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PORT HURON
ISSUE THREE HUNDRED FORTY NINE
FEATURES
Hidden Detroit
This year’s City Guide goes behind the scenes as Hour Detroit explores the unseen and the overlooked. From historic archives hidden in plain sight to the highest peaks of Detroit skyscrapers, here’s a side of the city you may never see.
P. 32 Is it a bird or a plane? Just what is that figure in the semi-dome of the Guardian Building?
SALES DIRECTOR & REALTOR®
248.835.5008
Made
Books
A local author grapples with
Economy
Michigan
Sports
Ken Daniels talks his favorite Red Wings moments.
Anniversary
AGENDA
Events
12 can’t-miss shows, performances, and films.
Essay
Musings from our resident culture conversationalist.
Exhibits
A century of Red Wings history on display.
FOOD &DRINK
Dining News
The latest additions to metro Detroit’s food and bar scene.
Drinks
Underground spots where you can imbibe in peace.
Restaurant Review
An oyster bar set against a historic backdrop.
I’ve been a magazine nerd since I was 10 and stashed away Dynamite magazines in my closet as if they were priceless collectibles.
I kept those magazines for years, flipping through them every now and then, remembering what was going on in my little world at the time and in the world at large — or at least in TV, movies, jokes, and games.
My office at Hour is a kind of dream space for that 10-year-old kid. I have stacks and stacks of magazines in here, covering 30 years of life in metro Detroit. For the past year, I’ve scoured their pages, looking for covers and articles to include in each issue’s Anniversary section, leading up to our 30th anniversary next month.
This past month was an especially fun one, as the topic was our annual City Guide, which typically highlights things to do in metro Detroit. From its debut in 1998 through 2004, it was a 20-plus-page section called The List, featuring more than 800 food, drink, and recreation listings.
Since then, each City Guide has taken on a theme (see more on page 23), and it’s not always a brand-new idea. This year’s theme, Hidden Detroit, was also done in 2017. But the great thing about living in a metropolitan area is how much can — and does — change in nearly a decade.
While this issue is one of the most labor-intensive of the year, it’s also one of the most fun — especially with a theme like this. Some of the hidden gems are based on past experiences (like a favorite off-the-beaten-path shop), while others answer questions we’ve long been curious about: What does the view look like from the top of the Fisher Building? Where does a museum keep the items of its collection that aren’t on display?
We needed to take some field trips to find these answers, and those outings I took with associate editor Jack Thomas, assistant editor Will Reaume, and photographer/history buff Brad Ziegler were truly three of the coolest days I’ve spent at this job — or any job. (And I’ve had some interesting ones!)
I hope this issue answers your questions about some of Detroit’s well-known landmarks and introduces you to many fascinating things to see and do across metro Detroit.
KATE
WALSH, EDITOR KWALSH@HOUR-MEDIA.COM
VOLUME THIRTY-ONE / ISSUE FOUR
PUBLISHER: Jason Hosko
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Kate Walsh
DIGITAL EDITOR: Erica Banas
ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Jack Thomas
ASSISTANT EDITOR: Will Reaume
COPY EDITOR: Morgan Brown
CONTRIBUTORS: Ronald Ahrens, Karen Buscemi, Bill Dow, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Natalia Holtzman, Mickey Lyons, Danny Palumbo, Megan Swoyer, Lauren Wethington
MEDIA ADVISORS: Samantha Alessandri, Cynthia Barnhart, Hannah Brown, Karli Brown, Sarah Cavanaugh, Cathleen Francois, Donna Kassab, Lisa LaBelle, Danielle Smith-Elliott, Mary Pantely & Associates
PRODUCTION
PRODUCTION MANAGER: Crystal Nelson
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: Alessandra Taranta
ACCOUNT MANAGER: Elizabeth Kowalik
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joe Salafia
SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGING EDITOR: Olivia Sedlacek
IT IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland
DIGITAL
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY: Travis Fletcher
DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Matt Cappo
SR. DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST: Luanne Lim
DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST: Brian Paul
CIRCULATION
CIRCULATION MANAGER: Riley Meyers
CIRCULATION COORDINATORS: David Benvenuto, Cathy Krajenke, Rachel Moulden, Michele Wold
MARKETING & EVENTS
MARKETING & EVENTS MANAG ER: Regan Wright
WEDDINGS ACCOUNT MANAGER: Karen Wilkie
MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR: Puja Trivedi
MARKETING & EVENTS ASSISTANT: Kayla Yucha
EMAIL MARKETING COORDINATOR: Mitch Ackerman
MARKETING RESEARCH
MARKETING RESEARCH DIRECTOR: Sofia Shevin
MARKETING RESEARCH COORDINATOR: Kristin Bestrom
MARKETING RESEARCH SALES COORDINATOR: Alexandra Thompson
MARKETING RESEARCH SALES ASSISTANT: Theresa Lowery
MARKETING RESEARCH ASSISTANT: Abby Galanty
PRS GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kendra Okamoto
MARKETING RESEARCH INTERNS: Ariana Biondo, Lauren Lienhart, Gwen Zych
It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. See why Good Housekeeping named Traverse City as a “2026 Travel Award Winner for Best Beach Escapes”.
Theresa & Joe
UP FRONT
Just before he went to college, photographer and Farmington native Tom Donoghue captured this shot of Piston (and future Detroit mayor) Dave Bing going up against Wilt Chamberlain.
P. 20
When the Los Angeles Angels asked Tom Donoghue to deliver the first pitch for an early May 2025 home game, they told the Farmington native it was to honor him as the oldest active photographer in Major League Baseball. The Angels were hosting the Detroit Tigers in a four-game home stand that weekend; Donoghue was to drive to Anaheim from his home in Las Vegas, where he has lived since 1998. He had
MADE IN MICHIGAN
Tom Donoghue
BY RONALD AHRENS
The 78-year-old Farmington native started taking pictures for his high school’s paper and became a premier photographer of big-league sports
often covered Angels games and was the Tigers’ team photographer after his Marine Corps service years, so it was a natural connection to make.
Alas, Donoghue went on the disabled list after back surgery.
“I’m having trouble walking,” he said by phone later in the month. “It’s all kaput right now.”
It turned out to be a good time to catch up with him about a career that started when his father, Edward Donoghue, a Ford Motor Co. body-design engineer, gave him a Nikon camera, and Tom began taking photos for Farmington High School’s Blue and White newspaper.
Tom Donoghue photographed Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium when the Seahawks defeated the Broncos. Up until this year, he had shot the big game for 33 consecutive years.
Do you remember the feeling you had when you used your first Nikon camera? Oh, I knew this was going to be my life. I enjoyed it so much. In fact, I’ve never enjoyed taking pictures as much as I do now. I’ve been a Nikon person my whole life. I’ve actually named a golden retriever Nikon. I named a horse Nikon.
Who was your teacher at Farmington High? Lee S. Peel. He used to call me “Boy Wonder.” They always said I was born with flashbulbs in my mouth. I really miss Farmington. I know there was something about it then; I’m sure it’s all different. The one thing I missed about Detroit the most was the Lafayette and American Coney Islands. When we were at the Super Bowl in Detroit, I brought half of the media center over [there].
You enrolled in the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism in 1965? I was a photographer there on campus for The Maneater. We were the Missouri Tigers, remember? That was during the days of drafting. My junior year, I went in the Marine Corps. Because I had college math, they put me in electronics and coding and all that stuff. I was in Cuba [at Guantanamo Bay]. We were there when all the Russian trawlers were coming right through the harbor. There were missile sites that people never knew about. Later, I was in Okinawa [Japan], based there at headquarters with the 12th Marines.
“I was with the Detroit Tigers, getting ready to ride in the Farmington Founders Festival, probably 1972, handing out brochures.”
What did you do when you returned to Detroit?
After returning from the Marines in 1971, I was team photographer for the Pistons when they played at Cobo Hall and for the Tigers at Tiger Stadium. Al Kaline was a good friend of mine. I always used to kid him: “How come nobody’s written a book about you?”
And he says, “Just because my life is boring.” Norm Cash was another character. I loved being around those guys. They were so much fun.
How about the Pistons of that time?
Oh, Dave Bing was the best. And Bob Lanier. Before the game, I’d be out there on the court. I remember playing H-O-R-S-E with Pete Maravich.
How did you end up in Los Angeles?
When Al Kaline retired in 1974, I left Detroit. I was offered the track photographer job at Hollywood Park Racetrack with the thoroughbred horses. It’s now the site of SoFi Stadium. I worked with horses like Seattle Slew and with all the movie stars — Carol Burnett, Walter Matthau, Jack Klugman, Farrah Fawcett — because they came to Hollywood Park.
Were you later a digital photography holdout?
I had so much Fuji film, and I said, “I’m not going to go digital. I like my film.” Nikon finally gave me a digital camera and said, “Just try it.” I was an old fart, and I kept to my guns. But eventually, I went to digital. Now, it’s the greatest thing ever.
Is there any sport you would rather not photograph? I’m not into this cage fighting — the one who’s living is going to be the winner. I just don’t like that. Boxing is different.
Editor’s note: This article was originally scheduled to run at the end of the Tigers’ 2025 season. Instead, it is running to coincide with the start of the 2026 season. When we caught up with Donoghue in January, we had a few follow-up questions, including whether he will get another chance to throw out the first pitch when the Tigers play the Angels in July.
“Everything is up in the air depending on how I'm doing with my back,” he told us. As for what he’s been up to, he mentioned one of his latest jobs: shooting a Styx show at the Venetian in Las Vegas.
He also said he’d hoped to shoot the Super Bowl, something he’s been doing for the past 33 years, but his doctor advised against it. “He said, ‘Save your back for baseball season.’” To contact the photographer, email him at photomanlv@gmail.com
Donoghue on Mickey Lolich, who died in February: “Baseball was fun for him. He had a good time.”
The former Seattle resident captured this shot of Super Bowl-winning QB Russell Wilson in 2014.
“Norm Cash. The thing I remember most was when Nolan Ryan threw a no-hitter in Detroit [in 1973]. Norm was coming up to bat, and he went into the clubhouse, and broke a leg off the table to use instead of a baseball bat.”
This photo of Jon Bon Jovi was taken at Super Bowl XXXVII (2003), where the Bucs upset the Raiders and Bon Jovi performed in a post-game show.
“He just got up on stage and began playing," says Donoghue. “I have shot them about three or four times in concert.”
Treading LIGHTLY
BY NATALIA HOLTZMAN
In his debut novel that Esquire named one of the best books of 2025, a local Armenian American author grapples with questions of authenticity, identity, and who gets to tell a story
Iknew from the beginning that I didn’t want to write a piece of historical fiction,” says Aram Mrjoian, a creative writing lecturer at the University of Michigan and the author of a critically acclaimed book published last summer.
Waterline, Mrjoian’s debut novel, centers on an Armenian American family based in Grosse Ile. The story is largely set in 2018, but the early-20th-century Armenian genocide by the Ottoman Empire casts a deep shadow over both the Kurkjian family and the novel as a whole.
“I didn’t want to engage in recreating the trauma of the genocide,” Mrjoian says, “but I did want to think about how it influences [an] Armenian American family living today.”
The novel follows a multigenerational family whose patriarch, Gregor, survived one of the few successful sites of resistance to the genocide at Musa Dagh. More than a century later, one of Gregor’s great-granddaughters swims out into Lake Michigan — much farther than she can possibly swim back from. Her death prompts her parents, aunt and uncle, and cousins to reflect not only on
The novel made the Library of Michigan's 2026 Michigan Notable Books list.
their family history but on their wider cultural history — and, more pointedly, on how each of them has been shaped by those histories and Gregor’s storytelling.
Mrjoian grew up in an Armenian American family in southeast Michigan. Though he says the book is not autobiographical, he worried, especially early in his writing career, that drawing on his background might be considered a “manipulation” of sorts — a way of “trying to get readers to feel a certain way about something that maybe I’m taking advantage of.”
He says he struggled with the question, “Am I really the right person to be talking about this? Or am I Armenian enough?”
Mrjoian grew up immersed in “certain parts” of Armenian culture but doesn’t speak the language or attend the church. “It’s my name,” he says, “and it’s some of the food I eat and certainly my cultural touchstones.”
As he earned his MFA and PhD, Mrjoian immersed himself in the work of other Armenian American writers; in the end, he tried to write from his own “very specific point of view,” one that is often “on the edge
or the fringe of that community.”
Since the book was published last June, Mrjoian says he’s received a few emails from “people in the Armenian community [who] have been like, ‘The Armenians in this book don't look like my community — I can't believe they’re drinking; I can’t believe there’s adultery.’”
Growing up, though, “that’s the experience I had,” Mrjoian says.
He wanted to write “a story about Armenians that wasn't just that [the genocide], that was not just this reminder of what happened to us more than 100 years ago. Honestly,” Mrjoian adds, “it was hard at times because there is commercial pressure to [provide historical context].”
At a time when most readers can easily search for historical information on their own time, he was struck by the following question: “What does it mean to be obligated to explain a historical atrocity?”
Ultimately, Mrjoian decided that he was neither obligated nor compelled to do anything but tell the story he’d set out to tell — and that’s what he did in Waterline
When Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the Pot for Potholes initiative — a high tax on marijuana sold or transferred to a retail shop that will be used to fund road repairs — as part of her “Mi Road Ahead” funding plan in February 2025, the cannabis industry was already vulnerable. Last year, the industry suffered its first decline in sales revenue since recreational cannabis was legalized in 2019 — due to low prices brought on by market saturation. Since then, the price of weed has continued to plummet. Now, the 24% wholesale tax that went into effect on Jan. 1, 2026, has sparked concern within the industry.
Joni Moore, co-owner of Higher Love, a chain of dispensaries in the Upper Peninsula, felt the effects immediately.
Right before Christmas, Higher Love was forced to lay off 61 employees — roughly 28% of its workers across nine locations — as it prepared to bear the costs of the tax increase.
“I think there’s a public perception that cannabis has a lot of money, but the tax now is a total of 67% on every dollar that we bring in,” says Moore. “So when you add up the state taxes, plus the federal taxes, and then the costs of running a business, you’re not left with very much.”
Lawmakers estimate that the new tax will bring in $420 million in additional revenue to go toward the $1.8 billion funding plan. The majority of the funds will be deposited into the new neighborhood road fund to be utilized for state and local road repairs as well as bridge improvements. But for business owners like Moore, this move signals that the previous pro-cannabis atmosphere in Michigan has changed.
“Michigan is not very friendly to cannabis right now,” says Moore. “We’re not closing any stores, but our energies are going to be looking elsewhere. We have other investments we’re looking at because
An Industry Up in Smoke?
BY WILL REAUME
As the 24% tax on wholesale cannabis rolls out statewide and Michigan dispensaries feel the impact, advocacy groups are fighting back
clearly, we aren’t very welcomed in Michigan right now.”
After the cannabis tax passed the House and Senate, Gov. Whitmer signed it into law as part of the fiscal year 2026 budget on Oct. 7, 2025. The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association filed a lawsuit against the tax the same day. In the suit, the MiCIA argues that the tax violates the Michigan Constitution because it was not achieved through a threefourths vote in the Legislature, a requirement to amend the 2018 law that legalized
recreational cannabis in Michigan. As of print time, the lawsuit is still making its way through the Court of Claims. The MiCIA, which represents 400 cannabis businesses, believes this bill could have wide-reaching effects that go beyond government spending.
“We’re hearing from members who are making impossible decisions about layoffs and potential closures as a direct result of this unconstitutional wholesale tax,” says Rose Tantraphol, a spokesperson for MiCIA. “This tax threatens 47,000 Michigan jobs and risks driving consumers back to the illicit market, undermining everything voters intended when they approved legalization in 2018."
Moore agrees, pointing to California as an example of increased taxation driving consumers back to illegal sellers. On Sept. 22, 2025, Gov. Gavin Newsom of California signed legislation reversing a similar 25% cannabis tax in an effort to revive the legal industry.
Michigan is currently one of the largest cannabis markets in the country, but that status could now be in jeopardy. It’s still too early to tell how catastrophic the fallout from the tax may be, but the latest push puts an already sensitive market in an even tougher position.
The Voice of Hockeytown
BY WILL REAUME
Red Wings TV announcer
Ken Daniels looks back on his favorite Red Wings moments and shares what it’s like to be part of the 100-year-old franchise
KEN DANIELS first heard there would be an opening in the television play-by-play booth for the Red Wings’ 1997-98 season from sportscaster Dave Strader. Strader, the Red Wings announcer from 1985 to 1996, was already an industry legend. But he was only the messenger — it was color analyst and Red Wings All-Star Mickey Redmond who wanted Daniels to apply for the job.
At the time, Daniels was a reporter for the long-running CBC show Hockey Night in Canada. “Dave Strader came into my booth, and he said, ‘They’re making a change in Detroit, and Mickey wanted to make sure you got your tape in,’” recalls Daniels.
Daniels had already signed a deal with CBC, but when the opportunity in Detroit came that September, he jumped at it. The Red Wings were coming off their first Stanley Cup win since 1955, and Daniels would be working alongside Redmond, whom he grew up watching. But the celebration was cut short, and a heavy air hung in Joe Louis Arena to start the 1997-98 season.
On June 13, just six days after winning the Stanley Cup, Red Wings players Vladimir Konstantinov, Slava Fetisov, and team masseur Sergei Mnatsakanov were involved in
a limousine accident. Konstantinov, whom the Red Wings relied on for his punishing physicality and blue-line defense, suffered severe head injuries and paralysis. His playing days were over.
“Once you started calling games, you realize that Vladdy wasn’t going to be there,” Daniels says. “You walked into the dressing room and saw the rock with ‘Believe’ written on it and his jersey, so it was never out of mind.”
While fans and players continued mourning the loss of a promising career, both the team and announcing duo found their stride early.
“I quickly realized that Mickey was the guy here, and I wasn’t going to do anything to disrupt that,” says Daniels. “I still say I’m riding his coattails, but it didn't take long to develop a chemistry.”
There was no shortage of chemistry on the ice either — despite the absence of star forward Sergei Fedorov to start the season, the Red Wings were playoff bound. After bulldozing their way through the first three rounds, the Red Wings were set to face off against the Washington Capitals in the Stanley Cup Finals. Konstantinov’s presence carried through each round, but it was in game four that his energy was truly felt.
“I remember game four and Vladdy being there and the scoreboard showing him,” says Daniels. “I knew he was there, and I was sensing that moment and the guys recognizing that.”
Doug Brown’s pair of goals and Chris Osgood’s 31 saves were both key to completing the four-game sweep, but there’s no doubt Konstantinov’s presence was gamechanging. In a moment that solidified captain Steve Yzerman’s leadership status, the first stop he made after hoisting the cup was to “Vlad the Impaler.”
Although Daniels didn’t call that series, he
In his 29th season with the team, Ken Daniels is showing no signs of stopping, and neither are the Red Wings.
Ken Daniels speaks at Sergei Fedorov's jersey retirement in 2025, with broadcast partner Mickey Redmond at his side.
Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman hoists the Stanley Cup in 1998 for the second year in a row.
Longtime radio announcer Ken Kal was scheduled to call the game but had come down with a case of laryngitis, which kept him off the mic but still in the booth. Daniels was a last-minute call-up to replace Kal at Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh. As time began to wind down, and it looked as though the Red Wings were going to win the Stanley Cup, Daniels wanted to make sure Kal was in his rightful place for the final seconds.
“I told Ken he was calling the final seconds of the game,” says Daniels. “He said, ‘No, I’m not,’ and I said, ‘Suck it up; yes, you are.’ With about 15 seconds left, I said, ‘Here’s Ken Kal to bring it home.’”
The Red Wings hung onto their lead, and Kal had the privilege of hoarsely yelling, “The Detroit Red Wings are the 2008 Stanley Cup champions!”
was in attendance for the win. He remembers the feeling of walking into the Red Wings locker room and seeing the Conn Smythe Trophy — awarded to the most valuable player during the playoffs — sitting among jockstraps and gear in Yzerman’s stall. Fedorov wasted no time in involving Daniels in the celebrations, pouring champagne on his head as he walked in.
While the Red Wings didn’t defend the championship in 1999 for a three-peat, it took just four seasons before their roster was etched into Lord Stanley again. The first round of the playoffs got off to a rocky start, however, with the Red Wings down two games to the Vancouver Canucks. On the plane ride to Vancouver following a 4-3 overtime loss at home, it was clear the tide had shifted.
“Ken Holland and Scotty Bowman were already on the plane, and I walk on, and I’m right behind Steve Yzerman,” recalls Daniels. “Steve looked at both of them and said, ‘We’re not going to lose the series.’ Boy, did that make me feel better.”
Sure enough, the losing streak was over, and Detroit won out to take the series.
One of Daniels’s most memorable inbooth moments came during game six of the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals against the Pittsburgh Penguins. What made the call so memorable wasn’t what Daniels said but what he didn’t say.
It’s just this type of selflessness that has made Daniels one of the league’s best play-byplay announcers. Few have mastered the art form of letting the game breathe — and not smothering the action in commentary — like Daniels and Redmond. When Patrick Kane scored his 500th goal, the ecstatic duo made sure to take pause and let the enormity of the achievement linger.
The dedication to their craft is what makes Daniels and Redmond so talented, but it’s their chemistry that sets them apart from the rest.
“It's nice to be in the gondola with someone you can call one of your best friends in the world,” says Daniels.
