Saginaw has never been known as an epicurean enclave, but the Old Town part, and I mean like the year 1823 really old town part, has a few winners. Jakes is one of them, from the owners greeting you at the door, to the interesting memorabilia on the walls, this place has charm. The prices are reasonable and the food is first rate. The renovations are ongoing on Hamilton Street, so take a drive down, you won't be disappointed. read more

We had a fantastic perch dinner and dessert on our visit. The owner, Paul, made us feel so welcome. He checked on us a couple of times and chatted with us about the wonderful history of the restaurant before we left. The food was delicious and the atmosphere wonderful. I would highly recommend. read more

Jake's Old City Grill - Excellent dessert recommendation from our waiter, Christopher. - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

Horrible! The server suggested I write a review stating this is "pare for the course." There is no way I'll go back there again! Servicers are nice, but the food is just BAD. read more

Absolutely wonderful service, food was delish had the chicken piccata, hubs had Mahi Mahi, friend had Mahi and Lamb chops so good! And the Jake Chops and homemade sauce was to die for!!! Highly recommend and will be back!!! read more

Food was great and expertly prepared. The wait staff offered great service. The ambiance was unique, metal ceilings, rich wood paneling and beams. It is located in "OLD TOWN SAGINAW, MICHIGAN". Did I mention the food was great? All in-house made dressings, food cooked to your liking. read more

We came here on a busy Saturday evening without reservations. Even though they were completely booked the hostess was able to squeeze 3 chairs together at the bar so we could eat. Appetizers were warm homemade bread and a garden salad. My entree was the Land and Sea. Fillet tenderloins, scallops and shrimp served was grilled asparagus. The tenderloins cut like butter, scallops were prepared perfectly and the shrimp was clean and well seasoned. The entire meal was fantastic. I must say it's one of the best Surf and Turf dishes I have ever had. The owner said it has been his best selling entree for the last 15 years and I can see why. My party had the chicken Parmesan and a Ruben sandwich which they said they both enjoyed. Booth, low/high top and bar seating. Full bar. Upscale but casual attire is allowed. Brick walls with a classy throwback atmosphere. Cloth napkins. Clean. Very good service. Limited street parking. Lot parking nearby. I haven't been here since before the pandemic but definitely will be coming back more often. Highly recommended. read more

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Great food and great drinks! Steaks cooked perfectly, desserts were fabulous. Will be back again.

Jake's in Saginaw for Mother's Day Dish after dish of disappointment. In 2024, I and six others celebrated Mother's Day by taking my mom to Jake's in Saginaw. On Mother's Day, Jake's only serves a buffet. Fries chicken that tastes like yesterday's KFC. Two people in my group selected the salmon; neither could choke it down. There was also a bowl of lettuce for build-your-own salad. Looked wilted to me. The best was the desert. Chocolate cake which was actual a chocolate muffin from Cosco (very delicious) cut in half and placed on a plate like it was special. The second choice was cheesecake. You've seen it. It's the variety pack from Costco. Overpriced. Poor selection. Poor quality. PS: the servicer was good. read more

The restaurant smells like mildew. Food isn't bad but pricey for atmosphere. Service was excellent.

Ate there last night, ordered the ahi tuna appetizer and scallops for dinner. The ahi tuna was not cooked properly, very dry and lacked flavor. Would not order again. Also the way it was cut looked like someone came at it with a hacksaw. The scallops were bland and lacked seasoning. They were warm to cold when they arrived. The couscous was a disgusting sloppy mess which again lacked any decent flavor. The majority of visitors in the restaurant were on the older side, definitely a place for a dated crowd. The waitress didn't seem to be happy to be there at all. The food on the menu/prices make this place appear to be a fine dining establishment however it lacked any kind of fine dining experience. read more

Tonight I went to dinner at Jakes with my older parents for my mothers birthday. We had a reservation for myself, my two parents and my 10 month old son. During the meal my son started "squealing" because he was excited and I immediately gave him food to eat and a pacifier to make sure he was quiet. The next time this happened, we were waiting to pay our bill and the owner/manager came to our table to tell me he wanted to duct tape my child's mouth. Are you serious? My parents mentioned their previous visit the same man made a remark as soon as they sat down that because they hadn't had a reservation that time and they would need to hurry up and get out of there so he could seat more tables. Really nice. Won't be dining here again. read more

