I Don't Know How I Ended Up in Michigan for the Best Seafood of My Life — But Hazel's Is Worth the Trip

I don't know exactly how I ended up in the Detroit area trying the best seafood of my life, but here we are. Hazel's is technically in Birmingham, Michigan — about 45 minutes to an hour from Detroit — and it was a genuinely pleasant surprise from start to finish.

As someone who loves seafood, this was hands down the best meal I've had this year. And I don't say that lightly.

The Oysters

I hadn't had oysters in the longest time. These reminded me why I love them. They were so fresh and so clean — the kind of oysters that make you understand why people are passionate about them. No heavy sauce needed, no masking the flavor. Just perfect.

If you're someone who's been on the fence about oysters, Hazel's is where you want to try them for the first time. The quality changes everything.

What We Ordered

• Oysters — Fresh, beautifully presented, and the best I've had in years. Start here.
• Combo steam pot — The clams were my absolute favorite part of the whole meal. There's something about a well-made steam pot that just feels right, and this one delivered completely.
• Crab cakes — No exaggeration: the best crab cakes I've ever had in my life. They weren't filler-heavy or overly seasoned — you could actually taste the crab, and the texture was perfect.

The atmosphere matched the food. The room felt warm and intentional, the kind of place where you slow down and actually enjoy where you are instead of rushing through a meal.

Colorado, Are We Ever Going to Get Something Like This?

That's the real question. Colorado Springs has a growing food scene and there are genuinely great restaurants here — but a seafood experience at this level? We're still waiting. If you know of a spot that comes close, I want to hear about it.

In the meantime: if you're ever in the Birmingham, Michigan area, get yourself to Hazel's. You'll thank yourself later.

Menu, hours, and reservation availability at Hazel's are subject to change. Visit eatathazels.com for current information before visiting. This post reflects personal experience and is not sponsored.