Green Dot Stables 2200 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-962-5588 Snatch gourmet-inspired sliders, a variety of fries, brews and cocktails — all at rock-bottom prices. Photo via Instagram, GreenDotStables
Mudgie’s Deli & Wine Shop 1300 Porter St., Detroit; 313-961-2000 It’s not like Mudgie’s needs any more recognition since everyone in Detroit is obsessed with the sandwich shop, but the extra praise from the ultimate listicle website Thrillist sure won’t hurt.The website released their 33 best sandwich shops in all of America, and our beloved Mudgie’s made the cut. Photo via Instagram user @mudgies313
Bobcat Bonnie’s 1800 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-1383 Bobcat Bonnie’s is a gastropub that brings its customers a new rendition of American food. Their menu offers classic fare such as hamburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, tater tots, and fish and chips. One can also see the global inspiration in some of their dishes like their kimchi bowl. Photo via Instagram, bobcatbonnie’s
Atwater Brewery 237 Joseph Campau Ave, Detroit; 313-877-9205 Atwater Brewery has all the bar fare one can think of. Traditional foods like pizza, burgers, and wings are served here including non-traditional foods like poutine, vegan buffalo wings, and falafel sandwiches. Photo via Facebook
American Coney Island 114 W Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-961-7758 American Coney Island, established in 1917, takes the crown as best in Wayne County. Made with Dearborn hot dogs in natural casing, classic Detroit-style sauce, mustard, and onions, their coneys stand up against their competition. Photo via Instagram user @puredetroit313
Bucharest Grill 110 Piquette St., Detroit; 313-965-3111 Bucharest started as an inexpensive Romanian eatery in the back of the Park Bar, serving loaded pitas to boozy patrons. Now, it’s a successful mini-chain, with locations in Corktown, Rivertown, Avenue of Fashion, and Milwaukee Junction. That growth can be credited in part to the subtle flavors of Bucharest’s handmade shawarma. It comes in beef, chicken, vegetarian (long distinguished by its quirky inclusion of mayo and fries), and, grandest of all, the Bucharest, with grilled marinated chicken. Photo via Instagram user @eatgreendetroit
Detroit Vegan Soul 8029 Agnes St., Detroit; 313-649-2759 Detroit Vegan Soul offers a multitude of vegan goodness — if you are vegan, vegetarian, or just not in a meat-eating mood, this place will satisfy your appetite with sumptuous soulful dishes. Photo via Yelp user, Chelsea B.
Hudson Cafe 1241 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-237-10001 This breakfast and lunch joint is a staple in downtown Detroit. Get mile-high stacks of French toast and pancakes or savory eggs dishes here, plus lunch options like a classic Maurice salad. Photo via Instagram user @dennisdlin
Johnny Noodle King 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-309-7946 Detroiters can at last slurp to their heart’s delight. Brought to you by Jacques Driscoll and chef Les Molnar of Green Dot Stables, Johnny Noodle King’s name pays homage to the restaurant’s former incarnation, Johnny Ham King. But fashions change, and while ham may have had a following back in the day, the ramen craze that’s been in full force for several years on the coasts has finally made its way to metro Detroit. Photo via Instagram user @johnnynoodleking
El Barzon 3710 Junction St, Detroit; 313-894-2070 El Barzon specializes in Cocina Poblana, which is the cuisine of the city Puebla in southern Mexico. The menu has many options from pasta to veal, and of course, traditional Mexican specialties. Photo via Yelp user, Tara L.
Le Petit Zinc Creperie & Cafe 1055 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-963-28051 Chef Charles Sorel was raised in France, but has the Caribbean personality of his native Martinique, Le Petit Zinc provides a splash of sunlight at this breakfast-and-lunch spot in Corktown. Patrons may order crêpes, salads, sandwiches, cheese, ratatouille, and coffee. Photo via Instagram user @detroitfoodnetwork
Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles 19345 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-861-0229 Founded by former NFL player Ron Bartell, this chicken and waffle eatery serves food that will provide all the comfort your soul needs. Photo via Instagram user @Kuzzoschickenandwaffles
Elwood Bar & Grill 300 E Adams Ave., Detroit; 313-962-2337 This charming little Art Deco diner was slated for demolition to make way for Comerica Park, so its owner picked up the building and moved it right behind the ballpark’s scoreboard. Photo via Instagram user @milodetroit
Cliff Bell’s 2030 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-961-2543 This restaurant and club is one of the most famous establishments from Detroit’s prohibition era. With a decadent menu, bar and live music, Cliff Bell’s is the place to be at night. Photo via Yelp user, Chelcie W.
