Oakland Thrive Restaurant Quest: Three Cats Restaurant in Clawson
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Aug. 26, 2025)
Clawson, MI – Fancy and fun are two words that describe the experience of a meal at Three Cats Restaurant in Downtown Clawson. Located inside of a former theater – with the “Clawson” marquee still in tact – Three Cats is full of delightful surprises. It’s decorated with items from neighboring boutique Leon & Lulu, including antiques, circus banners, plates, toys, greeting cards, furniture and accessories. There are even items like a giant duck with a kid-sized booth, and a vintage red car to help set the whimsical tone.
While patrons wait for creatively crafted meals, they can shop the items that surround them.
The menu of Three Cats reflects the same eclectic charm, with items designed with professionalism to make meals memorable. I recently had lunch there with a friend.
My friend had what is considered a grown-up version of a comforting kid’s classic- grilled cheese and tomato soup. The Three Cat’s version is made with sharp white cheddar, creamy brie, shallots & white wine, served on mustard butter toasted sourdough. With the various layers of cheese making their appearance in the bites, the sandwich had a lot to make my friend smile. Plus the house-made tomato soup was a rich and delicious, perfect fit.
I started with a cup of Matt’s Exotic Mushroom Soup which is a decadent bisque with a swirl of chive creme. For the main course I had the smoked salmon flatbread, made with house-made Boursin spread, smoked salmon, pickled red onion, and capers.The perfectly soft, yet crispy on the edges, bread gave a great platform for the mix of flavors packed on top. This dish was creamy, tangy, and filling.
For dessert we shared key lime pie and a salted butterscotch brulee, both of which were picturesque and tasty.
Three Cats has a number of other great choices.
On the lunch menu, one might enjoy the turkey apple brie sandwich, the wedge salad, and the wild mushroom flatbread. The CIA Caesar salad is a popular choice with romaine, Parmesan, anchovy, garlic croutons and Caesar dressing.
The dinner menu also has an eclectic mix of options. Among them are spring pea risotto, pork spare ribs, and the bistro burger. There’s also the barramundi, served pan-seared with the skin on served over warm Mediterranean garbanzo, tomato, and herb salad.
On the weekends Three Cats serves brunch, with dishes like the ranchero tostada, lox bagel plate, French toast, short rib smash, quiche, and more.
Three Cats Restaurant is located at 116 W 14 Mile in Downtown Clawson. Learn more at https://threecatscafe.com
With support from Oakland Thrive, Oakland County Times Editor and Publisher Crystal Proxmire is on a quest to try every restaurant in Oakland County. Oakland Thrive is a transformative force dedicated to nurturing local businesses. Since 2023, Oakland Thrive has helped foster success by connecting Oakland County businesses of all kinds with resources and expert advice, including specialized help for businesses in the hospitality and restaurant industry. Oakland Thrive is focused on bridging economic disparities, fostering inclusive growth, and ensuring equitable opportunities. Learn more about Oakland Thrive events, classes, and opportunities for small businesses at https://oaklandthrive.org/
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