Reporter Food: Hazel’s in Downtown Birmingham

(Crystal A. Proxmire, orig. July 11, 2022, republished Nov. 10, 2022)

Birmingham, MI – Looking for delicious seafood in a bright, comfortable atmosphere in Downtown Birmingham?  Hazel’s is just the place.  With a menu full of fish, lobster, clams, and more this upscale but casual restaurant is a delicious choice.

A friend and I recently went to try their famous lobster rolls.

I had mine Connecticut style – served hot with the rich joy of melted butter and a soft buttery bun. My friend opted for the Maine style – cold with mayonnaise. Both featured nice big chunks of quality lobster. Corn on the cob and fries made for good side items, though there are several choices available including cole slaw, salad, and green beans.

My friend also ordered oysters. When you order oysters the server gives a choice of locations, and my friend ordered those from Prince Edward Island. I am allergic so I could not partake, though I’m told they were fantastic. They came served on a bed of ice with choices of sauce in the middle.

We also got to chat with Emmele Herrold who is one of the owners and the chef at Hazel’s. Obviously she is a fan of high quality seafood, and has enjoyed the growth of Hazel’s popularity. She and co-owner Beth Hussey put a lot of thought into the space as well as the food, with red checkered tablecloths, plenty of space for people not to feel crowded, and rolls of paper towel right on the table to help keep buttery bites in check.

“We love it here,” she said. “The community is so nice.”

She also admitted that while she loves seafood, she’s also partial to the fried chicken dinner. Other items include shrimp, smoked sardines, Calviscius caviar, scallops, vegan “fish” items, crab cakes, and even a “token burger” for those not in the mood for food from the ocean. Hazel’s is located at 1 Peabody Street in Downtown Birmingham. Reserve your spot online or use easy online ordering for carryouts at https://www.eatathazels.com.

White Castle is the Reporter Food sponsor of Oakland County Times, supporting our quest to explore restaurants throughout Oakland County. Find White Castle locations, and more information about all their menu options, at www.whitecastle.com.

Do you have a suggestion for our Reporter Food column? Join in the conversation on Facebook and leave your recommendations.

Check out other Reporter Food columns, listed by city,  HERE.