I stopped in to kill some time before an event, sat at the bar and gave the bartender a request out of her norm, but not out of her comfort to fix. Overall, the service I experienced was very friendly and prompt. I only had time for an appetizer and picked the seared sesame encrusted ahi. It was cooked perfectly to order and complimented nicely with sauce on the side and a cube of wasabi. Having had a taste of their appetizers, I am looking forward to trying out some of their main entrees and hope to have an opportunity to come back soon read more

Feel the stress of everyday life melt away from the second you walk in.  The atmosphere was open and rich.  Everyone was kind, thoughtful, friendly and the recommendations were perfect. The food was amazingly delicious. Kind: We arrived closer to closing and were pleasantly invited to please come in. Thoughtful: We were sharing our meal and our order came already divided.  We love dipping sauce for our sweet potatoes and our server whipped it up.  She even wrote down things to see during our next day visit. Recommendations: Our server really enjoyed helping and telling us about the tasty menu choices. You could tell she really loved the food there too.  A plus, we could taste the alcohol in our mixed drinks. Friendly: We are looking forward to going back and being treated so well. The Owner called our hotel to let us know we left a personal item and then he dropped it off on his way home. When asking where to eat, the Montague Inn confidently recommended Jake's and guaranteed we would love it.  They were right! read more

Jake's Old City Grill - Sitting in a booth in Jake's - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

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Went here for the first time last week for a birthday dinner. Our server (Chloe?) was awesome. She was very patient with all our questions. The atmosphere was very nice, loved the area, cute outdoor seating as well. The food was amazing! We started with an appetizer of chips, so delicious. In our party we had the scallops, filet mignon, pasta Alfredo, a burger and a Ruben. Meals came with bread and salads as well. Everyone was very pleased with their meal. We also shared a couple desserts which were wonderful. Their cocktail and wine list are extensive, I had the pretty in pink martini, yummy! Would definitely return and recommend this restaurant, prices are on the high side, but par for fine dining and for the amount of food you get. read more

My parents were arriving in Saginaw tonight for the first time. From my tablet in Nashville I was researching somewhere nice to eat in the historic area. This looked liked a great option online. They loved it! Raved over the service and friendliness. And loved their meals, as well. My dad was thrilled with his perch, as that is not a fish we can order at a restaurant locally. And my mom was thrilled with her salad. She only eats those special salad greens and likes lots of not necessarily standard toppings, and her salad tonight was right up her alley. Two happy parents. Whew! read more

The food was amazing and the service was great! This was my first time here and it did not disappoint! I had the Maurice salad and it was delicious. Others in our party had the chicken parmigiana and walleye, and they did not disappoint! read more

We were visiting from out of town and found Jake's and it did not disappoint. The steak was delicious, customer service was helpful and kind, we even met the owners who shared some of the history behind the building and their experience there. I would recommend to any and all steak and history lovers! read more

Very rude owner. Overpriced food. Mediocre at best.Known for being an upscale place but if I'm paying those prices I expect better.

Fantastic food! Excellent wait staff. We dropped in without a reservation and they were able to seat us without issue. This place truly is a hidden gem. Highly recommend! read more

My buddy wanted to go to Jake's for his birthday dinner, and man, did he make a good choice. Between the 7 of us, there was not one complaint about the food. I wasn't super hungry so I opted for the french dip. The french dip sandwich was the best french dip sandwich I've ever had. Super delicious. The meat was soft, tender, and had a terrific flavor. Incredible. The atmosphere was really clean & nice, and our server was terrific. The entire restaurant was very impressive. Highly recommend Jake's Old City Grill if you'd like something a bit different than the standard steakhouse yet still would like to go somewhere "nice". read more

Omgosh....love this place...drove two hours to get there. ..wonderful ambiance...friendly staff/owner. I ordered the encrusted walleye, topped with a thin slice of grilled pear/blue cheese sauce. It was beyond delicious. Beautiful presentation. So sorry I didn't take a pic. The chef who cooked that fish needs a raise! One of the best walleye dishes I have ever eaten, seriously! I have been to this restaurant three times. They have never disappointed. read more

Jake's is our "go to" place when we want fine dining. The owners, the atmosphere, the service, and the food is superb! I am working my way thru their martini list! LOL read more

Jake's Old City Grill - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

Excellent place! It's our favorite place in Saginaw to eat! Excellent menu choices, beautiful presentations, desserts are phenomenal, best wine list in the city! Get a reservation if you want to go on a weekend as they are very popular! read more

