“We believe lunch is for schmoozing and enjoying your time with some yummy food on the side,” reads the top of the online lunch menu at Three Cats Restaurant in Clawson, Michigan. This statement sets the tone for what you’re about to experience: Finely-crafted cuisine in a quirky, playful environment fit for connecting with others.
We had a feeling that we were in for an amazing time when we got an invitation to dine with Mary Liz, one of the founders of Three Cats. What we didn’t expect was to find someone who we had so much in common with. Born in California, she made her way to Michigan and wanted to start a place that would feature all kinds of eclectic and local fare.
When she set her sights on Clawson, there wasn’t much going on and people thought that she may have a screw loose. She saw the potential that the small town held, and followed through with amazing results.
Mary Liz couldn’t do it all on her own. What started as a modest cafe with a figure-it-out-as-we-go mentality, Three Cats evolved into a full-fledged restaurant with the help of Matt Prentice. Known for launching titans like Morels & Coach Insignia, the Detroit restaurant veteran knew exactly what needed to be done to take Three Cats to the next level. He gave invaluable guidance, advise, and perhaps most importantly, a vision, to launch Three Cats as a full-service restaurant.
Though there were growing pains along the way, Mary Liz and company have made Three Cats a destination. Clawson and Three Cats’ accolades have grown in stride. Although Matt Prentice passed in 2021, his legacy lives on as the restaurant thrives.
As far as the food goes, there’s not a weak spot in the Three Cats lineup of dishes. From start to finish, your taste buds will be delighted. For starters, you can’t go wrong with Matt’s Exotic Mushroom Soup that he made famous years ago. This earthy bowl of bliss is bound to hit the spot, especially in fall and winter months.
The Prosciutto & Fig Pinsa (pronounced “peen-sa”) may be flat in height, but isn’t in flavor. This Italian flatbread featuring prosciutto, Boursin cheese, fig preserves, pesto, parmesan, and crispy garlic is perfect for sharing.
If you’ve followed us for a while, you know we’re not big dessert people. The Strawberry Shortcake was divine. Be on the lookout for seasonal desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
As you can see, you’re in for more than a finely crafted meal at Three Cats. You’re in for a fun and quirky atmosphere with attentive service that makes you forget your worries and cares. Isn’t that what a meal with family and friends is about, anyway?
Three Cats is located at 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017.
