable of choice with familiar favorites like burgers, artisan pizzas, and entrees prepared with Fork n’ Pint’s unique twist. When’s the last time you had an Angus burger topped with peanut butter, Brussels sprouts, chutney, onion marmalade and goat cheese? Other distinguished dishes include the artful Granny Smith pizza with apples, walnuts, feta, and more.

When they’re not putting their creative spin on pub favorites, Fork n’ Pint is piling their Fork n’ Big Reuben high to the sky. The tender corned beef is seemingly endless on this delectable sandwich.

Fork n’ Pint is located at 51 N Broadway St, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

Sagebrush Cantina

A bustling hotspot in downtown Lake Orion, Sagebrush Cantina is home to Mexican fare and a vast selection of tequila. Not only can you get a magnificent margarita, you can attempt to conquer the Super Burrito, a food coma-inducing meaty monster. This football-size burrito is perfect for filling up on game day or anytime a burrito craving strikes.

In addition to burritos, Sagebrush serves popular Mexican favorites like fajitas, enchiladas, tostadas, and our personal favorite Fish Tacos. After ordering, kick back with your cocktail and chomp on complimentary chips and salsa made fresh in-house.

Sagebrush Cantina is located at 28 S Broadway St, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

Nutz About Chocolate

Put a smile on your face with truffles, bear claws, fudge, dipped goodies, and a rotating array of cupcakes from Nutz About Chocolate. As if indulging in luscious chocolate wasn’t enough, you can enjoy every endorphin-increasing bite knowing that their cocoa is sustainably sourced.

Nutz About Chocolate is located at 59 S Broadway St, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

ABeanToGo

ABeanToGo isn’t your run-of-the-mill coffee shop. Their passion for beans is apparent in everything they do: carefully choosing them from plantations across the world, roasting them to perfection, and serving the freshest brew possible. Explore the world with their Coffee of the Month and other fine varieties in this brick-laden café.

ABeanToGo is located at 16 W Flint St, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

Mannie’s Bagel & Delicatessen

Since 2004, owners Mark and Annie of Mannie’s Bagel & Delicatessen have taken pride in crafting the best bagels around. Take a bite out of classic flavors, or tickle your taste buds with unique creations like Michigan Cherry or Taco Jalapeno Jack.

Start your morning on the right foot with a bagel and homemade cream cheese or a hot breakfast sandwich — on a fresh bagel of your choice, of course. Don’t forget a cup of freshly-brewed gourmet coffee to fuel your day. Twenty handcrafted deli sandwiches are available for a bagel-tastic lunch, helping Mannie’s grow a loyal following for well over a decade.

Mannie’s Bagel & Delicatessen is located at 205 N Park Blvd, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

Wine Social

Wine Social provides an immersive wine bar experience for seasoned wine enthusiasts and novices alike. Wine flights make it easy to enjoy different pours, helping you find a glass that tickles your fancy. Not a fan of wine? No worries; cocktails and a small selection of beer are available.

For maximum summer vibes, sit outside on their quaint deck that overlooks Paint Creek and Children’s Park. In the fall and winter, escape the cold in their cozy interior while enjoying live music on weekend nights.

Wine Social is located at 135 S Broadway St, Lake Orion, MI 48362.

20 Front Street

Established 2016, 20 Front Street is a triple threat live music venue, café, and creamery. The music venue is truly a must-see with its repurposed church pews and intimate setting. Under the same roof, the café is a relaxing space to enjoy a cup of java with good company. For a sweet treat, ice cream is available throughout the year.

20 Front Street is located at…