Michigan’s Best Hidden Gem Restaurant: Iva’s Chicken Dinners

Sure, there are a lot of big name "must-try" restaurants most of us have heard about here in Michigan. Countless foodie publications have highlighted spots like the Bavarian Inn, Zingerman's Deli, The Whitney, London Chop House, and Prime + Proper, to name a few.

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But what about the joints off the beaten path? The delicious spots that locals love, but someone from out of town might miss?

Well, Lovefood.com sought to find the top "hidden gem" restaurant in each state. They say these are the spots tucked away behind unassuming storefronts or hiding way out in the middle of nowhere that deserve a place on your "must-visit" list.

Iva's Chicken Dinners via Facebook

The foodie publication's pick for the best "off the radar" restaurant in Michigan is Iva's Chicken Dinners on the east side of the state.

How Iva’s Chicken Dinners Got Its Start

This beloved, Sterling, Mich., eatery has been serving up Iva Ousterhout's famous chicken dinners since 1938! Originally, she prepared the meals for oil rig workers who rented rooms from her. Word got out though, and soon others wanted to enjoy her delicious chicken. Iva's is still family owned and operated today.

👇BELOW: CHECK OUT MORE OF MICHIGAN'S TOP RESTAURANTS👇

Lovefood says of Iva's Chicken Dinners,

You won’t find anyone trying to reinvent the wheel here, and thank goodness for it – this is basic food, prepared to a sky-high standard.

The Secret Behind the Fried Chicken

For the family-style option you get your choice of all-you-can-eat Southern Fried or Stewed Chicken, tomato juice or chicken noodle soup, cabbage salad, cottage cheese, biscuits, golden chicken gravy, dressing, and whipped potatoes.

For both dark and white meat, it'll run you just $19.95 per person.

PBS Detroit via YouTube

What's so special about Iva's Southern Fried Chicken? Owners say it's the most popular item on the menu. A younger chicken is rolled in flour, pan fried, and then steamed in an iron skillet. For the lighter appetite, you can create your own luncheon plate with two pieces of chicken and two sides.

UP NEXT: Serving Up Nostalgia—Discover Michigan's Top Old School Restaurant

What Else is On Iva's Menu

Other options include Ribeye, Smoked Pork Chop, Shrimp, Cod, Pan Fried Walleye, Scallops, or a Mixed Seafood Platter.

You'll also find sandwiches, chicken tenders, and homemade desserts like Coconut Cream, Banana Cream, Rhubarb, and Apple Pie.

Best of the Best: Michigan’s Top Restaurants to Try

Looking for a new restaurant to try? Add these to your bucket list! From the best diners and delis to the best steakhouses, bakeries, and Mexican eateries, we've compiled a list of Michigan's best restaurants based on national rankings.

Using reviews, awards, and the experiences of their teams, publications like Lovefood.com, 24/7 Tempo, Tasting Table, and Yelp have declared these the top eats in the Mitten State.

Gallery Credit: Janna