Despite their lengthy tenure with the Red Wings, neither Daniels nor Redmond have any plans to retire — it will be a sad day for hockey fans everywhere when that time comes. It’s been almost twenty years since the Red Wings’ last Stanley Cup win, but Daniels hopes to be there for one last run.
“To be a part of three Stanley Cup celebrations — you can’t beat that,” says Daniels. “I want to do it again someday.”
It’s unclear whether the Red Wings will make another cup run during his career, but there’s no doubt Daniels has been on the call for some of the most important moments in Red Wings history. Although he’s never worn the Winged Wheel jersey, Daniels has certainly earned his place in the rafters.
ANNIVERSARY
City Guide Scape
BY KATE WALSH
A look back at the variety of ways we’ve highlighted things to do in metro Detroit
2000
Our second City Guide featured “The List” of everything from movie theaters to sports
2010
In the only City Guide devoted entirely to food, we covered cherries, rock ’n’ roll foodies, soul food, and more.
2020
For the May 2020 issue, which went to press in late March, the Hour staff had to pivot to ways to enjoy the outdoors.
2003
This issue that promises “a hot time” is an updated version of “The List” with more than 20 pages of listings.
2012
Close-ups of edifices, a skyline guide, fab fountains, and Molly Abraham's mac ’n cheese filled this issue.
With millions expected to descend on Detroit for the NFL Draft, a City Guide to the Motor City was a nobrainer.
Akris Punto Blush Jacket, $1,570, Cult Gaia Osa Shoulder Bag, $398, Saks Fifth Avenue, Somerset Collection, Troy. Cinq à Sept Clem Cardigan, $325, Oscar de la Renta Foxgloves Cotton Poplin Skirt, $1,890, Valentino Rockstud Double Denim Espadrilles, $950, Neiman Marcus. Heart Earrings, $28, Lola B., Birmingham.
FASHION
MAD for SPRING
PHOTOS BY LAUR NASH
STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MONICA JADAN
Vibrant colors and garden-inspired prints usher in spring in Midtown Detroit
SHOT ON LOCATION AT MAD NICE, DETROIT
Opposite page: Cara Cara Calypso Dress, $795, Found Objects, Birmingham. Vaneli Tamira Heel, $170, Sundance Shoes, Birmingham. Simone Rocha Turbo Blooming Poppy Necklace, $840, Simone Rocha Blooming Poppy Drip Earrings, $470, R13 Elbow Sleeve Split Hem Cardigan, $495, Tender, Birmingham.
The wall behind the bar features cork tiles. “It goes with the wine theme.”
Marvelous metal:
The bistro table and chairs evoke an Italian feel, Henderson says, thanks to their metal and scrolled arms. “They have a classic, Italian Renaissance look.”
Shoe-in: A bench was incorporated into the design scheme for putting on and taking off shoes. Its back was upholstered to create another cozy seating area and complement the swivel chairs in front of the fireplace.
Animal instinct:
The ottoman’s animal print is a Henderson must-have. “Any space can use animal print, and it looks so good with the reds and blues and jewel tones. We were a bit pressed for space, so that’s why we chose a linear ottoman. It doubles as a cocktail table.” Beneath the ottoman is a vintage Kravet rug.
Cue the cabinetry:
The bar cabinetry and shelving were designed by Henderson and custom-made by a Downriver outfit. The upper cabinetry in the lounge has an antique brass metal mesh on it.
A Tuscan Tone
BY MEGAN SWOYER | PHOTOS BY MARTIN VECCHIO
A designer turns an Ann Arbor townhome’s lower level into a timeworn, storied, and beautiful retreat
When two Ann Arbor homeowners wanted a Tuscan villa feel for the lower level of their home, they called on Jane Henderson of Jane Henderson Interior Design. “They wanted a wine cellar/bar, so we explored different areas with our general contractor and discovered we could fit something under the stairs,” recalls Henderson.
“It can be such a useful space,” she says, recalling a client for whom she created a children’s playhouse and climbing wall under the stairs.
Steps from the bar is a bistro table area for sipping and savoring, a lounge area, and a bathroom (not pictured). “It’s all art in a sense, with lots of texture, color, and eye candy,” says Henderson, who has been a designer for around 30
years and has worked in the fashion industry.
“I like spaces to have a connection,” she says, explaining that the lower-level cabinetry was stained to match the upstairs kitchen cabinetry.
Located in the Kerrytown neighborhood of Ann Arbor, the home’s lower-level appointments — from handmade Italian-style flooring to uniquely patterned tile — exude an unpolished aesthetic. “These clients are a discerning couple,” Henderson observes. “I’m always searching for new resources, antiques and such, and have my eyes peeled for new materials.” Adds one homeowner: “It’s cozy, warm, and inviting. I love spending time there now!”
Here’s a look at the materials and furnishings in this treasured sanctuary, with insights from Henderson. Eccellente!
Spray, you say?:
“We spray-painted the ceiling, leaving the mechanicals open for both accessibility and to create the feeling of height, since this is street level.”
ment the light hue.
Tile style: The lounge area features four different tiles on the fireplace and television wall that make up a pattern. “It almost looks like fabric, like a repeat, and that lends itself to Old World.”
Those and the shower wall tile (not shown, Stars & Cross pattern, Zia Tile) complement each other. The hand-painted terracotta honors history, the designer says. The bright blue tile in the bathroom (not pictured) is of the shade you’d find in pottery and Italian antiques, she adds.
Spaced out: The recessed bar has a grotto look due to its custommade arch and antique mirror. “It makes the space feel like a bit of a jewelry box.”
We’re floored: Terra-cotta flooring (13-by-13 inches, from Zia Tile) runs through the space. “Terra-cotta provides a definite Tuscan feeling.”
Wall flower: The walls are painted with Benjamin Moore’s Shaker Beige, a light, muted yellow with a “sunflower undertone” to it. Dark, antique woods comple-
12 W HIGH STREET, METAMORA, MI 48455 (810) 678-2288 Office.CoventryRealty@gmail.com
www. CoventryRealtyLLC.com
Broker Carole Porretta, Coventry Realty and our staff of experts have been servicing equine enthusiasts for more than 30 years in the Greater Detroit area; covering territory from Genesee/Lapeer/Macomb, Oxford to Tuscola and all counties in between! We are committed to successfully representing our clients whether selling or buying and will earn your trust and confidence. Our client family has rewarded us with repeat business, and along with farms, we host a myriad of properties: condos, vacant land, lakefront estates, city housing and commercial ventures. Our “open door” policy of welcoming people to Metamora has resulted in permanent friendships, and with lower interest rates and new buyers entering the market, we are looking forward to a brisk and successful 2026 real estate season. Stop in to say hello, enjoy our quaint little Village and join in with our festivals! Carole, Tina and Ivy are all here to assist!
Recently Sold Equestrian Estates in Metamora
Hour Detroit is celebrating their 30th anniversary in style at the Best of Detroit Party on Friday, May 29, at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. Experience three floors of incredible food, drinks, and live entertainment in the heart of downtown. Sample bites from 25+ Best of Detroit restaurant winners and finalists, sip signature cocktails, and celebrate with Detroit’s most stylish crowd.
Enjoy electrifying main stage performances by Best of Detroit finalist music acts RockStar and Your Generation in Concert for a night packed with nonstop energy.
The Best of Detroit Party honors the winners and finalists of Hour Detroit’s annual readers’ survey. The best food, drinks, places, and people — all under one roof for one unforgettable evening.
2026 REAL ESTATE & MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
From historic homes in charming neighborhoods to sleek condos with skyline views, metro Detroit offers something for everyone — and the professionals who help turn those real estate dreams into reality are true standouts. In this special section, we highlight the agents and mortgage professionals who are making moves, closing deals, and guiding clients through one of life’s biggest decisions.
These Real Estate All-Stars are more than just market-savvy pros — they’re trusted advisers, skilled negotiators, and passionate advocates
for their clients and communities. With deep knowledge of local trends and a commitment to excellence, they help people across the region navigate the ever-evolving real estate landscape with confidence.
Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, refinance, or simply explore your options, these are the names to know in 2026. They’re setting the standard — and raising the bar — for what it means to thrive in metro Detroit’s real estate scene.
Nicole Abbiss
Keller Williams Metro Royal Oak
Dave Abdallah
CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Dearborn Heights
Batoul Abdallah
RE/MAX Leading Edge Canton
Flo Abke
Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices Kee Realty 19900 E. 10 Mile Road St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 313-378-3376 flo@floabke.com floabke.com
Dimitri Abro
Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate
2002 Stephenson Hwy. Troy, MI 48083 586-713-1534 dimitri@anthonydjon.com anthonydjon.com/meet-our-team/dimitri-abro
Matt Abro Silverstone Real Estate Rochester
Sarah Adams Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Robert Agnello
RE/MAX First Clinton Twp.
Kay Agney
Higbie Maxon Agney Inc. 83 Kercheval Ave. Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236 313-460-3041 kay@higbiemaxon.com higbiemaxon.com
Julie Ahee
Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Ronnie Ahmad
Keller Williams Legacy Dearborn
2026 REAL ESTATE
Mosed Aldhulaimi
Real Estate One Dearborn
Frederick Alexander
Keller Williams Showcase Realty Commerce Twp.
Laith Alkhafaji KW Domain Birmingham
Michael Allen National Realty Centers Birmingham
Philip Al-Ton ICON Realty Experts Birmingham
Jim Anderson Real Estate One Trenton
Gustaf Andreasen
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Detroit
Justine Anthony Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Chad Apap Z Real Estate Experts Novi
John Apap
Janelle Ainsworth-Tatti @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Nicholas Asplund @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Grosse Pointe Farms
Shane Atkinson @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Royal Oak
Maria "Mia" Bardy Coldwell Banker Professionals Birmingham
Kris Barich
Max Broock Birmingham
Jeffrey Barker Max Broock Birmingham
Greg Barnas Sine & Monaghan Realtors Royal Oak
JoAnn Barrett
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services Ann Arbor
Cassiana Barros-Ebert Real Estate One
Ann Arbor
@properties Christie’s International Real Estate 325 N. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 248-225-9858 japap@theapapgroup.com theapaprealtygroup.com
Sakina Arastu
Keller Williams Advantage Northville
Mae Armeni ICON Realty Experts Birmingham
Susie Armiak MBA Realty Grosse Ile
Lisa Armor
Keller Williams Living Brighton
Jennifer Arnold Real Estate One Clinton Twp.
Christopher Lee Ayers @properties Christie’s International Real Estate 400 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 100 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-417-0399 • christopherayers@atpropertiesremi.com atproperties.com/site/christopherayers
Brooke Azimi DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
Dean Bach @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Shannon Bagdonas LPT Realty Allen Park
Niran Bahoora Real Estate One 6960 Orchard Lake Road Ste. 150 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 248-225-7711 nbahoorahomes@gmail.com bahoorahomes.com
Jill Bailey RE/MAX Eclipse Lake Orion
Carrie Bake BAKE Real Estate Plymouth
Evan Bassy
Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Angie Batten Real Estate One Ortonville
Derek Bauer Real Estate One Brighton
Sam Baydoun CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Dearborn Heights
Stacy Bazman CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Dearborn
Lori Beatty RE/MAX New Trend Farmington Hills
Jill Becker RE/MAX Eclipse Sterling Heights
Mathew Belanger
Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Chris Benedict
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
Rhonda Bessette Realty Executives Home Towne 3543 Pine Grove Ave. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-334-8988 bliss2928@yahoo.com rhonda.rehometowne.com
Suzanne Betz Real Estate One Ann Arbor
Tanya Biernat Real Estate One Rochester
Melanie Bishop
Melanie S. Bishop & Noah S. Cohen Team 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 200 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-867-7800 melaniesold@aol.com • melaniesold.com
Nancy Bishop Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Tiffanie Bissett
Sine & Monaghan Realtors St. Clair
Michelle Bittner
Sine & Monaghan Realtors St. Clair
Austin Black II
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Detroit
Al Block
RE/MAX First Shelby Twp.
2026 REAL ESTATE
Eric Bloomingdale
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Jason Boggs Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Scott Bohlen Keller Williams Living Brighton
Behzad Bokani RE/MAX Dream Properties Northville
Denise Bondoni
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
Debbie L Bourdon Real Estate One Dexter
Cameron Boutros
Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate 2002 Stephenson Hwy. Troy, MI 48083 586-601-5759 cameron@anthonydjon.com boutrosluxuryhomes.com
Christin Bracken Real Estate One Milford
Diane Braykovich RE/MAX Classic Novi
Kevin P. Brennan
Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Elizabeth R Brien Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Sana Brikho St. Jude Realty, LLC Troy
Lindsey Broadwell REAL Broker, LLC Clarkston
Stephan Brochu RE/MAX Platinum Grand Blanc
Eric Broesamle Next Level Property Management
New Baltimore
Kathy Broock Ballard Max Broock
Birmingham
Bella Brookenthal Real Estate One West Bloomfield
Mark Brown @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
Marty Brown @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
Mark Brown RE/MAX Classic Bloomfield Hills
Alan Brown Real Estate One Troy
Mary Kay Buckley RE/MAX Showcase Homes Birmingham
Dave Budny RE/MAX First Shelby Twp.
Sarah Budreau Oakland Corners Realty, LLC Oxford
Lucy Burby RE/MAX First Chesterfield
Jack Butris Real Estate One Troy
Molly Buttleman @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Jennifer Caira-Lauff Real Estate One Chesterfield Twp.
Daniel Callan RE/MAX Platinum Hartland
Robert Campbell Max Broock Birmingham
Michelle Carey
Century 21 Professionals
41640 Garfield Road Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-703-0732 mlcarey67@aol.com agentmichellecarey.com
Patrick Carolan Coldwell Banker Professionals Birmingham
Andrea Carollo Max Broock Birmingham
Susie Carone CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Northville
Harry Cassidy Real Estate Unlimited Inc. Allen Park
Desiree Cataldo-Cialone RE/MAX Leading Edge Dearborn Heights
Pam Ceder Sine & Monaghan Realtors Algonac
Christine Champlin RE/MAX Platinum Fenton
Alex Chapman @properties Christie’s International Real Estate 400 S. Old Woodward, Ste. 100 Birmingham, MI 48009 313-475-0275 alexchapman@atpropertiesremi.com forsalebyalex.com
Ali T. Charara CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Dearborn Heights
Takorrah Chase ICON Realty Experts Birmingham
Lori Chattinger Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty 36594 Moravian Drive Clinton Twp., MI 48035 586-383-1437 lchattinger@gmail.com lorisellsmichigan.com
Zen Chen
RE/MAX New Trend Farmington Hills
Pamela Chudzinski
Keller Williams Professionals Plymouth
Katja Classic
RE/MAX Classic Canton
Cheryl Clossick Real Estate One Saline
Robert Coburn
RE/MAX First Royal Oak
Ben Cockrum Preferred, Realtors Ltd. Plymouth
Brie Cocroft Max Broock Royal Oak
Carl Cohen KW Domain Birmingham
Noah S. Cohen
Melanie S. Bishop & Noah S. Cohen Team 6755 Telegraph Road Ste. 200
Michael Cosman Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Paul Coulter Realty Executives Main Street, LLC Lapeer
Joe Cracchiolo
Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Ryan Craig @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Ashley Crain Crain Homes Birmingham
Scott Craver Opul Realty Northville
Marcus Cronce Real Estate One Fort Gratiot
Brandon Curry Signature Sotheby's International Realty Birmingham
Mike Cutsinger Preferred, Realtors Ltd. Plymouth
Lisa Cutting
Keller Williams Showcase Realty Commerce Twp.
Priyanka Dabhi
Keller Williams Professionals Plymouth
Jason Dabish
Max Broock Realtors 6960 Orchard Lake Road Ste. 150 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 248-939-4000 jdabishrealtor@gmail.com jasondabish.maxbroock.com
Nadia Dalou
Max Broock Realtors 6960 Orchard Lake Road Ste. 150 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 248-961-3484 nadiadalou12@gmail.com nadiadalou.maxbroock.com
James Danley
James Danley & Associates 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 200 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-671-3092 jamesdanley@gmail.com liveworksell.com
Joanna Darmanin Keller Williams Metro Royal Oak
Joseph Darwish RE/MAX Platinum Brighton
Gwen Daubenmeyer Keller Williams Collaborative Lake Orion
Piyush Dave Real Estate One Plymouth
Julie Dean DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
Daniel DeCapua RE/MAX Platinum Ann Arbor
Mike DeFauw Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Gary DeGrandchamp Real Estate One Northville
Debby DeHart Real Estate One Commerce Township
Matt Dejanovich Real Estate One Ann Arbor
Danny DeKeyser Saros Real Estate Services Grosse Pointe
Renee DeKroub RE/MAX Platinum Howell
Joe Delia Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Sal Delisi Select Real Estate Professionals, Inc. Clinton Twp.
Heather Dell RE/MAX Leading Edge Dearborn Heights
Erin Keating DeWald KW Domain Birmingham
James Dewling Griffith Realty Brighton
Thomas Diegel RE/MAX Platinum Fenton
Jamie Dietrich RE/MAX Platinum Brighton
Jan Dijkers Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Loft Warehouse Detroit
Joy DiMaggio KW Domain Birmingham
Jim DiMora Keller Williams Advantage Novi
Domenica DiNello Vanguard Realty Group Rochester
Nick DiStefano RE/MAX First Clinton Twp.
Stefanie Distelrath Sine & Monaghan Realtors St. Clair
Realty Executives Home Towne
Realty Executives Home Towne continues to set the pace in metro Detroit real estate: Eight agents have been named 2026 Hour Detroit Real Estate All-Stars, a distinction that reflects sustained performance, client trust, and results across a deep and talented bench. In an industry where consistency is everything, this level of recognition across one office speaks to a culture built on service, professionalism, and momentum.
The 2026 Hour Detroit Real Estate All-Stars from Realty Executives Home Towne include (pictured left to right in a model home by Cherry Creek Building) Michael Donelson, David Jacobson, Jennifer Stanczak, Adriana Sarti, Lisa Glombowski, Dominic Romano, Brad Mangune, and Rhonda Bessette (not pictured). Serving clients throughout Macomb, St. Clair, and Sanilac counties, the team is known for local expertise, responsive communication, and strategic guidance that helps buyers and sellers move forward with confidence.
For more than 50 years, Realty Executives agents have helped clients navigate every step of the real estate transaction, and the Home Towne team blends that legacy with a modern approach: strong digital exposure, social and video marketing, listing automation, and broad online distribution — paired with accurate pricing through detailed comparative market analysis and skilled negotiation. Clients can expect clear expectations, thoughtful advice, and updates delivered the way they prefer — by text, phone, or email.
Broker/owner Frank Locricchio leads with a hands-on, client-first mindset and a track record that includes managing over $3 billion in sales volume. Just as importantly, he’s committed to elevating the agents who deliver the day-to-day wins — making recognition a team sport. ■
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Detroit
Patricia Eddy Reinhart Realtors
Ann Arbor
Camille Edwards
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Kee Realty Birmingham
Theresa Edwards RE/MAX Platinum
Brighton
Michelle Elie Reinhart Realtors
Chelsea
Mark Ellis
Real Estate One Fort Gratiot
Linda Eriksen
Max Broock Birmingham
Hulya Erol-Garvett Real Estate One Northville
Bill Ervin KW Domain Birmingham
Jane Evans
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate
Rochester
Rob Ewing Real Estate One
Ann Arbor
Christine Faeth
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Ann Arbor
Fadi Fawzi Z Real Estate Experts
Novi
Mike Fayz Real Estate One Dearborn Heights
Todd Fedie
Keller Williams Living
Brighton
Nancy Feldmann RE/MAX First Clinton Twp.
Terri Fenelon
Keller Williams Professionals
Brighton
Doug Ferrell
Realty Executives Main Street, LLC Lapeer
Chantel Fick
Realty Executives Main Street, LLC Lapeer
Tom Figlan Real Estate One Chesterfield Twp.
