OC Restaurant Quest: Alex’s Taproom Bistro in Clarkston
(Crystal A. Proxmire, March 20, 2023)
Clarkston, MI – Upstairs at what I’m pretty sure is the fanciest gas station in Michigan is Alex’s Taproom Bistro – a bar and grill with a ton of TVs, plus a small bowling alley. And while that may not sound like an upscale combination, the food at the Taproom Bistro is amazing and the setting – with large beautiful windows – is top notch.
I ordered the Michigan Philly, made with thin-shaved roast beef, grilled onions and banana pepper, aged cheddar, and mayo on a perfectly soft yet buttery grilled hoagie. I loved the Philly, which I had with fresh-cut fries (and mayo to dip the in). I also had baklava for desert which was served warm with two scoops of cinnamon vanilla ice cream.
Other fantastic sandwich options include the Fried Smoked Bologna, the Corned Beef Reuben, The Fried Chicken Hoagie and more. Entrees include Pork Shank made with Korean BBQ, Sea Bass served with mango salad, saffron rice and grilled veggies, Lamb Chops and more.There are also over 100 beers on tap.
On the weekends Alex’s serves brunch, including some very fancy French Toast, and a selection of Benedicts.
I’ve been going to Alex’s Gourmet Market in Holly for years, but this newer- built multi-use building at 4704 White Lake Road (which is actually Independence Township for those who are picky about such things), has a lot of useful and delicious things packed into one place. In addition to the restaurant and bowling upstairs there is a massive selection of liquor and beer in the market on the main level, plus a full service deli, and cases of prepared foods. The Nannoshi Family owns the business, which is named Alex’s after the owners’ son and brother who died at the age of 14 in a snowmobiling accident.
The family atmosphere and quality of food make this a very welcoming place. And there is good wireless for those looking for a place to eat and write. Learn more online at https://alexsclarkston.com/.
Oakland County Times is on a QUEST to enjoy every local restaurant in Oakland County. This long-term project is a labor of love, supported by our friends at White Castle. White Castle is a family-owned company that is proud to be one of only 20 large employers to make the Fortune Best Places to work list in 2022. With steam-grilled sliders, crispy golden french fries, fantastic slides like onion chips or fried clams, and the best chocolate shakes, White Castle is a by far our top choice for a fast food meal. Check out their website at www.WhiteCastle.com.
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