The ultimate 61 dining and drinking essentials during the Detroit auto show

By Metro Times Staff on Tue, Jan 12, 2016 at 8:00 am

The North American International Auto Show. It's an annual event for you. Maybe it's a time for you and the family to pile into the minivan and trek it downtown from the 'burbs. Maybe you're one of the hundreds of journalists from around the world whose assignment it is to report, Tweet, Instagram, and blog about the latest unveil. Or maybe you're an industry insider, who only sees Detroit this time of year. Whatever your background, chances are you'll be turning to locals for tips on where to eat and drink. We've come up with a pretty hefty list of spots to keep in mind. Some, you've probably made a point to visit every year, while others have sprung up in 2015 and should now be on your radar. Take a look, whether you're looking for a trendy speakeasy for a night cap, a family-friendly spot, or a cafe to recharge.

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Cafe D'Mongos - 1439 Griswold St., Live music, Detroit-themed cocktails, plenty of characters, and a kitchen. Only open Fridays and Saturdays (photo by Iakeesha p./Yelp).

Calexico - 1040 Woodward Ave. Casual, mid-priced, loosely Mexican-inspired fare and drinks. Photo via IG user @calexiodetroit

Cass Cafe - 4620 Cass Ave., Spacious restaurant with vegetarian options, plus bar, and featuring works by local artists. (photo by Jon R./Yelp).

Centaur Bar - 2233 Park Ave., Art Deco cocktail bar, featuring bar snacks (photo by Happy D./Yelp).

Central Kitchen and Bar - 660 Woodward Ave., Gastropub, in upscale, yet still laidback atmosphere (photo from Facebook).

Chartreuse - 15 E. Kirby St. Ste D, New American cuisine with botanical décor (photo by MyThy H./Yelp).

Checker Bar - 124 Cadillac Square, Classic, old-school bar, with great music, karaoke night, and decent bar food (photo from Facebook).

Cliff Bell's - 2030 Park Ave., Live jazz, food, and drinks in a historic Art Deco atmosphere (My Thy H./Yelp).

Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters, 1220 Griswold St. Spacious and quiet cafe, featuring specialty roasts, pour-over coffee, desserts, and pastries. Photo via @dessert_oasis_coffee_roasters

Detroit City Distillery - 2465 Riopelle St., Local distillery, featuring craft cocktails, and the occasional popup bar food offering, found in Eastern Market (photo from Facebook).