When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
The Dixboro Project
Why The Dixboro Project is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Dixboro Project is a unique and historic multi-concept dining and leisure destination nestled on 6.5 acres in the charming Dixboro Village near Ann Arbor, Michigan. Founded by Sava Farah in 2016 to preserve a century-old restaurant farmhouse and its surrounding land, the project revitalizes a beloved local landmark with a magnificent blend of nature, history, and culinary innovation. The site once hosted well-known establishments like The Farm Cupboard and The Lord Fox, and The Dixboro Project continues that proud tradition while laying the foundation for another 100 years of dining history. Visitors can choose from multiple dining experiences including the fine dining Dixboro House, known for its refined yet relaxed atmosphere, and the inviting all-day café The Boro, which offers wood-fired pizzas, baked goods, Roos Roast coffee, takeaway meals, and adult beverages. The property features abundant scenic acreage and a preserved section of Fleming Creek, creating a natural haven for picnicking and outdoor enjoyment. This combination of quality food, thoughtful restoration of the landscape, and a commitment to the local heritage makes The Dixboro Project a memorable place to meet friends, celebrate special occasions, or unwind in an inspiring environment rich with flavor and history.
Here's what people think of The Dixboro Project
As of recent, The Dixboro Project holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1148 reviews.
User reviews of The Dixboro Project are generally positive with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on over 1100 reviews. Many guests appreciate the warm and nourishing atmosphere that reflects the unique history and scenic nature of Dixboro Village. Positive reviews often highlight the inventive menu that blends rich, modern flavors with tradition, praising the wood-fired pizzas, freshly baked pastries at The Boro, and the quality of the fine dining experience at Dixboro House. Visitors also praise the sprawling outdoor spaces and the variety of dining options available, making it suitable for both casual visits and special occasions. On the other hand, some guests mention the pricing as somewhat high, with a few noting that the pizza and drinks can be overpriced in relation to expectations. Certain reviews describe the ambiance as noisy, which might detract from a fine dining experience for some patrons. Despite these minor concerns, the majority sentiment remains favorable, with compliments for the staff's hospitality and commitment to quality food and service. In conclusion, The Dixboro Project is well-regarded for its rich history, beautiful setting, and diverse culinary options, making it a popular destination to enjoy memorable meals and gatherings in a distinctive Ann Arbor locale.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lily Zhang
Came in for lunch this week with a few friends and had an excellent meal! The service was just as impressive as the food. Our server Victoria was knowledgeable about the menu and gave us great drink recommendations. She also suggested we try something from the bakery and we’re so glad we did—the cardamom pistachio bun and almond croissant were flavorful and delicious. The sausage pizza was also super tasty—loved the touch of sweetness from the dates. My friends and I went with the Barnyard Sour for our drinks which paired perfectly with everything. Overall, a fantastic meal with top-notch service!
Lauren H
The absolute cutest restaurant! Pricey, but a fun day trip option. It looks like the venue would be great for weddings and events as well! Split the Caesar salad and eggplant sandwich - both excellent choices! Was slightly disappointed in the lemon blackberry cupcake as it was really dry. Overall, would highly recommend!
Sarah Kupka
We went for our anniversary dinner and we loved it. We ordered the flank steak and the wagyu burger for the entrees. For sides, we got rolls, macaroni (sans peas) and mashed potatoes. The potatoes were surprisingly very green, they weren't my favorite but everything else was delicious. My husband liked the potatoes. They gave us a free toast as well. I didn't like the options for the mocktails, but the bartender made me a custom one. It was delicious and I got 2. For dessert, I tried to cherry/lime parfait and my husband got the chocolate and coffee cake with an espresso. I found the parfait to be VERY EXTREMELY strong of lime so I got the peach tart instead. The peach tart was absolutely delicious and balanced. The server and staff were very on top of everything, very attentive. Very nice and knowledgeable on the menu. I appreciate this place!
samuel rodriguez
This place was amazing. I'm glad my kids found it brought us here to enjoy a fabulous meal. The entire staff especially Luke our server was very knowledgeable on all things on the menu. Food was amazing. The trumpet mushroom appetizer is too die for!! Thank you!
Maryam Shulgan
Had our anniversary dinner here. We were seated after making a reservation. The atmosphere was elegant and we were welcomed by lovely staff who helped us celebrate. The bread that we had as an appetizer was the best bread we have ever had. The selection of seasonal, farm to table meals was lovely, we enjoyed the pizza and trout and risotto.
How to reach The Dixboro Project
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Website: None
Why The Dixboro Project may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Dixboro Project with your friends?
Gathering friends for an outing is more than just sharing a meal—it's about creating memorable experiences in a place that inspires connection, relaxation, and enjoyment. The Dixboro Project, nestled in the scenic heart of Dixboro Village near Ann Arbor, offers an exceptional setting perfect for rallying your friends. This multi-concept restaurant blends historical charm with modern luxury, providing both beautiful natural surroundings and a vibrant culinary scene. Whether your group is after a casual pizza night, a sophisticated dining experience, or a relaxed afternoon of pastries and drinks, The Dixboro Project caters to diverse tastes in one location over a sprawling 20-acre setting. Friends can unwind together in the warmth of a welcoming atmosphere, discovering dishes and drinks crafted with local tradition and contemporary flair. This combination of ambiance, culinary creativity, and room to roam makes The Dixboro Project an ideal social hub where friends can reconnect and celebrate milestones alike—and enjoy both lively conversations and peaceful moments under the trees.
