Black Pearl Ann Arbor
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Delicious food. Very good service and the New expanded location is very nice. They are currently open for lunch .
In Ann Arbor for a conference and needed a place that could ara variety of dietary needs. The service was excellent. The environment was chill with an upscale feel. The food was good. We had to wait on some adjustments to be made. They were made and all was well. I'd go back.
Decided to give this another try. It had been a long time. I really want to love this place since the ambience is nice. We've definitely had better service especially in Ann Arbor. The servers are not very friendly, helpful or welcoming. Service is very slow even on slow nights. No one seems to care either. Given the exceptional service at other restaurants it is a deterrent for returning. Drinks are reasonably priced and a good selection. For being scratch made they are not able to accommodate allergies well. Most things are marinated or prepped ahead. Besides Sushi or ordering plain noodles there isn't much I could order. My husband did enjoy the Burger and would order it again. I just wish there was more I could eat. For the Sushi its not anything outstanding. The flavor of the Crab Salad isn't our favorite. The Black Pearl Roll unfortunately, is not worth the pricing. $25 for a roll with mostly cucumber. It's also not very consistent in sizing. Once it was so large I could barely fit it in my mouth and the other times very small. If you plan to charge $25 for a Sushi Roll it should contain a good amount of Sushi. I can go across the street and get amazing Tuna Tartare for under $15 with plenty of Tuna.
We walk by Black Pearl quite a bit but have never stopped in. Since they are always popping and have further expanded to take over the old Starbucks' space, we decided this was the time! The weather has been lovely for late September, so we sat on the patio which I thought was the better move since honestly the interior smelled like fried food. We ordered: *Coconut Shrimp (GF) Black tiger prawns, coconut, tempura batter, honey-lime chipotle sauce - big tasty pieces of prawn that were really nicely fried! I didn't care for the honey-lime chipotle sauce...I honestly wanted the chipotle mayo from the fish tacos instead but solid starter! *Spicy Tuna Roll (Spicy tuna salad, jalapeno, sriracha) - I was pleasantly surprised by this. First of all, there were large pieces of tuna which tells me it's better quality rather than scraps just mushed and minced up. Also, the sushi rice was legit - the right texture, the right amount of sushi vinegar. If I were more hungry, I'd probably have ordered the California roll or shrimp tempura (since the coconut shrimp was so well fried!) *Salmon Tikka Masala (Pan-seared Atlantic salmon topped with yogurt compressed cucumber and Fresno, couscous, roasted broccolini, sweet potatoes, garlic sauce. Served with grilled lime and toasted pita) - I enjoyed the flavors and texture on this one! I would've preferred more of a medium salmon as this was a little more well done than flaky BUT still good. The compressed cucumber, the cous cous - all awesome. I had left overs and ate it the next day. *Fish Tacos GF (Tortilla encrusted tilapia, cumin salt, chipotle mayo, spicy cabbage slaw, pico de gallo, lime) - this is apparently THE dish to get here. It's an OG menu item. I will admit that I kind of pupu'ed it since it is tilapia but my husband ordered it and I was really surprised by it! They cut their tilapia a bit differently and it's really well fried (just like the coconut shrimp). The bar was pretty backed up at some points (pretty expansive bar seating) so cocktails took a while. Make your reservation via RESY! It was super busy on a Friday night.
Sadly I am long overdue on this review as it was a visit prior to Easter!! We had an amazing experience. Service, timing of food, our server went out of her way without us asking for things. Food was amazing. Can't wait to head back to see what the next menu holds for us!
The food was good, but slightly overpriced though. I got a cucumber avocado roll that had one tiny sliver over avocado per piece, could've been way better. The service was okay, there were no actual issues but no one would just come over, we had to ASK for someone to take a drink order. Seems silly, because every dollar added to our bill would be more tip. We were going to order an additional dessert and drink but they never came back so we just asked for the bill because it took forever. Ambiance was nice and clean.
