Cajun-Creole in Detroit: Romantic

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.

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.

Co-owners Chef Giles and David Theriault prefer to have their diners share their experience with you. The following are written experpts from sources such as yelp, blogs and food writers. "Sunday Dinner Company is not only serving up tasty southern comfort food, it's also contributing to the community by offering a second chance to those whose lives have been disrupted by poverty and crime." Located in a late 1800s historic US post office, “the storefront is giant windows and the decor inside is simple and elegant”, “cool jazz plays while you dine.” “Simple centerpieces are on each table, with water goblets and white, cloth napkins.” “Servers are excellent, attentive and pleasant, but not stuffy.” “The menu is simple, using fresh ingredients and often surprising blends of herbs and spices, prepared fresh daily.” The food is served buffet style, but not typically so. "I would definitely recommend this place to anyone and I'd say hurry and go before everyone figures it out. I have to imagine it's going to be wildly popular soon enough. Great food. Great service. Great cause. Great combination."