Each year, over 500,000 tourists make their way to Sault Ste. Marie to visit the iconic Soo Locks, one of the country’s most vital pieces of infrastructure. With a variety of lodging options, finding a great place to stay is easy and affordable. But what about a great place to eat?

Using rankings from our friends at TripAdvisor, we’ve compiled a list of the five most popular restaurants in Sault Ste. Marie. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway to the Soo, reminiscing about past visits, or a local looking to see if your favorites made the cut, check out these top-rated dining spots in Sault Ste. Marie.

With multiple locations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the original Clyde’s Drive-In near the Sugar Island ferry dock lands in the top three on TripAdvisor’s ranking. This nostalgic eatery blends classic drive-in favorites with a unique freighter-watching experience, making it a one-of-a-kind spot to grab a meal in Sault Ste. Marie.

“The burgers were incredible!! We ordered our food and went over to Rotary Park to have lunch while watching the freighters. The menu includes much more than burgers. Very easy, relaxing way to have lunch,” shared a reviewer from Appleton, WI.

Among the top five eateries in the Soo, The Palace boasts the richest history, dating back to the early 1900s. This Portage Avenue staple specializes in delicious Mexican cuisine, refreshing margaritas, and a prime location in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. The Palace is also a go-to spot for some of the best burgers in town.

“Good food with a Mexican theme. The restaurant is larger than it first appears. They have an outstanding selection of various tequilas, so a Margarita is in order for guests 21 and older. Reasonable prices and large portions. Be sure to order the queso,” raved TripAdvisor user Charlie W. from South Carolina.

Located right outside the main gates of the Soo Locks, Lockview Restaurant is often the first dining spot visitors see—and it does not disappoint. This seasonal favorite is renowned for serving some of the best whitefish in the region, with multiple varieties prepared in different styles. Our top pick? The Cajun deep-fried walleye. For the adventurous eater, the whitefish Reuben sandwich is a must-try. And no visit is complete without sampling a classic Upper Peninsula pasty.

Lockview also boasts a fantastic breakfast menu, making it a great place to start your day in downtown Sault Ste. Marie.

“Very good pasty. Excellent whitefish Reuben. Their breakfasts were delicious and hearty (we had them for early lunch). The seating reflects the name as you really do look out on the locks and freighters. Service was friendly and efficient. One evening we had takeout and that was quick and easy,” shared a TripAdvisor reviewer.

This charming 1950s-style drive-in, located near the west entrance of the Soo Locks under the International Bridge, is a must-visit for burger lovers. Known for its massive, flavor-packed burgers—some weighing over a pound—West Pier is a local legend.

For longtime Soo residents, the ultimate foodie debate is often: Clyde’s Drive-In or West Pier Drive-In? The good news? There’s no wrong answer.

“Stopped in here when in the Soo over the 7/19/19 weekend. Wanted to find something unique and iconic to the area for lunch – and boy, was this IT!! Barely had put the car in park when a server was at our window to take our order. Decided to try the cheeseburger—and the mushrooms. WOW. Huge, juicy, extremely flavorful—could not stop eating even though I wasn’t starving in the first place. This is a MUST stop! Will be back…,” shared a TripAdvisor reviewer.

A modern addition to Sault Ste. Marie’s restaurant scene, The Wicked Sister has quickly earned its place among the city’s best. Located on Ashmun Street, this vibrant eatery offers creative craft burgers, innovative entrees, and a well-stocked bar. Don’t forget to ask about their specialty tater tots—they’re legendary!

“We came from Pittsburgh, PA, where there are many great places to eat, and this place was on par with the best Pittsburgh has to offer!! The food was all fresh and homemade, even the tots (stuffed with corned beef!)!! Service was top-notch, and the tap list was awesome. We had lunch and dinner there on the same day—it was that good,” wrote a visitor from Pennsylvania.

From legendary drive-ins to historic downtown favorites, these top-rated TripAdvisor restaurants showcase the best of Sault Ste. Marie’s dining scene. Whether you’re craving fresh Great Lakes whitefish, mouthwatering burgers, or a perfectly mixed margarita, these local favorites have something to offer.

What’s your favorite place to eat in the Soo? Let us know by sharing your foodie adventures using #VisitTheSault on social media! Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Pinterest, TikTok, Threads and Instagram.