When we moved to this area, friends of ours suggested we meet up for drinks here. I was surprised at how large their dining menu is though. I am skeptical of bar food but I ordered a pizza because they did look tasty and they aren't badly priced either. THIS IS NOW MY FAVORITE PIZZA EVER! I loved it! I've also tried a few other things on their menu like the salmon and some of their burgers and everything has been great, and the portions are huge too. They have over 30 beers on tap which is cool if you like beer, I don't but this is great for my husband lol... I took off 1 star because the service is kind of hit or miss here. There are a few servers that are extremely nice and efficient, others have been not so great. I am a former server so I'm taking everything into consideration :) anyway, I love Gator Jake's, try them out!!
(4)
Shannon S.
This was a good choice for an early dinner and catch up with an old friend for a Friday evening. I'm surprised for as long as I've lived in and around the area, that this was my first visit to Gator Jakes. It wasn't bad. The place was pretty busy... The bar was loaded with happy hour goers, and the restaurant was very busy too with people getting their dinner on. I'll bet this place really gets hopping for the bar scene once dinner subsides. Our service was great. Waitstaff was attentive. The food was okay. They have a lot on the menu. I was craving fish and chips, so this was my choice tonight. This was frozen fish you could tell. The taste wasn't anything to write home about, but the portion size and the sides that came with the dinner were pretty good. Good, not great. I would maybe try a sandwich next time, or a wrap. All in all, not a bad place to stop up for a beer or a light meal. They seemed to have a lot to choose from on the drink menu. It's pretty close to home, so I'd say, I will go back again.
(3)
Andy S.
This trip to the Detroit area, we stayed in Sterling Heights. After reading some Yelp reviews, I decided to try out Gator Jake's Bar and Grill. It had a lot of 5 star reviews. Plus, I looked at the menu, and it was inexpensive. The theme is New Orleans. The colors are the colors of Mardi Gras. It's a very open space with a huge wrap around bar with lots of televisions. I had a whiskey and water. It was only $4 (it was not a super strong pour, though). I ordered the steak, which was only $9.99 and it came with a house salad. G's entree also came with a salad. He ordered the tuna steak with broccoli and rice. He liked his sides, but felt the tuna steak needed some extra spice. ' I enjoyed my meal. I had the steak cooked medium rare with green beans and cajun fries. Everything was tasty. This restaurant is also ahead technologically. They take your order at the table on a tablet. The tablet is connected to the POS (point of sale) system so the order went straight to the kitchen from the table. When we paid, she scanned the card on the same tablet. The credit card never left my sight. I like that. Good food. Cheap prices. Cheap drinks Good service.
(4)
Scott C.
Great place for watching sports, having drinks and for bar food, but not for dinner. Sirloin steak was good, but green beans were out of a can and bland. Our Tuna steak was good, but overcooked. For lunch or drinks with friends great, but not for dinner.
(3)
Jody G.
Love the food and atmosphere. Staff is great!!! Cajun style for sure! Love their burgers
(4)
Nick M.
The service has gotten better in the past year or so, maybe because a couple of the bad waitresses aren't there anymore (or I haven't seen them in my last few visits). The food and deals are still good, especially the daily specials and the $2 Budweiser drafts. I give this place business because of the price and the food, and it's just a nice place to hang out. Many TV's in this joint, too.
(4)
Samantha D.
My husband and I used to go there quite often until our last experience... Our bartender/server was either on some drug or literally an idiot! (Or both) She had to ask our order over four times acting like she couldn't hear us. I'd understand if it were loud, but it wasn't at all. She never checked on us and looked dumbfounded every time we'd try to get her attention. She kept walking passed us and conversing with all of the male customers around us. I used to serve and I know how it goes, but seriously she was just too much. Such a disappointment because we really enjoy going there for a low key night out. To make it worse, my husband and I both got sick after sharing the chicken quesadilla.
(3)
Kelly A.
Horrible service during lunch. I had to flag down the waitress to get our check.. The waitress stated that I should have told her we were on lunch. SORRY It was 12-1 on a Thursday. My coworker and I will not be back!!
(1)
Melanie M.
Got 2 burgers, one fries and coleslaw as a carry out. Over charged on the coleslaw today and fries and short changed too. Dry buns, tasteless burgers. Won't be going here again.
(3)
Dick E.
Good prices in an average type of bar. It's worth checking out on the weekends. Obviously, there's he regulars that are always in there during the week. Could use updating.
(3)
James W.
Good looking place with good food n average prices. But acoustics are so bad you can't have a conversation w/o yelling at each other.
(3)
Chris J.
In town on business and this place was real close to our hotel. Great food, lots of TV's, and cheap food. It's a Cajan style place but with many other options. Didn't get any beer but seems like they have a large selection.
(4)
maria f.