Table felt a bit cramped Did not receive an item I requested on my burger Took 10 min for my drink to come out (I got a ginger beer, nothing special) Food was good Portions on apps and entrees were decent Server was nice enough
If you haven't been to the Black Pearl lately, it's undergone an amazing transformation. The dining room used to be long, narrow and dark. They bought the old Starbucks location next door and knocked down some walls, opening up the bar area and letting in plenty of natural light on summer evenings. They also have al fresco dining during the summer. Large, buttery scallops paired perfectly with risotto, although this dish might not satisfy large appetites. For dessert, the flourless chocolate torte with graham cracker crumbs and dollops of toasted marshmallow evoked Smores around the campfire. Kudos to our efficient server for comping one of our desserts when the chef served the wrong side dish. Ann Arbor Main Street pricey, but nice for a splurge.
The black pearl was a nice spot for date night. I'd say the ambiance is a mix of casual and upscale. I was able to get a reservation on a Friday night the day before and parked in a garage nearby for a few bucks. The service was good & the waiter gave good recommendations. We got the coconut shrimp appetizer and the brussel sprouts. They were good but not necessarily unique. The half seasonal salad was really tasty with lots of contrasting flavors (sweet and salty). I love salads with lots of toppings and this one was loaded. I got the halibut for a main course and really enjoyed it; there was a unique mix of flavors that I haven't had before and the fish wasn't too "fishy" for someone who isn't all in on seafood. The risotto was loaded with squash, kale, tomatoes, wine reduction and cheese. It was the perfect savory flavor with a touch of sweetness. I liked the texture of the breading too. There were several other interesting dishes on the menu and some steak if you aren't a seas food fan.
It hasn't been quite 15 years since I've been to The Black Pearl but feels like 50. Beautiful evening and they have one of the best patios on Main Street. I opted to sit inside at the bar, as a single. I didn't want to take up a table. I quickly found some familiar faces and now see why they have flocked to The Black Pearl. Let's start with the drinks. No happy hour on Fridays. No problem. The Brush Fire stood out as a refreshing and spicy cocktail garnished with a fresh jalapeño slice. Turns out, the pal I found there and Brush Fire is her go-to. It's perfect with the ceviche and beet salad. The ceviche is a good size portion with wonton chips. I made a meal of it and didn't really need the beet salad but it was so highly recommended I had to fit it in. If you remotely like beets and goat cheese you have to get this salad. It's incredible. My pal said that the swordfish is amazing but I couldn't eat another bite. The vibe is casual but contemporary, upbeat and fun. Ian and Jeff are slinging excellent craft drinks but still provide great personalized service. The owner told me of their expansion plans and I cannot wait to see what they do with the new space. Good size portions and decent prices. Excellent service and incredible drinks. This would be a great place to meet friends, take a date to impress, or just get a good meal. I'm going to make this a new regular spot.
First time here and I couldn't believe how fantastic this place is. From the server to the food, it was a BIG WIN!!! We came as a foursome for dinner and were super impressed with the staff and the unbelievable food. We had numerous appetizers and also some entrees. Everything was so on point and delicious, I literally overstuffed myself with deliciousness. The Ceviche, Coconut Shrimp, Crab Dip, Brussels Sprouts, Fish Tacos, Smash Burger and Scallops were absolutely ridiculous!!!! Next time I'm in Ann Arbor, this place is a must stop. It is now my favorite restaurant in the area. If you are in AA, you have to give The Black Pearl a try. Check out my pics for validation. read more
I booked a reservation from recommendations as we live out of town and we're picking my mom up from dtw but unfortunately it was less than mediocre. We arrived at 615 and we ordered the crab dip which while it had great flavor, I did not find a chunk of crab in it. We ordered the beet & burrata salad, gumbo, the scallops, and smash burger around 645. Our salad didn't come out prior to the entrees and when I asked about it after 30min, I was told it would come out with everything. Our food didn't come out until 745 and while the salad was delicious. The 4 scallops were good but the potatoes were coagulated like it had been sitting there for quite some time and then it was $60!! A third of the check and I could only eat the scallops and snow peas. Our waitress was also aloof the whole time and barely came to check on us. She didn't ask how the food was or anything. I shared my opinion on the potatoes and nothing was done with the check or a discount. The outdoor patio was nice, But I don't think I would go back... read more
3 days ago