Sarah Figurski CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Northville
Kelly Finley New Century Realtors
Troy
Allison Fishwick Prime + Property Real Estate Plymouth
Christine Fitzsimons
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Dexter
Brent Flewelling Reinhart Realtors
Ann Arbor
Stephanie Flood
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Ann Arbor
Frank Flynn The Agency Birmingham Birmingham
Jay Fontaine
Fontaine Real Estate Group Livonia
Emily Ford @properties Christie’s International Real Estate 25 S. Main St. Clarkston, MI 48346 248-722-4239 emilyford@atpropertiesremi.com emilysells.com
Justin Ford eXp Realty Plymouth
Lauren Fortinberry CENTURY 21 Professionals Clarkston
Maureen Francis @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
TJ Francisco Jr. Real Estate One Sterling Heights
Tracey Freeman TSF Homes 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 200 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-772-1997 tracey@tsfhomes.com tsfhomes.com
Erin Fritz Clients First Realtors 43050 Ford Road Ste. 130 Canton, MI 48187 734-855-9343 erinfritzhomes@gmail.com clientsfirstrealtors.com
Yoshiko Fujimori RE/MAX New Trend Farmington Hills
Chris Gabriel KW Domain Birmingham
Giselle Gaitan
@properties REMI Christie’s International Real Estate 912 N. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 586-859-9365
Dan Gutfreund DG Realty Group Signature Sotheby’s International Realty 415 S. Old Woodward Birmingham, MI 48009 248-497-4646 • dan@dgrealty.com iSellMichigan.com
Bryan Gutierrez Keller Williams Showcase Realty 525 N. Main St. #240 Milford, MI 48381 734-558-4085 bryanhomesales@gmail.com bryangutierrez.com
Scott Guyor Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Paul Habba Business Broker One West Bloomfield
Rob Haber KW Domain Birmingham
Shayla Haboosh ICON Realty Experts Birmingham
Nancy Hackett @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
Sousanna Hadjinian Remerica Hometown III Canton
Tim Haggerty Remerica Hometown One Plymouth
James Haidar RE/MAX First St. Clair Shores
Stephanie Hale Howard Hanna Real Estate Services Ann Arbor
Jerry Hall KW Domain Birmingham
Crystal Halley
RE/MAX Classic Novi
Kristin Halmaghi Real Estate One Northville
Joe Hammel
Keller Williams Somerset Troy
Cathy Harber @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Grosse Pointe Farms
Leslie Hardy KW Domain Birmingham Andy Hargreaves Prime + Property Real Estate Plymouth
Rob Harrell Real Estate One Commerce Township
Kate Hayman KW Domain Birmingham
Jan Hays
Max Broock Bloomfield Hills
Donna Hazlewood
Keller Williams Platinum Fort Gratiot
Julie Heidt
Keller Williams Metro Royal Oak
Sally Hendrix CENTURY 21 Professionals Clarkston
Dawn Hendrix Coldwell Banker Professionals Lake Orion
Michael Hermiz RE/MAX New Trend Farmington Hills
Michelle Herrst RE/MAX Platinum Brighton
Jen Hicks RE/MAX First Chesterfield
Back (left to right): Bruce Simon, Steve Kashat, Jason Dabish, Nosida Ndrejaj, David Kaplan, Mo Thweny, Art Poota, Loren Stewart. Front (left to right): Nadia Dalou, Jim Manna, Bert Nebus, Bella Brookenthal, Ilene Mitz. Not pictured: Niran Bahoora.
Pam Hicks
Real Estate One
410 N. Center St. Northville, MI 48167
734-474-1051 pam@pamhicks.com pamhicks.com
Kevin Hill
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Detroit
James Horn KW Domain Birmingham
Kristy Horne RE/MAX Dream Properties Northville
Kimberly Hosner RE/MAX First Royal Oak
Andrew Huckleby
Signature Sotheby's International Realty Birmingham
Steve Hudkins
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty Monroe
Ariel Hurwitz-Greene
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Ann Arbor
Morgan Hutson
Coldwell Banker Professionals East Lansing
Sal Impastato The Agency Birmingham Birmingham
2026 REAL ESTATE
Sierra Imwalle Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Haig V. Istamboulian Arterra Realty Rochester
Pavlina Ivezaj
Signature Sotheby's International Realty Birmingham
Angela Jaafar RE/MAX Dream Properties Northville
Darlene Jackson
Max Broock Realtors 275 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham MI 48009 248-302-0414 darlene@darlenejackson.com darlenejackson.com
David Jacobson Realty Executives Home Towne 49940 Gratiot Ave. Chesterfield, MI 48051 586-822-1955 david.jacobson@realtyexecutives.com jacobsonsells.com
Renee Jadan Z Real Estate Experts Novi
Frank Jajou Real Estate One Troy
Sid Jamil House Of May Birmingham
Stephanie Janiga Keller Williams Advantage Novi
Patrick Jarjis DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
George Jarrous CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Dearborn Heights
Rick Jarzembowski Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Krista Jelsky RE/MAX First Royal Oak
Ray Jiang Real Estate One Troy
Chad Jishi Keller Williams Professionals Plymouth
Craig Joeright DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
Ariel Johns Keller Williams Platinum Chesterfield
Tracy Johnson Five Star Real Estate - Commerce Township Walled Lake
Ashley Jolley Five Star Real Estate - Commerce Township Walled Lake
Sarah Jones Max Broock Oxford
Tammy Jonna DOBI Real Estate 2211 Cole St. Birmingham MI 48009 248-225-3040 tammy@wearedobi.com wearedobi.com/agent/tammy-jonna
Jessica Juel Arterra Luxe Birmingham
Eric Jurmo Keller Williams Platinum Chesterfield
Erik Jurvis DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
Cindy Kahn The Agency Birmingham 442 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 248-568-7309 cindy@cindykahn.com cindykahn.com
Emily Kahn
The Agency Birmingham 442 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 248-568-0569 emily@cindykahn.com theagencyre.com/agent/emily-kahn
Ryan Kain RE/MAX Leading Edge Dearborn Heights
Saed Kakish Golden Key Group Novi
Nick Kalte Quest Realty Troy
David Kaplan Real Estate One West Bloomfield
Sam Kaplunov @properties REMI Christie’s International Real Estate 400 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 100 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-933-0471 • sam@samkaplunov.com samkaplunov.com
Raymond Karoumy Top Agent Realty Troy
Steve Kashat Real Estate One 6960 Orchard Lake Road Ste. 150 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 248-798-7408 realtorstevek@gmail.com stephenkashat.realestateone.com
Debbie Leutheuser Howard Hanna Real Estate Services Ann Arbor
Howard Levitsky RE/MAX First Rochester
Katie Lieder-Rice Keller Williams Living Brighton
Corey Light @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Kenneth Lin RE/MAX Showcase Homes Birmingham
Kathy Linderman Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Lisa Lipari DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
Sara Lipnitz The Agency Birmingham Birmingham
Beth Little National Realty Centers Northville
Lia LoChirco LoChirco Realty 202 Walnut Blvd. Suite B Rochester, MI 48307 586-321-9997 lia@lialochirco.com lialochirco.com
Kristie Lohmann RE/MAX First Shelby Twp.
Renee Lossia KW Domain 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 Ste. 200 248-310-1414 renee@tvarla.com tvarla.com
Pat Lotz Real Estate One Brighton
Jane Lowell Max Broock Birmingham
Alex Lucido Lucido Real Estate 19455 Mack Ave. Grosse Pointe Woods MI 48236 313-268-2000 alex@lucidorealestate.com lucidorealestate.com
S. Frank Lucido Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Carol Lukity
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty 36594 Moravian Drive Clinton Twp., MI 48035 586-634-3933 carollukityrealtor@gmail.com carolsellsmacomb.com
Associate Broker
Pam, a highly qualified realtor, offers exceptional service, crafting innovative marketing strategies with a broker’s license, a bachelor’s, and a master’s in marketing. Covering Livingston, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties, Pam excels in negotiating home sales, providing empathetic customer service, and tailored advice. Her organizational skills, integrity, and deep real estate knowledge put her in the top 1 percent of real estate professionals in Michigan and nationally. With Pam, clients embark on a journey with a trusted friend, not just buying or selling a house. 734-474-1051 pam@pamhicks.com pamhicks.com
Selma Lulanaj
Z Real Estate Experts Novi
Charles Lutz
RE/MAX First Clinton Twp.
Christine Lynn The Agency Birmingham Birmingham
Ryan Maceri Keller Williams Platinum Chesterfield
Dave MacFarland Keller Williams Advantage Novi
Steve MacKenzie Keller Williams Professionals Plymouth
S. Brooke MacNee MBA Realty Grosse Ile
Sara Maddock
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Ann Arbor
Heather Mahon Keller Williams Living Brighton
Sarah Maiga
Maiga Homes Luxury Real Estate Canton
Anthony Maisano Max Broock Birmingham
Raffaele Malizia
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Northville
Bradley Mangune Realty Executives Home Towne
49433 Hayes Road
Shelby Township, MI 48315
734-377-2250
bm@bm-re.com bm-re.com
Bill Maniaci Keller Williams Living Howell
Steve Mann RE/MAX Dream Properties Northville
Jim Manna Real Estate One West Bloomfield
2026 REAL ESTATE
Kelli Mans Keller Williams Advantage Novi
Faye Maraman Real Estate One Clinton Twp.
Laith Marroki
Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Ed Martin RE/MAX First Shelby Twp.
Kristina Martin
Arterra Realty 429 S. Main St. Rochester MI 48307 586-242-0551
Jeffrey Post @properties Christie’s International Real Estate 912 N. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-476-8326 jp@jpostrealestate.com jeffreypostrealestate.com
Keri Poulter Reinhart Realtors Chelsea
Timothy Powell Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Jason Praet
Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate 2002 Stephenson Hwy. Troy, MI 48083 248-736-0146 jason@anthonydjon.com anthonydjon.com
Megan Prieur Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Marianne Prokop Real Estate One Northville
Nick Prokop Real Estate One Northville
Sherry Pyszczynski Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Nancy Rademacher Keller Williams Professionals Brighton
Anthony Raffin RE/MAX First St. Clair Shores
Brian Ragland New Century Realtors Troy
Becky Post Keller Williams Platinum Chesterfield
Douglas Rahaim DOBI Real Estate Birmingham
Lauren Rahaim DOBI Real Estate 2211 Cole St. Birmingham MI 48009 734-330-0657 lauren@wearedobi.com wearedobi.com/agent/lauren-rahaim
Maura Rains Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Nader Rammal RE/MAX Leading Edge Dearborn Heights
Stacy Ramsay RE/MAX Leading Edge Dearborn Heights
Nanci Rands The Agency Birmingham Birmingham
Spencer Ray Saros Real Estate Services Grosse Pointe
Anna Rea
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Julie Rea Real Estate One Rochester
Linda Rea Real Estate One Rochester
Elizabeth Reaume Howard Hanna Real Estate Services Birmingham
Robby Rech
RE/MAX Dream Properties Northville
Jeffrey Reiter REAL Broker, LLC Birmingham
Diane Remer Keller Williams Professionals Plymouth
Kathy Remski
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Laurie Reveley Keller Williams Platinum Chesterfield
Bethany Reyes
The Better Co. 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 200 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-259-6583 bethany@thebetterco.com thebetterco.com
Heidi Rhome Keller Williams Advantage Northville
Ilana Riback @properties REMI Christie’s International Real Estate 912 N. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-730-5266 ilana@ilanariback.com ilanariback.com
Dino Ricci Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Cory Richards @properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Birmingham
Ed Ridha Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Lisa Ridha Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Mark Riegal Real Estate One Plymouth
Jonathan Rivera Keller Williams Professionals Brighton
Alyse Robertelli KW Domain Birmingham
D. Mark Romano Realty Executives Home Towne 49433 Hayes Road Shelby Twp., MI 48315 586-292-6765 domromhomes@gmail.com markromano.com
Brandon Rowley Realty Executives Main Street, LLC Lapeer
Tracey Roy Reinhart Realtors
Ann Arbor
Boyd Rudy Keller Williams Professionals
Plymouth
Maryann Ryan Reinhart Realtors Ann Arbor
Dana Saad
Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate
2002 Stephenson Hwy. Troy, MI 48083 313-613-3939 dana@anthonydjon.com anthonydjon.com/meet-our-team/dana-saad
Sherri Saad
RE/MAX Leading Edge Detroit
Sammy Sakla Keller Williams Professionals Plymouth
Jade Salazar
Anthony Djon Luxury
Real Estate
2002 Stephenson Hwy. Troy, MI 48083 720-495-7677 jade@anthonydjon.com anthonydjon.com
Christine Tiderington Coldwell Banker Town & Country Real Estate Brighton
Liz Tintinalli
@properties REMI Christie's International Real Estate Detroit
April Todd CENTURY 21 Professionals Shelby Twp.
Jeff Todd Sr. Keller Williams Paint Creek Rochester
Jill Tokarsky Real Estate One Plymouth
Nick Tong Keller Williams Living Brighton
Jennifer Toomajian Real Estate One Troy
Nicki Tran Real Estate One Sterling Heights
Julie Trauben Keller Williams Showcase Realty Commerce Twp.
Connie LaBarge Thomas RE/MAX First Rochester
Evan Treharne The Maple Group Realtors LLC Bloomfield Hills
Jessica Tremonti CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski Dearborn Heights
Michelle Trenta
Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate 2002 Stephenson Hwy. Troy, MI 48083 248-798-0235 michelle@anthonydjon.com anthonydjon.com/meet-our-team/michelle-trenta
Mike Tripoli Opul Realty Northville
Ron Trombetti Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty Washington Twp.
Julie Tucker Keller Williams Living Brighton
Nicole Ulewicz Vanguard Realty Group Rochester
Rose Vadnais Coldwell Banker Professionals East Lansing
Tushar Vakhariya KW Domain
210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Ste. 200 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-302-3921 tushar@tvarla.com tvarla.com
Alina Valentine Keller Williams Metro Royal Oak
Kim Valice Sine & Monaghan Realtors Grosse Pointe Farms
Anita VanAcker Keller Williams Showcase Realty Commerce Twp.
332 W. Main St. Brighton, MI 48116 734-604-2611 james.paquette@lmcu.org lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Sergey Pesch Extreme Loans Southfield
Laura Peters Pointes Home Lending Grosse Pointe Farms
Adam Phizacklea Michigan Mortgage Pros Pinckney
Tony Pike Movement Mortgage Ann Arbor
Harry Polemitis Mortgage 1, Inc. Plymouth
Adam Poterek Rocket Mortgage Detroit
Susan Quilter Huntington Bank Troy
Michael Raimi CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC Southfield
Trevor Rice Arcadia Lending Clawson
Matt Rodeghier First Community Mortgage Birmingham
Tito Rodriguez Rate Northville
Vittorio Sbrocca First Team Lending Shelby Twp.
Jason Sebastian Extreme Loans Shelby Twp.
Mark Sera
John Adams Mortgage Company Royal Oak
Clark Sexton The Iron Co. Mortgage Northville
Toni Shaftner Rocket Mortgage Detroit
John Simpkins First Merchants Bank Ann Arbor
Billy Slobin The Mortgage Link Farmington Hills
Nathan Steiner Rate Grosse Pointe Farms
Steve Stork
CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC Bloomfield Hills
Keanu Tabali
Lake Michigan Credit Union
332 W. Main St. Brighton, MI 48116 810-263-6008
keanu.tabali@lmcu.org keanutabali.com
Linus Thalman Golden Mortgage Rochester
Walter Tyslicki Mortgage 1, Inc. Sterling Heights
Scott Van Sickle Victory Home Loans Clinton Twp.
Benjie Vista Total Home Lending Southfield
Dave Voss Supreme Lending Port Huron
Douglas Welch Key Bank Brighton
Matt West
Michigan First Mortgage Plymouth
Ruth Young RWM Home Loans
Troy
Jake Slobin The Mortgage Link Farmington Hills
Tim Smith First Merchants Bank Birmingham
Tim Steinbrecher Rate
Shelby Twp.
P. 80 Catch Riverdance 30 — The New Generation at the Fox Theatre April 10-11.
THEATER
MARCH 31-APRIL 12
& Juliet: Schitt’s Creek writer and producer David West Read shakes up the classic Shakespeare love story in this hilarious musical, which features an engaging soundtrack of modern pop anthems and a confident new ending for Juliet (without Romeo). $46+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; atgtickets.com
APRIL 8
Bat Out of Hell: The Musical: Loosely based on the 1977 Meat Loaf album of the same name, this rollicking rock opera by writer and composer Jim Steinman takes place in post-apocalyptic Manhattan, where the leader of a surly street gang falls in love with the daughter of a tyrannical overlord. The show features a live eightpiece band and some of the most iconic tracks in glam-rock history, including “I Would Do Anything for Love” and “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.” $62+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com
APRIL 14-26
Su s: Hot o Broadway, this Tony Award-winning musical about the heroes who fought for women’s voting rights
Don’t-Miss Events
BY LAUREN WETHINGTON
Save the dates for these can’t-miss shows and performances this April
makes a stop at Detroit’s Fisher Theatre this month. Creator Shaina Taub was the first woman to win the Tony Awards for best book and best score in the same season. $40+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; atgtickets.com
MUSIC
APRIL 9-19
Northern Lights Festival: Experience enchanting symphonic works by composers from Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark this month at Orchestra Hall. Norwegian guest conductor Tabita Berglund will be on hand to lead the Detroit Symphony Orchestra through Sibelius’s famous Violin Concerto, Grieg’s iconic Peer Gynt suite, Nielsen’s dramatic Fifth Symphony, and more. $20+. Orchestra Hall, Detroit; dso.org
APRIL 13
Florence + The Machine: Following the release of their critically acclaimed sixth studio album, Everybody Scream, the “Dog Days Are Over” indie rockers
will make a stop at Little Caesars Arena this month with support from up-and-coming singer-songwriter Rachel Chinouriri. $76+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com
APRIL 15
The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others — A Celebration of Film Music: Revisit the captivating music and moments of Top Gun, James Bond, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and many more at this unique multimedia experience. Featuring light installations, laser e ects, film clips, and dazzling live performances, the show is an immersive celebration for film fans of all ages. $50+. Music Hall Center, Detroit; musichall.org
ART THROUGH APRIL 18
A Meadow in the Clouds: April marks the final days to view this group exhibition at the Shepherd, in which nine contemporary artists explore the many codes, euphemisms, and subtleties that impact
and distort human communication. Curated by Allison Glenn, the exhibition features works by Nina Chanel Abney, Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, Anthony Akinbola, Amna Asghar, Sadie Barnette, Elliot Bergman, Beverly Fishman, Reginald Sylvester II, and Qualeasha Wood. No cost. The Shepherd, Detroit; lscgallery.com
APRIL 25 ONWARD
MOCAD Grand Reopening Exhibitions: Following a months-long closure for renovations, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit will welcome visitors to return with three new exhibitions debuting this month. Detroit Cosmologies is the first retrospective exhibit of Detroit artist, storyteller, and cultural historian Olayami Dabls. This Side of the River honors Detroit-based fiber artist Carole Harris, whose otherworldly quilts serve as vessels for political and cultural reflection. Finally, Retail Therapy is the first solo museum exhibition for multimedia artist Martha Mysko,
Florence + The Machine will stop by Little Caesars Arena during their Everybody Scream Tour.
APRIL 11-12
whose large-scale works incorporate painting, sculpture, photography, and architecture. No additional cost. Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, Detroit; mocadetroit.org
DANCE
APRIL 10-11
Riverdance 30 — The New Generation: Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the world’s most beloved traditional Irish dance show at this innovative new program, which features fresh choreography, new costumes, and state-of-the-art lighting and graphics. As a nod to the future of Riverdance, all of the show’s performers are under the age of 30. $43+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com
Play Ball!
The Detroit Tigers’ home opener is on April 3 For a guide to pre-parties and other game day events happening in downtown Detroit, go to hourdetroit. com/homeopener.
Paul Taylor Dance Company: Founded by famed dancer and choreographer Paul Taylor in 1954, this New York City-based company incubated some of modern dance’s most esteemed creatives and performers, including Twyla Tharp, David Parsons, and Pina Bausch. This program honors the contributions of its founder with performances of some of his most iconic works, including the turbulent, Great Depression-era-inspired Company B and Esplanade, an ode to the subtle magic present in everyday life. $30+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org FILM
APRIL 2-25
2026 Italian Film Festival USA: Discover contemporary Italian cinema (with English subtitles!) at multiple metro Detroit venues this month. Films include the post-World War II-set Napoli New York, emotional drama Cinque Secondi, and Elvira Notari, a documentary about Italy’s enigmatic first female film director. No cost. Various venues; italianfilmfests.org/ detroit
APRIL 11-12
Yi Yi: Taiwanese writer and director Edward Yang won the coveted Best Director Award at the 53rd Cannes Film Festival for this epic portrait of a single year in the life of middle-aged engineer and father NJ as he struggles to raise his children and care for his comatose mother-inlaw in Taipei. $11+. Detroit Film Theatre, Detroit; dia.org
ESSAY
Your Own Private Detroit
BY RYAN PATRICK HOOPER
Musings from our resident culture conversationalist
FOR YEARS, I was a tour guide at the Fisher Building in Detroit. It’s a stunning architectural masterpiece covered in marble, bronze, and frescoes. You could debate whether it’s the prolific architect Albert Khan’s greatest achievement, but I think it is.
Leading tours was one of my favorite jobs I’ve ever had — and I’ve had a lot of them! That has more to do, however, with choosing journalism as a primary career and having to make up the difference elsewhere.
In all, I’ve done at least 600 tours of the Fisher. There I was every weekend, leading tourists from around the world and local suburbanites who had never bothered to check out “Detroit’s largest art object.” The Fisher is far from a “hidden gem,” but as Detroiters, we don’t always value what’s right
in our backyard. Just ask any Detroiter whether they’ve actually been to the Motown Museum just down the block. There’s no shame in the game! Here at Hour we’ve dedicated a whole issue to discovering and rediscovering our city on our terms.
I’d make the same joke at the end of every tour, turning to the crowd and saying, “I’ve given 600 of these tours … but I think today’s tour with you might’ve been the best one yet.”
And maybe that was true sometimes! I do know that the absolute best part of the job was showing off something I loved about Detroit to someone who perhaps never knew it was there or what was hidden inside.
After the tour, patrons would often ask me for my recommendations. “What else should we do with our day? What else should we see while we’re here?”
I never sent them somewhere painfully
obvious or thoughtless — like shuffling them off to the Greektown tourist district — or, more importantly, somewhere I didn’t personally frequent.
After wrapping a tour, I’d often run into tour guests at the spots I had just recommended, which brought the biggest smiles to their faces. “Oh, you actually told us your own hidden gems! You actually go here!”
It was a reminder that the art of the personal recommendation still rules in an era when AI looms over us and weaves itself into every aspect of our lives.