We came in for dinner last night and had the absolute worst experience. I will not be coming back anytime soon. It's sad when you know your being discriminated against because your a group of ladies. The large group of men next to us had two servers and never had beers less than half full..... We waited 15+ minutes to be greeted. We were only greeted because I went and found the manager and asked her if we could please get some service. She was too busy busing tables to notice us. From that point our waitress was a hot mess. We never got the appetizer we ordered. My food was wrong and when I sent it back they just took off the wrong item and sent it back five minutes later. Thank god it wasn't a food allergy or I would be deathly ill right now. No refills and we were lucky we got our checks. A 45 minute dinner that turned into an hour and a half. The saddest part was watching an elderly couple get the same treatment we did last night. The women finally had to walk around the restaurant to find the waitress to get boxes then we saw her go ask the bartender for her bill. After the couple left the manager bussed the table. What a joke.
(1)
Tom F.
Does anyone want to wrestle a Gator??? Don't worry no University of Florida fans around. Not me. Not here. But you may have to wrestle a hunger before you come here. Being newer to the Sterling Heights lunching places someone at work asked me if I wanted to grab a bite. So we sit down and he says "Do you like burgers?". WellI didn't get the nickname Buger Boy for nothing. I checked out the the nice looking pictures in the menu, you know the ones that look so good you can taste them. Then the food arrives and it looks nothing like the picture. Not here. I tried the *Hurricane Burger* 1/2 pound ground round blackened & topped with Jack cheese, grilled peppers & onions. Fantastic! The jack cheese tickled my tongue when blended with the blackened spices. Throw in a few hot pepers and this is one really good burger. This one rates right up there with some of the best in the area. Did you ever try gator jerky? Ewww..not good. But anyway, the service here was fast and friendly. Next time I stop by here I'll have that burger again with a beer, AFTER work.
(4)
Robert M.
Food was ok. No better or worse than an average bar/tavern. Went here twice. Only 3 stars. Why? Unless you are a favored regular, get ready for bad service. I witnessed it both times. The waitresses and bartenders say, "Hello" to them and non-regulars get no greeting. They make it so obvious. Regulars have new beer in front of them before previous beer is even finished. Non-regulars get empty glass and wait 10 minutes for refill of beer. I should change this review to 2 stars but I'll be nice.
(3)
K- K.
Got here at 9:55pm on a Saturday, out of town and looking for food. We took a table and turned off the tv, not expecting much. Gator Jake's looks like a trendy sports bar - not what my lover and I are into at all. Our server seemed ditzy, but probably as a show for her usual customers. We ordered off the decent beer menu and surprisingly wide array of food. I'd never had gator meat before, so we ordered that as our appetizer - it's a mix between pork and calamari. Our food was INCREDIBLE!! We were unbelievably pleased with what we'd ordered, it was delicious. At 10pm, bouncers showed up at the front door and checked ID's; sports bar type people came in as well, but we had a corner booth all to ourselves. It was loud, but we were too busy eating to really care. Food was great, drinks were great, service was great. Atmosphere not so much, but they clearly make their money that way. I really recommend EATING here, particularly before the drinking scene comes on.
(4)
Lu B.
This is a place thats doing it Right!!! Great Staff, Great Food and very affordable Prices. Ive been here several time and never have had a bad experience. Great Beer selection also what more could you ask for.
(4)
John V.
I had the blacked chicken and Cajun fries. It had some spicy and pretty decent for Cajun in the North. It does it compare to real New Orleans Cajun, but it was tasty. I also got a side of their hot sauce that I dipped the chicken and fries in. The meal had a little kick to it, which was nice.
(3)
Jennifer E.
Pretty good bar...I order the fried checken salad and top shelf long island ice tea. Drinks made decent...my salad is pretty good . I often have to order more chicken on the side to get a decent amount. They have tv's but you can't operate them at your table not unless you ask soneone and that takes a minute. The atmosphere is decent and they always seem to have a pretty decent crowd when I go. Ive seen folks have kids in there umm...that im not feeling to much but thats not often when we go but they have been there. The crowd is mixed from all walks of life. Its pretty clean...they have music playing there often. I think ive went once and they had a DJ but Ive been there several times after and the DJ wasnt there, maybe its only at certain nights Im not sure. Pretty much I just go there to sit, eat, drink with my s/o and then we just leave. Oh and by the way our servers are pretty nice and that makes the difference.
(3)
Milissa O.
Great Food. The prices are reasonable. I have been a customer for many years.
(5)
Aaron K.
