You’ve probably seen it driving through downtown—that massive, red sandstone tower standing like a sentinel over the Kalamazoo River. It looks more like a fortress or a set piece from a period drama than a place to grab a burger. But if you’re from around here, or even if you’re just passing through Calhoun County, you know that Clara’s on the River is basically the soul of Battle Creek dining.
Honestly, it’s rare for a restaurant to survive decades without losing its spark. Most places get a "refresh" that strips away the character, or they just sort of fade into the background. Clara’s didn’t do that. It’s still tucked inside the old Michigan Central Railroad Depot, a building that’s been sitting at 44 North McCamly Street since 1888.
Walking in feels kinda like stepping into a time machine, but without the stuffiness of a museum. It's loud, it's busy, and it smells like slow-cooked ribs and Sunday brunch.
The Depot That Refused to Die
Before it was a restaurant, this place was a bustling hub of activity. If those red Lake Superior sandstone walls could talk, they’d tell you about Thomas Edison hopping off a train here. They’d mention President William Howard Taft or Gerald Ford making appearances. During the World Wars, this station was the last bit of "home" thousands of soldiers saw before heading out from Fort Custer.
By 1982, though, the trains stopped coming.
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The station sat empty for seven years. Usually, that’s the death knell for historic buildings. They rot, they get vandalized, and eventually, the city tears them down for a parking lot. But in 1989, Peter Jubeck and Ross Simpson stepped in. They saw what most people missed: a chance to turn a 19th-century relic into a landmark. They opened Clara’s in 1992, and it’s been the "go-to" spot ever since.
What You’ll See Inside
The decor isn't just "vintage-themed"—it's actual history.
- The Tower Room: This used to be the ticket agent’s office. Now, you can eat under a backlit stained-glass ceiling surrounded by railroad memorabilia.
- The Fireplace: It’s the same one where travelers used to huddle during Michigan winters while waiting for the late train.
- The Artifacts: Look for the "Sweetheart of Corn" pictures. Those are original Kellogg Company advertisements from the early 1900s. It’s a nod to Battle Creek’s identity as Cereal City.
The Menu: Why a 17-Page List Actually Works
In the world of high-end dining, a huge menu is usually a red flag. "They can’t possibly do everything well," people say. Well, Clara’s kinda ignores that rule. Their menu is famously massive, covering everything from Mexican-inspired appetizers to Italian pasta and classic American BBQ.
If you’re a first-timer, the Spinach, Crab, and Artichoke Dip is basically mandatory. It’s rich, it’s cheesy, and it comes out bubbling hot. For the main event, most locals will point you toward the Baby Back Ribs. They slow-cook them overnight with a secret spice rub. They’re the kind of ribs that don't need a gallon of sauce to be good, though the sauce they use is pretty solid.
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The Sunday Brunch Legend
If you want to see Clara’s at its peak, show up on a Sunday morning. The brunch buffet is a Battle Creek institution.
- The Omelet Station: A chef makes them to order with whatever you want thrown in.
- The Waffle Bar: Fresh-made waffles that you can basically drown in toppings.
- The Variety: You’ll find breakfast standards next to heartier lunch options and a pretty impressive spread of pastries.
It gets packed. Like, "hope you called ahead" packed. But the energy in the room—families celebrating birthdays, old friends catching up—is what makes it feel like the "Cheers" of the community.
Eating by the Water
The "On the River" part of the name isn't just marketing. In the summer, the patio is the best seat in the city. It’s shaded by huge trees and looks right out over the riverbank. There’s something about eating a Yellowfin Tuna steak or a Wolverine Sandwich (ham, turkey, and Swiss on grilled sourdough) while watching the water flow by that just hits different.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Don't just plug the name into your GPS and hope for the best. Sometimes Google Maps tries to send you to a lot across the river. Make sure you're heading to the actual McCamly Street entrance.
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Reservations are a smart move. While they do take walk-ins, this isn't a "fast food" experience. The service is friendly, but because the building is historic and the layout is quirky, things can move a bit slower when the house is full. Embrace it. You're there for the atmosphere as much as the food.
Parking is free.
There’s a dedicated lot right at the restaurant. If that’s full, there’s usually street parking nearby, but the lot is your best bet.
Check the hours.
Currently, they’re open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Sunday is shorter, usually 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM for that famous brunch.
Why Clara’s Still Matters in 2026
We live in a world of chain restaurants that look the same whether you're in Michigan or Missouri. Clara’s is the opposite of that. It’s a piece of Battle Creek’s DNA. When the Lansing sister location closed back in 2016, there was a real fear that the Battle Creek spot might follow. Instead, Ross Simpson doubled down, investing hundreds of thousands of dollars into refurbishing the clock tower and upgrading the facilities.
It’s a survivor.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for a date night in the Tower Room or just want a massive plate of Nachos Grande while sitting on the patio, Clara's fits the bill. It’s one of those rare places that manages to be "fine dining" and "family-friendly" at the same time.
Actionable Next Steps
- Plan for Sunday Brunch: If you want the full Clara’s experience, aim for the 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM window on Sunday. Call 269-963-0966 to check for wait times or reservations, especially if you have a group larger than four.
- Explore the History: Before or after your meal, take ten minutes to walk through the foyer and Sparkey’s Lounge. The antiques aren't just for show; they are a curated collection of Battle Creek’s industrial and social history.
- Check the Seasonal Decor: If you’re visiting in the winter, look out for their holiday displays. They’ve been known to keep the "Christmas spirit" alive well into February to brighten up the Michigan gray.
- Try a Specialty Item: Skip the standard burger once and go for the Great Lakes Whitefish or the M.C.M. (Mushroom Chicken Mushroom) to get a taste of what the kitchen does best.