Boodles Restaurant

I grew up right over the bridge. Born and raised. That said, my parents/family NEVER came here. I never understood why? So, Saturday was my day. We walked into an almost empty restaurant. Empty at 7pm. And with experiences like I have I can see why. First let’s start. Looking at their very, very limited option. I landed on the crab cakes. Problem was, it was not fresh crab. It’s canned but she did say it was the finest canned meat but for almost $20, you’d expect a step up from canned cat food. So we decided to get the fresh Ceasars salad with a cup of French onion. First came my French onion. Think of a cup with very little broth at the bottom, tons of stole bread a top and then covered in cheese. The bread being stale in the soup tasted just that’s stale. Onto my Caesar. I had a few bites but the amount of dressing on my salad was crazy. It was swimming. I ate maybe 3/4 bites and I just couldn’t eat it. I sent it back. The Ceasars was overpowering. (I don’t eat anchovies but ate them as I didn’t know. My problem. Not theirs) that said.. THE OWNER walked over to talk about our salad. I took the lead. He asked what was wrong. I said sir there was just too much dressing, this man Bud sat at my table and continued to argue that this is how he makes his salad for years. Back and forth. I told him it was too much for me and this man took absolute offense to such a comment. I was very nice. Too nice for the way this man was talking to me. Finally after 5 minutes, the guy I was with said ok this conversation is done. The owner Bud, has lost his mind. My jaw was on the floor the whole time. In a restaurant people will have different tastes. I’ll attach pictures. But, they charged us $24.96 for 2 dinner salad plates. We couldn’t eat the salad and the soup was stale. We are taking the charge to our credit card company. NOW I can see why my parents never came here. If you were raised in RO you know Pesquales/Peabody was our go-to. For the money you spend here, you could go down to Telway and eat better for cheaper. But if you don’t like something, don’t send it back!!

Incredible! Old school lounge like feel with fantastic food. Classic dishes like escargot, shrimp scampi, table side Caesar salad, steak Diane, and more. All of the food is prepared incredibly well. Service is top tier and attentive. Such a special spot.

Spent my Anniversary here! Amazing staff and service. Food phenomenal let me repeat phenomenal! However, the ambiance was the cherry on top. Live music, low lighting in what felt like an old Hollywood movie! Cheers to Boodles!

Dined here on 3/8/24 had an old school lounge vibe. I loved the atmosphere, live lounge singer, table side Ceaser Salad and classic entrees to chose from. I had the Saganaki and Scallops. The foods was amazing from the bread basket to the main course. Our server was very pleasent and pretty much on top of it. Every table had guests and they were so busy. I would recommend this establishment for your dining pleasure.

This place has so much potential but right now it just doesn't use that. By just driving by You wouldn't even there is a restaurant at that corner. I must admit the construction works don't make it easy right now, but come on.. a refurbished sign or something would help a lot. The food was really great. We were three and had the New York strip. The Steak was awesome, the sides were great and the cook even made garlic butter for us. Our waitress (sorry forgot the name because it was over a week ago) was a bit excited but super nice and tried taking care of all our special wishes. There was a live saxophone player as well. 5/5, will come again.

When we came in for an anniversary dinner, nobody would seat us So we sat at the bar with the worst bartender I’ve ever seen in my life named Kevin I ordered a beer they didn’t have and then Kevin disappeared for 20 minutes When he finally came back, he said he had to do bartending stuff in the back room and I said well I still wanted a beer even though you didn’t have the brand I wanted and my fiancé would like to have a drink menu and he said I can only do so much I told him you’re the worst bartender ever he said I know I feel that I’m a horrible bartender too so we got up and left. Really sad considering how many times we’ve been there with so many friends and has such good times to have Kevin ruin all of it he should not be working there. He should be working at Applebee’s.

Had a great first time. Not busy and Joe the bartender was great with attention. Enjoyed the three different drinks and meal. Got a negroni to start, had an oatmeal stout, and then had a nice wine paired with my chicken picatta. Can't wait to go back.