We had a show to attend at the Ark and wanted a nice dinner beforehand. I don't frequent Ann Arbor often but this place was recommended to me by at least two people so I had high expectations. Making a reservation was easy online, but it definitely wasn't necessary for a weekday I felt. Restaurant was very empty--thankfully, because we were running late due to traffic. It was gorgeous inside I will say. Server suggested my drink which I enjoyed very much. It had bourbon and tart cherry. Coconut shrimp was good. Big pieces and nice crispy breading, but the sauce it was served with was underwhelming. My fish tacos completely disintegrated and were extremely hard to eat. Tasted good but I find it strange that's what they're supposedly known for (award-winning?). I'd give it another try but I certainly wasn't impressed for the cost. read more
In Ann Arbor for a conference and needed a place that could ara variety of dietary needs. The service was excellent. The environment was chill with an upscale feel. The food was good. We had to wait on some adjustments to be made. They were made and all was well. I'd go back. read more
8 months ago
Decided to give this another try. It had been a long time. I really want to love this place since the ambience is nice. We've definitely had better service especially in Ann Arbor. The servers are not very friendly, helpful or welcoming. Service is very slow even on slow nights. No one seems to care either. Given the exceptional service at other restaurants it is a deterrent for returning. Drinks are reasonably priced and a good selection. For being scratch made they are not able to accommodate allergies well. Most things are marinated or prepped ahead. Besides Sushi or ordering plain noodles there isn't much I could order. My husband did enjoy the Burger and would order it again. I just wish there was more I could eat. For the Sushi its not anything outstanding. The flavor of the Crab Salad isn't our favorite. The Black Pearl Roll unfortunately, is not worth the pricing. $25 for a roll with mostly cucumber. It's also not very consistent in sizing. Once it was so large I could barely fit it in my mouth and the other times very small. If you plan to charge $25 for a Sushi Roll it should contain a good amount of Sushi. I can go across the street and get amazing Tuna Tartare for under $15 with plenty of Tuna. read more
1 month ago
1 year ago
We walk by Black Pearl quite a bit but have never stopped in. Since they are always popping and have further expanded to take over the old Starbucks' space, we decided this was the time! The weather has been lovely for late September, so we sat on the patio which I thought was the better move since honestly the interior smelled like fried food. We ordered: *Coconut Shrimp (GF) Black tiger prawns, coconut, tempura batter, honey-lime chipotle sauce - big tasty pieces of prawn that were really nicely fried! I didn't care for the honey-lime chipotle sauce...I honestly wanted the chipotle mayo from the fish tacos instead but solid starter! *Spicy Tuna Roll (Spicy tuna salad, jalapeno, sriracha) - I was pleasantly surprised by this. First of all, there were large pieces of tuna which tells me it's better quality rather than scraps just mushed and minced up. Also, the sushi rice was legit - the right texture, the right amount of sushi vinegar. If I were more hungry, I'd probably have ordered the California roll or shrimp tempura (since the coconut shrimp was so well fried!) *Salmon Tikka Masala (Pan-seared Atlantic salmon topped with yogurt compressed cucumber and Fresno, couscous, roasted broccolini, sweet potatoes, garlic sauce. Served with grilled lime and toasted pita) - I enjoyed the flavors and texture on this one! I would've preferred more of a medium salmon as this was a little more well done than flaky BUT still good. The compressed cucumber, the cous cous - all awesome. I had left overs and ate it the next day. *Fish Tacos GF (Tortilla encrusted tilapia, cumin salt, chipotle mayo, spicy cabbage slaw, pico de gallo, lime) - this is apparently THE dish to get here. It's an OG menu item. I will admit that I kind of pupu'ed it since it is tilapia but my husband ordered it and I was really surprised by it! They cut their tilapia a bit differently and it's really well fried (just like the coconut shrimp). The bar was pretty backed up at some points (pretty expansive bar seating) so cocktails took a while. Make your reservation via RESY! It was super busy on a Friday night. read more
4 months ago
Sadly I am long overdue on this review as it was a visit prior to Easter!! We had an amazing experience. Service, timing of food, our server went out of her way without us asking for things. Food was amazing. Can't wait to head back to see what the next menu holds for us! read more
4 months ago
3 months ago
The food was good, but slightly overpriced though. I got a cucumber avocado roll that had one tiny sliver over avocado per piece, could've been way better. The service was okay, there were no actual issues but no one would just come over, we had to ASK for someone to take a drink order. Seems silly, because every dollar added to our bill would be more tip. We were going to order an additional dessert and drink but they never came back so we just asked for the bill because it took forever. Ambiance was nice and clean. read more