Nice large bar to sit around if you don't want a table. The problem, maybe its just too big. My friend and I walked in and sat at the end of the bar. I counted three bartenders, and it still took 15 minutes to be noticed because it seemed no one knew there was another half of the bar.The guys next to us were waiting to get another drink as well. We placed our drink order and asked for a couple menu's. Drinks come and no menu's, but we couldn't ask for them again because the bartender dropped off our drinks without missing a step. Like a drive by. Finally got the attention of another bartender that just happened by. The lighting was dull and the menu's were very hard to read with the color combinations. We had to use our phones as light to see the menu, as I noticed later, so did others. I ordered a sandwich and my friend a salad. 35 minutes later we got our food. I take it in the fine print somewhere on the menu, there are no sides with the sandwich but again, it was hard to read the menu in the dark. I got what I ordered, a sandwich but kinda expected fries or even chips! The bartender didn't ask if I'd like fries with that or anything so I assumed, and you know what ASSuming does! Food was fair. Its bar food so I wasn't expecting to be blown away. Of course, it was difficult to get refills on our drinks but it was a along walk to our end of the bar and other customers stopped the bartenders from getting all the way to our end. Atmosphere was ok but I suggest taking a table, not sitting at the bar. The servers on the floor were hustling! One girl didn't even give her tables time to wait for anything. She was on it! Too bad my experience with Gator Jakes was spoiled by poor service. Its too bad to, my friend and I are known for leaving tips equal to our bill when we get good service.
(2)
Jonathan S.
Great neighborhood bar. I was a regular here until I moved to the west side. Drinks are cheap and they have a decent beer list. Summer bar nights are the best here because of their outdoor patio. They have a lot of events and weekly specials. Can get packed at times and sometimes the crowd can get a little rowdy...but that is part of the charm.
(4)
Chris G.
Only issue was addressed by the owner. So..they do care about the customer. Worth the visit.
(3)
Barbie M.
I typically don't go to places like this. Not that it's a bad thing it's just not my norm. A friends band was playing so I gathered my possee and headed to Sterling Heights not expecting too much at all. When you are surrounded by waitresses in hot pants and tank tops it kind of sets the tone. BUT I WAS SURPRISED!! Our waitress katie was AMAZING!!! We ended up being a party of 15 and she was 100% all night. The food!! WOW!!! So this isnt your typical bar food menu. Yes that have the fired tastey morsels you love so much after about 4 cocktails but that also have a pretty great regular menu. I got the blackened tuna salad that was GIANGANTIC fresh and OMG SO GOOD!! The dressing was orgasmic! HA! So needless to say we got to enjoy my friends band and had a GREAT expierence at Gator Jakes! We even expressed to the manager on duty how impressed we were with katie and how she took care of us flawlessly all night. At the end of the night all our tabs came and they were all perfect! I will seriously go back to this place even if my friends band isnt playing! I suggest you check it out. They have a nice patio outside too! GREAT JOB GATOR JAKES!!!!
(4)
Gary J.
The people who write these reviews must be workers. The bar itself is fine, it has a good lay out decent prices decent food. The staff is miserable. I have been here numerous times, all the waitresses are miserable. Nobody has a smile on their face. People come to a bar to escape the problems in their life, we don't want to be subjected to yours. If this place had a better staff my review would be much higher. Some of these girls have been here for years, I don't understand why they would stay at a job for so long that they hated. I only come here when my coworkers drag me out for lunch or for a Saturday night. I rarely enjoy my time. I recall coming here back 4 or 5 years ago and the service was a lot better. If I were the owner I would strongly consider starting fresh.
(2)
Rick W.
Always a good time.... The "scenery" is usually quite stunning. If you're in the Heights... Stop in. You'll be glad you did
(5)
Mike I.
The place sort of reminded me of an episode of "restaurant impossible" - not sure what the place is really supposed to be. Bottom line - it's a bar with mediocre beer, decor and menu. Too many menu items, not enough that actually follow the creole theme...pizza, burgers, wraps....salads, soups and apps. However - the only real New Orleans food is the pasta dishes. HUGE bowls for $10-$12. We had 2 of these, and were pleasantly surprised by the quality - taste, texture and quantity of meat & veggies. Highly recommended. We will be returning the next time we are in town...totally worth it! (BTW - they have a Groupon coupon...buy it :)
(4)
Maggie H.
I cannot attest much to Gator Jakes food, I have only had their chicken fingers and French fries, but I have thrown back a couple drinks here with friends after work. The drinks are reasonable priced, the service is attentive, atmosphere a-ok, and they have pretty good typical bar food. I have been back multiple times from my first visit, so I can tell you that they have been consistent every time. If you are looking for a laid-back place to grab a couple drinks, Gator Jakes fits that bill just fine.
(3)
Gordana F.
Let me start off by saying, im way to old to go to bars to get my party on and my party pants are a little to tight as of late..... :-/ (sadly). But in the summer, this place (bar) is so great. They have an open patio in the back and live bands. And let me just tell you, you MUST order the blackened tuna salad. It is soooo good, and i hate fish! i mean? can you imagine?! That and the wait staff and all of the staff is great. Drinks are inexpensive, the food is phenom and its a nice hang. Dont let the 20 year old waitresses and glow lights get you discouraged. Its a place for grown ups too!