Visiting town and came across this place through the reviews. It was so good! I had the Steak Stewart and it was probably the best steak I've ever had! The combination of stuffed cheese, mushrooms, onions, all in a port wine sauce.... oh man. Delicious!

So we did a last minute decision to stop here on the way home from an event in Detroit. It was just after nine and they close at 11 on Fridays so that may have been the source of some of the observations. The highlight - we very much enjoyed our server. She was helpful and entertaining. Maybe forgot a few requests which required repeated asks but not earth shattering. The food - it was a definite "ok". The French Onion soup was solid, the bread sticks were not warm which was odd, and the mains were fine. Some opportunity areas. Greet us upon arrival - We had no idea if we should seat ourselves or wait to be seated. We tried to get the attention of bartenders and staff to ask them, my husband finally walked through the restaurant to find someone to ask. Sweeping - if there's a guest eating please do not start sweeping around the surrounding tables and stirring up dust. It's just gross, I get that you close in an hour and want to go home. Please see above, plan, and seat me where you can vacate an area and begin cleaning without disturbing guests The entertainment- It makes for conversation at your table. When tipsy patrons get up to sing - maybe help them? I have no guidance on how to control that bit, a tough one. I feel this place could be awesome and maybe they are getting kinks out after four months closed for repairs. It was fine, really, but not exceptional. We've checked this box. Probably will not return.

Came here with my husband to try out some of their happy hour bites and we were not disappointed! Their happy hour is 4-6pm Tuesday-Friday. We arrived promptly at 4pm and were the only people inside. We like to sit at the bar for better service. We tried some of their $10 small plates, wings and chicken Parmesan. The wings were good, very tasty. The voodoo sauce that the wings were tossed in was also good, but we got a very large amount, they were drowning in sauce. The chicken Parmesan over pasta was delicious and I'm still thinking about it to this day!! For drinks we got beer and wine and they were good happy hour prices. We can't wait to go back and try more items from their happy hour menu, as well as their regular menu!

Love where East meets West since their inception! Was there when they first opened and sat and chatted with Bruno. Realized then that they were going to be around for a long time! Still have my baccarat Luis the 13th bottle that I finished and was graciously giving !

The wings were fire 10/10! I had battered Fish, green beans and mashed potatoes. The chef can cook, this is gourmet food. I'd give the entree a 8.5/10 very solid. Good drinks too. This is a staple home cooked meal kind of spot. I was apprehensive at first but very pleased that I'm tried them out. Well done Boodles.

Overall great place. Longtime favorite that has been closed due to a kitchen fire in June 2024. Finally reopened in November. Celebrated our 52 year plus a month anniversary at Boodles with Bruno. Love this place. Love the food. Notice to all loyal customers, go and support Bruno and the staff so we don't lose this treasure.

It was a great ambiance and the music of Motown made it. Service was excellent. Great to have a local restaurant play Motown. Menu I felt was limited. Was hoping for prime rib, but had plenty of choices. The rice as a little watery for my taste but has the scallops were delicious. Drinks were excellent. Great time. Missed the table side Caesar salad but maybe some things are better retired. Will be back soon. Want to try the lamb chops.

Just OK. Went with another couple based on good reviews and recommendations. "Tableside Caesar" NOT prepared by YOUR table, but at a table by the door. Salads were HUGE but the cost for four was $48, and were all floating in dressing. Not sure if the piano accompanist ditched at the last minute, but Dana, an apparently popular local singer, had to sing to canned accompaniment tracks. My wife & I ordered perch towers, advertised as "lightly battered & flash fried" by our friend server. We were surprised when deep friend perch a la fish & chips style arrived. Pretty tasty but not what we expected. Our friend said his pork chop was just ok, but his wife thoroughly enjoyed her tenderloin. Decent drink pours & wine list & friendly people, but wouldn't race back.