Eastern Market Brewing 2515 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313-502-5165 A concept that was the brainchild of three friends, Eastern Market Brewing Co. is a great social spot to stop by. The brewery serves both traditional and experimental beer. Photo via Instagram, Mom.Babe
La Feria 4130 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-285-9081 The place is phenomenally popular because chef, co-owner, and Seville-native Pilar Baron-Hidalgo is making real Spanish tapas. There’s not a misstep on the menu. One evening, we were told the cocido was not available because it “wasn’t up to the chef’s standards tonight.” True or not, what a clever way to signal to the diner that the bar is set high. Photo via Instagram @am_breaux
London Chop House 155 W Congress St., Detroit; 313-962-0277 A Detroit tradition that began in the late ’30s, the London Chop House oozes class and style. While its clientele is no longer restricted to auto barons, celebrities, and high-ranking officials, the place still has an air of sophistication and exclusivity. Perhaps it’s the menu, maybe it’s the decor — whatever it is, the London Chop House is an institution in Detroit. Photo via Instagram user @feedmeannarbor
Ima 2015 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-502-5959 Serving up a seasonal menu of udon noodles, bibimbap and curry rice bowls, and sharable plates like “Ima” tacos (made with a shaved jicama, wakame slaw, green chili hot sauce, shiso, and choice of protein), and steamed edamame, the eatery is the passion project of chef-owner Mike Ransom. Photo via Instagram user @imadetroit
Huron Room 2547 Bagley Ave., Detroit; 313-265-3325 Situated inside a former abandoned liquor store and adjoined by the Our/Vodka distillery, the spot introduces the neighborhood to classic fish and chips, where ingredients pay homage to everything Michigan in a room that is noticeably bright and nautical-themed. Photo via Instagram user @huronroom
Jamaican Pot 14615 W. Eight Mile Rd., Detroit; 313-659-60331 Jamaican Pot offers classic Jamaican fare such as jerk chicken, chicken curry, salmon, and stew. Photo via Yelp user, Belle L.
24 Grille 14615 W. Eight Mile Rd., Detroit; 313-659-60331 Inside the Westin Book Cadillac, 1204 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-965-3111 The Book Cadillac’s 24 Grille is a less formal, though no less expensive, alternative to the acclaimed meat-eaters’ paradise in the hotel’s opposite corner, Roast. It has a somewhat shorter, American menu, with just a couple of steaks and four seafood dishes. 24 Grille says that its ingredients are preservative-free and sourced locally when possible Photo via Instagram user @5_oclockdetroit
Batch Brewing Company 1400 Porter St., Detroit; 313-338-8008 Batch Brewing Company was opened by a couple of guys who left corporate jobs to start a brewery that would also serve pub cuisine. Braised short rib pasty, butternut squash arancini, and gumbo are just some of the dishes on their menu. Photo via Instagram user @batchbrewing
Calexico 1040 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-262-6361 The 4,000-square-foot chain serves Baja-style fish tacos, guacamole, burritos, elotes, and cocktails — all with late-night service, adding to the area’s after-hours dining options. Photo via Instagram user @calexciodetroit
Brix Wine & Charcuterie Boutique 7968 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313-267-4006 Serving moderately priced wines and charcuterie, Brix wants you to use their food as a vehicle to making memories that last forever. The menu offers various meats, cheeses, and spreads to go along with your wine. Photo via Yelp user, Laura K.