(4)
Bess R.
Went here last night (Friday) to meet some friends. Food-wise, I had the french onion soup which was pretty ok. Salty goodness. I also had the steak salad. I think I was expecting something better based on other reviews I've read...it wasn't good. Iceberg lettuce chunks, non-ripe tomatoes, cucumber slices. eh. Steak was okay, and was cooked correctly. So I had that going for me...which was nice. Husband really liked his burger and cajun fries. Guess this is a junk food only type place. Big beer selection, and cheap prices. Weird mix of people there. I wouldn't complain too much about going back for cheap beer and good people watching.
(2)
Tom B.
I usually eat lunch here and occasionally dinner. The food here is better quality than most restaurants. I have ordered most of their sandwiches and they are all DELICIOUS. When you order a chicken sandwich, you get a decent size succulent chicken with thick fresh tomatoes. When you order a hamburger, you get seasoned beef, not a frozen patty warmed up. I believe they have the best french onion soup in Michigan. The dinners are great and better than some high scale restaurants and are very inexpensive. I am pretty sure I have ordered steak dinners complete with potato and veggies for less than 10 bucks too. The waitstaff is very friendly. My only negative is that they can be slow at times. This may be because the place can go from empty to packed in minutes. The dinner crowd use to smoke the place up but with the smoking ban this place is quite enjoyable. The smokers seem not to be upset, they all go outside. We have had a few after work parties here too, and the everyone seems to enjoy it. They have a lot of TVs surrounding the long bar, and they have lots booths/tables to sit in. They usually participate in the BOGO in the entertainment book too, just be aware the coupons cannot be used for items on the special list. This place rocks!!
(5)
Kristine Z.
Been coming to Gator Jake's for a long time. They got great food and service. They keep the drink coming.
(5)
John K.
This place probably has the best bar food around, IMO anyways. The service is usually great, and the owner is always around. As far as the bar scene, its not my type (hence 4 stars and not 5) prices are average price, and this place does get busy, but just not my type of crowd. I go here for lunch quite a bit. Always seems to be pretty clean, and the staff is always friendly.
(4)
Amanda A.
I came here at least once during the week for dinner and once (sometimes twice) on the weekends for drinks when I lived in Sterling Heights. Mostly because it was walking distance from my apartment, but that's not the point. The food here is really good, particularly their quesadilla's, and they have a great beer selection. Anywhere that gives you a pitcher of Sam Adams Cherry Wheat is guaranteed to steal my heart. In the evening it turns into a crowded, "rowdy" bar atmosphere, not a chill place if that's what you are into. I prefer a more chill place, but come on. PITCHERS of Sam Adams CHERRY WHEAT. They also have Captain Morgan promoters out there quite frequently, they offer up samples of their new liquor so if you like free shots and swag, you're in luck. My only issue with the night scene at Gator Jake's is the God forsaken DJ. He plays mostly 80's, 90's and top 40 hits, which is fine by me, but then he opens his mouth and speaks. He sounds like a mix of the announcer on The Price is Right and Guy Smiley, except not cool, smooth or charming at all. Every time I brought friends here they would say "what the HELL is up with that dude talking like that?" and then we realize we have an entire pitcher of Sam Adams Cherry Wheat in front of us so we enjoy our beer and have an impersonation competition to see who can sound like him the best. I never win.
(4)
Beth S.
Great Cajun food. Friendly staff. I would recommend this to anyone.
(5)
Christine K.
I Heart GJ! Where do I start? The service is top notch. The Gator Girls are attentive, on point, and friendly. What also adds to their attractiveness is that they bring you some of the best vittles in town. I'm a fan of the pretzel roll, the chicken roll up, and their quesadillas. Everything is made fresh, to order, and when you order extra cheese, that's exactly what you get. No skimping. The atmosphere is super fun, and I actually win at Keno when I play here (maybe it's the luck o the gator.) Either way, I've never had a bad time here, the regulars are friendly and make for some interesting conversation. I especially try to make it out to their Anniversary and Christmas parties (blessedly 6 months apart), because they go uber cheap on the drinks ($1-2) and put out the most drool-over insane buffet--for free. Oh yeah, the cheesecake is made by Dave's mom: a proud fact that they actually put in the advertisements. Go. Go now!
(5)
CHRIS K.
Love gators but need to understand how it works! Gators for lunch and earlier dinner is awesome their food and staff is top notch. Later it's a bar scene and dj is way to loud my softball team is sponsored by gators and we go after our games at liberty by we can't even talk to each other sitting next to each other, like I said a bar scene later in the night. Other than that I lover gators staff food and oh btw they have the nfl ticket lol
(5)
Amya S.
I am surprised no one has Yelped this place! A very average bar with very pretty bar staff. It's very busy after 4 on Thursday and Friday, so avoid it if you aren't a fan of crowds. The patio is nice in the summer.
