I love checking out the newest restaurants in town. As soon as I hear of a new place opening up, checking out their food moves to the top of my to-do list.

And with us just days into the new year, we figured there’s no better time to look at the latest restaurants coming to Michigan this year.

From Metro Detroit to West Michigan and Up North, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for Michigan’s food scene. Today, The ’Gander’s Sophie Boudreau is dishing up the details on seven new restaurants set to open across the state that are worth putting on your must-try list, from celebrity-backed projects to upscale chophouses and cozy neighborhood spots.

Flu surges in Michigan (MLive): Influenza activity in Michigan has surged to the CDC’s highest level, outpacing the national average and driving record-setting ER visits around the holidays. About 11.3% of late-December outpatient visits were for flu-like illness, with test positivity topping 25% statewide and reaching 33% at Henry Ford Health. Doctors are urging vaccination, handwashing, and staying home when sick.

Protester speaks out after arrest goes viral (WZZM): Grand Rapids protest organizer Jessica Plichta says she was arrested moments after a TV interview for failing to obey a lawful police order during a street march against US actions in Venezuela. Police say the group repeatedly ignored orders to leave the roadway, while Plichta argues the arrest reflects an escalation against peaceful protest and hopes it won’t deter others from speaking out.

Michigan teachers weaving lessons on Jan. 6 into history classes (Bridge Michigan): On the fifth anniversary of Jan. 6, Michigan history teachers say the insurrection has become a key way to connect past and present in the classroom. By pairing it with lessons on the Constitution and the peaceful transfer of power, educators are helping students understand why democracy depends on respecting election outcomes.

Get ready for a delicious 2026 with our roundup of new restaurants in Michigan. (Unsplash)

By Sophie Boudreau

You know the old saying: New year, new food! OK, we might have just made that up, but the sentiment stands—and while Michigan already has countless amazing places to dine, there’s always room for more. Whether you’re a fan of steak, Greek cuisine, seafood, or something in between, there’s a soon-to-open restaurant coming to the Great Lakes State that you’ll want to try. Here are seven exceptional eateries opening in Michigan in 2026.

1. Coco’s Chop House

If you’re a fan of upscale dining, mark your calendars for spring 2026, when Coco’s Chophouse is slated to open its doors in Rochester Hills. This Metro Detroit gem will take up residence in the former location of Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina and offer everything from house-made pasta to meticulously prepared steaks and seafood. The restaurant owners plan to focus heavily on reducing food waste in their new endeavor, so you can feel good about doing your part for the environment while digging in.

2. JD’s Stage Bistro

Actor Jeff Daniels is one of Michigan’s true shining stars, and many Michiganders know that he runs the beloved Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea. In 2026, though, fans and foodies alike will have the chance to explore Daniels’ newest project: JD’s Stage Bistro. The space will serve food and drinks in an intimate venue that doubles as a live music space. We think it sounds like the perfect date night destination.

3. Umbo

There’s no shortage of deliciousness in Traverse City, but there’s also always space for more. In 2026, Umbo will open its doors on Front Street in downtown TC, bringing with it a menu of seafood-based small plates and perfectly paired drinks. Caviar and oysters will steal the show, but everything at Umbo—much of which will be locally sourced—promises to impress.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from Sophie Boudreau. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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