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.
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.
Quick stop in Ann Arbor on the way back from Mackinac Island. Outdoor seating was perfect with two kids, but the inside would be an awesome spot for a date night, or even just casual drinks and sides. The service was great, never had to ask for a thing. I ended up with the fish tacos on their menu, and they were legit the BEST fish tacos I've ever had. Waiter said they've kept the same ingredients for 17 years now, and it shows why. I tried my wife's Scallop dinner and they were also fresh and cooked perfectly. I'll be back if we're ever up this way again!
Visiting Ann Arbor for the night and decided to eat at Black Pearl at first site we could really see why it's a high ranked spot to eat. Great ambience all in classy black fashion. Huge long bar inside we opted outside seating which was great weather. Had an awesome main server and several others were very attentive. The employees eyes were always moving seeing what or who needed help. The food well simply amazing even one of my granddaughters ate her plate and loved the spicy ketchup. Lol. Highly suggest this gem of a pearl!!
Food was delicious! From the melt in your mouth scallops to the swordfish, everything was spot on! Service was excellent as well! Will definitely return!
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.
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!
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.
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!