The Union Woodshop

Among the restaurants that define Oakland County's dining identity, The Union Woodshop in downtown Clarkston stands out as a venue that has earned its reputation through consistency, craft, and genuine community connection. Situated along Main Street in one of the most charming village settings in southeast Michigan, The Union Woodshop has become a destination — not just for Clarkston residents, but for food lovers across the entire region.

The restaurant is best known for its wood-fired pizzas and house-smoked meats — preparations that require patience, skill, and a commitment to doing things the slow way. The wood-burning oven anchors the kitchen, producing pizzas with the kind of char, texture, and depth that define truly great artisan cooking. The smoked meats program adds another layer, with brisket, pulled pork, and other cuts prepared in-house using proprietary blends and careful timing.

Why It's Being Spotlighted

The Union Woodshop continues to generate the kind of organic community enthusiasm that money can't buy. It's the restaurant that residents recommend to newcomers, that families return to for celebrations, and that visitors from surrounding counties plan trips around. Consistently cited as one of the best restaurants in the Oakland County area, the venue benefits from a combination of exceptional food, a carefully curated craft beer selection, and an atmosphere that manages to feel both lively and comfortable. Clarkston's walkable downtown setting amplifies the experience. After dinner, it's easy to stroll the surrounding blocks, exploring the shops and galleries that make the village one of the most distinctive communities in the region.

What Makes It Special

Several elements set The Union Woodshop apart from the broader landscape in Mid-Michigan:

• Wood-fired craft. The oven isn't a gimmick — it's the foundation of the menu and the source of flavors that can't be replicated any other way.
• House-smoked meats. A dedicated smoking program that demonstrates real investment in quality and process.
• Craft beer selection. A rotating tap list that showcases Michigan breweries alongside national craft offerings.
• Community atmosphere. The kind of place where regulars are known by name and first-timers feel welcome from the moment they walk in.
• Downtown Clarkston setting. A walkable, charming village context that elevates the entire dining experience.

If You Go

The Union Woodshop is located in the heart of downtown Clarkston, a picturesque Oakland County village known for its historic architecture, century-old homes, and top-rated schools. Clarkston sits at the intersection of M-15 and Dixie Highway, roughly 40 minutes north of downtown Detroit and easily accessible from I-75 — making it a natural destination for residents across Oakland, Genesee, and Livingston counties. For visitors, pairing dinner with a walk through the village is part of the experience.