Forest Grill in Birmingham, Michigan, has you covered if you’re all about dining experiences that combine style and substance. This sleek restaurant offers contemporary Continental cuisine with bold Mediterranean influences—perfect for those chilly winter nights.
The Setting: Glass and Class
Forest Grill’s design is modern without being cold. Picture a glass-encased dining room that feels open yet intimate, perfect for a cozy winter evening. The restaurant sits in a residential neighborhood, giving it a relaxed yet polished vibe. It’s the sort of place where you can dress up without feeling overdressed—think effortlessly chic.
Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday (5 PM–10 PM on weekdays and until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays), it’s the ideal spot for date nights, celebrations, or just treating yourself because you deserve it. But don’t show up on Sundays or Mondays—they’re closed, so plan accordingly.
The Menu: Winter Comfort With a Twist
Forest Grill’s menu is where things get exciting. It’s not just food; it’s art on a plate. With options that range from hearty winter dishes to lighter fare, there’s something for everyone.
Starters to Get You Going
Start your meal with something bold like the Potato Leek Soup ($11)—a warm hug in a bowl topped with crispy onion—or the Brussels Sprouts ($15), which come dressed up with Bulgarian feta and golden raisins. Feeling adventurous? Try the Farm Egg ($15), paired with Madeira sabayon and maitake mushrooms—it’s comfort food gone gourmet.
Pasta Worth Writing Home About
Pasta lovers, rejoice! Forest Grill offers dishes that are both indulgent and refined. The Braised Wagyu Pappardelle ($18/$32) features walnut and port demi for a rich, velvety finish, while the Creste di Galli ($17/$30) brings some heat with its spicy vodka sauce and sausage. If you’re in the mood for something lighter but no less satisfying, the Lemon Ricotta Dumplings ($20/$36) are a must-try paired with artichoke, watercress, and chèvre cream.
Mains That Steal the Show
The main courses at Forest Grill are where the kitchen really flexes its creative muscles. The Branzino ($52) is a standout—perfectly cooked with Swiss chard and yuzu beurre blanc, adding bright flavors to this winter season. For meat lovers, the New York Strip ($68) comes with home fries and garlic aioli—a classic done exceptionally well. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Oxtail ($42), served with nduja cannellini beans, for a hearty yet sophisticated dish.
Sides That Shine
Don’t overlook the sides here—they’re not just an afterthought. The Mushrooms ($14) with prosciutto and caper sherry are earthy and rich, while the Green Beans Almondine ($14) bring freshness with lemon breadcrumbs.
Cocktails to Warm Your Winter Soul
What’s dinner without a good drink? Forest Grill’s cocktail menu is as thoughtful as its food offerings. Sip on the ‘Pear’fect Cosmopolitan ($16), which blends pisco, Cointreau, lemon, and cranberry for a seasonal twist on a classic. Or try the Desert Mirage ($16), featuring reposado tequila with brown sugar and walnut—perfect for warming up after braving Michigan’s winter chill.
For those skipping alcohol, their zero-proof cocktails don’t skimp on flavor. The Piña Fresca ($15) combines pineapple mango jalapeño with citrus for a drink that feels like sunshine in a glass.
Wine Lovers Rejoice
If wine is more your speed, Forest Grill has an impressive selection of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines by the glass or bottle. From crisp Sauvignon Blancs to bold Cabernet Sauvignons like Faust ($29), there’s something to pair perfectly with every dish.
Why You Should Visit This Winter
Forest Grill isn’t just about eating—it’s about savoring every moment of your dining experience. Whether you’re indulging in their expertly crafted pasta dishes or sipping on an inventive cocktail by candlelight, this is where winter evenings in Birmingham feel just right.
For reservations or more information, call them at (248) 258-9400, but don’t wait too long—this place fills up fast!
Sources: forestbirmingham.com, Forest Facebook Page, Forest Instagram Page
Header Image Source: forestbirmingham.com