What types of activities can groups enjoy at The Dixboro Project?
The Dixboro Project offers more than just dining; it is a leisure sanctuary designed for groups looking to turn a simple meetup into a memorable experience. For starters, the site features multiple dining concepts under one historic roof and across its grounds. Guests can choose from the fine dining experience at the Dixboro House, where refined menus pay homage to local culinary traditions enhanced by a modern twist. This setting is perfect for groups wanting an elegant yet relaxed meal with expertly crafted dishes. For a more laid-back option, The Boro acts as a wood-fired pizza and pastry hub, offering freshly baked goods and takeaway meals ideal for sharing casual bites with friends or family. This variety caters to different group preferences in one convenient location, making it easy for everyone to find something they love.
Beyond dining, the expansive 20-acre property invites guests to enjoy the abundant nature surrounding the venue. Weather permitting, groups can explore scenic walking paths or simply gather outdoors to soak in the charming, wooded environment of Dixboro Village. This natural setting is a rare find close to the city, giving friends a private retreat vibe while still offering sophisticated amenities. It’s an excellent place for leisurely strolls, photo opportunities, or even outdoor games depending on your group’s mood. The spacious grounds also enhance social distancing comfort if desired, making it a safe and adaptable meet-up spot.
Why is The Dixboro Project ideal for group meetups and private events?
The Dixboro Project shines as a venue for group gatherings and special celebrations due to its flexibility and dedicated event accommodations. The business actively welcomes private events, making it a dependable choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual reunions with friends and family. Its multiple concepts and spaces mean that groups can tailor their experience — from sit-down dinners in the historic Dixboro House to buffet-style receptions featuring artisanal pizzas and regional delicacies. Groups benefit from attentive service and curated menus that respect dietary needs and preferences, enhancing the overall enjoyment for everyone involved.
The venue’s unique blend of history and contemporary comfort adds distinctive character to any occasion. The beautifully preserved and thoughtfully modernized spaces reflect the rich story of Dixboro, imbuing events with a sense of place many venues cannot match. This heritage ambiance paired with modern décor creates a warm, inviting backdrop that complements the convivial atmosphere needed for group bonding. Additionally, The Dixboro Project’s location offers convenient parking and easy access from Ann Arbor, ensuring that guests arrive with minimal hassle, which is crucial for group coordination.
What culinary delights await groups at The Dixboro Project?
Food is at the heart of what makes The Dixboro Project a gathering favorite. The restaurant sources inspiration from over a century of local culinary tradition, blending it with modern techniques and flavors. Groups can expect an inventive menu that showcases fresh ingredients and thoughtful combinations, providing both familiar comfort foods and new taste adventures. At the fine dining Dixboro House, the menu might feature elevated American classics with seasonal twists, while The Boro grill caters to casual diners with beloved wood-fired pizzas and a selection of pastries that have quickly become crowd-pleasers.
Craftsmanship extends beyond the kitchen to the beverages offered. The Dixboro Project offers a well-curated drinks menu that includes carefully selected wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails designed to complement the rich flavors of the food. This heightened attention to pairings turns every meal into a complete sensory experience, encouraging groups to linger over drinks and conversation. Whether toasting a special occasion or simply savoring time together, the drinks selection enhances the convivial mood that makes dining here so memorable.
How does the atmosphere at The Dixboro Project enhance the group experience?
Atmosphere plays a critical role in shaping an outing among friends or family, and The Dixboro Project excels in crafting an environment brimming with warmth and character. The historic buildings, surrounded by serene woodland, provide an intimate yet open setting that invites casual, relaxed enjoyment alongside fine dining sophistication. Indoors, the spaces balance elegant design with cozy touches—exposed beams, soft lighting, and tasteful décor—that make groups feel both special and at ease.
Outdoors, the sprawling grounds contribute a sense of freedom rare in restaurant settings, granting groups space to spread out or gather as they please. This natural environment also encourages social interactions beyond the table—imagine sharing a walk, playing lawn games, or simply enjoying the fresh air before or after a meal. The seamless integration of nature and hospitality creates a multi-dimensional outing, where every moment offers something engaging.
Moreover, the staff’s attentive yet unobtrusive service ensures that groups’ needs are consistently met without disrupting the flow of conversation and fun. This professionalism elevates the experience, allowing friends and families to focus on each other, confident that the details are handled with care.
What makes The Dixboro Project stand out among other meetup spots in Ann Arbor?
The Dixboro Project distinguishes itself through its unique combination of location, culinary innovation, historic charm, and natural beauty. Unlike typical restaurants clustered in busy urban areas, this venue offers a tranquil retreat within reach of Ann Arbor that feels like stepping into an entirely different world. The 20-acre property surrounded by woods transforms ordinary dining into an immersive experience of place, heritage, and nature. This setting alone makes it stand apart as a meetup destination.
Its multi-concept dining options provide unmatched versatility to accommodate a broad spectrum of group preferences. Whether your friends want an upscale shared dinner or a casual pizza night under the stars, The Dixboro Project delivers both with equal quality and style. Additionally, the dedicated private event services and thoughtful menus showcase a commitment to making any group gathering successful and memorable.
The consistent high ratings reflect widespread appreciation for the combination of excellent food, appealing atmosphere, and outstanding hospitality. With over 1100 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, many guests praise it as a favorite local gem that regularly surprises visitors with both nostalgic comfort and fresh culinary creativity. In short, The Dixboro Project is not just a restaurant but a premier social destination where every detail is designed to foster connection and enjoyment for friends, families, and communities alike.