MJ's Eatery
About This Spot
Stepping into MJ’s Eatery, you immediately sense a warm, welcoming energy that sets the tone for a relaxed, inviting meal. Nestled near the tranquil shores of Houghton Lake, this spot feels like a comforting pause in the day — where locals and travelers alike gather to share familiar flavors and easy conversation. The atmosphere is casual and unhurried, with the gentle hum of friendly chatter and the subtle clatter of plates weaving through the background. It’s the kind of place where the pace slows just enough to enjoy simple pleasures without rush.
MJ’s Eatery is rooted in the essence of a family restaurant, where the line between neighborly gathering spot and hearty breakfast joint blurs deliciously. Walking in on any morning, the appetizing aroma of freshly cooked skillets and the sizzle of breakfast favorites being prepared feels like a quiet invitation to linger. Whether you’re craving a thoughtfully stacked sandwich or a skillet brimming with comfort, the kitchen’s care shines through each plate. Portions are generous, encouraging laughter around the table and a shared appreciation for good, honest food that hits the spot.
The staff here mirror that warmth effortlessly — attentive without ever feeling rushed, offering genuine smiles that blend into the friendly buzz of the room. It’s easy to imagine locals returning time and again, drawn by fresh, flavorful meals served with a side of hospitality. MJ’s quietly weaves together the simplicity of Mid-Michigan charm with a menu that feels both familiar and thoughtfully curated, making it a quiet staple for anyone passing through or settling in for a comforting meal near the lake.
What’s Available Here
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Kerbside pickup
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Drive-through
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Great coffee
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Great dessert
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Serves local specialty
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Breakfast
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Healthy options
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Vegetarian options
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Locals
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Tourists
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM | |
| Friday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM |
Shaun Rogers 04 Jan 2026
This food was outstanding. This is definitely in my top 5 breakfast restaurants ever. Food was fresh cooked exactly how I ordered. Its flavor was top notch. The wait staff were extremely friendly and was very helpful/friendly. Each person in our group raved about how good there food was. I will be bringing my family here to eat next time through this area.
Jamie Kunzelman 25 Dec 2025
The best place on the lake for food and service! The girls that work in the front of house are incredible! The crew that works the back of house keep the food amazing and coming out hot. Plus the dish crew keeps everything moving! Thank you for being a staple for our trips up North! :)
Nidhi Mishra 20 Dec 2025
Amazing restaurant, so glad for this in mid michigan. % recommended. Very fresh and tasty! This is going to be my regular go to place from now on, also very resonable and good portion size.
Sarah Devoli 10 Dec 2025
This food is truly amazing. Everything was so delicious, plentiful quantities. Great fast service.
Bruce Reeve. Welcome to, TUNKS WORLD 12 Nov 2025
We have been wanting to try this place but the last couple times we been in or passing by they've been packed but today we finally got a seat. I had the black and blue burger. $13.99 The wife had a breakfast sandwich plate with O'Brien style redskin potatoes which I must say were amazing with sausage gravy all part of one meal. $13.99 + .99 up charge for the potatoes VERY reasonable The only reason I gave them a 4 on food is because though it was a very tasty burger I don't feel the value was there for a $14 dollar burger that came with only a pickle spear. We did see other patrons order the chicken sandwiches and they were BEASTS so we're definitely going in again to try one of those. Over all, give this place a try we think you'll find something you'll love, we certainly did.
Corrie Piersma 06 Nov 2025
MJ’s is one of the only places my husband and I intentionally return to in the Houghton Lake area. The food is reasonably priced and the French fries make every visit worth it. Hearty portions, hardworking staff, nice family atmosphere and lots of natural light. Worth a visit for the best diner-type food around.
Crystal Musall 14 Oct 2025
Picked this spot on our way thru town. We were SO impressed with the food, staff, and restaurant. I highly recommend! The onion rings were SO good. They even gave us a military discount, which we greatly appreciate!
Marsha Yanta 30 Sep 2025
MJ's has the absolute best Lemonade in Michigan, and I have had lots of lemonades! The salad was fresh, crisp and delicious! The staff was all upbeat, happy and FAST! Best place I have been to in a long time!