30 classic Detroit diners, delis, and cafes you should have tried by now

By Metro Times Staff on Sat, Oct 5, 2019 at 10:14 am

These diners, delis, and cafes serve up delicious renditions of time-tested recipes. From buttermilk pancakes to corned beef sandwiches to the perfect coney dog, you can't go wrong at these classic Detroit spots.

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Hygrade Deli

3640 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-894-6620; hygradedeli.com
Since 1955, Hygrade Deli has been delighting tastebuds with its famous corned beef. The rest of the menu is just as delicious — try an egg breakfast, pancakes, French toast, or one of the many classic sandwiches. Hygrade has also been featured in various films, including The Pickle Recipe, Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Detroit 187.

Photo via Hygrade Deli

Old Redford Kitchen & Cafe

21733 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-693-9929; oldredfordkitchen.wixsite.com
This Halal-certified cafe serves everything from pancakes and eggs to quesadillas, chicken shawarma, and biryani. The affordable prices, cozy atmosphere, and wide selection of options make this the perfect spot to try out new dishes or order old favorites.

Photo via GoogleMaps

Rose’s Fine Food

10551 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-822-2729; rosesfinefood.com
Rose’s Fine Food has been serving up classic diner staples on Detroit’s east side for decades. Current owners and cousins Molly Mitchell and Lucy Carnaghi focus on using fresh, local ingredients for their classic dishes. Try Grandpa Richard’s Pancakes (made with organic stone-ground flour, Michigan maple syrup, and cultured butter), the Russian-style patty melt, or the bean salad made with locally grown vegetables.

Photo via Rose’s FIne Food / Facebook

Motz’s Burgers

7208 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-843-9186
Founded in 1929, Motz’s knows a little something about making the perfect burger. In addition to classic cheeseburgers and hamburgers, Motz’s also serves a mushroom and swiss burger, veggie burgers, and turkey burgers. The list of sides includes French fries, chili cheese fries, and onion rings. Round out your meal with a cold, creamy shake in chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry.

Photo via GoogleMaps

Detroit Vintage Coffee Shop

10335 Eight Mile Rd., Detroit; 313-341-4810
In addition to delicious snacks and a good cup of coffee, Detroit Vintage serves as an antique store. True to the name, vintage books, clothes, and other items are all available for purchase.

Photo via Detroit Vintage Coffee Shop / Facebook

Amore da Roma

3401 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313-831-5940; amoredaroma.com
This Detroit mainstay has been serving Italian classics in Eastern Market since 1890. Amore da Roma is the perfect place to load up on lasagna, fettuccine alfredo, and tortellini. The exceptional seafood menu (which includes shrimp scampi, fresh pickerel, and cold water lobster tails) and Sunday brunch are standouts.

Photo via GoogleMaps

Ivanhoe Cafe

5259 Joseph Campau Ave., Detroit; 313-925-5335; ivanhoecafe.com
Founded in 1909 by Stanislaus Grendzinski, Ivanhoe Cafe, also known as the Polish Yacht Club, specializes in Polish treats such as Kielbasa (Polish sausage) and Pierogi (stuffed dumplings). The menu also features a selection of seafood, salads, and sandwiches.

Photo via GoogleMaps

Duly’s Place

5458 W. Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-554-3076
Among Duly’s Place’s many fans is the late Anthony Bourdain, who visited the restaurant for his show Parts Unknown. This coney island has had nearly a century to perfect its menu, which includes grilled cheese, chicken wings, omelettes, grits, and, of course, coney dogs. Skip the American-Lafayette rivalry and head to this historic eatery for your coney fix.

Photo via Duly’s Place / Facebook

Populace Coffee

1509 Broadway St., Detroit; 313-277-4736; populace.coffee
With in-house roasted coffee, Populace is an excellent spot to satisfy your caffeine fix. Populace offers coffee subscriptions, merchandise, and packages of coffee to make at home. Located in the lobby of the Siren Hotel, Populace also offers pastries and snacks from Karl’s.

Photo via Populace Coffee / Facebook

Always Brewing

19180 W Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-473-7167
As the name suggests, an enjoyable cup of coffee is always available here. Always Brewing also offers pastries and other snacks in a relaxing, community-focused atmosphere. Plus, they use compostable cups and straws.

Photo via Always Brewing Detroit / Facebook