It’s a special feeling to find a hidden gem, but it’s the best feeling in the world when you get to share that with someone else, and they’re oh so grateful that you took the time to let them into your own private Detroit.
Ryan Patrick Hooper is the host of In the Groove on 101.9 WDET Detroit Public Radio (weekdays from noon to 3 p.m.).
Fisher Building
Motown Museum
instrument in his Dearborn Heights home.
THE DETROIT RED WINGS are part of an exclusive NHL club — the Original Six — which traces its lineage back to the earliest days of the league. In honor of the storied franchise’s centennial season, the Detroit Historical Museum is celebrating its history.
Spanning two floors, the Becoming Hockeytown: Detroit Red Wings at 100 exhibit takes visitors back to the days before the team adopted the Model T-inspired logo. In addition to displaying artifacts from the Detroit Historical Society’s archives, the museum collaborated with the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, the Windsor Community Museum, and collectors around the state to bring in pieces of hockey history.
As you enter the exhibit, you’ll find relics from the Red Wings’ earliest playing days, when they were called the Detroit Cougars, formerly the Victoria Cougars. The Windsor Community Museum provided a program from a 1925 exhibition game, played against the New York Americans at Windsor’s Border Cities Arena.
Other items, like the original organ from Olympia Stadium, came from local collectors. Jeremy Dimick, the Detroit Historical Museum’s curator, reached out to the owner of a local piano-moving company, who had the
100 Years of the Winged Wheel
BY WILL REAUME
A look through a century of Red Wings history at the Detroit Historical Museum
While you’ll find mainstays like game-worn jerseys and Sergei Fedorov’s signed skates, the museum also shines a light on some lesser-known but equally important moments — like the 1954 outdoor game the Red Wings played against prisoners in Marquette. The game took place at Marquette Branch Prison, where the reigning Stanley Cup-champion Red Wings took on the 4-1-1 Marquette Prison Pirates. By some accounts, the score was 18-0 by the end of the first period, and eventually, the inmates withdrew from playing and watched the Red Wings scrimmage instead.
In honor of their win, the Red Wings were awarded the Doniker Trophy — a toilet pail used by inmates. The trophy is on display at the museum, and visitors can find the names of Red Wings greats like Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio, Terry Sawchuk, and Ted Lindsay etched into the pail, just like the Stanley Cup’s engravings.
The exhibit is open to the public until Nov. 22, giving fans a chance to experience the big wins, defining moments, and littleknown tidbits from the last 100 years of Red Wings hockey.
The Detroit Historical Museum, located at 5401 Woodward Ave., is open Wed.-Sun. $15, adults; $8, children. Free admission with a Detroit Historical Society membership or DHS’s Detroiter membership (free for residents of Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck). detroithistorical.org
The exhibit showcases the evolution of the Winged Wheel jersey over the years.
The original organ from Olympia Stadium is on display until Nov. 22.
EXHIBITS
What’s Cooking?
BY JACK THOMAS
Four recent additions to metro Detroit’s dining and drinking scene
The Beverly Berkley’s newest restaurant addition — the latest concept from Bar Pigalle owner Travis Fourmont and executive chef Norman Valenti — opened in late January. The Beverly’s winter menu features plentiful seafood like oysters, mussels, shrimp, and hamachi crudo. Other food selections include charcuterie boards, lamb shanks, smoked chicken wings, a housemade sausage, pork coppa, a half chicken — and the famed Pigalle Burger. The cocktail menu is characterized by top-shelf ri s on classics, like the Beverly Martini, made with vodka or gin stirred with pickled cucumber Dolin Dry and orange bitters. 3180 Coolidge Hwy., Berkley; thebeverlymi.com
Sunda New Asian
This long-anticipated Southeast Asian eatery was slated to open March 10 at press time. Sunda New Asian — which has four other locations in Chicago, Nashville, and Tampa — is located in District Detroit, an area for shops and businesses close to Detroit’s sports stadiums, owned by Olympia Development. Offerings include caviar service, dim sum, sushi, noodles, several steaks, and the Kamayan Feast, a curated Filipino meal that feeds up to four. 33 W. Columbia St., Detroit; sundanewasian. com/detroit
Hunã
This new tiki bar opened in the basement of Ann Arbor’s Echelon Kitchen and Bar on Feb. 12. The drinks program is led by Max Schikora (formerly formerly bar manager at Mabel Gray), and the food menu is overseen by chef Joseph VanWagner — the same team behind the restaurant upstairs. Expect a contemporary take on tiki drinks like mai tais and piña coladas, plus entertaining drinks made for four to six people to share, like High Tides, described as “classic punch on steroids,” and the Octo-Shotski — an octopus-shaped drink carrier holding six shooters. Mocktails are also available, plus bar snacks like bao buns, poke, peanut noodle salad, and some desserts. 200 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; huna.bar
The Beverly opened in a former car parts shop in Berkley.
Detroit 75 Kitchen
Known for their wide-reaching online presence as well as their popular food truck, brothers Mike and Ahmad Nassar founded Detroit 75 Kitchen in southwest Detroit in 2014. On Feb. 20, 12 years later, the eatery opened its first brickand-mortar location on Stephenson Highway in Madison Heights — just a short drive away from the pop-up space it previously used off of John R near Oakland Mall. The eatery, which boasts a 100% halal menu, is known for sandwiches like the Detroit-Style Cheesesteak, Russell Street Vegetarian, and multiple shawarmas, as well as fish and chips and a shrimp po’boy. 32275 Stephenson Hwy., Madison Heights; detroit75kitchen.com
Hunã features an array of tiki-inspired cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks.
James Beard 2026 Semifinalists
Awards ceremony on
Six Michigan restaurants — four in metro Detroit — have been selected as semifinalists in the 2026 James Beard Awards. The nominees will be announced on March 31 (visit hourdetroit.com for updates), and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
Best New Restaurant and Bar, Ann Arbor Ann Arbor;
Best New Restaurant Echelon Kitchen and Bar, Ann Arbor 200 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; echelon kitchenandbar.com
Best New Bar Bar Chenin, Detroit 1509 Broadway St., Suite A-1, Detroit; barchenin.com
Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH) Javier Bardauil, Barda, Detroit 4842 Grand River Ave., Detroit; bardadetroit.com
John Yelinek, Ladder 4 Wine Bar, Detroit 3396 Vinewood St., Detroit; ladder4 winebar.com
Andy Elliott and Emily Stewart, Modern Bird, Traverse City 541 W. Front St., Traverse City; modernbirdtc.com
James Galbraith, PostBoy, New Bu alo 207 N. Whittaker St., New Bu alo; postboynb.com
OK, here is my biggest bar pet peeve of all time (aside from snapping fingers and bad tippers): what I call the “outloud speakeasy.” Walking down a bustling Chicago street, I nearly collided with a giant sandwich-board sign in the middle of the sidewalk. In giant, neon-pink letters, the sign shouted, “SPEAKEASY THIS WAY.”
It reminded me of a line from the classic movie The Princess Bride: “You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.”
Speakeasy-style? Sure. Craft cocktails? Definitely OK. If you choose to advertise your speakeasy, then it is, by definition, not a speakeasy. Rant over.
We’re not here today to talk about Chicago or speakeasies, per se. We’re here to talk about the cool, the interesting, the underground bars — in the literal sense. Here in metro Detroit, we have tons of bars tucked down intriguing stairwells, just waiting for the intrepid explorer to plunge into a new adventure.
Underground bars run the gamut in price, personality, and purpose. Sometimes, locals need a hideaway to call their own, and an underground bar can be just that.
The origin of the term “dive bar” comes from a late-19th-century reference to drinkers seeking out lower-class joints where “frequenters may ‘dive’ without observation,” as the Oxford English Dictionary catalogs. A place like Frank’s
You can access
Underground Bars
BY MICKEY LYONS
Sometimes, you have to find a low-down place to drink in peace
Eastside Tavern in Mount Clemens may have once fit this description, but time and generations of loyal customers have smoothed out the sharp, divey edges of Frank’s, and now it’s simply a beloved basement watering hole. Ditto the members-only Jolly Old Timers in Midtown, a revered social club for the city’s die-hard Cass Corridor residents.
Then there’s the kind of underground bar that you duck into to escape the crowds. If I’m caught downtown when a Tigers or Wings game is letting out, I can head over to Easy Peasy and pop downstairs to Lowkey for some … well, lowkey chill time.
Repurposed banks seem to be an ideal spot to host underground bars. In Plymouth, The Ebenezer hides below a former bank. And downtown’s Shelby can be tricky to find for the uninitiated: The address may appear on Google Maps, but
unless you know which business to enter first, you’ll never be admitted into the vault below, and the curated secrets will remain hidden from sight.
There’s something deliciously cozy about an underground bar, where the only light comes from low-wattage bulbs and candles, and the even clank of glasses is muted. It invites hushed conversation and whispered secrets. Places like Johnny’s in Royal Oak, Aladdin Sane downtown, and The Upright underneath Milwaukee Junction’s Oak & Reel lean heavily into the decadence of the underground. Sink down into a plush corner booth and let the world carry on without you for a bit.
Whatever you’re diving below the surface for, whether that’s a shot and a beer, a chance to escape the heat or the crowds, or the search for a sophisticated cocktail, metro Detroit has a range of choices for the discerning drinker. Call it a dive, a lowkey bar, an underground joint — even call it a speakeasy, sure. But if you’re doing the latter, maybe don’t put a sandwich board and directions out front, please.
DRINKS
The Upright via the stairs or elevator of Oak & Reel. Hour photographed Tom Selleck here for our November 2025 issue.
If you know where to look, you can pull back the curtain to find Aladdin Sane in the Book Tower.
RESTAURANT REVIEW
A Rare Find
BY DANNY PALUMBO
PHOTOS BY REBECCA SIMONOV
The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery is a thoughtful tribute to the village’s New England roots
This is one of the best restaurants to open in recent memory.
Nestled inside a renovated 19th-century cottage house, The Franklin takes you back to the 19th-century oyster boom — when oysters were an affordable delicacy and a linchpin in American dining — back to early country architecture, and back to the lost art of dining with intention. While I certainly felt charmed by the building’s bespoke, Old World captivation, it’s The Franklin’s commitment to simple yet elegant dining that’s charmed me most.
The interior feels like a warm lodge where a weary traveler finds refuge after a long trek out in the snow. The building itself is a historic carriage house. It’s refurbished, yes, but not in a way that feels telegraphed or too modern. The lighting is just right, resting in this sort of one-size-fits-all sweet spot — not so bright that things feel sterile and not too dark that the restaurant feels like it’s hiding something. The interior conjures feelings of a mountain inn or a log cabin illuminated by a roaring fireplace. The music is soft but distinct; people’s voices match the tune both in softness and intimacy. The Franklin is both a place for close conversation and roving interaction.
This unique eatery rests in the village of Franklin in Oakland County. With a population not eclipsing 3,000 people, it reads like an old Amish town or a hilly, coastal neighborhood in Maine. Franklin is known for its historic structures, estates, and, of course, Franklin Cider Mill. It’s also named after Benjamin Franklin, so there are some clear New England roots here. Those roots serve as the restaurant’s overarching theme, a concept that executive chef Nick Geftos captures beautifully with his food.
“We dug into the roots of Franklin,” says Geftos. “Dating back to the mid-1800s, the village was founded by people from New England. What we were finding was that people from the East Coast had missed their oysters. So either on a train or [by using]
horse and buggy, they would pack oysters with chunks of ice and hay. And they had these oyster suppers here.”
Effectively, Geftos and team have brought these large oyster get-togethers back to the village. The oyster bar concept isn’t a dart thrown at a board; it’s pure Franklin — a smart way to honor its history. The legend of this small town lives on so long as this cozy oyster bar remains open.
And you will want to order oysters at The Franklin, which features a daily selection of East and West Coast, the latter of which are becoming increasingly difficult to find in southeast Michigan. On this particular night, each of the West Coast oysters hail from Washington: Chelsea gems are briny and sweet, Miramichi have a full-body and cool, melon-y flavor, and Blue Pools carry a hint of sweetness. Very few restaurants in metro Detroit offer West Coast oysters, so diners will want to take advantage. The selections rotate, but expect six (three East Coast, three West Coast) to be available at all times.
The Icelandic haddock fish and chips is served with a Savoy cabbage slaw and a caper tartar sauce.
From left: pastry chef Tanya Bowers, executive chef Nick Geftos, general manager Robert Cook, assistant general manager Taylor Cramer, and chef de cuisine David Coon
The mussels are steamed and paired with a warm white wine broth.
With oysters on the brain, Geftos has created an entire menu meant to honor this raw delicacy. Think a supporting cast of fish and chips, a burger, smoked sturgeon, steamed mussels, lobster rolls, and fries. In fact, my main thesis about The Franklin is that it’s one of the best restaurants in southeast Michigan for fried food.
The fish and chips features a few filets of fried Icelandic haddock, a crunchy Savoy cabbage coleslaw, and potatoes fried so crispy that they crunch and pop in your mouth. I spoke with Geftos specifically about his potatoes, which are brined in salt and vinegar, then fried twice, much like you would approach a french fry. “If this is how the chef cares for his potatoes, imagine how he treats the rest of the menu,” I immediately thought.
More fried food abounds with precision, imagination, and good fun. The fried mushrooms are a phenomenal appetizer, each one meaty and juicy, while the breading holds its delightfully brittle crust. The side of French onion dip here, perhaps a nod to the legendary packets of Lipton onion dip, packs a wallop of umami flavor. “Dedication to simple food means there are no misses,” Geftos tells me. And miss, The Franklin does not.
A sturgeon plate arrives — meaty, tender slivers of smoked fish taste luxurious and smoldering. The sturgeon sits opposite some buttery Hatch chile cornbread and an array of pickled peppers like the tear-shaped Sweety Drops and the lesser-known Feferoni, both of which provide some brightly acidic balance. Enjoy the trio all at once or graze separately on all three.
Every dish at The Franklin seems like a rare find. Take the Pemaquid mussels, which hail from the pristine waters of Down East Maine on the Canadian border. Geftos admits that the Pemaquid mussels are a bit of a boutique item, but I must say that they aren’t esoteric for the sake of being esoteric. Plump, juicy, clean, and surprisingly fresh, each of the Pemaquid mussels are a rare, bivalve jewel, served with a white wine and butter sauce, clusters of seasoned sausage (I hesitate to call the sausage spicy, but it packs heat), and a buttered and browned piece of soft Texas toast. The move here is to rip the bivalve in half, dip the mussel-filled part into the buttery
The baked Alaska is both art and the perfect final bite.
At a Glance: Price: $$$
Vibe: Cozy and intimate Service: Fair
Sound level: Medium
Dress code: None
Open: 4-10 p.m.
Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 4-11 p.m.
Saturday, 4-9 p.m.
Sunday; closed Monday
Reservations: Book on Resy
Parking: Back lot parking available
Valet: None
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
broth, then shoot the whole thing like an oyster. No utensils needed.
Oh, and if the baked Alaska is any indication, then you might want to “full send” the dessert menu, depending on how many dining companions join your table. Here, a classic dessert gets a brilliantly thoughtful upgrade with a hazelnut, cardamom, and orange anglaise at its center, an envelope of torched meringue, and some candied orange for a garnish. The meringue insulates the anglaise with the efficiency of a chest freezer, as the floral, frozen center is cold, refreshing, and invigorating. The whole dessert balances delicately atop a coin-sized brown butter blondie. I’ve been telling everyone who will listen about the baked Alaska. It has its hooks in me. I’d even say that it haunts me.
everybody here and even more surprises up its sleeve. The menu will experiment with new dishes frequently. As of this writing, Chef Geftos has been playing with a hearty seafood shepherd’s pie that’s been on special, though I get the sense it’s going to graduate to the main menu soon.
If you like oysters and coastal seafood, you’ll leave here happy. Hell, even if you don’t, The Franklin still has the power to win you over with its non-seafood options.
The former carriage house has plenty of natural light.
For drinks, I recommend the oyster bar martini, a freezer martini of sorts, with chilled vodka, a Fino sherry wash, and a briny, anchovy-stuffed olive for snacking — smooth and wonderful, classic and modern, like everything housed within these refurbished walls. Enjoy the cocktail list, but you’ll want to weave through the list of wines, too. Rosé goes particularly well with some of the fried options, and effervescence is always in order when enjoying raw oysters.
The Franklin has restored some of my faith in restaurants, in insightful concepts and honest ideas. It’s got flavors for
Toward the end of the meal, “RunAround” by Blues Traveler poured through the restaurant’s well-hidden speakers. As the joyous notes of a harmonica floated through the air, I imagined what those early oyster suppers must have been like, how New England settlers in Franklin gathered to enjoy each other’s company, and how this very building realizes and honors that tradition today. The Franklin invites you to walk through a time portal, and once you do, you won’t want to come back.
Private Schools
Academy of the Sacred Heart Bloomfield Hills ashmi.org
Archdiocese of Detroit Office for Catholic Schools Detroit
Bright Horizons at Midtown Detroit
Brookfield Academy - Rochester Hills Campus
Brookfield Academy - Troy Campus Troy brookfieldacademy.net
Brookfield Academy - West Bloomfield Campus West Bloomfield brookfieldacademy.net
Brother Rice High School Bloomfield Hills brrice.edu
Cranbrook Schools
Bloomfield Hills schools.cranbrook.edu
De La Salle Collegiate Warren delasallehs.com
Detroit Catholic Central High School Novi catholiccentral.net
Detroit Country Day School Beverly Hills dcds.edu
Detroit Diesel - UAW Child Development Center Detroit brighthorizons.com/detroitdiesel
Detroit Waldorf School Detroit detroitwaldorf.org
Eagle Creek Academy Oakland Township eaglecreekacademy.com
Eton Academy Birmingham etonacademy.org
everestcatholic.org
Grosse Pointe Academy Grosse Pointe Farms gpacademy.org
Marian High School
japhetschool.org
SUMMER IS WHAT WE DO Best
Campville USA returns to THE WAR MEMORIAL June through August!
Explore, play, learn, and grow in our series of mini-camps for kids ages 5+. From crafting to empowerment, cooking to cartoons, and art to self-defense, our summer mini-camps will inspire children all summer long!
WHERE STUDENTS WHO THINK & LEARN DIFFERENTLY FIND THEIR BEST PATH FORWARD
At Eton Academy, we understand that when students learn differently, they shouldn’t have to struggle in order to succeed. Sometimes, all they need is the right environment—one that finally makes learning click.
If this school year hasn’t gone the way you hoped, it’s not too late to explore a school designed specifically for students who learn differently—enroll now for the remainder of this year and for next year!
At Eton, students in grades K–12 gain the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE ETON:
THE ETON APPROACH®, PERSONALIZED INSTRUCTION THAT WORKS:
Every student receives an individualized learning plan designed to build confidence, independence, and measurable academic growth.
EXPERT TEACHERS: Our instructors are trained to support students with learning needs related to attention, language, executive functioning, reading, and more.
SMALL CLASS SIZES: With 10 or fewer students per class, each child receives the focused academic and emotional support they deserve.
WHOLE-CHILD GROWTH: Students strengthen executive functioning, self-advocacy, and academic skills, while building confidence every single day.
Learning Students Love
From early school through grade 12, our students learn by doing, with an emphasis on meaning over memorization. With small class sizes, and a rigorous curriculum, the Liggett Approach teaches students to think critically and prepares them to thrive in college — and beyond.
More than a school, ULS is a community. Experience it in person — join us for a campus visit. uls.org
RESTAURANT GUIDE
Detroit
Adelina
$$$
ITALIAN • This relative newcomer to downtown Detroit features traditional Italian eats in a modern atmosphere, with house-made pasta and starters like focaccia, octopus, sausage and peppers, and a roasted Wagyu meatball. Entrées include lamb chops with house-made tzatziki, veal Parmesan, and branzino served with tricolor potatoes, salsa verde, and a tomato-based Livornese sauce. 1040 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-246-8811. D Tue.-Sun.
Amore da Roma $$
ITALIAN • Once the longest operating Italian restaurant in Detroit, Roma Café was transformed into this Eastern Market staple by chef Guy Pelino in 2017. The menu features favorites like fried calamari, baked lasagna, and house-made paglia and fieno — a traditional pasta dish made with spinach and egg noodles. 3401 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313-831-5940. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Alpino
$$$
ALPINE •Taking inspiration from the Alps, this Corktown restaurant serves fondues, Swiss potato pancakes, stuffed pasta, and Wiener schnitzel. Enjoy your meal with wines from Italy, Slovenia, or Germany. The historic building has been repurposed and is now inspired by European countryside farmhouses, lending a cozy interior to the Alpine-inspired menu. 1426 Bagley St., Detroit; 313-524-0888. D daily, BR Sun.
Andiamo $$
ITALIAN • Centered on a commitment to quality, fromscratch cooking, Joe Vicari has turned his culinary approach into a local restaurant dynasty. Each location has a slightly unique menu, but they all feature fresh, house-made pastas. Dishes like the frutti di mare — a shellfish-forward seafood stew — and braised short ribs round out the menu. 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit; 313-567-6700. D Mon.-Fri., L,D Sat.-Sun. 38703 Seven Mile Road, Livonia; 734-953-3200. D daily.