Ok, I hate to be a Debby downer but this place is very mediocre. Very dated but that is not bother me if the food is great. I made a reservation for two the night before and they couldn't find it when we walked in but there were only 4 tables occupied. The host made a big deal and groaned about deciding if or where he was going to seat us. He explained that many people would be here soon (our reservation was for 6:30) and that he also likes to keep tables open for walk ins. So aren't we walk ins if he can't find our reservation? Not very good tableside manner. Our waitress was good. Food was very subpar. Mushroom app was good, bread was good but spinach salad with house garlic dressing was not good and the lobster bisque was globby paste. Perch dinner was huge. The lemon sauce served with it didn't have any taste. It could easily be split because of the portion but waitress didn't warn us of that. Way too much for one person. Then they have a huge grand piano taking up space but a singer came in with her music machine and sang. Might as well remove the piano and put a couple of extra tables in. I felt like I was in the twilight zone. I think of the kitchen nightmares show and how the food could be improved. I guess I don't understand all the love of the food unless you are eating at an old folks home everyday. I know I sound very mean but I like to tell my truth.

Boodles is a hidden gem in Madison Heights! Don't let the unassuming exterior keep you from checking this place out, if you love a classic fine dining experience that's not stuck up, you will love Boodles. from their outstanding wine list to their specialty steaks, this is the perfect place for an intimate date. On the weekends expect live entertainment including live singers or piano players. Not too much for vegetarians on the regular menu but the times I have been here they have a fantastic eggplant parmesan on the specials menu. This place takes you back in time with its enjoyable ambiance and exceptional service.

Boodles is like taking a step back in time. This place is a CLASSIC. It has some serious 1960s Mad Men vibes going on, and I'm here for it. Great service, a classic menu, tableside Caesar salads, and live music in the evenings. A great place for a small celebration or a nice dinner date, if this type of place is your style.

I wanted to love this place. Maybe it was an off night. When we arrived we learned they had a limited menu. They blamed this on being short staffed. I was disappointed because it didn't have what I had hoped to order. The prices were also higher than what I had seen online. I suspect it was because of Valentine's weekend but that's not what they said. We were expecting tableside service but that was very limited. The Saganacki was done in the hallway by the kitchen. My husband's steak Diane was not done tableside which seemed to be the point of ordering it. The table next to us said their steak was cold and tough. We had one drink each and the total came to $100 before tip. We were paying for an experience that we really didn't get. I had chicken Piccata. It was ok. The piano player didn't start until 7 and it was too quiet. I suggest trying this place on a less busy day perhaps.

Boodles is a wonderful experience. The food and drinks are just top notch. The knowledgeable staff makes the perfect suggestions. While the decor is dated it is cozy and warm and makes for a delightful dining experience. And if you are there on Friday or Saturday night there is live music. Just a hidden gem that I truly enjoy!

Finally made it to Boodles Family restaurant. The happy hour Chicken Parmesan did not disappoint!

Classic restaurant serving excellent steaks and seafood along with an awesome Caesar salad, constructed table-side with fresh ingredients. Ruth-Ann and Bruno bring some tasty meals that you will not find at most other restaurants. There is entertainment nightly, plenty of parking and easy access off of I-75 at Eleven Mile in Madison Heights, Mi. Prices are very reasonable for the quality you will come to respect. Certainly one of the restaurants I miss most in Michigan.

You can't top a restaurant that serves excellent food, great service, a superb bar, inviting atmosphere, and value too. I've been there many times over many years, with different friends, and have never been disappointed. Can I give Boodles 6 stars?

The seafood Strudel is the best ever. I go just for that. Love the table side presentation of dinner. love the atmosphere and the seevice.

We had the table-side caesar we had heard about and it was good! I had the eight oz filet with zip sauce. The meal was great and my partner thought the zip sauce was the best she'd ever had. I personally thought it was different but not better. I will be returning to Boodles

Here on a Wednesday. Tiffany was an awesome server. Caesar was great, I got the steak sandwich and it was literally a NY strip steak on a roll. Just how I like it. Reefermen played a great set and I would come back in a minute. Hidden gem

Atmosphere Think old style cigar bar. Live pianist taking requests and singing. Customers were singing along! Service Incredibly friendly and attentive. Brought an ice bucket for the wine. Food and Beverage $40 for a bottle of Pinot Gris? It was good, from Italy. I-had the chicken piccata, my friends had the salmon and perch. The chicken had nice artichoke quarters cooked perfectly. The salmon was dry. The perch was very good. Summary Traditional eatery with good food.

