Looking for the best restaurants in St. Clair Shores, Michigan? There’s an exciting new addition to the dining scene that’s already capturing hearts and taste buds! As the St. Clair Shores food landscape continues to evolve, one name stands out for bringing authentic Italian tradition to the bustling Harper Avenue corridor. Ferlito’s Pizzeria, now open at 22910 Harper Ave, represents both a new beginning and the continuation of a beloved 60-year legacy.
For those searching for restaurants in Saint Clair Shores MI, this isn’t just another pizza place – it’s a piece of local history reimagined for today’s busy families. Let’s explore why Ferlito’s Pizzeria has quickly become a must-visit destination among St. Clair Shores restaurants. Positive reviews from customers have played a significant role in boosting Ferlito’s reputation and popularity within the local dining scene.
The Vibrant Restaurant Scene in St. Clair Shores
The St. Clair Shores restaurant community has always been diverse and dynamic. From the waterfront establishments along the St. Clair Shores Nautical Mile to the convenient eateries dotting Harper Avenue, our city offers something for every palate. The area around 9 Mile and Harper has become particularly popular for those seeking quick, quality meals without the tourist prices of the lakefront.
Recent changes in dining habits have transformed how Saint Clair Shores Michigan restaurants operate. While destinations like Mike’s on the Water and Watermark Bar & Grille continue to draw crowds for special occasions, many families now seek convenient, high-quality takeout options for their everyday meals. This shift has created the perfect opportunity for establishments that can deliver restaurant-quality food with grab-and-go convenience.
From Beloved Institution to Modern Pizzeria: The Ferlito’s Story
When longtime food enthusiasts heard that Ferlito’s Restaurant was closing its Grosse Pointe Woods location after decades of service, many wondered what would become of those treasured family recipes. The answer arrived when owner Joshua Mowen opened Ferlito’s Pizzeria, bringing those same 100-year-old recipes to restaurants on Harper in St. Clair Shores.
Mowen’s journey from teenage dishwasher to restaurant owner embodies the American dream. Having worked at Ferlito’s since he was young, he understood not just the recipes but the heart of what made the restaurant special. When he purchased the business from the Ferlito family in 2015, he committed to preserving their Sicilian culinary traditions.
“The spirit of Ferlito’s has never just been in the walls or floors,” Mowen explained when announcing the transition. “It’s been in the people who filled the seats, the laughter, the celebrations.” Now, that spirit lives on at the new location, making it one of the most authentic new restaurants in St. Clair Shores.
Welcome to Ferlito’s Pizzeria: A New Chapter on Harper Avenue
Located at 22910 Harper Ave, St Clair Shores, MI 48080, Ferlito’s Pizzeria sits perfectly at the intersection of convenience and tradition. This prime spot near Nine Mile Road puts it right in the heart of where locals search for “lunch St. Clair Shores” and “places to eat St. Clair Shores.”
What sets this apart from other restaurants near St. Clair Shores? It’s the perfect combination of authentic recipes, convenient service, and genuine community connection. While the dining room may be gone, the takeout-only model means faster service, fresher food, and prices that make regular visits possible for busy families.
A Menu That Goes Beyond Typical Pizza
While searching for “restaurants near 48080“ or “restaurants near 48081,” you’ll find plenty of pizza options. But Ferlito’s stands apart with a menu that reflects its full-service restaurant heritage. Ferlito’s menu offers a variety of dishes perfect for sharing at the family table, whether at home or during gatherings.
Pizza Perfection
The pizza menu showcases both creativity and tradition:
- LG Margherita – Fresh mozzarella, seasonal tomatoes, and basil on hand-tossed dough
- BBQ Chicken Pizza – House BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, bacon, red onion, and fresh pineapple
- Chicago Style Deep Dish – Eight slices of deep-dish perfection with garlic and parmesan
- 8 Corner Pizza – For those who love crispy edges
- Build Your Own options in three sizes
Those Famous Ribs
Perhaps the biggest surprise for those exploring new restaurant St. Clair Shores options? Ferlito’s still serves their legendary BBQ Ribs. These aren’t your typical pizzeria ribs – they’re the same fall-off-the-bone tender ribs that made the original restaurant famous.