Apparatus Room
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Located in the former Detroit Fire Department headquarters, the Apparatus Room at the Foundation Hotel once stored fire trucks and other lifesaving equipment. These days, you’ll find elevated fare made with local, seasonal ingredients. For starters, try the crispy pork belly or the heritage sourdough served with whipped butter and sea salt. As an entrée, the Michigan pork chop packs a savory punch, with farro, kale, and a sorghum jus. 250 W. Larned St., Detroit; 313-800-5600. B,L,D Mon.-Fri., BR,D Sat.-Sun.
Avalon Café and Bakery
$
ORGANIC BAKERY • What originally started as small bakery specializing in organic breads has evolved into multiple cafés serving up artisan baked goods. Avalon’s Woodward location offers a variety of breakfast items,
such as the egg and cheese sandwich served on 313 bread. It also boasts a selection of muffins, with favorites like blackberry walnut and chocolate espresso. 1049 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-285-8006. B,L daily.
Babo
Save room for the broken pavlova, a sweet and savory combination made with strawberries, citrus mousse, and salmon roe. 4842 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-952-5182. D Wed.-Sun.
Basan
$
NEW AMERICAN • Nestled into a cozy space in Midtown Detroit, this all-day diner carries both breakfast and lunch fare. For a morning meal, try the chorizo breakfast tacos, which come with all the fixings. The Korean beef cheesesteak or buffalo chicken sandwich will handle any midday cravings. 15 E. Kirby St., Ste. 115, Detroit; 313-974-6159. BR,L daily.
Baker’s Keyboard Lounge
$$
SOUL FOOD • This iconic jazz lounge offers up live music alongside good eats. Work your way through fried chicken, corn muffins, collard greens, and sweet potato pie while listening to live jazz music. 20510 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-345-6300. D Mon.-Fri.
Baobab Fare
$$
EAST AFRICAN • This New Center eatery, founded by Burundian refugees Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere, opened its doors in 2021. Choose from East African dishes like ugali — a traditional corn flour swallow served with an okra stew. The beverage menu is complete with a selection of fresh juices, coffees, and teas to complement any meal. For a sweet bite, try the coconut cream with mango coulis and fresh mango chunks. 6568 Woodward Ave., Ste. 100, Detroit; 313-265-3093. L,D Tues.-Sun.
Bar Chenin
$$$
WINE BAR • In the far corner of The Siren Hotel sits Detroit’s smallest wine bar. With only 10 seats and limited standing room, the bar’s cozy atmosphere pairs well with its rotating selection of natural wines and homestyle dishes. Enjoy a house-made assortment of ice creams, offering unique flavors like Negroni, olive oil, and Underberg. For something savory, try the sourdough focaccia pizza or deli-style sandwiches. 1509 Broadway St., Ste. A-1, Detroit; 313-277-4736 (Siren Hotel). D Thu.-Mon.
Bar Pigalle
$$$$
JAPANESE FUSION • Just around the corner from Little Caesars Arena, you’ll find small bites and meat skewers prepared over a robata grill. Larger dishes are available, such as ramen-rub chicken wings or a fried chicken sandwich served on milk bread. It’s known for its inventive cocktails, with highlights including Then There Was One, made with rum and pandan, and Pear Pressure, made with shiso and mint gin. 2703 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-481-2703. D daily.
Besa
$$$
EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The culture and cuisine of the northern Mediterranean are on full display at this modern fine-dining establishment. Try the tiropita to start — Besa’s take on the Greek pastry served with hot honey, sesame, and thyme. Taste the fruits of the Adriatic Sea with scallops accompanied by bacon, scallions, and mashed potatoes. 600 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-315-3000. D Mon.-Sat.
Bohemia
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • The former members-only lounge in this restored Romanesque Revival in downtown Detroit is now a posh restaurant open to the public. (The downstairs bar is also open to the public.) The stunning dining room reflects the club’s history while staying fresh and modern, with local art on the walls and an Instagrammable seating area in the middle of the dining room, featuring plush couches and trees lined with lights. The food is upscale but approachable, including the Nashville fried chicken and the lobster fettucini, which is worth every indulgent bite. 712 Cass Ave., Detroit, 313-338-3222. D Wed.-Sat.
Cadieux Café
$$ BELGIAN • This institution was like a slice of home for early Belgian immigrants. The former speakeasy serves up four varieties of mussels and a wide range of hearty dishes such as Belgian rabbit, but there are also classic sandwiches. 4300 Cadieux Road, Detroit; 313-882-8560. D daily.
$$$
FRENCH • In Brush Park, once known as Little Paris, you’ll find a haven for modern, French-inspired cuisine. Classic dishes like oysters and steak tartare share a space with heartier bites, like the striped bass and cassoulet. If you sit at the bar, try the pub-style burger that comes blanketed in melty cheese and can be ordered with one or two patties. 2915 John R Road, Detroit; 313-497-9200. D daily.
Barda
$$$$
ARGENTINIAN • Inspired by cuisine from chef Javier Bardauil’s home country of Argentina, this Core City staple emphasizes live-fire cooking and raw bites. The beets, thin-cut and formed into a rose, are dusted with raspberry powder. Beef takes center stage, with multiple cuts to choose from.
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Caucus Club
$$$$
TRADITIONAL AMERICAN • Founded in 1952 as a sister restaurant to London Chop House, Caucus Club is where Barbra Streisand famously launched her singing career. This steakhouse has all the classics, from oysters Rockefeller to steak tartare, and, of course, a selection of prime-cut steaks, aged in a Himalayan salt-lined aging room. 150 W. Congress, Detroit; 313-965-4970. D daily.
Central Kitchen & Bar
$$ CREATIVE COMFORT • The space facing Campus Martius is done up in gray and white under industrial light fixtures. Crowd-pleasers include buttermilk fried chicken, filet and frites, burgers, and salads. 660 Woodward Ave., Ste. 4A, Detroit; 313-963-9000. D Thu.-Sat., BR Sat.-Sun.
Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • While the menu rotates based on the season, its offerings always highlight the freshest local ingredients. Creatively prepared dishes range from cold starters to hearty entrées. But the Twice Cooked Egg is not to be missed. 15 E. Kirby St., Detroit; 313-818-3915. D Tue.-Sat.
Cibo $$$
ITALIAN-INSPIRED • Cibo offers a “social dining” experience, with shared plates, craft cocktails, and theatrical presentations. On the menu: pizzas, steaks, chops, seafood, and plenty of veggies. It’s located inside the Cambria Hotel Detroit Downtown, an Albert Kahn-designed building that once housed the original WWJ radio station. 600 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-338-3529. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Cliff Bell’s $$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This restored Art Deco hot spot offers small plates such as oysters with cava granita and potato croquettes. Entrées range from savory seared diver scallops to a 16-ounce grilled pork chop. Jazz prevails on the bandstand. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-961-2543. D Wed.-Sun.
Common Pub $
GASTROPUB • Fans of Atlas Global Bistro, which shuttered in 2013, should be happy to learn that some of the principals may be found at this spot in the Belcrest Apartments. The well-edited menu includes duck fat-fried chicken and a burger. 5440 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-285-8849. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., BR Sun.
Coriander Kitchen and Farm $$
GASTROPUB • At this Jefferson Chalmers eatery, guests can rent firepits and roast house-made marshmallows for s’mores or sip mugs of hot buttered rum. By day, grab a picnic table and enjoy creamy smoked lake trout whitefish dip, seasoned with herbs and paired with pickles and crackers. 14601 Riverside Blvd., Detroit; 313 338-9466. D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., BR Sun.
Cork & Gabel
$$$
EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This Corktown eatery takes the form of a 4,450-square-foot renovated beer hall and is an ode to filling European staples. Try the chicken marsala, featuring a pan-seared 7-ounce chicken breast, sautéed wild mushroom blend, wild rice, and seasonal grilled vegetables, cooked in a Lombardo Ambra Sweet Marsala wine sauce. Simply delicious! 2415 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-638-2261. D Wed.-Sat., BR Sat., B,L Sun.
Cuisine
$$$
EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • Cuisine offers a romantic, white-linen experience with the level of food, service, and ambience one might describe as timeless rather than trendy. Examples of the expertly prepared fare include Alaskan halibut, as well as sea scallops featuring lemon risotto, corn, almonds, citrus butter, and beet dust. 670 Lothrop Road, Detroit; 313-872-5110. D Wed.-Sat. (Not wheelchair accessible)
Dakota Inn Rathskeller $
EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The sausages are the kind that snap when you cut them. The combo plate features one bratwurst and one knackwurst, served with hot German potato salad and sauerkraut. And yes, sing along with the Schnitzelbank song. 17324 John R St., Detroit; 313-867-9722. D Thu.-Sat.
Detroit Shipping Company
$
VARIOUS • This bi-level destination created out of shipping containers offers a variety of food options ranging from the Caribbean-fusion dishes at Coop to Thai fare from Bangkok 96 and more. 474 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-462-4973. L Sat.-Sun., D Tue.-Sun.
Detroit Soul
$ SOUL FOOD • A hidden gem on the city’s east side, Detroit Soul serves its namesake with a healthy twist. Owners Sam Van Buren and Jerome Brown draw from the recipes of their grandparents, who relocated to Detroit from Alabama in the 1940s. The turkey and collard greens are savory standouts, and yams are a sweet treat. This is the kind of place that every soul-food lover must visit. 2900 E. Eight Mile Road, Detroit; 313-366-5600. 14300 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-926-6305. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Detroit Vegan Soul
$ VEGAN • The popular spot offers your classic soul-food favorites with plant-based twists — mac and cheese, collard greens, and interpretations of catfish and pepper steak. 19614 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-727-1973. L Mon.-Fri. (Carryout focused)
Dime Store
$
BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • This popular breakfast and lunch spot adds just the right retro touch to a contemporary American menu typified by fresh, hearty omelets and Benedicts early in the day. 719 Griswold St., Ste. 180, Detroit; 313-962-9106. B,L Thu.-Tue. 6920 N. Rochester Road, Rochester Hills; 313-962-9106. B,L daily.
Eatori Market
$$
SPECIALTY GROCERY • This stylish spot overlooks downtown’s Capitol Park. The menu has steamed mussels with leeks, garlic, and toasted crostini. International flourishes abound with truffle aioli for the burger. 1215 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-395-3030. L,D daily.
El Asador Steakhouse
$$
MEXICAN • The concentrated cuisine with little modern flairs also stays faithful to traditional Mexican cooking. Don’t miss the camarones en salsa de langosta: breaded shrimp stuffed with cheese, fried to a golden dark brown, and topped with a lobster cream sauce. It’s an unassuming Latin American find in Detroit’s Springwells Village. 1312 Springwells St., Detroit; 313-297-2360. L,D Tue.-Sun.
El Barzon
$$$
MEXICAN-ITALIAN • Norberto Garita prepares Italian and Mexican cuisine alongside his wife, Silvia Rosario Garita. Authentic Mexican entrées include enchiladas with a homemade green sauce made with tomatillo, jalapeño, and roasted poblano pepper, while the Italian influence takes the form of spaghetti carbonara and zuppa di pesce (seafood soup). 3710 Junction Ave., Detroit; 313-894-2070. D Tue.-Sun.
Evie’s Tamales
$$
MEXICAN • This Mexicantown restaurant makes some of the best tamales around. Pork or chicken is jacketed with sturdy masa, a dough of ground corn, then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. Eat in or order a dozen for later. 3454 Bagley St., Detroit; 313-843-5056. B,L Mon.-Sat.
Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café $$ NEW ORLEANIAN • Enjoy New Orleans classics like gumbo and jambalaya or something more eclectic like jalapeño
pepper jack cheese, flamed tableside and served with grilled pita bread. Or try the deep-fried alligator bites or catfish beignets. Check their calendar for live music to accompany your meal. 400 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-965-4600. fishbonesusa.com for more locations.
Flowers of Vietnam $$
VIETNAMESE • Chef and owner George Azar transformed a former Coney Island into an industrial-cool destination, but the neighborhood joint vibe remains. The menu is shaped around Azar’s appreciation of Vietnamese food, with a very personal twist. 4440 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-554-2085. D Thu.-Sun.
Folk $
NEW AMERICAN • Folk is a charming Corktown storefront dishing up an all-day brunch menu. It’s an offshoot of The Farmer’s Hand grocery and farmers market. The menu focuses on globally inspired dishes like salads, quiche, and sandwiches — all beautifully plated and nutritious. Infused milks and frothy lattes are sought after, too. 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-742-2672. B,L daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
2024
Freya $$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Freya provides elegant, elevated dining served inside a warm and inviting space in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction district. Chef de cuisine Cole Lauri’s fixed-price dinners — which change daily and are available in five or nine courses — invite guests to tap into a world of flavors and sensations. There are also cocktail pairings and dishes that accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian diets. Co-run by 2023 James Beard semifinalist Sandy Levine, Freya made The New York Times’s list of the 50 best restaurants in 2022. 2929 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-351-5544. D Tue.-Sat.
Fusion Flare Kitchen & Cocktails
$
NEW AMERICAN/SOUL • Burgers and wings share the menu with classic Southern staples like catfish, yams, and greens on Detroit’s west side. Try the delectable shrimp plate starter — it can be ordered deep-fried, New Orleans-style (with Cajun seasoning), or sautéed in a scampi sauce with garlic butter and wine. 16801 Plymouth Road, Detroit; 313-653-3700. L,D Wed.-Sun.
Giovanni’s Ristorante
$$$ ITALIAN • This old-school Italian restaurant offers house-made pastas, including outstanding lasagna. Elaborate veal and seafood dishes and desserts like key lime cheesecake tiramisu round out the delicious menu. 330 Oakwood Blvd., Detroit; 313-841-0122. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.
Golden Fleece
$$ GREEK • Spend a night dining in Greektown’s longest-standing restaurant, starting with a flaming saganaki and a joyous “Opa!” Then, peruse the menu containing various Balkan comfort foods like chicken gyros, spinach pie, and french fries sprinkled with feta and oregano. 525 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-962-7093. L,D daily.
Grandma Bob’s
$ PIZZA • If you’re wondering what that psychedelic building on Corktown’s Michigan Avenue is, it’s a pizzeria known as Grandma Bob’s. Chef Dan DeWall, previously of Wright and Co., offers a small, delicious menu of pies, including sausage and pistachio with ricotta
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cheese and thyme. Or try the Big Mack — the vegan pizza version of the popular burger. 2135 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-315-3177. L,D daily.
Grand Trunk Pub
$
NEW AMERICAN • Meats from Eastern Market and delicious breads anchor the hearty fare, which pairs well with a selection of Michigan beers. Staples include a Reuben with Poet stout kraut and the Ghettoblaster beer-battered fish and chips. 612 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-961-3043.; L,D, Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.
The Greek
$
GREEK • The place to find modern Greek food, The Greek has all the favorites, from spanakopita to moussaka and gyros. Enjoy it all while sipping a strawberry shortcake martini or a spicy mule. 535 Monroe Ave., Detroit; 313-209-6667. L,D daily.
Green Dot Stables
$
NEW AMERICAN • The menu of sliders — with 20-plus eclectic bun toppings, including Cuban, Korean, and “mystery meat” — packs in fans. Local beers are spotlighted alongside chicken paprikas soup, a nod to the neighborhood’s Hungarian origins. 2200 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-962-5588. L,D daily.
Grey Ghost $$
NEW AMERICAN • The cuisine at this Brush Park hot spot isn’t easily defined, but the results are original and well prepared — for example, pork tenderloin with romesco, peri peri, and wild rice or yellowfin tuna with kimchi, edamame, and sweet soy. 47 Watson St., Detroit; 313-262-6534. D daily.
Highlands
$$$$ STEAKHOUSE/NEW AMERICAN • On the top two floors of the Renaissance Center, Highlands is the concept of chef-owner Shawn McClain, a James Beard awardee and Iron Chef winner. Besides boasting one of the city’s most breathtaking views, the steakhouse’s offerings include three-course dinners with optional sommelier wine pairings. Its High Bar features an impressive selection of beers and spirits, plus elevated bar bites like the Hearth Burger. 400 Renaissance Center, Floors 71 and 72, Detroit; 313-8779090; D Mon.-Sat.
Hiroki-San
$$$$
JAPANESE • Venture to the basement of the historic Book Tower building to enter Hiroki-San’s shoji-lined, mood-lit dining room. The menu includes an optional sake pairing and cocktails like the Genmaicha-Hai, a green tea-infused highball with lemon juice, honey, apricot, and seltzer. On the food side, enjoy small plates like the sweet and savory tako-age (deep-fried octopus), robatayaki and yakitori offerings, Wagyu steaks, and noodles. Sushi and sashimi can be ordered à la carte or as a “chef’s choice” platter. The wasabi is real. 1265 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313-597-8344. D Tue.-Sat.
The Hudson Cafe $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • The fresh, well-prepared fare from the kitchen of this breakfast/lunch spot has creative takes on the eggs Benedict theme, red velvet pancakes, and apple-walnut stuffed French toast, plus lunchtime sandwiches and salads. 1241 Woodward Ave.,
AMERICAN • Jammy-yolk egg sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and more are on the menu at Iggy’s Eggies’ walkup window. You can also get smashburgers and fresh-cut fries at Iggy’s. Take your breakfast or lunch to a table at nearby Capitol Park for a true downtown experience. 34 West Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-986-1174. B,L daily.
Ima $
JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This ramen hot spot has three locations and a Midwest emphasis. Ima’s tacos trade the traditional shell for a slice of jicama, stuffed with spicy shrimp, roasted tofu, or garlic chicken. Appetizers include edamame, dumplings, and clams. 4870 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-883-9788. 32203 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-781-0131. L,D daily.
Ima Izakaya
$$
JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Chef Michawel Ransom has slowly and steadily built up his local chain of noodle shops over the past few years, and his latest one takes it up a notch with the izakaya concept, the Japanese equivalent of a pub. In addition to the staple noodles and soups that put Ransom on the map, the menu also includes grilled skewers from the robata grill, such as kawahagi trigger fish jerky and mini kurobuta pork sausages. There’s also a tantalizing selection of cocktails and mocktails, sake, beer, and wine to make it a true izakaya experience. 2100 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 313-306-9485. L,D daily.
Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails
$$$ NEW AMERICAN • This Black-owned restaurant was founded by Nya Marshall to bring fine dining to the East Jefferson Corridor where she grew up. The spot serves New American fare with international influences in a modern, elevated space bathed in neutral tones. The mezcal wings with pickled jalapeño and cilantro bring a Mexican kick, while dishes like the creamy Cajun pasta contribute New Orleans flavors. 9215 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-332-0607; L Fri.-Sun., D daily.
Jacoby’s
$$ GERMAN • Detroit’s oldest biergarten, Jacoby’s has been serving beer and traditional German fare since the late 1800s. Pick from over 100 beers on the rotating drink menu: everything from German pilsners and hefeweizens to Irish stouts and craft brews. The food menu honors the restaurant’s roots with favorites like house-made potato pancakes, schnitzel, and German-style meatballs. 624 Brush St., Detroit; 313-962-7067. L,D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
Joe Muer Seafood
2012
$$$$ SEAFOOD • This reborn Detroit legend is stellar for a romantic evening or a quiet business lunch or dinner. Located on the main floor of the GMRenCen, it has sweeping views of the Detroit River and a menu that walks the line between old-time favorites and hipper Asian-influenced seafood, sushi, and raw bar. (There’s also a Bloomfield Hills location.) There are reminders of the past as well: smoked fish spread, creamed spinach, and stewed tomatoes. It’s a true Detroit classic. 400 Renaissance Center, Ste. 1404, Detroit; 313-567-6837. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. L,D daily.
Johnny Noodle King $ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This noodle shop offers bowls topped with pork belly, confit chicken, and tofu, as well as seaweed salad and gyoza. There are also several fusion bowls like the Southwest verde, a green chili chicken broth topped with chicken thigh confit, cilantro, corn, and hot peppers. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-309-7946. L,D daily.
Jolly Pumpkin $$ BREWERY • Jolly Pumpkin’s brews rule the offerings, along with other Northern United Brewing Co. beverages, such as North Peak and Jolly Pumpkin artisan ales. Pizzas with creative toppings abound. 441 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-262-6115. 419 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248544-6250. 311 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-913-2730. L,D daily (Detroit, Ann Arbor); L Fri.-Mon., D daily (Royal Oak).
The Kitchen by Cooking with Que $$ VEGAN • This eatery created by Detroit-based cooking blogger Quiana Broden serves lunches of smoothies, salads, and sandwiches. Broden also often offers live cooking demonstrations. 6529 Woodward Ave., Ste. A, Detroit; 313462-4184. L,D Fri.-Sun. Private events only Mon.-Thur.
Ladder 4 Wine Bar
$$$
WINE BAR • This southwest Detroit wine bar occupies a former 1910 firehouse, offering a daily wine list and seasonal European-inspired bites made with local ingredients — some grown in its backyard garden. Though its owners prefer not to call it a restaurant, it made Bon Appétit’s “24 Best New Restaurants” and The New York Times’s “50 Places in the United States That We’re Most Excited About Right Now” — both in 2023. 3396 Vinewood St., Detroit; 313-638-1601. D Wed.-Sun.
La Dolce Vita
$$$
ITALIAN • Traditional Italian cuisine is key at this Palmer Park hideaway. Recommended is the bronzino in lemon caper cream sauce, the veal scaloppine with artichokes, and the lasagna. 17546 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-865-0331. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.
La Lanterna
$$
ITALIAN • The founder of Da Edoardo, the first Edoardo Barbieri, started it all in 1956 with a restaurant called La Lanterna. Now his grandchildren have revived it. Although the white and red pizzas — like Margherita, Liguria, and Da Edorado — dominate, there are more, including a number of elegant pastas like the lasagna alla Bolognese. 1224 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-962-8821. L,D Tue.-Sun.
