You’re driving through the high desert of Central Washington, the sun is beating down on the basalt rocks, and suddenly, there it is—a massive blue expanse of water. Moses Lake is a bit of an anomaly, and honestly, so is its most famous dining spot. If you ask a local where to go for a "nice" dinner, they’ll point you toward 910 West Broadway Avenue without blinking.
But here’s the thing: Michael’s on the Lake Moses Lake isn’t just some stiff, white-tablecloth establishment where you feel like you can't breathe. It’s weirdly versatile. You’ve got people in flip-flops fresh off a boat sitting twenty feet away from a couple celebrating their 50th anniversary. It works. It shouldn't, but it does.
The Story Behind the View
Most people think this place has always been a refined steak and seafood joint. Nope. Not even close. Back in 1991, when Mike Hamilton first bought the building, it was a nightclub. Imagine loud music, a DJ, and a dance floor where the quiet dining room sits today. It stayed that way for fifteen years until the family decided they were tired of being up until 3:00 AM every night.
In 2006, they pivoted. They gutted the disco vibe and leaned into the "casual elegance" thing. Sadly, Mike Hamilton passed away in early 2026 after a long battle with cancer, but his son Jordan and the rest of the family still run the show. They’ve basically built a mini-empire in town—owning this place, Michael’s Market & Bistro, and Rock Top Burgers & Brew.
There’s a legacy here that matters. When Mount St. Helens blew its top in 1980, Mike (who owned a different spot back then) opened his doors to everyone stranded by the ash. That same "feed the community" energy still hangs around the rafters at Michael’s.
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Why the Patio is Non-Negotiable
If the weather is even remotely nice, you sit outside. Period. The restaurant overlooks the Parker Horn arm of the lake, and the sunsets are, frankly, ridiculous.
The patio is arguably the best in Grant County. It’s well-lit, colorful, and right on the water. Even on a chilly night, they’ve got the heaters going. It’s the kind of spot where a cold micro-brew tastes better just because of the breeze. Inside, it’s a bit more "lodge-y"—warm glows, contemporary art, and lots of wood. It feels like a hug from a wealthy uncle.
What to Actually Order (Beyond the Prime Rib)
Look, the Prime Rib is the heavy hitter. People travel from Ephrata and Ritzville specifically for it. But if you want to eat like a regular, you have to look at the weirdly creative stuff they do with appetizers.
- Sushi Tacos: These are sort of famous. It’s Dungeness crab, avocado, and sushi rice tucked into crunchy wonton shells. It’s a messy, glorious fusion that has no business being in a steakhouse, yet it’s the first thing many people order.
- Bang Bang Shrimp: Six large shrimp battered and tossed in a sweet-spicy sauce. Simple, but they nail the crunch.
- The Pub Burger: If you aren't feeling a $40 steak, get this. It’s infused with gorgonzola and topped with horseradish cream aioli. It’s aggressive in the best way.
They also have a "Michael’s Plus Burger" that comes with au jus for dipping. It’s basically a French Dip and a bacon cheeseburger had a baby. It’s heavy. You’ll probably need a nap afterward.
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The Menu Breakdown
The price range is wide. You can get out of there for $20 if you're grab-and-go with a burger, or you can drop $60+ on a high-end steak with "accessories" (that’s literally what they call the sides).
Seafood and Steaks
They take their "Certified Angus" label pretty seriously. The Steak and Fries comes with a wild mushroom demi-glace that is worth the price of admission alone. On the seafood side, the Seafood Caesar is loaded—we're talking real Dungeness crab and shrimp, not the imitation stuff you find at the grocery store.
The Salad Situation
Surprisingly, their salad game is strong. The Katsu Chicken Salad with miso ginger dressing and serranos is a standout for anyone who wants something lighter but still wants a kick.
A Few Realities to Keep in Mind
It’s not perfect. No place is. Because it’s the "it" spot in Moses Lake, Friday and Saturday nights can be a bit of a zoo.
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- Reservations: You really should make them. You can show up and hope for a spot at the bar, but if you want that lakeside window, call ahead.
- Service Speed: On a busy night, things can slow down. The staff is famously friendly—very "small-town hospitality"—but they aren't miracle workers when the patio is packed.
- The "Old School" Vibe: Some younger crowds might find the decor a bit dated, but most regulars find it comforting. It’s not trying to be a sleek, minimalist Portland cafe. It knows exactly what it is.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
If you're planning a trip to Michael’s on the Lake Moses Lake, do yourself a favor and time it for the "golden hour." Check the sunset time on your phone and book your table for 30 minutes before that.
- Parking: They have a dedicated lot, so don't worry about Broadway parking.
- Dress Code: Don't overthink it. Nice jeans and a collared shirt are the standard, but again, if you’re coming off the lake in clean boat gear, you won't be turned away.
- The Hidden Gem: Try the Korean Cauliflower appetizer. Even if you hate vegetables, the sweet chili miso paste is addictive.
- Events: If you’re looking for a private room, they have space for business networking and family celebrations. It’s one of the few places in town that handles 20+ people without the kitchen having a meltdown.
Whether you're just passing through on I-90 or you live five minutes away, this place remains the cornerstone of the local food scene. It’s survived a 2006 rebrand, a 2020 lockdown, and the loss of its founder. It’s tough, it’s got a great view, and the food actually tastes like someone in the back cares.
Check their current hours before you go—they usually open at 11:00 AM and stay open until 9:00 PM (or 10:00 PM on weekends). If you want a more casual, "lunchy" vibe with the same quality, you can always head over to their sister spot, Michael’s Market & Bistro, just down the road. But for the full experience, you want the lake. You want the steak. You want the wonton tacos.
Go for the sunset, stay for the demi-glace. You won't regret it.