(3)
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Address :36863 Van Dyke Ave
Sterling Heights, MI, 48312
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Late Night Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Bridgette Z.
When we moved to this area, friends of ours suggested we meet up for drinks here. I was surprised at how large their dining menu is though. I am skeptical of bar food but I ordered a pizza because they did look tasty and they aren't badly priced either. THIS IS NOW MY FAVORITE PIZZA EVER! I loved it! I've also tried a few other things on their menu like the salmon and some of their burgers and everything has been great, and the portions are huge too. They have over 30 beers on tap which is cool if you like beer, I don't but this is great for my husband lol... I took off 1 star because the service is kind of hit or miss here. There are a few servers that are extremely nice and efficient, others have been not so great. I am a former server so I'm taking everything into consideration :) anyway, I love Gator Jake's, try them out!!
(4)Shannon S.
This was a good choice for an early dinner and catch up with an old friend for a Friday evening. I'm surprised for as long as I've lived in and around the area, that this was my first visit to Gator Jakes. It wasn't bad. The place was pretty busy... The bar was loaded with happy hour goers, and the restaurant was very busy too with people getting their dinner on. I'll bet this place really gets hopping for the bar scene once dinner subsides. Our service was great. Waitstaff was attentive. The food was okay. They have a lot on the menu. I was craving fish and chips, so this was my choice tonight. This was frozen fish you could tell. The taste wasn't anything to write home about, but the portion size and the sides that came with the dinner were pretty good. Good, not great. I would maybe try a sandwich next time, or a wrap. All in all, not a bad place to stop up for a beer or a light meal. They seemed to have a lot to choose from on the drink menu. It's pretty close to home, so I'd say, I will go back again.
(3)Andy S.
This trip to the Detroit area, we stayed in Sterling Heights. After reading some Yelp reviews, I decided to try out Gator Jake's Bar and Grill. It had a lot of 5 star reviews. Plus, I looked at the menu, and it was inexpensive. The theme is New Orleans. The colors are the colors of Mardi Gras. It's a very open space with a huge wrap around bar with lots of televisions. I had a whiskey and water. It was only $4 (it was not a super strong pour, though). I ordered the steak, which was only $9.99 and it came with a house salad. G's entree also came with a salad. He ordered the tuna steak with broccoli and rice. He liked his sides, but felt the tuna steak needed some extra spice. ' I enjoyed my meal. I had the steak cooked medium rare with green beans and cajun fries. Everything was tasty. This restaurant is also ahead technologically. They take your order at the table on a tablet. The tablet is connected to the POS (point of sale) system so the order went straight to the kitchen from the table. When we paid, she scanned the card on the same tablet. The credit card never left my sight. I like that. Good food. Cheap prices. Cheap drinks Good service.
(4)Scott C.
Great place for watching sports, having drinks and for bar food, but not for dinner. Sirloin steak was good, but green beans were out of a can and bland. Our Tuna steak was good, but overcooked. For lunch or drinks with friends great, but not for dinner.
(3)Jody G.
Love the food and atmosphere. Staff is great!!! Cajun style for sure! Love their burgers
(4)Nick M.
The service has gotten better in the past year or so, maybe because a couple of the bad waitresses aren't there anymore (or I haven't seen them in my last few visits). The food and deals are still good, especially the daily specials and the $2 Budweiser drafts. I give this place business because of the price and the food, and it's just a nice place to hang out. Many TV's in this joint, too.
(4)Samantha D.
My husband and I used to go there quite often until our last experience... Our bartender/server was either on some drug or literally an idiot! (Or both) She had to ask our order over four times acting like she couldn't hear us. I'd understand if it were loud, but it wasn't at all. She never checked on us and looked dumbfounded every time we'd try to get her attention. She kept walking passed us and conversing with all of the male customers around us. I used to serve and I know how it goes, but seriously she was just too much. Such a disappointment because we really enjoy going there for a low key night out. To make it worse, my husband and I both got sick after sharing the chicken quesadilla.
(3)Kelly A.
Horrible service during lunch. I had to flag down the waitress to get our check.. The waitress stated that I should have told her we were on lunch. SORRY It was 12-1 on a Thursday. My coworker and I will not be back!!
(1)Melanie M.
Got 2 burgers, one fries and coleslaw as a carry out. Over charged on the coleslaw today and fries and short changed too. Dry buns, tasteless burgers. Won't be going here again.
(3)Dick E.
Good prices in an average type of bar. It's worth checking out on the weekends. Obviously, there's he regulars that are always in there during the week. Could use updating.
(3)James W.
Good looking place with good food n average prices. But acoustics are so bad you can't have a conversation w/o yelling at each other.
(3)Chris J.
In town on business and this place was real close to our hotel. Great food, lots of TV's, and cheap food. It's a Cajan style place but with many other options. Didn't get any beer but seems like they have a large selection.
(4)maria f.
