Oak & Reel's Michelin Star Chef Is Serving Some Of The Freshest Pasta And Seafood In Michigan
By Jack Springgate|Published January 23, 2024
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Jack Springgate
Author
I'm proud to be from the great state of Michigan. I've lived in the Mitten several different times throughout my life spending time in all corners of it. My journeys took me up and down the Lake Michigan coast, out east to explore Detroit and Ann Arbor, and to the dense forests of the UP.
Before writing with Only In Your State, I worked as a local TV news reporter and anchor, most recently in South Bend. Many of the stories I covered took place in Southwest Michigan. My roots are even deeper in the Wolverine State as I often head to Kalamazoo to visit family.
When I'm not out exploring nature, I'm avidly watching sports. I specifically have a deep love for the Michigan Wolverines (my alma mater), and I get to write about them and several other Big Ten teams as and editor for Athlon Sports. I also love to enjoy the great outdoors with my wife and our dog, Piper.
I'm excited to share all my favorite Michigan destinations with you. Keep exploring.
The State of Michigan is home to Two-Michelin-star chef Jared Gadbaw and his first-ever restaurant Oak & Reel. He made an instant splash with his fresh seafood and pasta dishes when he opened the Italian Eatery in 2020. And he’s added to the great flavors by inviting brilliant culinary minds to join him through his Culinary Collective series.
Whether you’re looking for one of the best meals you can find in Detroit, or an incredible atmosphere for a sensational cocktail, Oak & Reel can deliver both.
Gadbaw returned to Michigan after earning two Michelin stars while working in New York City. This contemporary Italian eatery focuses on in-house fresh pasta and delectable seafood entrees.
The 2020 opening of the family-owned restaurant was a dream come true for the Gadbaws. The pride they have in their business is evident in the pride they have in the dishes they serve.
They describe the interior of the restaurant as contemporary-casual. While reservations are recommended, walk-in guests are welcome too. How could you not see this design and not want to step inside?
The bright space maximizes the clean and bold flavors that come through in the dishes I’m about to show you. If I want to get a second date out of someone who loves seafood, I’m taking them to Oak & Reel.
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If the name didn’t already tip you off, Oak & Reel not only takes pride in its delicious seafood but also its carefully curated wine lists. They have the perfect pairing whether you order the halibut, swordfish, sole, or scallops.
Oak & Reel takes the experience beyond the dining room by hosting several unique events throughout the year. From wine dinners to workshops, fans of the restaurant can find an even more unique experience by reserving a spot at one of their planned events.
As much as this restaurant is known for its fresh catches, it’s also praised for its pasta, which is made freshly in-house. Gadbaw’s Bucatini is among the favorites, served with preserved lemon and walnuts.
They offer multi-course experiences with their Culinary Collective series, where guests can taste 6-7 courses from some of the best culinary talents in Gadbaw’s network.
Wine is a specialty at Oak & Reel, but if you’re looking for a hand-crafted cocktail, head downstairs to The Upright. This cocktail lounge offers an intimate experience, seating little more than 30 people.
The ever-changing seasonal menu highlights seafood and ingredients at the peak of the season. Dishes to try would be his rotating Crudo and Crostini, and one of the many seafood dishes.
The menu at Oak & Reel is constantly changing to match the peak flavors of the season. The dishes highlight regional seafood and seasonal ingredients that complement the changing weather in the Mitten State. Not only doesn’t this include a rotation of seafood dishes, but also a variety of Crudo and Crustinis.
Whether you’re stopping for dinner at Oak & Reel or grabbing a drink at The Upright, this is a great stop before or after a night out in the Motor City. There are so many incredible events in Detroit that you can find on Vivid Seats, you might want to pair one with your experience at Oak & Reel.
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