Enjoying a Great Meal in Linden

Part of the fun of living in a place like Flint & Genesee is exploring the many places you have never eaten. There are dozens of wonderful restaurants to try in the county and if you have a sense of adventure, you can make plans for a very delicious foodie staycation.  

Linden is a beautiful city in southern Genesee County featuring many waterways and offering a small-town feeling that is often hard to find. Nestled in the city you’ll find several great eating options, and these are but a few of them.  

The Linden Hotel was built in 1840 and is one of the county’s oldest businesses, let alone its oldest restaurant. The hotel has seen many changes over the years but what hasn’t changed are the wonderful food or the friendly atmosphere. The restaurant offers large portions and features sandwiches, pasta, steaks, seafood, salads, and Mexican fare along with the usual appetizers and sides. On the second floor is the Crow’s Nest, a space for drinks and kicking back with your friends without children underfoot.  

Located just outside of downtown Linden, Shirley’s Café & Grill is another staple of the city and a beloved restaurant for nearly two decades. Featuring a décor that honors the early age of rock and roll and its king, Elvis Presley, the restaurant features great, friendly service, and traditional favorites like hamburgers, sandwiches, and a delicious breakfast that will leave you full but ready for more.  

In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the Bridge Street Coney Cafe, a traditional coney restaurant conveniently located in the city’s shopping district. Whether it be a quick bite, a leisurely breakfast, or something for your lunch hour, this is the place to go. With the hustle of the day, it’s nice to have a reliable place to go when the stomach starts talking.  

When you’re up for a drink you can stop into Down the Hatch Pub, also located downtown, just feet away from the Bridge Street Coney Café. Down the Hatch is a small-town bar with a big heart that offers a comfortable spot to get out of the cold for a drink or two. The space offers pool, seating at the bar or around a table, and a full bar. Without pretense, this is the place you go to wind down and hang out, and it’s waiting for your arrival.  

Down the street from Linden, in Argentine, you’ll find Cancun Mexican Restaurant & Cantina where in warmer weather you can even dine near the water. Cancun is full of bright, cheery furniture and immediately puts you in the mood for fun. The food runs from delicious starters full of dips to nachos, quesadillas, salads, and soups. The meals are fresh and filling and can be paired with any number of adult beverages to get the weekend started early.  

Added to these many options in Linden for dining, like the delicious take out from Calabria Village, or Chinese from China Garden, or one of the fast-food options, but whatever you choose, the trip will be worth it because you’ll leave Linden with a full stomach and a happy heart.