We came in for dinner last night and had the absolute worst experience. I will not be coming back anytime soon. It's sad when you know your being discriminated against because your a group of ladies. The large group of men next to us had two servers and never had beers less than half full..... We waited 15+ minutes to be greeted. We were only greeted because I went and found the manager and asked her if we could please get some service. She was too busy busing tables to notice us. From that point our waitress was a hot mess. We never got the appetizer we ordered. My food was wrong and when I sent it back they just took off the wrong item and sent it back five minutes later. Thank god it wasn't a food allergy or I would be deathly ill right now. No refills and we were lucky we got our checks. A 45 minute dinner that turned into an hour and a half. The saddest part was watching an elderly couple get the same treatment we did last night. The women finally had to walk around the restaurant to find the waitress to get boxes then we saw her go ask the bartender for her bill. After the couple left the manager bussed the table. What a joke.
(1)Tom F.
Does anyone want to wrestle a Gator??? Don't worry no University of Florida fans around. Not me. Not here. But you may have to wrestle a hunger before you come here. Being newer to the Sterling Heights lunching places someone at work asked me if I wanted to grab a bite. So we sit down and he says "Do you like burgers?". WellI didn't get the nickname Buger Boy for nothing. I checked out the the nice looking pictures in the menu, you know the ones that look so good you can taste them. Then the food arrives and it looks nothing like the picture. Not here. I tried the *Hurricane Burger* 1/2 pound ground round blackened & topped with Jack cheese, grilled peppers & onions. Fantastic! The jack cheese tickled my tongue when blended with the blackened spices. Throw in a few hot pepers and this is one really good burger. This one rates right up there with some of the best in the area. Did you ever try gator jerky? Ewww..not good. But anyway, the service here was fast and friendly. Next time I stop by here I'll have that burger again with a beer, AFTER work.
(4)Robert M.
Food was ok. No better or worse than an average bar/tavern. Went here twice. Only 3 stars. Why? Unless you are a favored regular, get ready for bad service. I witnessed it both times. The waitresses and bartenders say, "Hello" to them and non-regulars get no greeting. They make it so obvious. Regulars have new beer in front of them before previous beer is even finished. Non-regulars get empty glass and wait 10 minutes for refill of beer. I should change this review to 2 stars but I'll be nice.
(3)K- K.
Got here at 9:55pm on a Saturday, out of town and looking for food. We took a table and turned off the tv, not expecting much. Gator Jake's looks like a trendy sports bar - not what my lover and I are into at all. Our server seemed ditzy, but probably as a show for her usual customers. We ordered off the decent beer menu and surprisingly wide array of food. I'd never had gator meat before, so we ordered that as our appetizer - it's a mix between pork and calamari. Our food was INCREDIBLE!! We were unbelievably pleased with what we'd ordered, it was delicious. At 10pm, bouncers showed up at the front door and checked ID's; sports bar type people came in as well, but we had a corner booth all to ourselves. It was loud, but we were too busy eating to really care. Food was great, drinks were great, service was great. Atmosphere not so much, but they clearly make their money that way. I really recommend EATING here, particularly before the drinking scene comes on.
(4)Lu B.
This is a place thats doing it Right!!! Great Staff, Great Food and very affordable Prices. Ive been here several time and never have had a bad experience. Great Beer selection also what more could you ask for.
(4)John V.
I had the blacked chicken and Cajun fries. It had some spicy and pretty decent for Cajun in the North. It does it compare to real New Orleans Cajun, but it was tasty. I also got a side of their hot sauce that I dipped the chicken and fries in. The meal had a little kick to it, which was nice.
(3)Jennifer E.
Pretty good bar...I order the fried checken salad and top shelf long island ice tea. Drinks made decent...my salad is pretty good . I often have to order more chicken on the side to get a decent amount. They have tv's but you can't operate them at your table not unless you ask soneone and that takes a minute. The atmosphere is decent and they always seem to have a pretty decent crowd when I go. Ive seen folks have kids in there umm...that im not feeling to much but thats not often when we go but they have been there. The crowd is mixed from all walks of life. Its pretty clean...they have music playing there often. I think ive went once and they had a DJ but Ive been there several times after and the DJ wasnt there, maybe its only at certain nights Im not sure. Pretty much I just go there to sit, eat, drink with my s/o and then we just leave. Oh and by the way our servers are pretty nice and that makes the difference.
(3)Milissa O.
Great Food. The prices are reasonable. I have been a customer for many years.
(5)Aaron K.