Authentic Italian Entrees
The pasta and entree selection proves this is more than just another pizza place:
- Chicken Parmesan – Hand-breaded chicken over spaghetti with meat sauce
- Homemade Cheese Lasagna – Made with the family’s century-old sauce recipes
- Fettuccini Alfredo – Rich, creamy house-made Alfredo sauce
- Sicilian Sampler – A taste of everything: lasagna, ravioli, sausage, and meatball
Why St. Clair Shores Residents Choose Ferlito’s
In a city with numerous dining options, the best restaurants in St. Clair Shores MI earn their reputation through consistency and community connection. Ferlito’s excels in both areas. The recipes haven’t changed – that same meat sauce that’s been perfected over 100 years still tops their pasta. The marinara still simmers with the exact blend of seasonings the Ferlito family brought from Sicily.
For busy families searching “take out restaurants near St. Clair Shores MI,” the streamlined operation means orders are ready quickly without sacrificing quality. Online ordering makes it even easier – no phone calls, no waiting on hold, just quick clicks and delicious food.
How Ferlito’s Enhances the Local Food Scene
Among SCS restaurants, Ferlito’s fills a unique niche. While the Nautical Mile offers upscale waterfront dining and chains provide predictable fast food, Ferlito’s delivers authentic, family-recipe Italian food with modern convenience. It’s the answer for those nights when you want something special but don’t have time for a sit-down meal.
The location on Harper also makes it accessible for residents throughout the area. Whether you’re searching for restaurants near 48082, or searching for “food in Saint Clair Shores” from the northern neighborhoods, the central location and easy parking make pickup a breeze.
Smart Ordering for Maximum Satisfaction
Here’s how to make the most of your Ferlito’s experience:
- Order Online – Skip the phone wait and earn rewards points
- Try the Specials – Thursday brings special deals that locals love
- Family Portions – Many entrees easily feed 2-3 people
- Don’t Skip the Sides – Brussels sprouts and mozzarella sticks are customer favorites
- Stock Up on Sauce – Take home pints or quarts of their famous sauces
Beyond Pizza: Complete Meal Solutions
What makes Ferlito’s stand out among restaurants on Mack in St. Clair Shores and Harper? It’s the ability to feed everyone in the family with something they’ll love. Gluten-free pasta options ensure dietary restrictions don’t mean missing out. The expansive salad menu, including their famous Antipasto Salad, adds healthy options to any order.
The Future of Dining: Ferlito’s Leading the Way
As restaurants in St. Clair Shores Michigan continue adapting to changing times, Ferlito’s represents a successful evolution. By focusing on what matters most – exceptional food, convenient service, and community connection – they’ve created a model that works for modern families while honoring culinary tradition.
Owner Joshua Mowen remains committed to supporting the St. Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe communities, continuing the restaurant’s legacy of donating to local schools, churches, and nonprofits. This community involvement makes choosing Ferlito’s not just a dining decision but a way to support local business that gives back.
Visit Ferlito’s Pizzeria Today!
Ready to discover why Ferlito’s Pizzeria has become one of the most talked-about restaurants in Saint Clair Shores? Visit them at 22910 Harper Ave, St Clair Shores, MI 48080, conveniently located at Nine Mile and Harper. Whether you’re a longtime fan following them from Grosse Pointe Woods or a new customer exploring St. Clair Shores food options, you’ll find the same commitment to quality that’s defined Ferlito’s for generations.
Order online for quick pickup and join the rewards program to earn free food with every visit. From that first bite of pizza made with century-old sauce recipes to the last forkful of homemade lasagna, you’ll understand why Ferlito’s isn’t just another restaurant – it’s a St. Clair Shores tradition reborn for a new generation.
Don’t wait to experience the best of St. Clair Shores restaurants! Place your order today and taste what 60 years of tradition and 100-year-old family recipes can create. Welcome to Ferlito’s Pizzeria – where every meal connects you to authentic Italian heritage right here on Harper Avenue. 🍕