Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ann Arbor, Melange is a culinary gem that invites food enthusiasts to embark on a flavorful journey. Known for its innovative fusion of global tastes with local ingredients, the Melange Ann Arbor menu offers an eclectic mix of dishes designed to satisfy a variety of palates.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, an elegant dinner, or a weekend brunch, Melange’s thoughtfully curated selections promise an experience that’s both comforting and adventurous. The atmosphere itself complements the food, blending modern chic with cozy familiarity, making every visit memorable.
At Melange, the menu is more than just a list of meals; it’s a reflection of creativity and passion. Each dish is crafted to highlight the freshest seasonal produce, sustainable proteins, and bold spices that elevate everyday ingredients.
Diners appreciate the balance of tradition and innovation, where classic techniques meet contemporary twists. This dynamic approach not only appeals to local customers but also draws visitors from afar, eager to explore Ann Arbor’s vibrant dining scene through Melange’s offerings.
Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or someone simply looking for a delightful meal, the Melange Ann Arbor menu has something to captivate your senses and leave you anticipating your next visit. From starter plates to dessert indulgences, every option tells a story of flavor, culture, and culinary expertise.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Melange offers a diverse array of small plates designed to stimulate your palate and set the tone for the meal ahead. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo as a light starter.
The menu showcases a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, from crisp and refreshing to rich and savory.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully prepared with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The culinary team focuses on creating dishes that not only taste spectacular but also complement one another if you choose to sample multiple items.
This flexibility allows diners to customize their dining experience based on mood and appetite.
Popular choices include house-made dips, artisanal cheeses, and inventive flatbreads. For those who appreciate bold flavors, the spice-infused options provide an exciting kick without overwhelming the palate.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also clearly marked, ensuring accessibility for all guests.
Signature Starters
- Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: A vibrant medley of earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, drizzled with a balsamic glaze.
- Spiced Lamb Meatballs: Tender lamb seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, served with a cooling cucumber yogurt sauce.
- Truffle Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries tossed in truffle oil and Parmesan cheese, a decadent twist on a classic favorite.
“The appetizers at Melange are a perfect prelude to an unforgettable meal, each bite offering a unique balance of flavors that awaken the senses.” — Local Food Critic
Soups and Salads
Soups and salads at Melange are crafted to provide nourishing, vibrant options that can serve as a light meal or a refreshing complement to your main course. The offerings change seasonally, reflecting the freshest produce available and the chef’s creative inspirations.
From hearty, warming soups to crisp, colorful salads, this section caters to those who prioritize wholesome, health-conscious choices without sacrificing flavor. The use of herbs, spices, and house-made dressings adds depth and personality to each dish.
Whether you crave something comforting or a dish that refreshes and revitalizes, the soups and salads section provides a diverse range of tastes and textures.
Seasonal Favorites
- Butternut Squash Bisque: Smooth and velvety with subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with toasted pumpkin seeds.
- Kale and Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, featuring dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and a lemon tahini dressing.
- Tomato Basil Soup: A classic made from vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil, served with a side of artisan bread.
| Soup | Calories | Main Ingredients |
| Butternut Squash Bisque | 180 | Squash, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin seeds |
| Tomato Basil Soup | 150 | Tomatoes, basil, garlic, cream |
Main Courses
The main course offerings at Melange are where culinary artistry truly shines. The menu features a variety of proteins, plant-based options, and globally inspired dishes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Chefs at Melange emphasize balance, pairing complementary flavors and textures to create satisfying and memorable plates. The use of local meats, sustainable seafood, and fresh vegetables ensures each dish is not only delicious but also responsibly sourced.
From hearty entrées to lighter fare, the main courses provide a perfect centerpiece for your dining experience, showcasing technical skill and a passion for flavor.
Popular Entrées
- Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa: Fresh salmon grilled to perfection, topped with a sweet and tangy mango salsa and served alongside quinoa pilaf.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast: Juicy chicken with a crisp herb crust, accompanied by roasted seasonal vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes.
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice cooked with a blend of wild mushrooms, white wine, and Parmesan cheese.
“Melange’s main courses are a true testament to the chef’s dedication to quality and innovation, turning every plate into a masterpiece.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing the growing demand for plant-based dining, Melange has developed a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that don’t compromise on flavor or creativity. These options are thoughtfully integrated throughout the menu to ensure inclusivity and satisfaction.
The kitchen employs a variety of plant proteins, grains, and fresh vegetables, enhanced with bold spices and house-made sauces. The goal is to create dishes that appeal not only to vegetarians and vegans but also to meat-eaters seeking lighter, healthful alternatives.