London Chop House $$ STEAKHOUSE • The kitchen turns out classics like oysters Rockefeller, French onion soup, and sautéed loup de mer with scallops. This is the place to come when you need to satisfy a craving for steak in elegant surroundings with hospitable service. 155 W. Congress St., Detroit; 313-962-0277. D Mon.-Sat.
Leila $$$
LEBANESE • The restaurant from the proprietors of Birmingham’s Phoenicia is named after the owner’s mother — just one facet of the establishment that pays homage to family traditions and heritage. The menu includes various Lebanese dishes, from falafel to Leila’s Mixed Grill, which offers a little bit of everything with shish kebab, tawook, and kafta. Other menu items include kibbeh niyee — fresh
lamb, cracked wheat, and spices — and tabbouleh made of parsley, cracked wheat, and spices. The beer and wine lists offer plenty of options to accompany any meal. 1245 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-816-8100. D daily.
Leña
$$$$
SPANISH-INSPIRED • At this restaurant located in Brush Park, just about every dish on the menu touches the kitchen’s central hearth at some point during its preparation. The menu riffs on Basque pinchos and Catalan tapas, plus a fine selection of Spanish wines and gin and tonics. James Beard-honored pastry chef Lena Sareini’s desserts are divine. 2720 Brush St., Detroit; 313-262-6082. D Wed.-Mon.
Le Suprême
$$$
FRENCH • This Paris-inspired brasserie pays homage to the City of Light with its 1920s-inspired decor on the historic Book Tower’s ground floor. There are pastis, absinthe, France-themed cocktails, and over 300 wines. Standout dishes include escargots, honey-roasted duck breast, and trout amandine. 1265 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313-597-7734. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Lumen Detroit
$$
NEW AMERICAN • A contemporary American menu and a Victor Saroki setting make the restaurant overlooking downtown’s Beacon Park one of the best recent entrants onto the scene. Appetizers such as freshly made pretzels prelude main courses like the maple Dijon salmon. 1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-626-5005. L Fri.-Sun., D. Wed.-Sun.
Mario’s $$$ ITALIAN • This Midtown Detroit classic dates back to 1948. Linen-covered tables, framed paintings on wood-paneled walls, expert waiters clad in black tie, and tableside preparation survive here. Italian dinners always begin with an antipasto tray and continue with soup, salad, pasta, and entrées. 4222 Second Ave., Detroit; 313-832-1616. L,D daily.
Marrow
$$$$
NEW AMERICAN • This West Village restaurant and butcher shop hybrid is an ode to meat, especially unusual cuts. Diners must walk through the butcher shop, bypassing cases of pastrami and sausage, before entering the restaurant. Offerings from a sample tasting menu include roasted bone marrow and local lamb ragù. 8044 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313-5130361. L,D Thu.-Sun. marrowdetroit.com for more locations.
Maty’s African Cuisine $$
WEST AFRICAN • A small storefront in the Detroit Old Redford neighborhood is decidedly Senegalese. Fataya, deep-fried pastries with savory fillings, are reminiscent of empanadas. The star of the show is the whole chicken with yassa. 21611 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-472-5885. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Medusa
$$$
ITALIAN • A few short blocks from chef Anthony Lombardo’s SheWolf Pastificio & Bar is his latest project, Medusa, centered on Sicilian cuisine. The seafood-heavy menu and amaro-forward cocktail program look to honor the island’s culinary history. 644 Selden St., Detroit. D Thu.- Sun.
Mercury Burger & Bar $
BURGERS • This Corktown joint seats 70 around the zinc-covered bar set with Mercury (Liberty) dimes. The burger is available in a variety of iterations, such as Southwest Detroit with a chorizo slider, jalapeño, Muen-
$$ LATIN • The business brings a bodega-style market along with a neighborhood restaurant and bar to West Village. The menu highlights local and seasonal ingredients in dishes like beet salad or the Metro “Mac” Burger. 8047 Agnes St., Detroit; 313-447-5418. B Sat.-Sun., D Tue.-Sat.
Michigan & Trumbull
$$
ITALIAN-AMERICAN • Not your traditional carryout joint, Michigan & Trumbull is housed in a sleek, refurbished car-repair garage. The menu features square, deep-dish pies with Detroit-inspired names, such as Packard Pepperoni and Woodward White. 1331 Holden St., Detroit; 313-637-4992. L,D Wed-Sun.
Mi Lindo San Blas
$$$ MEXICAN • Heaping platters of seafood such as shrimp, octopus, and scallops tell the story at this spot that brings a corner of Mexico’s seaside Nayarit region to southwest Detroit. On weekends, when live music is added, the tables are often pushed back to create a dance floor. 1807 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-789-5100. L,D daily.
Mink
$$$$
SEAFOOD • This raw bar with sustainably sourced seafood like oysters and caviar offers an immersive dining experience. The five-course chef’s tasting menu changes once a month and offers several appetizers and main meals with optional beverage parings. While indoor high-top bar seating is reserved for the chef’s tasting menu, Mink also offers first-come, first-served patio seating for walk-in diners. 1701 Trumbull, Detroit; 313-351-0771; D Thu.-Sun.
The Monarch Club
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • On the 14th floor of the revamped Element Detroit hotel located at the Metropolitan is The Monarch Club. It’s one of the most recent rooftop bars to open in metro Detroit and serves a variety of delicious small plates along with classic cocktails. 33 John R St., Detroit; 313-306-2380. L Sun., D daily.
Mootz Pizzeria & Bar
$$
ITALIAN-AMERICAN • Bruno DiFabio, a six-time World Pizza Games champ, rejects the label “New York-style” for his fare. “It’s authentic New York pizza,” he says. In a hurry? Grab a slice from Side Hustle Lounge, Mootz’s by-the-slice counter next door. 1230 Library St., Detroit; 313-243-1230. L Fri.-Sun., L, D daily.
Motor City Brewing Works
$ BREWERY • Motor City Brewing Works offers 15 mostly nontraditional pizzas on excellent, chewy crust and the option to build your own pie with various toppings. Plus, salads from locally grown greens accompany the housebrewed beers. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit. 19350 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-832-2700. L,D daily.
Mudgie’s Deli
$ DELI • Sandwich lovers fill the seats for the house-smoked pastrami Reuben or the Brooklyn (beef brisket, bacon, and beer cheese). The dinner menu features meat and cheese boards, as well as build-your-own sandwich options. It’s a great place for a delicious meal any time. 1413 Brooklyn St., Detroit; 313-961-2000. B Tue.-Sat., L Tue.-Wed., L,D Thu.-Sat.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
2022
Oak & Reel $$ SEAFOOD • Despite a global pandemic threatening to derail his longtime dream, chef Jared Gadbaw brought his vision of a seafood-focused Italian restaurant to life in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction neighborhood in fall 2020. Oak & Reel’s resilience in the face of extreme adversity and its commitment to the vision of bringing diners impeccable dishes showcasing the freshest seafood, all presented with welcoming and knowledgeable service, is the reason Oak & Reel was named Hour Detroit’s Restaurant of the Year. The menu is seasonal and changes frequently. But in general, the crudos are pristine, the pastas are impeccable, and the seafood dishes are all well balanced and expertly prepared to accentuate the freshness and quality of the fish and shellfish. 2921 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-270-9600. D Thu.-Mon.
Olin
$$$
MEDITERRANEAN • Enjoy small plates such as beef tartare, wild mushroom pâté, or potatoes bravas. Or try large plates like pumpkin gnocchi, chicken Milanese, or shrimp cavatelli with chorizo and Calabrian chili. End the meal with Santa’s milk and cookies, a plate of assorted cookies with whole or chocolate milk. 25 E. Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-774-1190. D Tues.-Sat., BR Sun.
Ostrea
$$$
SEAFOOD • Located a floor above the iconic London Chop House and with the same ownership, Ostrea offers refined seafood in a modern, casual environment with cocktails, beer, and champagne. Indulge in a wide selection of raw oysters or the Maine-style lobster roll with celery salt mayonnaise, stuffed inside a brioche bun grilled with Old Bay-infused butter. Choice entrées include the grilled swordfish, served as an acqua pazza over crispy fingerling potatoes. 536 Shelby St., Detroit; 313-403-2111. D Mon.-Sat.
Ottava Via
$$
ITALIAN • Chef Ariel Millan sends out great thin-crust pizzas, as well as interesting small plates typified by bruschetta, calamari, roasted garlic, and whipped goat cheese to spread on paper-thin crostini. 1400 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-5500. L,D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2018 Parc $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Excellent food, exceptional service, and a crisp and formal but distinctly unstuffy atmosphere set this Campus Martius gem apart. Appetizer highlights include a bright and fresh tuna tartare and charred burrata. Main courses include an interesting blend of Italian food, wood-grilled steaks, and a red chile short rib. There’s also a large selection of dry-aged gourmet steaks. 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-922-7272. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Pegasus Taverna $$ GREEK • The cry of “Opa!” resounds in St. Clair Shores at the second edition of the longstanding Greektown restaurant. It boasts an extensive menu, from moussaka and spinach pie to gyros and roast lamb. 24935 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-772-3200. 558 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-964-6800. L,D Tue-Sun (Detroit); L Sun., D Tue.-Sun. (St. Clair Shores)
The Peterboro $$ ASIAN-FUSION • A contemporary take on American-Chi-
nese fare gives new life to the cuisine with robustly spiced dishes, including an “absurdly delicious” cheeseburger spring roll and a take on almond boneless chicken. 420 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-833-1111. D Mon.-Sat.
Pho Lucky $
VIETNAMESE • This charming Midtown Vietnamese spot serves authentic fare emphasizing pho. Bowls of spicy broth with noodles, round steak, and meatballs come in several variations. Other noteworthy dishes include summer rolls and crisp spring rolls. Look for Asian beers and robust Vietnamese coffee. 3111 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-338-3895. L,D Wed.-Mon.
Puma $$
SOUTH AMERICAN • Walk on into the casual cousin of chef Javier Bardauil’s Barda. Puma features traditional, approachable Argentine and South American eats prepared on the open-fire grill. Standouts include the hearty choripán (chorizo and chimichurri on a baguette), a selection of ceviches, and empanadas, plus refreshing cocktails. Live DJs are a regular source of entertainment. 4725 16th St., Detroit; 313-819-6804. D Thu.-Sun.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2019
Prime + Proper
$$$$
STEAKHOUSE • Downtown Detroit dining gets a major shot of glamour with this over-the-top steak and seafood emporium on the corner of Griswold and State streets. Although red meat, from prime dry-aged tomahawk ribeye to Wagyu strip, is the focus — and yes, there’s a burger made with a dry-aged butcher’s blend — oysters, king crab, and caviar aren’t far behind. An elegant white and gold setting backgrounds it all. 1145 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-636-3100. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Prism
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Greektown Casino-Hotel’s renamed eatery is located off the main casino. The menu features local ingredients, steaks, and fresh seafood. 555 E. Lafayette St., Detroit; 313-309-2499. D Wed.-Sun.
Sakazuki $$
JAPANESE • This street-level pub in Detroit’s Book Tower offers drinks inspired by Japanese anime, pop culture, and city life, with karaoke on Wednesdays. The food menu features a Wagyu dog, a burger, sandwiches, ramen, and the ekiben bento box: a boxed lunch traditionally sold at train stations across Japan. Choice cocktails include the Sailor Moon — Roku gin, lemon juice, sakura (cherry blossom), and lychee. 1265 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313-597-8344. D Tue.-Sat.
Saksey’s $$$
NEW AMERICAN • This intimate cocktail lounge is a throwback to the original space, owned by Dan Gilbert’s father, Sam Gilbert, in the 1960s and ’70s. Try a miniature martini, like the savory Dill Turf Club, or build your own three-Teeny ’Tini flight. In addition to craft cocktails, find shareable bites, like the caviar and Bugles, and the bar burger — Saksey’s take on a Royale with cheese. 1550 Woodward Ave, Detroit; 313-546-1500; D Tue.-Sat.
San Morello $$$
ITALIAN • This gem in the Shinola Hotel serves pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired dishes that draw inspiration from the coastal towns of Southern Italy and Sicily. The menu is handcrafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. 1400 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-209-4700. B,L,D daily.
SavannahBlue
$$
SOUL FOOD • Dine on upscale soul food like red snapper and shrimp and grits. Shareables include catfish fritters and a Georgian hummus that substitutes blackeyed peas for chickpeas. There’s also a great bar. 1431 Times Square, Detroit; 313-926-0783. D Tue.-Sat.
Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips $ SEAFOOD • Head to this Brightmoor spot for perfectly prepared fish and chips. The key to Scotty’s longevity is the batter that coats the cod, perch, shrimp, chicken, onion rings, and frog legs. Cash only. 22200 Fenkell St., Detroit; 313-533-0950. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Second Best
$
RETRO AMERICAN • The talents behind nearby Grey Ghost have unveiled a second, more casual spot with a retro spin in Brush Park. The lighter menu includes a fried green tomato BLT and fried chicken sandwiches, accompanying drinks that were popular more than a few years back. 42 Watson St., Detroit; 313-315-3077. L Sat.-Sun., D daily.
Sexy Steak
$$$$
ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE • This extravagantly decorated eatery occupies downtown Detroit’s castlelike Grand Army of the Republic Building. Its steaks, which you can choose from the Himalayan salt-lined display case, are cooked to order and finished with clarified butter, zip-style sauce, rosemary, and a garlic bulb. 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-403-1000. D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2016
Selden Standard
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • What sets Selden Standard apart is that it is moving Detroit into a new era in which upper-end dining with starched linen and tuxedoed waiters doesn’t hold much interest anymore. Chef Andy Hollyday, a multiple-time James Beard semifinalist, does farm-to-table scratch cooking with ideas borrowed from around the world. A key to his cooking is the wood-fired grill. This spot has garnered national attention. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit; 313-438-5055. D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
SheWolf Pastificio & Bar
2020
$$$
ITALIAN • Chef Anthony Lombardo takes fresh and house-made to a new level with this Midtown restaurant that serves only dinner from a menu inspired by Italian cooking specific to Rome. Milling all of his own flour for his pastas, breads, and polenta in-house, Lombardo, well known as the former executive chef at Bacco, serves a selection of simple but elegant regional Italian dishes. 438 Selden St., Detroit; 313-315-3992. D Tue.-Sun
Sindbad’s Restaurant and Marina $$
SEAFOOD • Sitting by the Detroit River, this long-lasting establishment prides itself on serving some of the best perch, pickerel, shrimp, and scallops in Detroit, along with its signature clam chowder. 100 St. Clair St., Detroit; 313822-8000. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Slows Bar BQ $$
BARBECUE • The brick-and-wood original in Corktown gained a following for its pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. It expanded with a “to go” spot in Midtown. This is a true Detroit classic in every sense of the term. Corktown loca-
tion: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-9828. L,D daily. Slows To Go in Midtown: 4107 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-3097560. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Standby
$$
NEW AMERICAN • In a place where cocktails are king, there’s no shortage of food options. The fare — overseen by celebrity chef partner Matty Matheson — ranges from small plates of marinated olives and fried deviled eggs to entrées such as Thai pork skewers and the house cheeseburger. 225 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313-241-5719. D Wed.-Sun. (Not wheelchair accessible)
Supino Pizzeria
$$
ITALIAN • Relax with one of the town’s best thin-crust pizzas — they come in more than a dozen variations, with or without red sauce. Plus, try small plates like polpette and three delicious salads. Beer, wine, and cocktails add to the appeal. 2457 Russell St., Detroit; 313-567-7879. L,D Wed.-Sun. 6519 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-314-7400. L,D Mon.-Sat.
Sweet Soul Bistro
$
SOUL FOOD • The large menu includes homages to Detroit musicians, from Stevie Wonder Wonderful Wings to Aretha Franklin Fierce Catfish Bites. Also notable are the crab cakes. In the evening, the bistro transforms into a club. 13741 W. McNichols Road, Detroit; 313- 862-7685. L,D daily.
Takoi
$$
THAI • Thai-Laotian fare might seem out of place in Corktown, but virtually everything on the menu has distinction. There’s a depth, concentration, and balance between heat and coolness, the range of spices, the delight of moving from one superb bite to the next. 2520 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-855-2864. D Tue.-Sat.
Tap at MGM Grand
$
SPORTS BAR • Tap has more than 40 HD flatscreen TVs for sports fans, plus sports memorabilia. The menu features comfort food and pub classics: burgers, wings, and house nachos. Pizza and more upscale entrées are also available, as are more than 50 beers. Bring your family and friends for a very entertaining night on the town. 1777 Third St., Detroit; 313-465-1234. B,L,D daily.
Townhouse
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • In 2021, this downtown hot spot underwent an aesthetic overhaul of the space and menu designed to elevate its signature comfort-food fare. Staples like the burger and fries remain on the menu, but there are also fine dining-inspired additions, like the caviar-topped crispy potato dish and the A5 Wagyu served with brioche, nori, capers, and truffle. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-723-1000. L,D daily.
Vecino
$$$$
MEXICAN • The Midtown eatery offers a luxurious way to experience the regional foods served in Oaxaca and Mexico City. It is the first restaurant in the state to feature in-house nixtamalization — a 3,000-year-old process used to turn corn into workable masa. Its unique offerings include mezcal cocktails, tuna tostada, half red snapper, and broccolini in green mole. 4100 Third Ave., Detroit; 313-500-1615. D Tue.-Sun.
Vertical Detroit
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • This wine-centric restaurant puts the focus on pairing chef Matt Barnes’s innovative cuisine with owners James and Rémy Lutfy’s nationally
recognized wine program. The menu emphasizes locally sourced protein, seafood, and produce. It’s a must-try for any wine enthusiast. 1538 Centre St., Detroit; 313-7329463. D Tue.-Sat. (Not wheelchair accessible)
Vesper Books and Wine $$ WINE BAR • Nestled in a refurbished bank building in Core City, this half bar and half bookstore offers biodynamic wines by the glass or bottle along with small bites. Visitors can browse a diverse selection of cookbooks while sipping on both Old and New World wines. In addition to wine, the bar’s namesake, a vesper martini, is on the menu, along with various beers, ciders, and nonalcoholic alternatives. 5001 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-716-1708. L,D Wed.-Sun.
Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine $$ CUBAN • An evening at this lively spot is more than just Cuban and Spanish dining. Appetizers and tapas include the outstanding tapa de la casa, pork leg marinated in mojo; a Spanish chorizo and fresh mushrooms concoction with garlic lemon sauce; and empanadas, a Cuban turnover filled with ground beef or chicken. 1250 Library St., Detroit; 313962-8800. L,D daily.
Whatcha Wanna Eat Food Hall $ FOOD COURT • Whatcha Wanna Eat is said to be the first Black-owned food hall in Detroit and aims to provide a platform to first-time restaurateurs in the city (producing tasty results for diners). Its seven restaurants feature a range of cuisine, including burgers, wings, tacos, hibachi bowls, and pit-style barbecue. 10635 W. McNichols Road, Detroit. L,D Tue.-Sun.
The Whitney $$$$
NEW AMERICAN • The historic 1890s mansion is still going strong. The menu is typified by classic beef Wellington, wrapped in spinach, prosciutto, and pastry, and a seared Verlasso salmon fillet. Tableside cooking, by reservation only, is an optional feature. Don’t forget The Katherine McGregor Dessert Parlor for a sweet treat. 4421 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-832-5700. D Tue.-Sun. and high tea Sat.
Wright & Co.
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • The collaboration between Marc Djozlija and executive chef Kyle Schutte gives life to the second-floor space in the Wright-Kay Building. Small plates such as wild caught walu, Michigan mushroom pâté, and grilled sea scallops are the focus. The menu highlights seasonal dishes with a composed shared plates concept. 1500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-962-7711. D Tue.-Sat.
Yum Village $
AFRO-CARIBBEAN • The former food truck opened a full-service restaurant in the North End in 2019. The space is bright and fun with wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and a colorful, geometric paint job. And the food is just as bold. The restaurant serves up piquant dishes like lemon pepper jerk chicken. 6500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-334-6099. L,D Mon.-Sat.
Wayne County
Al Ameer
and salad. 12710 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn; 313-582-8185. 27346 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-565-9600. 6505 N. Canton Center Road, Canton; 734-627-7707. L,D daily.
Antonio’s Cucina Italiana
$$ ITALIAN • The Rugieros have impressed restaurant guests for decades with authentic cuisine. Signature dishes include Gnocchi Rita and Chicken Antonio. There’s a full bar and a very extensive wine list. 2220 N. Canton Center Road, Canton; 734-981-9800. 26356 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-2786000. L,D daily.
Atwater in the Park
$$
LEBANESE • This halal restaurant is a recipient of the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award. The Al Ameer platter is perfect for sharing: chicken shawarma, meat shawarma, tawook kabob, and two kafta served with hummus
$
GERMAN • At this casual spot, traditional German-style beer is the beverage of choice. Chef Chris Franz’s noteworthy menu is compatible with such additions as the Atwater Brat and other sausages teamed with sauerkraut, plus Bavarian soft pretzels. 1175 Lakepointe St., Grosse Pointe Park; 313-344-5104. L,D daily.