Table felt a bit cramped Did not receive an item I requested on my burger Took 10 min for my drink to come out (I got a ginger beer, nothing special) Food was good Portions on apps and entrees were decent Server was nice enough read more
If you haven't been to the Black Pearl lately, it's undergone an amazing transformation. The dining room used to be long, narrow and dark. They bought the old Starbucks location next door and knocked down some walls, opening up the bar area and letting in plenty of natural light on summer evenings. They also have al fresco dining during the summer. Large, buttery scallops paired perfectly with risotto, although this dish might not satisfy large appetites. For dessert, the flourless chocolate torte with graham cracker crumbs and dollops of toasted marshmallow evoked Smores around the campfire. Kudos to our efficient server for comping one of our desserts when the chef served the wrong side dish. Ann Arbor Main Street pricey, but nice for a splurge. read more
The black pearl was a nice spot for date night. I'd say the ambiance is a mix of casual and upscale. I was able to get a reservation on a Friday night the day before and parked in a garage nearby for a few bucks. The service was good & the waiter gave good recommendations. We got the coconut shrimp appetizer and the brussel sprouts. They were good but not necessarily unique. The half seasonal salad was really tasty with lots of contrasting flavors (sweet and salty). I love salads with lots of toppings and this one was loaded. I got the halibut for a main course and really enjoyed it; there was a unique mix of flavors that I haven't had before and the fish wasn't too "fishy" for someone who isn't all in on seafood. The risotto was loaded with squash, kale, tomatoes, wine reduction and cheese. It was the perfect savory flavor with a touch of sweetness. I liked the texture of the breading too. There were several other interesting dishes on the menu and some steak if you aren't a seas food fan. read more
2 months ago
5 months ago
It hasn't been quite 15 years since I've been to The Black Pearl but feels like 50. Beautiful evening and they have one of the best patios on Main Street. I opted to sit inside at the bar, as a single. I didn't want to take up a table. I quickly found some familiar faces and now see why they have flocked to The Black Pearl. Let's start with the drinks. No happy hour on Fridays. No problem. The Brush Fire stood out as a refreshing and spicy cocktail garnished with a fresh jalapeño slice. Turns out, the pal I found there and Brush Fire is her go-to. It's perfect with the ceviche and beet salad. The ceviche is a good size portion with wonton chips. I made a meal of it and didn't really need the beet salad but it was so highly recommended I had to fit it in. If you remotely like beets and goat cheese you have to get this salad. It's incredible. My pal said that the swordfish is amazing but I couldn't eat another bite. The vibe is casual but contemporary, upbeat and fun. Ian and Jeff are slinging excellent craft drinks but still provide great personalized service. The owner told me of their expansion plans and I cannot wait to see what they do with the new space. Good size portions and decent prices. Excellent service and incredible drinks. This would be a great place to meet friends, take a date to impress, or just get a good meal. I'm going to make this a new regular spot. read more
This was my first time at this restaurant and I was there for a work dinner. It was lively in the restaurant and a little louder and people around us seemed to be deeply engaged in conversation. Our server was very attentive. We ordered cocktails, and a few appetizers that included spinach artichoke dip, the shrimp, brussels sprouts and a couple of folks got the gumbo. I ordered the scallops and grits as my meal. The grits were delicious and the scallops were well prepared. Not overcooked at all the dish had a bit of a kick that was perfect other folks order the salmon, and they seem to like it. I ordered the English garden with vodka, and it was smooth. I enjoyed it very much. We will be back again! read more
We loved our meal at the Black Pearl! Located on a lively street during an art fair, we were glad to have booked a reservation. They had the windows open for fresh air and the atmosphere is great. Our table all agreed my cocktail was the best.. called "I Pine Over You" with house-infused pineapple reposado, pamplemousse liqueur, lime, and basil. So light and delicious and perfectly balanced. For my meal I got the seafood alfredo which was rich and delicious, I would definitely order it again! My husband ordered the salmon and it was fantastic as well! Can't wait to come back to the Black Pearl next time I'm in town! read more
2 years ago
Maybe I'm being too harsh. I have had positive experiences here but the food last night was an atrocity, and it's never really blown me away. Ordered the halibut which was served atop risotto. Sounds amazing. What I received was severely over cooked halibut with severely undercooked risotto, both of which were bland and tasteless. My counterpart ordered sushi and she was also unimpressed. I don't care for sushi but have never tasted a bite that was rock hard in the bottom. Neither of us came close to finishing half of our meals. Maybe they were too focused on the special menu for their red carpet NYE party starting as we left. Service and atmosphere were fine but I go to restaurants for quality food. It will be awhile before I give this place another chance. read more