Every dish is prepared with care to maintain vibrant colors and enticing aromas, proving that plant-based cuisine can be both nourishing and exciting.
Featured Plant-Based Dishes
- Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri: Thick-cut roasted cauliflower topped with a zesty chimichurri sauce, served with sautéed greens.
- Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos: Soft corn tortillas filled with seasoned black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, and avocado crema.
- Vegan Pad Thai: Rice noodles stir-fried with tofu, crunchy peanuts, bean sprouts, and tamarind sauce.
| Dish | Calories | Key Ingredients |
| Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri | 320 | Cauliflower, parsley, garlic, olive oil |
| Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos | 400 | Black beans, sweet potatoes, avocado, corn tortillas |
Desserts
Melange’s dessert menu is designed to provide a sweet finale that delights without overwhelming. The selection features a blend of classic favorites and inventive creations that highlight seasonal fruits, rich chocolates, and delicate pastries.
The pastry chef focuses on balance—balancing sweetness, texture, and presentation—to craft desserts that are both indulgent and refined. Many items are made in-house, using organic ingredients where possible to enhance flavor and quality.
Whether you prefer something light and fruity or rich and decadent, the dessert options at Melange offer the perfect conclusion to your meal.
Sweet Highlights
- Lemon Lavender Panna Cotta: A silky custard infused with fresh lavender and topped with a tart lemon glaze.
- Chocolate Espresso Mousse: Dark chocolate mousse with a hint of espresso, garnished with whipped cream and cocoa nibs.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Crisp pastry shell filled with vanilla custard and topped with fresh, local fruit.
“The desserts at Melange are a sublime balance of artistry and indulgence, leaving guests with a lasting impression of sweetness and satisfaction.” — Dessert Enthusiast
Beverages and Cocktails
Complementing the food menu, Melange’s beverage selection features an impressive array of handcrafted cocktails, curated wine lists, and artisanal non-alcoholic drinks. The bar program is designed to enhance the overall dining experience by pairing thoughtfully with the flavors found throughout the menu.
Mixologists at Melange utilize fresh herbs, house-made syrups, and premium spirits to create cocktails that are both inventive and approachable. The wine list focuses on both local Michigan vineyards and international favorites, providing options for every taste and occasion.
Non-alcoholic choices include housemade sodas, specialty teas, and coffee drinks, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Popular Drinks
- Ann Arbor Mule: A refreshing twist on the classic mule, featuring Michigan-made ginger beer and a splash of fresh lime.
- Smoky Old Fashioned: Bourbon with a hint of smoked cherry wood, balanced by bitters and a sugar cube.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea: A vibrant, floral iced tea brewed in-house and lightly sweetened.
| Drink | Type | Main Ingredients |
| Ann Arbor Mule | Cocktail | Ginger beer, lime, vodka |
| Hibiscus Iced Tea | Non-alcoholic | Hibiscus flowers, lemon, honey |
Brunch and Weekend Specials
Melange’s weekend brunch and special menus offer a unique opportunity to enjoy creative dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients and seasonal flavors. These menus often feature exclusive items not found during regular service, providing an exciting reason to visit on weekends.
Brunch dishes blend savory and sweet elements, appealing to those seeking a leisurely, indulgent meal. The specials rotate frequently, reflecting the chef’s inspiration and the best local produce available.
Whether you prefer classic breakfast dishes with a twist or innovative new flavors, the weekend offerings at Melange are designed to delight and surprise.
Weekend Favorites
- Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs: Rustic bread topped with smashed avocado, perfectly poached eggs, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Sweet Potato Hash: Roasted sweet potatoes mixed with peppers, onions, and topped with a spicy aioli.
- Blueberry Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes loaded with fresh blueberries and served with maple syrup.
“Brunch at Melange is a celebration of creativity and comfort, making weekends in Ann Arbor truly special.”
Melange Ann Arbor offers a thoughtfully crafted menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, reflecting the city’s diverse culinary culture. Each section—from appetizers to desserts—demonstrates a commitment to fresh, quality ingredients and innovative preparation.
The restaurant’s ability to balance tradition with modern flair allows guests to enjoy familiar flavors presented in new and exciting ways.
Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch, an elegant dinner, or a weekend brunch, the Melange menu promises a memorable dining experience. The inclusion of vegetarian and vegan options, alongside meat and seafood dishes, ensures that every guest finds something delightful.
The carefully paired beverages and signature cocktails further enhance the meal, making Melange a standout choice in Ann Arbor’s competitive dining landscape.
In a city known for its vibrant food scene, Melange sets itself apart by consistently delivering exceptional food with attentive service in a welcoming atmosphere. This combination makes it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, promising an unforgettable taste adventure with every visit.