Brome Modern Eatery
$$
BURGERS • This healthy spin on a classic serves never-frozen, grass-fed, antibiotic-free, organic burgers. There are beef, chicken, haddock, and vegetarian dishes — but no pork, as the restaurant is halal. There’s also a cold-pressed juice bar. 22062 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-996-5050. L,D daily.
Bucharest Grill $
MEDITERRANEAN-AMERICAN
• This bustling casual sandwich shop, now with six locations, is a cult favorite for its fresh Mediterranean fare, with notably the best chicken shawarma wrap sandwiches in town. We’re serious. See bucharestgrill.com for locations and hours.
Café Nini
$$$
ITALIAN • This intimate spot offers well-prepared food that includes eight appetizers, more than a dozen pasta dishes, and 16 main plates, notable among which are Involtini di Pollo “Da Edoardo”: prosciutto, spinach, and Parmigiano Reggiano-filled chicken breast sautéed in a sherry wine sauce and topped with fresh mushrooms. The wine list is impressive as well. 98 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-308-3120. D Tue.-Sun.
Cantoro Italian Market and Trattoria $$ ITALIAN • A restaurant inside the market serves great traditional Italian food. Do not miss the tagliatelle alla Bolognese: wide pasta with a meat sauce featuring ground veal, beef, sausage, and pancetta. It makes for a delicious Italian feast you can conveniently pick up on your way home. 15550 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth; 734-420-1100. L,D Tues.-Sat., L Sun
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2010
Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe
$$$ GASTROPUB • This jazz club features top guest musicians and an American bistro menu in a traditional interior. Starters include oysters by the half- or full-dozen and lump crab cakes. Main entrées include a beef short rib. 97 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-882-5299. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sat.
Ford’s Garage $$ BURGERS • Henry Ford’s legacy is celebrated on Dearborn’s main thoroughfare. There are at least 12 variations on the classic American burger here. Try the Ford’s Signature, featuring half a pound of grilled Black Angus beef, aged sharp cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon, and
bourbon barbecue sauce. Other appealing dishes include shrimp mac and cheese and chicken wings. 21367 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-752-3673. L,D daily.
The Gandy Dancer
SEAFOOD • At the Gandy Dancer, located in a historic Ann Arbor train station, guests can still be found celebrating as trains pass by. Known for their seafood, the restaurant features staples including creamy lobster bisque, applejack sea bass, and oven-roasted lobster tail. For meat-centric options, try the duck, served with a Grand Marnier demi-glace, or the prime-cut 14-ounce New York strip. 401 Depot St., Ann Arbor; 734-769-0592; L,D daily.
Hungarian Rhapsody
$$
HUNGARIAN • This restaurant offers traditional Hungarian food like beef goulash and hortobágyi palacsinta, a type of meat-filled crepe. Or try the párizsi, a sautéed and breaded chicken dish. 14315 Northline Road, Southgate; 734-2839622. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Karl’s Cabin
$$
AMERICAN • Dishes from the currently rotating drivethrough menu, such as pan-seared walleye and pierogi and sausage, surpass typical roadhouse food. 6005 Gotfredson Road, Plymouth; 734-455-8450. L,D daily.
The Ledger
$$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Located in the former United Savings Bank building, this fine-dining restaurant features a seasonal, from-scratch menu and festive cocktails. For starters, try roasted Brussels sprout chips tossed in katsu or, for a real spectacle, the focaccia served with a candle made from tallow. Lobster rolls, Wagyu steaks, and Alaskan halibut round out the menu — plus photogenic desserts like the Ledger Cake with hazelnut mousse, salted caramel, and honey peanut praline. 306 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-984-0020. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.
Lola’s Taco Bar
$$
MEXICAN-INSPIRED • This fast-casual Mexican restaurant serves up tacos, burritos, bowls, and more with an emphasis on hospitality. The al pastor and steak tacos are cooked on a vertical spit, while the shrimp tacos are tempura fried and dressed with chipotle lime sauce, cilantro lime slaw, and onion. Margaritas on tap and light beers are available for refreshing drink options. 20195 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods; 313-332-0471. L,D daily.
Lucy & the Wolf
$$
ITALIAN • This pizzeria offers a selection of drinks, salads, and wood-fired, hand-tossed pizza. The pizza menu is split between red sauces made with San Marzano tomatoes and white sauces made of whipped ricotta and Parmesan. Try classics like a margherita or Old World pepperoni pizza or sample the Honey Badger, with an enticing combo of Italian sausage, caramelized onions, and spicy honey. 102 E. Main St., Northville; 248-308-3057. D Tue.-Sat.
M Cantina
$
MEXICAN • This menu of tapas, tacos, and tortas features unique Nuevo Latino flavors curated by chef Junior Merino to represent his birthplace in Mexico. Be sure to try one of the signature craft cocktails, such as the Aviation SD with Roku gin, blueberries, bergamot, rosemary, and violet liquor, or try a specialty nonalcoholic cocktail. 13214 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-399-9117. L,D daily.
Nico & Vali $$
ITALIAN • This eatery offers favorites with unexpected twists. The artichokes and chilies appetizer boasts battered and fried artichokes with Fresno and jalapeño peppers, tossed with fresh basil in white wine. Popular choices include the whitefish filet. It’s a classic Italian spot with an update that’s worth a visit. 744 Wing St., Plymouth; 734-207-7880. L Thu.-Sat., D Tue.-Sun.
Park Grill $$
MEDITERRANEAN • Mediterranean fare gets a Balkan spin. The menu offers tasting plates, pita-wrapped sandwiches, and salads, as well as entrées including chicken and beef shawarma, beef and pork kafta, lemon-pepper pork tenderloin, and lamb chops. Service is friendly and informal. 15102 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park; 313-264-1997. L,D daily.
Polish Village Café $
POLISH • Enjoy the warm comfort foods of Poland in this restaurant’s cozy atmosphere. The menu includes classics such as pierogi, pan-fried kielbasa, and dill pickle soup. Or try a bit of everything with the Polish Plate, which includes stuffed cabbage, pierogi, kielbasa, and sauerkraut. Finish off the meal with nalesniki, the Polish version of crepes. 2990 Yemans St., Hamtramck; 313-874-5726. L,D daily. (Not wheelchair accessible)
Polonia $$
POLISH • In the heart of Hamtramck, this authentic Polish eatery is where Anthony Bourdain sampled a variety of classic dishes on his visit to Detroit. Diners will find favorites like dill pickle soup, potato pancakes, and city chicken. Or try the combination plate, which comes with stuffed cabbage, sausage, dumplings, mashed potatoes, and sauerkraut. 2934 Yemans St., Hamtramck. L,D daily.
Rocky’s of Northville $$
NEW AMERICAN • The menu includes shrimp cocktail, smoked whitefish pâté, and broiled Great Lakes whitefish. Also try the chipotle honey-glazed salmon. 41122 W. Seven Mile Road, Northville; 248-349-4434. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sun.
Roman Village $$
ITALIAN • The Rugiero family has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1964. They’ve launched three additional Antonio’s Cucina Italiana locations. Roman Village is the original and features the signature Gnocchi Rita. 9924 Dix Ave., Dearborn; 313-842-2100. L,D daily.
Sana’a $
YEMENI • This authentic Yemeni restaurant is a hidden gem. Try the lamb haneeth: slow-roasted, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks marinated in an array of traditional spices, served on a bed of orange and yellow basmati rice with a side of zahawig (spicy red salsa). 13277 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-427-8424. L,D daily.
The Sardine Room $$$
SEAFOOD • A seafood restaurant and raw bar, The Sardine Room is fresh, fun, and energetic, with clean-line decor and a menu full of surprises. Worthwhile is a grouper sandwich that’s available seared or blackened. 340 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-416-0261. D daily, BR Sat-Sun.
Vivio’s Food & Spirits $ SANDWICH/DELI • This Eastern Market classic has been run by the Vivio family for more than 40 years. Sandwiches and burgers are mainstays, but diners also appreciate the steamed
Yemen Café $ YEMENI • A nearly all-hours destination and a Hamtramck essential, Yemen Café offers traditional Yemeni dishes like saltah, a comforting soup with ground beef, rice, eggs, and vegetables. Popular items include the fahsah (lamb stew) and a range of ghallaba entrées, plus Middle Eastern/Mediterranean staples like shawarma, kebab, fattoush, and tabbouleh. 8740 Joseph Campau Ave., Hamtramck. B,L,D daily.
Oakland County
168 Crab & Karaoke
$$ PAN-ASIAN • Don’t judge by 168 Crab & Karaoke’s unassuming strip mall location. It’s a unique experience that meshes food, karaoke, and pop party culture into a one-stop destination. As the name suggests, seafood is the main attraction, specifically the seafood boils, which come with your choice of seafood (crab, clams, lobster, etc.) and sauce, corn, and potatoes. 32415 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-616-0168. D daily.
220 Merrill
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Located in the old Detroit Edison offices, this restaurant features contemporary American cuisine. You’ll find classics such as shrimp cocktail and Caesar salad alongside miso-roasted sea bass and chicken Parmigiana. 220 Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-646-2220. L,D daily.
Adachi
$$$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Heading the kitchen is Lloyd Roberts, who has trained in the kitchens of celebrity chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Nobu Matsuhisa. At Adachi, short rib bao buns are served with pickled cucumber and fresh scallions, and miniature tacos are filled with lobster. 325 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-540-5900. L,D daily.
Andiamo
$$
ITALIAN • Over the past three decades, Joe Vicari has established several Andiamo restaurants in metro Detroit, all inspired by the late master chef Aldo Ottaviani’s philosophy of seasonal, from-scratch cooking. The menus differ slightly at the different locations, but the constant is the fresh, housemade pastas handcrafted by the trinity of “pasta ladies” — Anna, Tanya, and Angelina — who have carried on the tradition. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield; 248-865-9300. D daily.
Anita’s Kitchen $
LEBANESE • With pita pizzas and lamb chops, the Lebanese food at Anita’s Kitchen is some of the best around. And there’s vegetarian and gluten-free fare, too. It’s healthy, nutritious, and delicious. See website for locations: anitaskitchen.com.
Antonio’s Cucina Italiana $$
ITALIAN • The Rugieros have impressed restaurant guests for decades with authentic cuisine. Signature dishes include Gnocchi Rita and Chicken Antonio. There’s a full bar and a very extensive wine list. 37646 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-994-4000. L,D Tue.-Sun.
At Anano’s
offers the dish two ways. Other favorites, like traditional, Georgian-style salad and chicken dressed in a rich walnut sauce, represent the best the country’s cuisine has to offer. 29410 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; L,D Tue., Thu.-Sun.
Aurora Italiana
$$$$
ITALIAN • This restaurant offers a sophisticated and modern take on Italian dining. Fresh pasta lays the groundwork for the rigatoni al Bosco: tenderloin tips, wild mushroom, and truffle demi-glace tossed in cream sauce. Other delectables include sausage and peppers, steak, and seafood. 6199 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-782-3000. D daily.
Aurora on the Lake $$$$
ITALIAN • Located along Union Lake, this spin-off of West Bloomfield’s Aurora Italiana serves Italian fine dining in the space once occupied by It’s a Matter of Taste. 2323 Union Lake Road, Commerce Township; 248-360-6650. D daily.
Bar Gabi $$
ROMANIAN • Romanian-born chefs Gabriel and Gabriela
Botezan’s Hazel Park restaurant combines Old World technique with New World flavors, serving traditional Transylvanian dishes like mititei — a skinless sausage served with mustard and toast. Other bites include a bone-in tomahawk schnitzel and house-made braised short rib rigatoni. 23839 John R Road, Hazel Park; 249-629-4160. D Wed.-Sun.
Bella Piatti
$$
ITALIAN • The location right across from the Townsend Hotel has inspired a number of visiting celebrities, professional athletes, and film crews who stay there to check out this restaurant’s Italian fare. The menu of such dishes as gemelli pasta with fresh tomato sauce; salmon baked with spinach, kalamata olives, white wine, and tomatoes; and tagliatelle Bolognese stands on its own. 167 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248-494-7110. D Tue.-Sat.
Beppé
$$$
NEW AMERICAN/ITALIAN • This neighborhood eatery has a little something for everyone — from bar staples like burgers to refined dishes like lamb belly, steak tartare, or caponata made with roasted eggplant, olives, trumpet mushrooms, Calabrian chiles, thyme vinaigrette, Manchego cheese, and bread. The drinks program features refreshing spritzes and a rotating selection of über-drinkable Italian wines. 703 N. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-607-7030. L,D Sat.-Sun, D Tue.-Fri.
The Beverly
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • From the owner of Bar Pigalle, this new-American eatery features a menu of steaks, seafood, and charcuterie boards. Much like the food, the drink menu focuses on using simple, high-quality ingredients to create perfectly balanced flavors. Find unique takes on classic cocktails like daiquiris, margaritas, and Manhattans. 3180 Coolidge Hwy., Berkley; L,D Tue.-Fri., BR,L,D Sat., Sun.
Beverly Hills Grill
$$
GEORGIAN • At Anano’s celebrates the largely obscure cuisine of Georgia, a small country on the border of Europe and West Asia. Georgian staples like mtsvadi, a flame-grilled shish kebab, combine the flavors of both continents. Well known for its khachapuri, a type of cheese-filled pastry, At Anano’s
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • This Beverly Hills institution has built a loyal following over the years with its California vibe and dawn-to-dark schedule. It’s still serving crowd favorites like the BHG Burger and classic eggs Benedict. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills; 248-642-2355. B,L,D Tue.-Sat., B,L Sun.
Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina $$
ITALIAN • The pizza concept from chef Luciano DelSignore, a
RESTAURANT
four-time James Beard Award nominee, features small plates, fresh pastas, wood-roasted meats, and a range of distinctive Neapolitan pizzas. See website for locations: bigalora.com.
Birmingham Pub
$$$
GASTROPUB • This stylish yet casual gastropub from the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group took over the former Triple Nickel space. True to its name, the restaurant’s bill of fare features pub classics taken up a notch, such as fish and chips served with jalapeño hush puppies and filet mignon with Parmesan truffle fries and zip sauce. 555 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-885-8108. L Tue.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun.
Bistro Joe’s
$$$
GLOBAL • Part of Papa Joe’s Gourmet Market, Bistro Joe’s is in a mezzanine overlooking the open kitchen and market. There is an eclectic list of dishes like spicy tuna “tacushi,” P.E.I. pesto mussels, and tasty flatbread pizzas. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-594-0984. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2003
Café Cortina
$$$
ITALIAN • For nearly 50 years, Café Cortina has been serving refined Italian cuisine in Farmington Hills. The family-owned restaurant is known for its handmade pastas and seasonal dishes inspired by an on-site garden. Don’t miss the signature millefoglie for dessert. 30715 W. 10 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-474-3033. L Sun., D Tue.-Sun.
Café ML
$$
NEW AMERICAN • Café ML is contemporary in its decor and “globally inspired food.” Such dishes as short rib steamed buns, Chinese chicken salad, Singapore street noodles, and Korean fried chicken share the menu with burgers, steak frites, and fresh seafood. Garage door-style windows open onto the patio on warm days. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township; 248-642-4000. D daily.
Capital Grille
$$$
STEAKHOUSE • Hand-cut, dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood dishes are the stars at Capital Grille. The restaurant’s outstanding wine list features over 350 labels. The setting is appropriate for both business lunches and social events and includes well-appointed private dining rooms. 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-649-5300. L,D daily.
Casa Pernoi
$$$
ITALIAN • Three months after its grand opening, what once was a multi-hyphenate concept, blending French, Asian, and Italian cuisine, soon defaulted simply to a cuisine most familiar to chef Luciano DelSignore: Italian. House-made pastas rolled by hand and a meaty branzino typify the menu. 310 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-940-0000. D Tue.-Sat.
Churchill’s Bistro & Cigar Bar
$$$
TRADITIONAL • You can buy your cigar and smoke it, too. Plus, enjoy dry-aged steaks, pan-roasted sea bass, and lamb chops, among other options. A full bar boasts a large selection of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon — and plenty of wine. 116 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham; 248-647-4555. L,D daily.
Clarkston Union $
NEW AMERICAN • Perhaps best known for its iconic Union Mac and Cheese (Vermont sharp cheddar and mild Pinconning cheeses with layers of penne rigate and a crispy breadcrumb crust), the downtown Clarkston staple lauded
by Guy Fieri has been a longtime purveyor of American comfort foods. Located in an 1840s-era church, the restaurant provides much of its seating on pews. 54 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-620-6100. L,D daily, B Sun.
Como’s
$$
NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale favorite reopened in May 2019 under the ownership of Peas & Carrots Hospitality with a trendier, fresher look. The warm, homey feel is still intact, but it’s ditched the old menu for — among other things — chef Zack Sklar’s square, deep-dish, Detroit-style pizza that’s leavened from a sourdough starter as opposed to commercial yeast. 22812 Woodward Ave., Unit 100, Ferndale; 248-677-4439. L,D daily.
Cornbread Restaurant & Bar
$$ SOUL FOOD • In 1997, Patrick Coleman melded his experience in fine dining with his grandma’s Southern roots to create Beans & Cornbread Soulful Bistro. It racked up accolades and fans over the years, including Stevie Wonder and Thomas “Hitman” Hearns. Cornbread is the sequel to Beans and Cornbread, continuing the tradition of soul food with an upscale twist. Classics like catfish and a gravy-smothered pork chop endure. 29852 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-208-1680. L,D Thu.-Tue.
Crispelli’s Bakery & Pizzeria
$
ITALIAN-INSPIRED • This hybrid offers artisanal pizzas from a brick oven, salads, paninis, and soups. The bakery offers crusty breads, desserts, and meals to go. The Berkley location’s patio adds to the appeal. See website for locations: crispellis.com.
Culantro
$$
PERUVIAN • Native Peruvian Betty Shuell brings a taste of her home to Ferndale. The casual, homey, seat-yourself establishment is named after an herb that is often used in traditional Peruvian cooking. An especially notable dish is the pollo a la brasa, marinated chicken served with french fries, rice, and a variety of dipping sauces. 22939 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-632-1055. L,D daily.
D’Marcos Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar
$$$ ITALIAN • Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, this family-owned establishment is known for its extensive wine list, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, and house-made pasta dishes like the beef tenderloin linguine with beef tenderloin tips, spinach, mushroom cream sauce, and Parmesan. It’s also connected to The Backdoor, a speakeasy-style taco and tequila bar. 401 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-759-4951. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Eddie’s Gourmet $$
NEW AMERICAN • Chef Eddie Hanna’s gourmet diner is a simple concept that works to perfection. The menu offers a standard selection of breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, and lunch specials, but the real draw is the counter-side gourmet and pasta specials. Offerings include veal Marsala and chicken Milano. 25920 Greenfield Road, Oak Park; 248968-4060. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Elie’s Mediterranean Grill/Bar $$ LEBANESE • The lamb and chicken shawarma, shish kafta, kibbee neyee, and other Lebanese dishes are emphasized by the decor, including photomurals of old Beirut and strings of blue beads cascading from the ceiling. It’s a fun place to frequent for a quick lunch or a night out with friends. 263 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-647-2420. L,D Mon.-Sat.
The Fed $$ GASTROPUB • The Fed is an attractive restaurant with great food and a delightfully refreshing atmosphere. The menu crosses boundaries, with shareables like Spanish octopus and wild mushroom flatbread. Plus, the bright and airy bohemian-chic interior is highly Instagrammable. 15 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-297-5833. D Tue.-Sat., B,L,D Sun.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2009 Forest $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The menu is brief but designed to let the kitchen assemble sharp flavors from various farm and market ingredients. Try the delightful pastas, like the Bolognese and the agnolotti, as well as the understated Farm Egg. 735 Forest Ave., Birmingham; 248-258-9400. D Tue.-Sat.
The Fly Trap
$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This “finer diner” typifies trendy Ferndale with its tin ceiling, red-topped tables, and counter with swivel stools. It offers sandwiches, salads, pastas, and omelets. 22950 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-399-5150. B,L Tue.-Sat.
Garage Grill & Fuel Bar
$$
NEW AMERICAN • The car-themed rooms of a former 1940s gas station are as fresh and appealing as the dishes themselves. The kitchen serves up a variety of seafood starters and “full-size sedan” entrées, as well as pizzas. 202 W. Main St., Northville; 248-924-3367. D Wed.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.
Gran Castor
$$
LATIN STREET • From the duo behind hit spots like Vinsetta Garage and Union Woodshop comes this vibrant Latin American café and restaurant. At Gran Castor, the dining room is equally as decadent as the food and drinks served. Grab a $5 margarita between 4 and 6 p.m. daily. 2950 Rochester Road, Troy; 248-278-7777. D daily.
Hazel’s
$$ SEAFOOD • What was once multiple concepts under one roof — named after the three neighborhoods that converged right where the restaurant stands (Hazel, Ravine, and Downtown) — is now simply Hazel’s. The casual and comfortable restaurant specializes in authentic dishes, drinks, and vibes from some of the country’s top seafood destinations. You’ll find dishes like Maine-caught lobster, Maryland blue crab, and more. 1 Peabody St., Birmingham; 248-671-1714. D Tue.-Sun., B,L Sat.-Sun.
