ImaginATE Restaurant

401 S Lafayette Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48067, United States
$$$ Fine dining restaurant , Lounge
(1331 Reviews)
Price Range $50–100

ImaginATE Restaurant in Royal Oak offers a fine dining experience that blends creative cuisine with a thoughtfully curated atmosphere. Located just off Lafayette Avenue, this spot caters to those seeking a more contemplative evening out—whether it’s an anniversary dinner, a special celebration, or a night when you want to savor inventive dishes paired with attentive service.

Inside, the mood is set by soft chandeliers and subtle lighting that balance elegance with a whimsical touch. The space feels intimate but not cramped, making it suitable for both quiet conversations and small group gatherings. The lounge area invites lingering over cocktails, with drinks like the Mai Tai adding a bright, island-inspired note to the menu.

Cuisine here leans toward elevated American fare with playful plating and a rotating menu that keeps the offerings fresh. Standout options include the Ribeye Steak and Lamb Chops, both praised for their execution, alongside seafood selections like Popcorn Shrimp and Salmon Fillet. Sides such as Mac and Cheese and Parmesan Fries complement the main dishes well without overpowering. Dessert lovers should keep an eye out for the Chocolate Cake and Berry Cheesecake Slice, which provide a satisfyingly rich finish.

The service is a consistent highlight, with staff who know the menu well and offer thoughtful recommendations, enhancing the dining flow without feeling intrusive. At busier times, the energy becomes lively yet retains a relaxed feel, making it a place where both longtime locals and visitors can indulge in a carefully paced meal.

Pricing tends to be on the higher side, which aligns with the quality of the ingredients and the artistic plating, so it’s a spot best suited for occasions when you’re ready to treat yourself or someone special. Evenings, especially weekends, are ideal for catching the full ambiance and buzzing dining room, but quieter weekday nights offer a more laid-back environment where attentive service really shines.

1331 Reviews
Tamika Cherry

09 Jan 2026

We were looking for a new fine dining experience for our anniversary dinner and found Imaginate. I will say, I was a bit skeptical based on reviews from another site, but I am glad we didn’t let that stop us. While the restaurant was extremely slow, our server Latoya was amazing. She had great drink and food recommendations and she was very nice and attentive. While the food was good, I do have to say it is a bit overpriced. Our group had meatballs, popcorn shrimp, salmon, short rib, scallops, and burger. But for a special occasion and the experience, we didn’t mind the price. Unfortunately, since they have been slow they didn’t have live music or valet, but thankfully there was an open parking spot close to the door and metered parking is free on Sundays. Overall great experience and would go back again.

C Spann

25 Dec 2025

Had a great experience here. The ambiance is very relaxing yet whimsically done. The wait staff was amazing and very knowledgeable. The chef came out and was very professional as well as knowledgeable. It was a packed house when we came and the vibes were just all around great. I had the salmon which was absolutely delicious. My sister had the steak and said it was the best steak she's had. We shared the Mac and cheese (it's a nice size) served in cast iron and was perfectly browned on top. Bottom line I will definitely be back to support this establishment. Oh, did I mention it's black owned?!? Makes me that much more inclined to return again.

Sami Schulthies

22 Dec 2025

The food was phenomenal & very creative. The food is served in unique/fun plating that you wouldn’t imagine coming to your table. They have a rotating menu that was to die for as well. Chef Dwayne does an amazing job & then some! Inside is beautiful with chandeliers & mood lighting. We will definitely be back!

Les Alawishes Snoopfoot

11 Nov 2025

Went for a lovely night out with my lady. The atmosphere was nice and we enjoyed the decor. My lady ordered the lamb chops meal and caesar salad while I ordered the much simpler shrimp. We both enjoyed our meals. The prices are a little on the high side but it was worth the experience.

Kayla Morse

02 Nov 2025

I went here for dinner with my colleagues one evening and we had a spectacular time. We sat at the Chefs Table, so we were thoroughly entertained by Le Petit Chef while we waited for each course of our 5 course dinner. Steven and Latoya were our servers and they did an excellent job. Tended to our every need! Superb customer service/hospitality. I believe Candace was the chef on the evening we dined and the food was delicious! This is a black owned, fine dining restaurant and I am very pleased! I will definitely be back and I will be spreading the word about this place to others!

Rhonda Morris

14 Oct 2025

The energy of this restaurant was great! Good positive vibes, Good music, great host and waitresses and absolutely fantastic food! Our waitress was LaToya and she was awesome! She was Friendly, professional and enhanced our experience at this restaurant. We’ll be returning for Breakfast or brunch.

Anamaria Galvez

18 Sep 2025

We had the 5 course chef table experience with wine tasting for my birthday. I would 100% recommend. Steven was our server and he was amazing. The food was delicious and the chef was so nice. She came out for each course and explained the plate. We were there for about 3 hours which was a great amount of time to eat, drink and chat comfortably. I will be back!

Tiffany

17 Sep 2025

We had the 5 course Chef’s Table Experience yesterday evening. The entire experience was wonderful!!! The ambiance, the service from the bartender (THE DRINK), our waiter Steven was beyond amazing, the food was delicious, the presentation was phenomenal and very entertaining!!!! My mother really enjoyed herself and so did we!! We will be back!! We were a little nervous about not knowing what we’d be eating but everything was really tasty!!! Job well done!!! and praying for your continued success! Please keep Steven around! He’s representing you well!!!

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