1 year ago
We went for Mother's Day and had a lovely start--our drinks and appetizers were delicious. Unfortunately, the main course lacked flavor and didn't quite meet expectations. That said, the service made up for it--our waiter was friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome throughout the meal. Restaurant itself is good enough not special. The price are very much reasonable . Restaurant design is good. read more
The food is just alright, the vibes are nice (there's outdoor seating during summer), and the service is good. I got the swordfish and it comes with 'Korean dirty rice'...which is kind of like fried rice but not really fried. While the fish was fresh and cooked well, the rice was really mediocre. I've gotten better tasting (fried) rice at Asian takeout places. I'm not sure if it complemented the fish well. Perhaps not. read more
6 months ago
3 years ago
Came for late graduation dinner. The Brussels Sprouts and Chesapeake Bay Half oysters were excellent. Sadly the steak and trout was a bit disappointing as was the burger. The fish tacos were solid. Ended up a very average experience given the price and event. The good, last time I will be dining hear,bittersweet not about this restaurant though read more
6 months ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
Limited menu but good food. Ordered crab dip which was very tasty, burger was okay nothing special than other burgers we've tasted. Barramundi fish was also good not too fishy. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Terrible Food, Bad Service. I went to Black Pearl 2 years ago and loved it. The salmon was delicious. Not sure what has happened since. I went last night for restaurant week with a friend and everything from the service to the food was absolutely terrible. The salad I was served was tiny and embarrassingly sparse. The scallops dish was inedible. So bad tasting I couldn't even force myself to eat it. The carrot tres lèches was fine, but anything is good if it's sugary enough. In terms of the service, the servers are extremely attentive to filling up your water glass but little else. We were ushered through our meal as the waiter brought our next course before we'd even finished the prior course. So the main course was sitting on the table as we ate our appetizers, and same with dessert. Overall an awful experience, I'm so disappointed because I used to love this place but won't ever be going back. I have another friend who went two nights ago and had a very similar experience, so I don't think this one can be chalked up to an "off night." So disappointed! read more
9 months ago
9 months ago
1 year ago
I ordered the tortellini and it was delicious! We had a large group and all the appetizers arrived together and we had plenty of time before the entrees were brought to the table. read more
1 year ago
We love going to Black Pearl for the amazing fish tacos. We really enjoy the greenhouse seating because we have 2 kids, and it is cozy and separate (although indoor dining has been fine also as long as the kids behave appropriately). The Brussels sprouts are delicious. The last time we went we had 2 orders of barramundi that were also fantastic read more
Came here during the 2024 Ann Arbor Restaurant Week. Got to try the seafood gumbo and fried brussels (GF) for appetizers. The gumbo was flavorful and spicy. The brussels were crispy and sweet. Hummus was a nice addition to the brussels sprouts. For our main entree we got the Atlantic Misoyaki Salmon and the Scallop and Grits. Salmon was soft and delightful, while the scallop and grits was my favorite dish of the night. Lastly, we tried Tres Leche Carrot Cake which was so yummy and super filling. We also ordered a drink that wasn't part of the restaurant week menu. 'I Pine Over You' was the name. I tend to enjoy sweeter alcoholic drinks but this one wasn't as sweet as I had hoped. Ambiance was nice, would recommend this place for a date night. read more
2 years ago
We came here ahead of a concert at The Ark. We arrived ahead of the dinner rush, too. Our server was very attentive and friendly. The drinks, crap dip, scallops, fish tacos, and carrot cake were all tasty. read more
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More info about Black Pearl Ann Arbor
302 S Main St
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Main Street, Downtown Ann Arbor
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(734) 222-0400
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http://www.blackpearlannarbor.com
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Where is the best place to park with handicap car?Hi we coming Monday evening to dining, where is best place to park, we have handicap car license
There is a flat lot on Ashley behind the building. You have to pay, but they have a great handicap spot. If you can drop off the guest and continue behind the building to park.
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