Central Kitchen 1660 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-963-9000 You’re never low on options when it comes to dining downtown and Central Kitchen and Bar is a must-see spot. Co-owned by Dennis Archer Jr., Central Kitchen and Bar offers unique takes on classic dishes like burgers and salads. Photo via Instagram user @chowdowndetroit
Chartreuse 15 E Kirby St., Detroit; 313-818-3915 Owned by Sandy Levine, the guy behind Ferndale’s craft cocktail bar, The Oakland, Chartreuse offers elevated fare at reasonable prices — and reservations. Photo via Facebook
Checker Bar Detroit 124 Cadillac Sq.; 313-961-9249 Tharp and Gregory have put forth a profound effort to breathe life back into this classic Detroit establishment. Think: historic tin ceilings, graffiti murals by local legends, restored brick walls and funky retro kitchen objects you forgot you missed so much. They offer an array of burgers and other treats, all of which are earning accolades for their fresh ingredients and creative combinations. Photo via Instagram user @checkerbar
Clique Restaurant 11326 E Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-259-0922 Attached to a Jefferson Avenue motel, the Clique is actually a pretty cool little diner, with an added bit of character that makes it better than other greasy spoon joints — especially during breakfast, when a diverse crowd fills the room. Photo via Instagram user @chowdowndetroit
Detroit Beer Co. 1529 Broadway St., Detroit; 313-962-1529 Those who prefer the grape to the grain or even food to drink, should not be put off by the Detroit Beer Co.’s name. Like many “beer companies,” Detroit’s version is more a full-service restaurant than a microbrewery, although it does offer a half-dozen unique quaffs. They have renovated downtown Detroit’s century-old Hartz Building, and as many as 250 patrons could squeeze into the long narrow rooms, which include a spacious second floor.
Eatori 1215 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-395-3030 A specialty market with a bar, Eatori offers prepared foods for its customers. In addition, it also serves cocktails and food at its bar. Photo via Facebook
Grand Trunk Pub 612 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-961-3043 At this downtown bar and grill, the food is good, the ambience is one-of-a-kind, and the beer selection kills. You’ll find a host of Michigan brews on tap and in bottles, and hearty menu selections, such as shepherd’s pie and Jameson meatloaf, as well as inventive specials with local ingredients where possible. Photo via Instagram user @grandtrunkpub
Granite City Food & Brewery 100 Renaissance Center #1101, Detroit; 313-309-9120 Until recently, this St. Louis-based chain known for its fresh breads, soups, sandwiches, and salads only locations scattered around the ‘burbs. The entrance into the RenCen appears reflective of a growing, hungry workforce within the towering office complex. Photo via Instagram user @bozobozobozo
Grey Ghost 47 Watson St., Detroit; 313-262-6534 The Grey Ghost calls itself both a cocktail bar and a neighborhood steakhouse. Riding the trend back toward meat, it’s so popular that you should call days ahead if you want a normal dinner-time reservation. Photo via Instagram user @greyghostdetroit
Harry’s Detroit Bar & Grill 2482 Clifford St., Detroit; 313-964-1575 Most patrons are satisfied with burgers, chili, sandwiches, and drafts from Bud to boutique. There are also more than a dozen oversized appetizers, many of which are Southwestern-oriented, hefty a la carte salads, a singular, exceedingly thick, white-bean soup, and oversized entrees. Photo via Instagram user @harrysdetroit
Jacoby’s German Biergarten 624 Brush St., Detroit; 313-962-7067 Jacoby’s has been a favorite downtown Detroit eatery and hangout since 1904. The main floor dining area retains that classic appeal, but Jacoby’s also hosts live music from lots of local bands in its upstairs lounge. Photo via Instagram user @rustyvaughanyoung
Joe Muer Seafood 400 Renaissance Center #1404, Detroit; 313-567-6837 Everything about the new Joe Muer Seafood is big. Obviously, it’s a big name: The Muer brand, which goes back to 1929, is well-known throughout southeast Michigan. But the relaunched institution also has a big staff, big menu, and big dessert cart. Photo via Instagram user @cest_la_key
Lady of the House 1426 Bagley Ave., Detroit; 313-818-0218 Lady of The House is a new interpretation of an American restaurant and bar. Located in Corktown, the eatery puts an emphasis on creativity with their dishes, as well as support for Michigan farms. Photo via Facebook
Parc 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-922-7272 Putting sophistication in American fare, Parc offers fine dining in Campus Martius. The diner offers dishes such as ribs, salmon, pasta, and more. Photo via Yelp user, Tanya R.
