The Sardine Room Awards

The Sardine Room Restaurant Review:

Upon arrival, guests encounter a gleaming stainless and glass display case showcasing fresh seafood nestled in beds of ice --- an indication of the meal to come. Large windows overlook a pretty urban patio with views of downtown and the greenery of Kellogg Park just across the street. Those who like to share (or aren’t super hungry) may opt for such small plates as grilled snapper fish tacos topped with thyme scented cabbage, corn salsa, jalapeño slaw and tequila lime crème; Manilla clam chowder; and raw bar items: steak tartare served with a quail egg or a ceviche loaded with octopus, rock shrimp, sea beans and avocado and served with mini tostadas. Larger appetites can choose the classic New England lobster roll with house-made slaw and hand-cut fries or the crispy pan-roasted whole fish cooked in a green curry and accompanied with citrus rice. Landlubbers shouldn’t despair, as there are Wagyu burgers and a hanger steak with blue cheese sour cream and German-style warm potato salad. For dessert, we can never decide between the buttered popcorn pot de crème and the carrot cake bread pudding. An affordable and diverse wine list and a substantial array of Michigan craft beers provide ample pairing choices.