Nice large bar to sit around if you don't want a table. The problem, maybe its just too big. My friend and I walked in and sat at the end of the bar. I counted three bartenders, and it still took 15 minutes to be noticed because it seemed no one knew there was another half of the bar.The guys next to us were waiting to get another drink as well. We placed our drink order and asked for a couple menu's. Drinks come and no menu's, but we couldn't ask for them again because the bartender dropped off our drinks without missing a step. Like a drive by. Finally got the attention of another bartender that just happened by. The lighting was dull and the menu's were very hard to read with the color combinations. We had to use our phones as light to see the menu, as I noticed later, so did others. I ordered a sandwich and my friend a salad. 35 minutes later we got our food. I take it in the fine print somewhere on the menu, there are no sides with the sandwich but again, it was hard to read the menu in the dark. I got what I ordered, a sandwich but kinda expected fries or even chips! The bartender didn't ask if I'd like fries with that or anything so I assumed, and you know what ASSuming does! Food was fair. Its bar food so I wasn't expecting to be blown away. Of course, it was difficult to get refills on our drinks but it was a along walk to our end of the bar and other customers stopped the bartenders from getting all the way to our end. Atmosphere was ok but I suggest taking a table, not sitting at the bar. The servers on the floor were hustling! One girl didn't even give her tables time to wait for anything. She was on it! Too bad my experience with Gator Jakes was spoiled by poor service. Its too bad to, my friend and I are known for leaving tips equal to our bill when we get good service.
(2)Jonathan S.
Great neighborhood bar. I was a regular here until I moved to the west side. Drinks are cheap and they have a decent beer list. Summer bar nights are the best here because of their outdoor patio. They have a lot of events and weekly specials. Can get packed at times and sometimes the crowd can get a little rowdy...but that is part of the charm.
(4)Chris G.
Only issue was addressed by the owner. So..they do care about the customer. Worth the visit.
(3)Barbie M.
I typically don't go to places like this. Not that it's a bad thing it's just not my norm. A friends band was playing so I gathered my possee and headed to Sterling Heights not expecting too much at all. When you are surrounded by waitresses in hot pants and tank tops it kind of sets the tone. BUT I WAS SURPRISED!! Our waitress katie was AMAZING!!! We ended up being a party of 15 and she was 100% all night. The food!! WOW!!! So this isnt your typical bar food menu. Yes that have the fired tastey morsels you love so much after about 4 cocktails but that also have a pretty great regular menu. I got the blackened tuna salad that was GIANGANTIC fresh and OMG SO GOOD!! The dressing was orgasmic! HA! So needless to say we got to enjoy my friends band and had a GREAT expierence at Gator Jakes! We even expressed to the manager on duty how impressed we were with katie and how she took care of us flawlessly all night. At the end of the night all our tabs came and they were all perfect! I will seriously go back to this place even if my friends band isnt playing! I suggest you check it out. They have a nice patio outside too! GREAT JOB GATOR JAKES!!!!
(4)Gary J.
The people who write these reviews must be workers. The bar itself is fine, it has a good lay out decent prices decent food. The staff is miserable. I have been here numerous times, all the waitresses are miserable. Nobody has a smile on their face. People come to a bar to escape the problems in their life, we don't want to be subjected to yours. If this place had a better staff my review would be much higher. Some of these girls have been here for years, I don't understand why they would stay at a job for so long that they hated. I only come here when my coworkers drag me out for lunch or for a Saturday night. I rarely enjoy my time. I recall coming here back 4 or 5 years ago and the service was a lot better. If I were the owner I would strongly consider starting fresh.
(2)Rick W.
Always a good time.... The "scenery" is usually quite stunning. If you're in the Heights... Stop in. You'll be glad you did
(5)Mike I.
The place sort of reminded me of an episode of "restaurant impossible" - not sure what the place is really supposed to be. Bottom line - it's a bar with mediocre beer, decor and menu. Too many menu items, not enough that actually follow the creole theme...pizza, burgers, wraps....salads, soups and apps. However - the only real New Orleans food is the pasta dishes. HUGE bowls for $10-$12. We had 2 of these, and were pleasantly surprised by the quality - taste, texture and quantity of meat & veggies. Highly recommended. We will be returning the next time we are in town...totally worth it! (BTW - they have a Groupon coupon...buy it :)
(4)Maggie H.
I cannot attest much to Gator Jakes food, I have only had their chicken fingers and French fries, but I have thrown back a couple drinks here with friends after work. The drinks are reasonable priced, the service is attentive, atmosphere a-ok, and they have pretty good typical bar food. I have been back multiple times from my first visit, so I can tell you that they have been consistent every time. If you are looking for a laid-back place to grab a couple drinks, Gator Jakes fits that bill just fine.
(3)Gordana F.
Let me start off by saying, im way to old to go to bars to get my party on and my party pants are a little to tight as of late..... :-/ (sadly). But in the summer, this place (bar) is so great. They have an open patio in the back and live bands. And let me just tell you, you MUST order the blackened tuna salad. It is soooo good, and i hate fish! i mean? can you imagine?! That and the wait staff and all of the staff is great. Drinks are inexpensive, the food is phenom and its a nice hang. Dont let the 20 year old waitresses and glow lights get you discouraged. Its a place for grown ups too!