What can I say? The food was fantastic, the signature Caesar Salad was outstanding, our waitperson (Tiffany) was most attentive. The atmosphere was very festive, we had to long tables of apparent office parties right behind us and the rest of the tables were full. Everyone was having a great time. The live music (singer, guitar and tambourine) added to the fun, except, and I hesitate to mention this, they were too loud for us. Of course, we were seated right across from them and this added to our difficulty to carry on a conversation without yelling at each other. Quieter, softer, lounge music would, in our opinion, been more appropriate. This will not detract from our love of Boodles and we will be returning in the near future. Thanks for a great night!

What is Boodles? A better question is what does the word Boodles mean? Essentially a "large sum" of something. In this case it's a large sum of really solid food! This non descriptive joint off 11 mile and 75 has been boodling people for generations. Now, is Boodling a verb? Don't know, but if you get the steak, I would consider that Boodling So get Boodled, get the steak, and BOODLE your way back home

I love the old time feel of this restaurant! The service is always spot on, and they have the best happy hour around! Don't sleep on this metro Detroit classic!

Boodles Restaurant is the very definition of a hidden gem in the most literal sense. It's located on the corner of I-75 and 11 Mile, but you would never notice it unless you were seeking it out. From the outside it looks like an old vacant building as it's dark and unremarkable. But when you open the door you enter an even darker space with a bar and restaurant. Do not let looks deceive you, because this place is so warm and welcoming after you get past the confusion you may feel. The gentleman at the bar called me over to have a seat and asked me if I had a chance to view the specials. I saw they had roast duck, so naturally I go with that since it's not everyday you see duck on a menu. I also got a cup of broccoli and cheddar soup which I inhaled with the complimentary bread they gave me. Unsurprisingly their roast duck was very good and I literally ate everything they gave me with no difficulty, although I felt so full after it was worth every bite. Even better was they had a live musical performer behind me to add to the positive experience I already had. This is the kind of place you go to in your neighborhood when you just want to get away and relax for a little; I just wish it was in my neck of the woods. Also great if you have family and friends, can't go wrong no matter what. Thank you guys, and I also appreciate the gentleman at the bar talking football with me and making me feel like I had company.

We would always pass by this place on the off ramp and say we should go there, well we finally did and what a treat. Old school feel, dim lighting, wood panels, great food and live singing. LOVED IT!! The drinks were good, classic manhattan and a good chardonnay. The bread biscuits were so-so, to dense and not have enough flavor. Appetizer of crab stuffed mushrooms in a delicious lobster cream sauce. The mushrooms were meaty and packed with lobster. Choosing an entree was difficult as it all sounded and looked good from the menu and the specials as well. Decided on the lamb chops and the sea scallops. We shared both and both were delicious. Sea scallops were perfectly broiled and melted in your mouth. The chops (I think there were 5!) also perfectly broiled, with a nice crust and medium rare. Both entrees had asparagus that was crisp and tasty. We enjoyed just seeing what other patrons were eating, ie the perched looked delicious and that patron said it was great. The singer was excellent, low key so you could still talk and enjoy her voice. She sang some jazz and some Sinatra among many classics. Most important is we're going back and bringing friends.

The bread was delicious but the salads were okay. Our server Wendy was nice and patient with us. It's a very cramped area so be prepared to hear everyone around you. Our entrees were absolutely amazing! My husband got the filet at medium and i had gotten the special of the night, lobster ravioli.

I love this place. Ruthann is the best server in the place. I have been going for several years now. I always request Ruthann as my server.

Love the light music by the pianist during dinner; just the right volume. Filet Mignon is always excellent here! The Bananas Foster is a MUST try. Bruno is a table-side staple! I will always come back.