Parks and Rec Diner 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-446-8370 This might be the best breakfast experience you’ll ever have. Nestled into the bottom floor of the Grand Army of the Republic Building, Parks and Rec serves up every dish you didn’t know you needed. The cinnafetti roll (you read that right) will satisfy any sweet tooth. Fair warning: You’ll want to Instagram every single thing you order. Photo via Instagram user @parksandrecdiner
Pho Lucky 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-446-8370 13111 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-338-3895 Pho Lucky, which specializes in Vietnam’s national dish, is where hesitant diners can order their pho with just thinly sliced beef, but the real deal is the pho dac biet, with sliced beef, meatballs, tripe, and tendon. We loved the tripe’s unique, delicate texture. Photo via Instagram user @baybyblu
PizzaPlex 4458 W Vernor Highway, Detroit; 313-757-4992 PizzaPlex is a community-oriented pizzeria and cafe in Southwest Detroit. With a focus on Neapolitan pizza, the establishment seeks to make a comfortable space for its community through the culture of international exchange and entertainment. Photo via Yelp user, Nusha L.
Prime + Proper 1145 Griswold St, Detroit; 313-636-3100 Prime + Proper offers a contemporary take on classic steakhouse dishes. Inspired by those who are said to be “prim and proper,” Prime + Proper seeks to be the epitome of distinguished and hospitable eateries. Photo via Yelp user, Krystal A.
Rattlesnake Club 300 River Pl. Dr., Detroit; 313-567-4400 A popular restaurant/hall in operation for over 25 years. Known for seasonal cuisine and small plates, plus guests can enjoy river views and a garden terrace. Also equipped with an extensive wine selection and craft beers. Photo via Instagram user @rattlesnake_det
Republic Tavern 11942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-446-8360 Republic Tavern modernizes the old world tavern. Confit pork belly, seared duck breast, pan seared ribeye, is just a bit of what their menu offers. If you’re thinking about visiting make sure to reserve a table. A reservation is not required, but it is strongly recommended. Photo via Instagram user @republictavern
Iridescence Inside MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-237-6732 The restaurant doesn’t just look rich, the kitchen’s modern American cuisine lives up to the dramatic design, featuring 4-diamond fare and a Wine Spectator Award-winning list. Such dishes as Black Angus beef, Thai-style cioppino, and South African lobster tail, and togarashi-dusted Alaskan grilled halibut cement Iridescence’s reputation for decadence. Photo via Yelp.
The Whitney 4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit; 313-832-5700 Left behind by lumber baron David Whitney Jr., The Whitney now serves as an upscale dining establishment in Detroit. The Whitney brings together several features to make for a unique dining experience. Photo via Instagram,TilTheBreakofHawn
River Bistro 18456 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-953-2225 Combining the culinary influences of the Caribbean and Africa, the River Bistro has created a menu chock-full of delicious dishes. Photo via Facebook
Roast Inside the Westin Book Cadillac, 1128 Washington Blvd.; 313-961-2500 It’s true they offer several cuts of beef, all naturally raised and dry-aged for a minimum of 21 days, but the same amount of gastronomic attention is paid to the poultry and seafood dishes. Even the optional sides have their own unique signature. Many of the most interesting dishes appear on the appetizer menu, including a charcuterie and smoked seafood plate for two or more. Both the thick rib-eye and strip steaks are ideally prepared to order and full of flavor with only a simple rub of sea salt and oregano. Optional sauces and toppings are priced separately and include crab Béarnaise, blue cheese onions, salsa verde, and roasted wild mushrooms among others. Photo via Yelp user, Sonia C.