(4)Bess R.
Went here last night (Friday) to meet some friends. Food-wise, I had the french onion soup which was pretty ok. Salty goodness. I also had the steak salad. I think I was expecting something better based on other reviews I've read...it wasn't good. Iceberg lettuce chunks, non-ripe tomatoes, cucumber slices. eh. Steak was okay, and was cooked correctly. So I had that going for me...which was nice. Husband really liked his burger and cajun fries. Guess this is a junk food only type place. Big beer selection, and cheap prices. Weird mix of people there. I wouldn't complain too much about going back for cheap beer and good people watching.
(2)Tom B.
I usually eat lunch here and occasionally dinner. The food here is better quality than most restaurants. I have ordered most of their sandwiches and they are all DELICIOUS. When you order a chicken sandwich, you get a decent size succulent chicken with thick fresh tomatoes. When you order a hamburger, you get seasoned beef, not a frozen patty warmed up. I believe they have the best french onion soup in Michigan. The dinners are great and better than some high scale restaurants and are very inexpensive. I am pretty sure I have ordered steak dinners complete with potato and veggies for less than 10 bucks too. The waitstaff is very friendly. My only negative is that they can be slow at times. This may be because the place can go from empty to packed in minutes. The dinner crowd use to smoke the place up but with the smoking ban this place is quite enjoyable. The smokers seem not to be upset, they all go outside. We have had a few after work parties here too, and the everyone seems to enjoy it. They have a lot of TVs surrounding the long bar, and they have lots booths/tables to sit in. They usually participate in the BOGO in the entertainment book too, just be aware the coupons cannot be used for items on the special list. This place rocks!!
(5)Kristine Z.
Been coming to Gator Jake's for a long time. They got great food and service. They keep the drink coming.
(5)John K.
This place probably has the best bar food around, IMO anyways. The service is usually great, and the owner is always around. As far as the bar scene, its not my type (hence 4 stars and not 5) prices are average price, and this place does get busy, but just not my type of crowd. I go here for lunch quite a bit. Always seems to be pretty clean, and the staff is always friendly.
(4)Amanda A.
I came here at least once during the week for dinner and once (sometimes twice) on the weekends for drinks when I lived in Sterling Heights. Mostly because it was walking distance from my apartment, but that's not the point. The food here is really good, particularly their quesadilla's, and they have a great beer selection. Anywhere that gives you a pitcher of Sam Adams Cherry Wheat is guaranteed to steal my heart. In the evening it turns into a crowded, "rowdy" bar atmosphere, not a chill place if that's what you are into. I prefer a more chill place, but come on. PITCHERS of Sam Adams CHERRY WHEAT. They also have Captain Morgan promoters out there quite frequently, they offer up samples of their new liquor so if you like free shots and swag, you're in luck. My only issue with the night scene at Gator Jake's is the God forsaken DJ. He plays mostly 80's, 90's and top 40 hits, which is fine by me, but then he opens his mouth and speaks. He sounds like a mix of the announcer on The Price is Right and Guy Smiley, except not cool, smooth or charming at all. Every time I brought friends here they would say "what the HELL is up with that dude talking like that?" and then we realize we have an entire pitcher of Sam Adams Cherry Wheat in front of us so we enjoy our beer and have an impersonation competition to see who can sound like him the best. I never win.
(4)Beth S.
Great Cajun food. Friendly staff. I would recommend this to anyone.
(5)Christine K.
I Heart GJ! Where do I start? The service is top notch. The Gator Girls are attentive, on point, and friendly. What also adds to their attractiveness is that they bring you some of the best vittles in town. I'm a fan of the pretzel roll, the chicken roll up, and their quesadillas. Everything is made fresh, to order, and when you order extra cheese, that's exactly what you get. No skimping. The atmosphere is super fun, and I actually win at Keno when I play here (maybe it's the luck o the gator.) Either way, I've never had a bad time here, the regulars are friendly and make for some interesting conversation. I especially try to make it out to their Anniversary and Christmas parties (blessedly 6 months apart), because they go uber cheap on the drinks ($1-2) and put out the most drool-over insane buffet--for free. Oh yeah, the cheesecake is made by Dave's mom: a proud fact that they actually put in the advertisements. Go. Go now!
(5)CHRIS K.
Love gators but need to understand how it works! Gators for lunch and earlier dinner is awesome their food and staff is top notch. Later it's a bar scene and dj is way to loud my softball team is sponsored by gators and we go after our games at liberty by we can't even talk to each other sitting next to each other, like I said a bar scene later in the night. Other than that I lover gators staff food and oh btw they have the nfl ticket lol
(5)Amya S.
I am surprised no one has Yelped this place! A very average bar with very pretty bar staff. It's very busy after 4 on Thursday and Friday, so avoid it if you aren't a fan of crowds. The patio is nice in the summer.
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