Oak & Reel

Calamari ‘In Zimino’

Detroit, MI

If we lived any closer, we would dine at Oak & Reel daily, without hesitation. This seafood-focused Italian gem, tucked into Detroit’s vibrant culinary scene, is one of our absolute favorites. The food is consistently outstanding and the experience always exceeds expectations.

Family-owned and operated by the incredibly kind and gracious duo, Chef Jared and Abby Gadbaw, Oak & Reel is the kind of restaurant that feels both special and comforting. Their hospitality radiates through every team member, and Detroit is incredibly lucky to have them pouring their passion into this beautiful space.

One of our favorite experiences here is the Culinary Collective—an ongoing series where a visiting chef takes over the kitchen for a 6–7 course tasting menu. It’s a brilliant concept that lets guests explore other renowned restaurants without leaving Detroit. In addition to the Culinary Collective, Oak & Reel hosts an array of special events and, another personal favorite, their rotating Chef’s Tasting Menu.

Of course, we never need an excuse to return, but when it came time to celebrate Carmine’s birthday, Oak & Reel was his first choice. As luck would have it, his birthday coincided with the launch of their new Ligurian-inspired tasting menu—making us the very first to experience it. A happy coincidence or accolade for our love of Oak & Reel.

Liguria | Chef’s Tasting Menu

• Cibo Di Strada – Ligurian street food

• Calamari ‘In Zimino’ – shrimp-stuffed squid, braised greens, salsa cruda

• Corzetti – traditional Ligurian pasta “coins” stamped with ornate designs

  • This corzetti was special and stamped with the Oak & Reel crest

• Pansotti – ricotta ravioli, wild greens, porcini

• Anatra Arrosto – aged duck, strawberries, spring onion, foie gras sugo

• Cavolini – bay leaf pastry cream, vanilla chantilly, macerated rhubarb

Cibo Di Strada

Calamari ‘In Zimino’

Corzetti

Pansotti

Anatra Arrosto

In true Jabri Fine Dining fashion, we always consider how welcoming a restaurant is to younger diners. Oak & Reel is one of the few places that effortlessly balances elevated cuisine with family-friendly hospitality. The staff is incredibly warm, accommodating, and always makes Emma feel just as celebrated. For the record, their pasta is her absolute favorite.

Whether it’s a romantic date night, an impressive business dinner, or a celebratory meal with family, Oak & Reel delivers every single time. Detroit is fortunate to have a place that brings such heart, craft, and community to the table.