Rose’s Fine Food 10551 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit; 313-822-2729 With food made from scratch, Rose’s Fine Food serves dishes that will give visitors a unique experience. All ingredients used are from local sources, and a portion of their tips are donated to a staff selected, based in Detroit. Photo via Facebook
Savannah Blue 11431 Times Square, Detroit; 313-926-0783 Savannah Blue gives a fresh take on soul food. The establishment serves up contemporary northern soul food. The southern flavors made with a Detroit spin makes this restaurant one of the many places to visit downtown. Photo via Instagram user @savannahblue_detroit
Selden Standard 3921 2nd Ave, Detroit; 313-438-5055 Selden Standard is a perfect place to taste the flavors of local farms, and eat dishes served small-plate style. This casual and rustic eatery is consistent in serving creative and fun food. Photo via Instagram user @seldenstandard
Shake Shack 660 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-672-0501 Starting out as a small hotdog cart in Manhattan, Shake Shack has grown into a franchise that has gone national. With a restaurant now in downtown Detroit, people from all over the metro area can now enjoy the hamburgers and shakes the chain restaurant has to offer. Photo via Facebook.
Slows Bar-B-Q 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-9828 Known internationally for their mac and cheese and ribs, Slows is a must-visit Detroit restaurant Photo via Facebook
Supino Pizzeria 12457 Russell St., Detroit; 313-567-7879 Supino has become locally famous for its pies. They serve red and white pizzas, and almost all are made with traditional ingredients. The red sauce is supremely simple, nothing much aside from some fresh-tasting, though canned, crushed tomatoes. This is some inspired stuff, almost always handmade by the owner. Photo via Instagram user @supinopizzeria
The Apparatus Room Detroit Foundation Hotel, 250 W, Larned St., Detroit; 313-800-5600 Bridging the old and the new, The Apparatus Room seeks to give you a taste of new American cuisine with Midwestern ingredients. If you need to step away from the rush of downtown, this is the place to go. Photo via Facebook
The Farmer’s Hand 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-377-8262 The Farmer’s Hand opened in 2016, and co-owners Kiki Louya and Rohani Foulkes have made it easier than ever to eat food that’s produced in Michigan. All of their products come from small to mid-sized Michigan food businesses. Photo via Facebook
La Feria 4130 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-285-9081 The place is phenomenally popular because chef, co-owner, and Seville-native Pilar Baron-Hidalgo is making real Spanish tapas. There’s not a misstep on the menu. One evening, we were told the cocido was not available because it “wasn’t up to the chef’s standards tonight.” True or not, what a clever way to signal to the diner that the bar is set high. Photo via Instagram, LaFeriaDetroi
The Peterboro 420 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-833-1111 Located in Detroit’s historic Chinatown, The Peterboro serves modern American Chinese food that will have most people’s mouths watering. Photo via Instagram user @thepeterboro
Vivio’s 2460 Market St., Detroit; 313-393-1711 If there’s one thing Vivio’s is known for, it’s serving up a mean Bloody Mary. The ones served here pack just a little bit of heat, and come with premium vodka, a pickle spear, and a beer chaser. Best enjoyed before shopping the farmers’ sheds, or as a tried-and-true hangover cure. Photo via Instagram user @c.road
Da Edoardo Foxtown Grille 2203 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-471-3500 With its premier location, across from Comerica Park, in the same gloriously restored building as the Fox Theatre, the restaurant is a natural destination for theatergoers. Most menu offerings are simple and grilled, including two steaks, lamb chops, veal chops, or char-grilled tuna, as well as five other seafood choices and 11 pastas. The bruschetta and calamari appetizers are good for starters. (Photo via Yelp) Photo via Instagram, DaEdoardo
Centaur Bar 2233 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-963-4040 Only one of Centaur’s 13 menu drinks includes any gin, James Bond be damned. Sean Harrington’s trying to lure downtown business types who want a sophisticated setting for their after-work nip, and he’s pleased that patrons are a disparate lot, both in age and ethnicity. Photo via Instagram user @everybody_loves_naima

Have something to share?

SEND US A NEWS TIP

Since 1980, Metro Times has been Detroit’s premier alternative source for news, arts, culture, music, film, food, fashion and more from a liberal point of view.