Cajun-Creole in Detroit

Chesley's Bar and Grille has been called the "Cheers of Downriver" 'cause everybody really does know your name. A fun, casual atmosphere makes Chesley's a good place to relax with family and friends. Try the award-winning Ground Round with fresh, never frozen beef. Chesley's has been voted Detroit’s best burger in the Detroit News' "Michigan’s Best" contest for four years running.

Cajun and American favorites served in a bright New Orleans inspired decor. Carryout and catering are available.

Fishbone's Rhythm Kitchen Café is one of Metro Detroit's favorite Cajun/Creole restaurants. From the mouth-watering appetizers and authentic New Orleans house specialties to the friendly service and French Quarter atmosphere, Fishbone's is truly first-class. For a truly unique experience, try Fishbone's Sunday brunch, featuring an extensive buffet of mouth-watering sensations and live jazz!

"One of Metro Detroit's favorite Cajun/Creole Restaurants. From the mouth-watering appetizers and authentic New Orleans house specialties, to the friendly service and French Quarter atmosphere, Fishbone's is truly first-class."

One of Metro Detroit's favorite Cajun/Creole Restaurants. From the mouth-watering appetizers and authentic New Orleans house specialties, to the friendly service and French Quarter atmosphere, Fishbone's is truly first-class.

With New Orleans-flavored prints on the wall and a plea to “let the good times roll” in Cajun French above the bar, the atmosphere is laid-back, with dark wood panels, tables and a long, graceful bar, the slender space is cozy under low-hung ceiling fans. All but the most fainthearted of eaters should try the crawfish boil. If you’re not so bold, order the crunchy and mild deep-fried popcorn crawdad tails or the more refined crawfish cakes. Out of the 10 “po’ boy” sandwiches served on a French loaf with fresh Southern slaw, the one packed with sweet and tender pan-fried Andouille sausage-encrusted oysters is always a pleaser. The dark roux-based crawfish étouffée is a good choice off the entrée menu, though there have been times it hasn’t had the deep, roasted-nut essence you expect from that preparation. Though small, the drink lists are carefully considered. There are no bottles of wine costing more than $30 and the selection is surprisingly diverse.

Great food with a Cajun twist; ten beers on tap! Live music Friday and Saturday.

A warm and casually elegant restaurant with a sensational view of the Detroit skyline. The diverse, reasonably priced menu featues all types of cuisine, many with a unique Cajun flair. Live music is featured Thursday, Friday and Saturday with a weekly blues show begining at 8 p.m. every Sunday. Ask us about our daily specials; private and corporate parties welcomed. We promise you fantastic food; superlative service; an unbelievable selection of beer, wine and spirits from around the world; sensational music and a limitless supply of fun!

Funky menu offering fun Southwestern cuisine. Stick around and enjoy the cool bar scene.

"Art Deco decor, eclectic crowd. Menu ranges from chicken wings to homemade pastas to filet mignon. More than 100 beers; excellent wine list. Wide range of catering packages for any occasion."

Union Street's tremendous reputation as a Detroit landmark is not built on good eats alone. It's true, each dish on the menu is prepared with home-cooked lovin'. And sure, there is a wide selection of flavorful meals – from smoked pork loin foccacia sandwich to "Union Street Jambalaya" or baked brisket to BBQ rib fingers.

But the number of imported beers alone is reason enough to stop by. The long 1920's bar blends a classical spirit of aged hardwood and antique artistry with modern accents of art deco knicknacks, making it a hip place for the young and young-spirited to step up to the counter. Plus, the staff understands "service with a smile" still matters – grinning workers Hali and Jason (pictured) are just happy, not drunk.

Of course, don't let these good looks and traditional values impress you. Someone told these business-savvy gents to give people what they've always wanted in a bistro but rarely asked for – the bonuses. Bonuses like a good meal available until 1 am Sunday morning, for friends who need to catch up. The luxury of wide open spaces and echoing walls, ready for loud venting over an imported ale after work. Or perhaps most importantly, conversation with a friendly bartender to calm first-date jitters. Offer this and you can bet they'll come and be merry. It's a Detroit kind of place... one that makes you feel good when you go. And it makes you want to thank them by going. See... they trick ya.

--Rebecca Mazzei

Perfect for a pre-theater meal, or a post-show toddy, Union Street is a quaint little bistro in the heart of D-town. Opened in the early 1900s, this piece of midtown history is dark and deco, with a welcoming atmosphere that offers the slightest hue of casual. With a savory menu that boasts gourmet burgers, a vegetarian menu to die for, and the ever-famous dragon's eggs (a lightly fried chicken breast stuffed with gorgonzola cheese and spices), an evening at Union Street is always a good time. Try one of their yummy homemade margaritas or an ice-cold martini, or take a dive into their delicious beers and wines. Either way, you will be pleased. Union Street is at 4145 Woodward, Detroit; call 313-831-3965 for more information.
--Eve Doster