Bites Nearby: Berkley Bistro & Cafe

Berkley Bistro & Cafe, 1999 Coolidge Hwy., Berkley, (248) 691-4333

The small dimensions of this interesting restaurant disguise an extensive menu in the hands of chef/manager Tommy Keshishian, who cheerfully dishes up everything from frittatas, omelets and scrambles to full-scale veal chop dinners in a room decorated with fresh flowers. 

As if  extensive menu is not enough, Keshishian is planning some surprises for Valentine's Day. Keshishian, who runs the restaurant for BDC Limited LLC, the small corporation that owns it, calls his style "twisted New American" – comfort food given a creative boost.  

A good illustration of the style is his version of macaroni and cheese: penne pasta baked in Alfredo sauce, cut into a wedge, encased in bread crumbs, flash fried and finished with tomato bisque. Keshishian buys locally whenever possible. 

Recommended dishes: Chicken salad on toasted walnut bread, J.L. Hudson's Maurice salad, Lucky's Bene

Prices: Breakfast dishes $5.50-$10, sandwiches and salads $6.95-$12.95, dinner entrees $8.95-$19.95

Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday

Credit cards: All major