Great reasonably priced food. Service was exceptional on a busy Saturday night! A step back in the past.

The food was delicious. The ambiance is old school in a great retro atmosphere. Four of us had dinner and could not have enjoyed our meals more. however: it could not make up for the noise level that was deafening or the crying infant at the next table or the abysmal service. our waitress on more than one fly by said "it is not my fault" well it wasn't our fault either. Her inability to check with us on our meal satisfaction was bad enough but our juice glass size water was never refilled and we waited over 30 minutes after we finished eating for our bill with no mention of dessert or coffee. Even though the food is award winning it is not worth a return trip.

I sat at the bar and Joe was my bartender and server and he was amazing. His customer service is top notch. He made sure I was taken care of very well. I tried the Wisconsin cheese soup if I I'm not mistaken and it was delicious. Better than I thought it would be. For my entree I tried the eggplant Parmesan and it was good. I've had it before but not at this restaurant so I was interested too see how it would taste. I felt that the eggplant could've been a little better. The eggplant was completely soggy all the way thru. I understand that it is fried or baked and that it does loose its form texture but it was cooked a little too much for my liking. However, the spaghetti was tasty. I would definitely return but I would probably try something else on the menu.

We had a reservation only to arrive and the place is packed/overbooked. No host in sight. Eventually, after waiting to try to find someone to speak with... we (along with five other couples who also had reservations) all just left and found a different restaurant to celebrate our friends birthday. Very disappointed as they had my phone number and could have given us and others a heads up.

Went for NYE. Good food, good atmosphere, but service was lacking that night. Very busy not enough help

Where do I begin... if you want a fancy restaurant or are looking to impress that someone special... this is the spot. Look no further. I have been to the best of the best and this restaurant takes the show. I have been going here over 13 years. I would compare this to a "Mr. Pauls Chop House". It has a very intimate close candlelit feel. The smells of wine, fresh bread and tableside desserts set on fire for a feast for your eyes and your tastebuds. The waitstaff is always incredibly polite and helpful. They have daily chefs specials that are always amazing and the wine selection in huge. Ask your waiter what would pair nicely with your meal. They are very knowledgeable. I would recommend you dress up a bit when you come here. I wouldn't say it's required but for the atmosphere you really should. I always start with a table side ceaser salad( A must have recommendation by me...) and I also get the tenderloin and baked potato. French onion soup is a must have to here. (COME HUNGRY) I usually order the rose to drink or the recommend choice the waiter suggests. *(Spanish Coffee is to die for. Made right.) Keep in mind this is a fancy restaurant. If your used to dining at upper class establishments you know nothing is ever rushed. Your paying for the dining experience. There is a fair amount of time in between each course so don't rush. I hope you truly were able to read this whole review so you can experience everything this gem has to offer. By far without a doubt my favorite restaurant in all of Michigan!

I feel like you can probably still smoke here if you come at the right time and day. Certainly smells like it!

Walking in it is a little older vibe, dark with mood lighting and live piano music. If you are worried about the pandemic I will be honest, I could touch both the piano player and the table next to use. That is the only reason for knocking off a star. That aside, food was amazing! Rolls came out fresh and warm. I had the Seafood Strudel, not what I expected but it was a good surprise! I usually do not like scallops but they were so yummy! My date got the Pork Chop special and it was very tender with cranberries which was a nice touch! He had a side of Beef Barley soup and he couldn't stop talking about it! Price is a little on the higher end and I didn't think the service reflect the price!

Really only okay. Limited menu, dry tasteless food, decent wait staff, 100% not worth the money and I won't be back.

We love this place! Its small, intimate and has that atmosphere that is escaping most restaurants these days. Excellent food!! Excellent service. And excellent piano music!! You cannot go wrong at Boodles!

Always good, terrific service and the menu is incredible. Best Steak Diane anywhere! Tableside Banana's Foster is delicious!