We heard about Jakes on Under the Radar Michigan and decided to stop on a mini vacation to the bay area. We were not disappointed. The owner, Paul, greeted us and personally seated us, then came back later to check on the meal. My husband had the Scottish Salmon, which he said was delicious and a larger portion than many other restaurants. I had the chicken piccata, an unusual choice for me. I liked it, but I would probably get something different if dining there again. My husband had the tuxedo cake for dessert, and it was delicious! The beauty of the building and decor was rich yet inviting. I feel this is a hidden gem. Would definitely go here again! read more

Jake's Old City Grill - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

This was a fantastic meal. We ordered the mystery martini and got an orange dreamsicle cocktail and the purple rain and both were yummy. We got the Seared Ahi, Shrimp cocktail, and the steak tips and all were very good. The osso bucco, the land and sea, and lake perch were all delicious as well. The only complaint we had we there was a few small gristle bites in the steak appetizer. We live over three hours away and are up for the weekend and we said we would come up again just to eat at Jakes. The owners were fantastic people as well and wanted our input on things and our waiter, names Jake ironically was very kind and helpful. Deserves better reviews that is has on here for sure. read more

Jake's Old City Grill - the entrance to the restaurant - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

Great service and atmosphere. Food is underwhelming boarder-line gross. Dry steak, diy Caesar salad that you cut up yourself with wishbone Caesar dressing, fishy tasting shrimp and scallions, rubbery lobster, and the most forgettable potatoes I've ever had. Wont be back but, the server with the Mohawk was a great server. read more

Food was cooked correctly as ordered and was delicious. Server was observant and attentive without being overly pushy as is case in some chop houses. Will definitely be back. read more

If you are over 70 yo with diminishing taste buds, then you will enjoy this place. We ordered two appetizers, both were barely edible. Everything tasted of Gordon food service and they are clearly catering to the elderly and local clientele only. Was disappointed and do not recommend. read more

It was a Tuesday night and the things I came in for weren't available as they just pulled them out of the freezer. The steak was delicious service was lacking. Ambiance is charming. Overall I'd stay clear. Spoke with the owner/manager and was unimpressed with his lack of care. read more

Hi. U guys has the best food on the earth thank u for serving us here in Saginaw not a hole a lot to say but u have the best food in Michigan keep us up read more

Jake's Old City Grill - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

Visited 3times. Inconsistent food and service. Last visit waited over an hour after ordering and food was still not served. Too pricey for what you get. I hate it when restaurants think they are high end but have dirty carpet. Strike three and they're out. Won't return. read more

Delicious!!!!! Great menu! Great drinks! Awesome service. Great location, cool area with a great vibe.

Recently made the move from Virginia to Michigan. Being close to the ocean we thought we had the best seafood. Had a lovely meal at Jake's and we both were highly impressed with the quality and taste of our meal The Missus had the Scottish Salmon while I had the Mahi Mahi,both of which were done to perfection. The wait staff saw to our needs and checked in on us, just enough. The two owners (both lovely people) made sure we were being taken care of as well. All being said we will be back and I'm sure we will be impressed again. read more

After seeing great reviews on their Easter buffet, I made reservations for my family of 13. I made the reservation for 130pm, but they called and pushed it back to 2pm, which we were fine with. When I asked the server where I could find a high chair, she told me, "my house, but they have duct tape", which must be a common response because another employee (poss. mgr) joined the conversation late and used the same line). Kids are definitely not welcome, as the server also saw that my 1yr old grandson of course rubbed some mashed pot on the table in front of him and she said, "eeuuww, disgusting!" (which we cleaned up, of course-I know not everyone does) 4 out of 6 of the adults I paid for, went up for a second plate to find the buffet torn apart (3pm). As the servers were loading takeout boxes for themselves, they saw how surprised I was and asked what I wanted. In shock, I said I want the buffet that I paid for. As this was happening, three others from my party also came for a second plate to find it was gone. By this time there was a group of 5 or more employees standing around us, asking what we wanted and they would get it from the kitchen for us. We didn't know what to say. I asked for a piece of cheesecake and they went back and brought me one. Everyone else was embarrassed and just went back to the table. We were enjoying our family and having a leisurely meal and for $38pp meal, I feel I was entitled to more than 2 pc ham (which was delish), smashed pot, a saus link, a pc of quiche and a pc of cheesecake. My son had to stop for fast food after leaving. Food was just average for buffet and luke warm. Waitstaff was rude-I'm sure because 18% gratuity was automatically added so it really didn't matter as she was already making her money. I would never ever recommend for the Easter buffet or any meal. There are many other upscale restaurants that I'm sure will treat their guests better than they treated us at Jakes. read more