First time here since Covid and then 11 Mile bridge issue. LOVE BOODLES. Had Caesar's for two, and two specials. Delicious. As were the vodka martini and the Manhattan. Great service. Love this place. Like an old supper club/restaurant and delicious.

Very old school classic restaurant. First time around was not so good but we gave it a second chance and TOP NOTCH!! Everyone was attentive and our waiter really took good care of us - we had a blast and Brian the piano player was awesome with accommodating requests and makin the atmosphere lively. The walleye special was great and the shrimp scampi delicious. The guys had ribs that were tasty. Very nice experience - don't pass this place up

Attentive staff and old school ambience. Live music most evenings is also a big plus.

What a diamond in the rough!! From the outside of the building we thought it was abandoned Inside a piano player soft beautiful music Wendy was our server she was perfect Bruno made our Caesar salad at our table !! Believe it or not the escargot delicious . Had three bites of my scrumptious cheesy lasagna because I was to full to eat more Next time I'd try the chicken Diane it looked more scrumptious For dessert Bruno made cherries jubilee It was amazing Don't let the outside keep ya trying Boodles!!!

Visiting the area so I yelped what was good. It brought me here. I'm from the west side of Michigan so I know these local places really can wow you and Boodles did. It's a cozy unique place that was popping. People of all ages were here from 20 year olds to 90 year olds. Drinks were flowing. The menu was reduced but the offerings were terrific. If you didn't see it on the menu, ask! I got the White Fish and my partner got the fillet. Both were cooked to perfection. So fresh! The rolls were terrific and salad was amazing. I've never seen Caesar made at the table! The live music was fun and the environment was welcoming!

I haven't been to Boodles in years, but met friends there last night and we all raved about the food and service. Wendy was our server and she was very attentive, but not overbearing. Her recommendations were spot on - you have to try to table side caesar salad. Portions were large and we all took home leftovers. I would highly recommend this unassuming, but excellent restaurant! We were told they were forced to close for five years, first due to covid and then the huge construction project at 696/I75. So glad they reopened! Great meeting place between the east and west sides.

My husband and I enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Boodles. We started with the saganaki appetizer that was accompanied by hot pita bread triangles. It was an attractive presentation. The steak Diane was well prepared (8-ounce filet) and very flavorful, and the 6-ounce filet was perfectly prepared and delicious. Both entrees were of good value and reasonably priced and came with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans and your choice of soup or salad. We both chose the salad with blue cheese dressing and this salad and the home made dressing was wonderful. Our server, Matt was attentive and professional, a very likable & hardworking guy. My husband enjoyed the chocolate raspberry cake for dessert. The salmon entree and the perch entree looked very appealing, plus there were several daily specials to choose from. There was a very good piano player who arrived at 6 pm, and his talent added to the ambiance on Friday night. The owner was welcoming and warm and was working creating Cesar salad tableside. We will be back. Thanks for a nice dinner!

Went to Boodles the other day. This was my 3rd time. Like most restaurants prices are up. Especially the higher ends places like Boodles. But sometimes you need to spoil yourself. It's hard to find restaurants like the old days. Boodles had someone singing the whole time. It was actually good music and not to loud. The ambiance is of the 80's-90's(which I admire) and t's warm and inviting. It's actually nice going into a place that's not modern and cold. So if your looking for a nice older setting with a great wait staff and really good food give it a try. Only reason I gave it a 4 star was the prices. But we will definitely be back again.

A great old school spot. Always love to sit at the bar because the bartenders are so cool and engaging. They feature a free snicky snack (potato skins this time) during happy hour (4-6) and discounted drink prices at I believe half price. The staff and customers are always good company and food is consistently delicious. No frills, just good food, good people.

Delicious! We enjoyed a very nice late dinner tonight with terrific service. Table side Caesar for 2 ...hot fresh bread. Eggplant parm and chicken Marsala ...not enough room for dessert, but they have a great selection that sounded terrific. It has been too long and we were very pleased to be able to enjoy Boodles again.

Our meals were delicious, but the menu was very limited. We finished the meal with flaming Bananas Foster prepared table side. Yum!