This place gets four stars for the drink menu, and the fact that the meat-eaters I was with were impressed with the various varieties of steak they ordered. As a vegetarian, my choices were much more limited; I had the hummus and tabbouleh, which were good, and the macaroni and cheese, which was, frankly, nothing to write home about. They have a portobello sandwich and a vegetables and pasta in cream sauce dish that might be better choices. The orange creamsicle cheesecake I shared with a friend I found too sweet. The drinks menu includes a bunch of old-fashioned drinks one never sees on a menu, such as the Singapore Sling (made with grenadine, not cherry brandy) and a Pimm's Cup (!). Other more modern choices, such as various types of martini, mojitos, etc. are also available. Very well-stocked bar. Parking is ample and it was a nice dinner; we were traveling on business and will recommend Jake's to other travelers. The only downside was getting lost in construction on the way back to the airport - and I cannot blame that on Jake's. read more

Lefty Frizzell or Johnny Cash comes to mind when you're visiting Saginaw MI. The song rings in my head every time I visit, and this is probably the high point of my visit. Yes there isn't much to do and the restaurants are okay. This is one of the okay restaurants. The seafood is usually fresh, the cuts and portions are large but the overlooking has been consistent. I've had the swordfish, salmon and sea bass .. all dry and could've done with a little less time on the skillet. I've once had the scallops and they were good. The place has an old feel to it, although I didn't find it charming. The bathroom has a collection of engraved mirrors .. seems old and antique-ish. There is a piano, never heard anyone play. All in all an okay place when you're hungry. read more

Jake's Old City Grill - Seafood Near Me - Saginaw, Michigan

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Ordered online for a last minute birthday celebration last night and the birthday boy said it will become a tradition... the food was amazing and the service was so kind. With takeout, you never know how the proportions will be so we ordered side salads and not only were they fresh, but we didn't even get the chance to finish them because of how much food we were served for dinner! I ordered the bruschetta sandwich and my boyfriend ordered the chicken parmesan, both of which we said we would order again. Our dinner came with rolls and a type of whipped butter and like I said, plenty of food.. definitely worth the money. We will be back soon! read more

2 years ago I moved from my hometown of Saginaw to Chicago. I am home and took a friend to Jake's for dinner 8/20/2019. I ordered the Land and Sea, and ordered the medallions cooked medium. They were fantastic. Steak knife was totally unnecessary. Scallops and shrimp done to perfection. I had the leftovers for lunch. Microwaved the meal and was able to cut the medallion with a PLASTIC KNIFE!!!!! Yes, it was that tender yet after being nuked in the microwave. The scallop and shrimp also were tender and not tough. Paul, your chefs were exemplary, as always. 13 years ago my husband and I had our rehearsal dinner at Jake's. We were one of the first large parties when they opened. Jake's is one of the things I miss most about my hometown. Yes, there are literally 1000's of restaurants in Chicago, but there is only ONE Jake's Old City Grill, and a trip to Saginaw is not complete unless I stop for a meal there! Thank you for setting the bar on what fine dining is. read more

This is our 3rd time hoping for a better meal time and tonight was the last time. Waitress was very slow and disengaged along with poor selections on the menu. The food we ordered was not as expected. Disappointing! read more

Jakes Old City Grill is located inside an old Victorian building sitting on the corner in an area desperate for urban renewal. It's a fancy place yet still casual. Character abounds with tasteful decor, wonderful wood work, over-decorated bathrooms and super high ceilings. You don't see places built like this any more. The lunch menu consisted of the usual soup, salad, sandwich offerings with one huge exception, the prices were very reasonable. The house hamburger was huge with high quality bacon and sharp cheddar cheese and crisp vegetable toppings. The bun was a softer brioche. The beef was cooked just as I ordered, medium-rare. MMMmmmm. The side of sweet potato fries was cut slightly thicker than shoestring and cooked perfectly with a huge fresh pickle slice on the side. The presentation and preparation were superior. My guest had a Strawberry Spinach salad. Again great presentation and preparation with quality ingredients. The waitress was young, punky-cute and, above all, an excellent waitress. It was inspiring to see a young person with such wait-skills and personality! I was very impressed with Jakes and it's classy operation. Great value and first class service. It really blew away my expectations. I look forward to trying dinner next time I'm in town. Recommended. read more