Honcho $ LATIN FUSION • From the owners of Vinsetta Garage and Union Woodshop, this restaurant can be described as “Latin food that speaks with an Asian accent.” Menu items include a chicken burrito fried and tossed in a soy fish sauce and Korean pork tacos, featuring Woodshop pulled pork tossed in Korean barbecue sauce and topped with toasted sesame seeds and Malay radish slaw. 3 E. Church St., Clarkston; 248707-3793. L,D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2002
Hong Hua $ CHINESE • One of the best restaurants dedicated to Asian food in the area offers some rare delicacies as well as more customary items. One signature dish is King of the Sea: lobster chunks, scallops, and grouper with greens in a garlic sauce. 27925 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; 248-4892280. L,D Tue.-Sun.
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Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
$$$$
STEAKHOUSE • This plush, modern steakhouse offers dryaged prime and Kobe-style Wagyu beef in a fun, clubby setting. An extensive wine list accompanies the restaurant menu, which also features platters of chilled fresh seafood. 201 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-594-4369. D daily. 17107 Haggerty Road, Northville Twp.; 248-679-0007. D Tue.-Sun.
Imperial $
MEXICAN-INSPIRED • This menu features an impressive selection of tacos, from grilled chorizo sausage to chili lime grilled chicken. Plant-based pork and seitan options are available for non-meat eaters. Or order ahead for DIY taco sets for an at-home taco bar. 22828 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-850-8060. L,D daily.
J-Bird Smoked Meats $$
BARBECUE • Wood-smoked meats served with the traditional sides of cornbread, buttermilk slaw, and mac and cheese are on the menu at this meat lovers’ mecca. Other popular dishes include the Three Meat Sampler and JBird Gumbo, as well as St. Louis ribs and old-fashioned JBurgers. 1978 Cass Lake Road, Keego Harbor; 248-681-2124. L,D Mon.-Sun.
Joe Muer
$$$$
SEAFOOD • The Bloomfield Hills location of the iconic restaurant has a menu that emphasizes classic fresh fish and “Muer Traditions,” such as Dover sole and Great Lakes yellow-belly perch. There’s also a raw and sushi bar as well as premium steaks. Save room for dessert because the coconut cake is not to be missed. A piano bar adds to the vibe. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. D daily.
KouZina Greek Street Food $
GREEK • The Greek “street food” at this Royal Oak spot comes in lamb, beef, and chicken. Try the lentil soup for a delicious lunch or go for something more filling like the gyro bowl. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this excellent eatery. 121 N. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-629-6500. L,D daily.
Lao Pot
$$$
CHINESE • In 2019, the owners of the Madison Heights international market 168 Asian Mart opened Lao Pot, which specializes in Chinese hot pot cuisine. Hot pot is a traditional method of cooking using a pot of simmering broth, which sits in the center of the dining table. Lao Pot allows diners to customize and cook their meals right at their tables, combining great food and a memorable experience. 32707 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-689-9888. L,D daily.
La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar
$$$
ITALIAN • A slice of European elegance offers an impeccable menu of Italian dishes and wines. Delicious fresh pastas, pizzas, antipasti, and more are proudly served and very tasty. 243 E. Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-480-0492. D Tue.-Sat.
Lelli’s Inn $$
ITALIAN • Dinners begin with an antipasto tray, creamy minestrone, salad, a side dish of spaghetti, and then — nine times out of 10 — a filet mignon with zip sauce. 885 N. Opdyke Road, Auburn Hills; 248-373-4440. L,D daily.
Lincoln Yard/Little Yard
(rotisserie chicken, rotisserie cauliflower, smoked beef short ribs, or smoked pork tenderloin) with a sauce and two sides, such as roasted carrots, smashed potatoes, or mac and cheese. There are also salads and handhelds — and, of course, the classic Union Mac. 2159 E. Lincoln St., Birmingham; 248-653-5353. B,L,D daily.
Loccino Italian Grill $$
ITALIAN • Loccino is a “family-friendly” yet upscale Italian restaurant. Choose from fresh seafood, steak, and chicken dishes, plus traditional pastas, pizzas, salads, and more. It’s a great place for special occasions or a delicious workday lunch spot. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-813-0700. L Mon.-Fri., D daily
Loui’s Pizza
$
ITALIAN • Sure, you can now get a Michigan craft beer, but not much else has changed. And that’s a good thing. Parties dine on square pizzas with crisp crust, faintly charred around the edges. Hailed by food critics and Detroiters alike as one of the city’s most classic Detroit-style pizzas, it’s well worth a trip. 23141 Dequindre Road, Hazel Park; 248-547-1711. L,D Wed.-Sun.
Luisa’s Artisanal Street Food
$
ITALIAN STREET FOOD • The small restaurant offers a unique mishmash of influences — all with the grab-and-go convenience of “street food.” Standouts include the smoky mole chili, made with roasted chile peppers, green bell peppers, black beans, braised steak, and mozzarella. Plus, the slushies are to die for. 22851 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-677-3331. L,D Fri.-Wed.
Luxe Bar & Grill
$$
NEW AMERICAN • The simple menu at this Grosse Pointe Farms joint offers burgers on brioche buns, interesting salads and sides, and entrées typified by wild-caught salmon, prime fillets, and Greek-style lamb chops. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-792-6051. 115 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-924-5459. L,D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
Mabel Gray
2025
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Chef James Rigato produces some masterful dishes on this tiny menu, which does not miss a beat. The menu includes a multicourse tasting option, as well as a daily listing of changing items that never disappoint. It’s a fine-dining experience that is certainly worth a visit. 23825 John R Road, Hazel Park; 248-398-4300. D Tue.-Sat.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2023
Madam
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Since opening in 2021, Madam has carved its niche with its global take on farm-to-table cuisine, taking diners on a tour from Michigan to Asia to Europe. Staples from chef de cuisine Clifton Booth include mushroom dumplings, Spanish octopus, steak frites, and pasta dishes. 298 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-283-4200. B,D daily, L Mon.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun.
Market North End
The Meeting House $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This eclectic American menu includes steak frites remarkably close to those offered at Paris bistros and a house-made soft pretzel with roasted jalapeño goat cheese dip. 301 S. Main St., Rochester; 248759-4825. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Mesa Tacos and Tequila $ MEXICAN-AMERICAN • The two-story setting includes balcony seating in a big, open room where the bar gets equal time with the kitchen. The pop-Mexican menu — which includes guacamole, nachos, and the titular tacos — is backed up with an array of tequilas. 312 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-545-1940. L,D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
2008
Mon Jin Lau
$$ ASIAN-FUSION • Explore such dishes as Singapore noodles, combining chicken, shrimp, chilies, and curry with angel-hair pasta; Mongolian beef; or seared scallops with lemongrass-basil Thai curry sauce. The patio opens up and the dining room transforms into a dance floor for weekly events. 1515 E. Maple Road, Troy; 248-689-2332. D daily.
Noble Fish $ JAPANESE • For more than 40 years, this laid-back sushi spot has been serving traditional rolls, nigiri, and entrées like the chirashi bowl inside a downtown Clawson Japanese market. Grab a tray and enjoy reasonably priced bites like its signature Noble Roll, made with grilled salmon skin, smelt roe, oshinko, egg, cucumber, and mayo. 45 E. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-585-2314. B,L,D daily.
Noori Pocha
$
KOREAN • This retro Korean gastropub in Clawson will transport you to ’80s Seoul with its unmatchable aesthetic. The meal begins with complimentary tteokbokki, a rice cake cooked in a spicy red broth. From there, you can choose from a fine selection of imported beers and bang-for-your-buck entrées like the shareable buldak: spicy chicken and cheese served with jumeok-bap (rice balls with seaweed). 1 S. Main St., Clawson; 248-850-7512. D Tue.-Sun.
Oak City Grille
$
NEW AMERICAN • This downtown Royal Oak spot bridges the gap between bar food and upscale dining. Order a dressed-up sandwich or burger or elevate your dining experience with an 8-ounce filet mignon or lamb chops. The friendly price range makes anything possible. 212 W. Sixth St., Royal Oak; 248-556-0947. D Tue.-Sun.
Oak Parker
$$
$$
$$
NEW AMERICAN • From Union Joints, the oven-centric restaurant features a rotisserie, a smoker, and a wood-fired oven used to bake pizzas. The menu’s centerpiece is the Main Builds option, which includes your choice of protein
AMERICAN • Joe and Kristin Bongiovanni opened this eatery just across the street from the family’s existing restaurants, Salvatore Scallopini and Luxe Bar & Grill. It represents a younger, more casual alternative to the cult classics, with a serious kitchen that offers traditional American dishes and hints of global influences. 474 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-712-4953. L,D daily
NEW AMERICAN • This lively neighborhood bar features thoughtful cocktails with a forward-looking food menu to match. Its smashburgers are the perfect answer to a cold pint. You can also kick it up a notch with Hungarian sausage, schnitzel, or pastrami — the latter stuffed in delistyle sandwiches and deep-fried chimichangas or mixed into pastrami hash for weekend brunch. 13621 W. 11 Mile Road; oakparkerbar.com. B Sat.-Sun., L,D daily.
Ocean Prime
$$$$
SEAFOOD • At this upper-end steak and fish place and popular business lunch site, the menu features naturally harvested fresh fish and prime aged beef. Don’t miss the chocolate peanut butter pie or the carrot cake at this tried-
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RESTAURANT
and-true metro Detroit spot. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy; 248458-0500. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.
One-Eyed Betty’s $$
ECLECTIC AMERICAN • Picnic-style tables and blackboards lettered with scores of brew choices add a beer-hall sensibility to this popular spot. The kitchen delivers New Orleans-themed dishes such as chicken Tchoupitoulas with tasso ham and béarnaise sauce, as well as a mouthwatering bacon burger. Weekend brunch features delicious housemade doughnuts. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale; 248-808-6633. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
O.W.L. $
MEXICAN-AMERICAN • This Royal Oak spot offers sustenance for the early birds and the night owls. Step up to the counter and order from the letterboard menu before grabbing a stool at the counter or along the window ledge. Dishes here include eggs, sausage and potato hash, burgers, and chicken wings, as well as tacos and nachos served from the open kitchen. 27302 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-8086244. B,L,D daily.
Phoenicia $$$
LEBANESE • This long-standing upscale eatery has clean, contemporary lines that complement the French door-style windows. Don’t miss the portabella mushrooms or roasted garlic cloves with tomato and basil as an appetizer. The menu expands to unexpected items such as baby back ribs and single serving-sized local whitefish. 588 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-644-3122. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.
Pop’s For Italian $$
ITALIAN • It doesn’t sound fancy, but this Ferndale restaurant serves well-prepared Italian dishes paired with an ambitious wine program. The fairly brief menu starts with a list of Neapolitan pizzas, then moves to pastas, but has all the classics. 280 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248268-4806. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Prime29 Steakhouse
$$$$
STEAKHOUSE • The 29-day aged prime beef, including the 24-ounce tomahawk bone-in ribeye, still stars here. There’s also Chilean sea bass and black pearl salmon. The service is notable, as is the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. 6545 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield; 248737-7463. D Tue.-Sun.
Quán Ngon Vietnamese Bistro $ VIETNAMESE • This gem of a bistro in a handsome space adds to the local Vietnamese offerings. Dishes such as chả giò (elegant little eggrolls), bun bo nuong chả giò (grilled beef with eggroll, vermicelli, mixed greens, plus sweet-and-sour sauce), and bánh mì are made with fresh ingredients. 30701 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights; 248-268-4310. L,D Fri.-Wed.
Redcoat Tavern $ BURGERS • The half-pound choice beef hamburger is always atop the list of local favorites. But a low-fat, high-flavor Piedmontese beef one is tastier than the original. This is the place for your burger craving. 31542 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-549-0300. 6745 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-865-0500. L,D Mon.-Sat.
RH Rooftop Restaurant
ranean-themed restaurant offers a wide array of chilled seafood, caviar, and steak. Sit among the live olive trees while enjoying the 14-ounce charred, Australian Wagyu ribeye or enjoy one of 16 specialty cocktails. 300 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-614-6984. L,D Mon.-Fri., BR,L,D Sat.-Sun.
The Rind
Brussels sprouts, and salmon with braised lentils, crispy kale, and a mustard vinaigrette. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-594-4200. L Mon.-Fri., D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.
Streetside Seafood
$$$
WINE BAR • Attached to Mongers’ Provisions in Berkley, The Rind serves signature cocktails from its full bar and offers wines by the glass, with a selection of more than 150 bottles to choose from. In addition to snacks that pair well with wine, like marcona almonds, tinned razor clams, and (naturally) cheese and charcuterie, there’s heartier fare like a flatiron steak and littleneck clams. 3125 12 Mile Road, Berkley; 248-468-4487. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Rochester Chop House
$$ NEW AMERICAN • Enjoy two restaurants in one: Kabin Kruser’s and the Chop House. There’s a throwback, roadhouse-style feeling about the Chop House, which has a menu divided between red meat and fresh fish and seafood. Signature dishes include calamari, Maryland jumbo lump crab cakes, and a large selection of aged steaks, rack of lamb, and steak/seafood combinations. 306 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-651-2266. L Mon.-Fri., D daily
Ronin
$$
SEAFOOD • The restaurant has a pared-down seasonal menu of fresh fish and seafood. There are always two soups: a bisque and a chowder. Favorites include the oysters and bouillabaisse. It’s a delicious restaurant for all palates to enjoy and feel comfortable in. 273 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-645-9123. L Thu.-Fri., D daily.
Sylvan Table
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • With a working farm on the 5-acre property, Sylvan Table isn’t just talking the farm-to-table talk. The restored 300-year-old barn feels grand and vast when you step into the stunning space, but it is homey, welcoming, and inviting. The menu changes often to reflect what’s growing, but some of the staples include the trout — seasoned with herb oil, salt, and pepper, cooked over a wood-fired grill, and served whole — and Chicken Under a Brick, which is cooked to charred perfection. 1819 Inverness St., Sylvan Lake, 248-369-3360. D Mon.-Sun.
Take Sushi
$$
JAPANESE • The sushi menu, ranging from spicy tuna rolls to yellowtail and salmon eggs and well beyond, is augmented by a concise menu of cooked fare. Front windows open onto the sidewalk, making the cocktail lounge open-air during the warm months. 326 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-546-0888. D daily.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse
2026
$$$$
STEAKHOUSE • Once the location of 100-year-old Rudy’s Market, this version of Rudy’s pays homage to the historic shop in the best way possible — by serving up high-quality food. Classics meet inventive cuisine here, with shrimp cocktail, burrata, and Hokkaido scallops available as appetizers. Chops and steaks are the highlight, with prime-quality fillets, ribeyes, and Australian lamb chops on the menu. After dinner, try the peach cornbread cobbler, an inventive take on a staple dessert. 9 S. Main St., Village of Clarkston; D Tue.-Sun.
Sambong
$ KOREAN • Known for its signature naengmyeon (a Korean cold noodle dish), Sambong is a fully self-service restaurant with unique offerings like complimentary broth. Besides the naengmyeon (which features house-made noodles), additional standouts include japchae, bulgogi, bibimbap, and donkatsu. 5389 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-731-7859. L,D Wed.-Mon.
Silver Spoon
$$
ITALIAN • This quintessential slice of Italy features excellent food, knowledgeable staff, and friendly service. Try the bucatini made with pancetta, onion, red wine, and fresh tomato sauce. Also worth trying is the saltimbocca alla Romana: veal scaloppini sautéed in white wine. Silver Spoon offers truly delicious food for any kind of outing. 543 N. Main St., Rochester; 248-652-4500. D Mon.-Sat.
Social Kitchen & Bar
$$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Located on the top floor of RH Detroit, The Gallery in Birmingham, the American and Mediter-
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JAPANESE • Crisp salads, sashimi, sushi, oversize bowls of soba or udon noodles, and all the familiar — and some not-so-familiar — entrées combine to make this spot special. The exceptionally warm service is unforgettable. 1366 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248-652-7800. L,D Tue.-Sat., D Sun.
Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro
$$ WINE BAR • Understated decor and a pared-down menu of seasonal dishes make this spot a Birmingham classic. The kitchen turns out dishes like lamb-belly ragù with housemade pasta and whole branzino with charred zucchini and romesco. Wine is served by the glass, pitcher, or bottle. 155 S. Bates St., Birmingham; 248-731-7066. D Mon.-Sat.
Three Cats Restaurant
$
BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • Formerly a small café serving customers of the boutique Leon & Lulu, Three Cats is now a full-fledged restaurant. Located in the former Clawson movie theater next door to the shop, the eatery serves small, simple plates, including vegetarian and vegan options, plus local beverage selections, such as vodka from Ferndale’s Valentine Distilling Co. and wines from grapes grown on the Leelanau Peninsula. Patrons can even take home the colorful, quirky chairs or tables, as most of the furniture at Three Cats Restaurant is available for purchase. 116 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-288-4858. L,D Tue.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun.
TigerLily
$$ JAPANESE • With an eclectic ambiance and extensive Japanese menu, TigerLily satisfies taste buds with sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and hot dishes like the yaki udon or Japanese street corn. 231 W. Nine Mile Road, Ste. A, Ferndale; 248-733-4905. D daily.
Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • The energetic Birmingham spot allows guests a view of the kitchen action. It has a creative and varied menu typified by fried chicken sandwiches, crispy
$ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • It’s fun, it’s breezy, and the food at Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint is very, very good. Try the huevos rancheros: fried eggs upon corn tortillas, pintos, and cheese. Toast, a Neighborhood Joint, the spinoff of the Ferndale original, has a more elaborate setting, pairing ’50s retro with sleek contemporary in a pair of rooms. The new menu features twists on comfort food. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-398-0444. 203 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-258-6278. B,L daily.
THE GREEN ROOM A Cultivated Cannabis Marketplace
RESTAURANT
Toasted Oak
$$$
BRASSERIE • The menu revolves around the charcuterie sold in the market next door and a list of hot grill items. In 2019, the restaurant earned a Wine Spectator magazine award for its outstanding wine program. Plus, just across the lot is Twelve Oaks Mall, should you fancy an evening of shopping and dinner. 27790 Novi Road, Novi; 248-2776000. B Mon.-Fri., L,D Tue.-Sat., BR Sat.-Sun.
Townhouse
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • This popular Birmingham spot for comforting new-American dishes has several exceptional offerings on its menu, such as the specialty 10 ounces of 28-day dry-aged beef hamburger on brioche. 180 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-792-5241. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-723-1000. L,D daily.
Union Woodshop $$
BARBECUE • Part of the Union Joints restaurant group, this is a self-described wood-fired joint, where pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and beef brisket come from the smoker alongside Neapolitan-style crisp-crusted pizzas from the wood-burning oven. And definitely check out the mac and cheese. 18 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-625-5660. D Mon.-Sun.
Vinsetta Garage $$
NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant, which is housed in a vintage car-repair shop, offers well-prepared comfort food classics such as burgers, macaroni and cheese, pizzas, and brown sugar-glazed salmon. The restaurant pays true homage to the city of Detroit. 27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley; 248-548-7711. L,D daily.
Voyager $$
SEAFOOD • Fresh seafood with an emphasis on oysters is the premise in this hard-to-find location. The space entails convivially close quarters for such dishes as peel-’n’-eat shrimp, yellowfin tuna tartare, and halibut fish and chips. The premium bar offers short but notable lists of beer and wine as well as craft cocktails. 600 Vester St., Ferndale; 248-658-4999. D Tue.-Sat.
Macomb County
Andiamo $$
ITALIAN • Over the past three decades, Joe Vicari has established several Andiamo restaurants in metro Detroit, all inspired by the late master chef Aldo Ottaviani’s philosophy of seasonal, from-scratch cooking. Between locations, the constant is fresh, house-made pastas handcrafted by the trinity of “pasta ladies” — Anna, Tanya, and Angelina — who have carried on the tradition. 7096 14 Mile Road, Warren; 586-268-3200. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun.
Bar Verona $$
ITALIAN • Modernized, made-from-scratch Italian favorites curated by chef Salvatore Borgia, as well as fresh craft cocktails, fill the menu at this stylish eatery. Homemade pastas, such as Giuseppe’s, as well as a selection of steaks and seafood dishes typify the contemporary approach to fresh and uncomplicated Italian cuisine. 59145 Van Dyke Ave., Washington; 586-473-0700. D daily.
Blake’s Tasting Room $$ NEW AMERICAN • Enjoy a variety of house-made hard ciders from one of the top-producing hard cider brands in the U.S., plus bar-food staples with a twist. It’s steps away
from family-friendly seasonal activities at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill. 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada; 586-7845343. L,D daily.
Butter Run Saloon $ GASTROPUB • The solid American fare is beyond bar food (although the burgers are certainly noteworthy). There are escargots, perch, steaks, and a huge whiskey selection — more than a thousand at last count. 27626 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-675-2115. B, L,D daily.
Da Francesco’s Ristorante & Bar $$
ITALIAN • Founded by Italian immigrant Francesco Belcastro in 1990, Da Francesco’s has been run by family ever since. The restaurant offers up homey Italian dishes such as the rigatoni Mamma’s pasta and Steak Da Francesco, a prime New York steak chargrilled with olive oil, garlic, and oregano. 49521 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-7544. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., L,D Sun.
Detroit Fish House
$$
SEAFOOD • This restaurant feels like a true coastal eatery, thanks to an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood that ranges from salmon to Lake Superior whitefish — all served in a well-designed setting. 51195 Schoenherr Road, Shelby Charter Township; 586-739-5400. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.
Gaudino’s
$$
ITALIAN • The trending market-restaurant combo has a good example at this spot. It offers imported pastas and sauces, plus a butcher counter with sausages and a wine assortment. The menu offers pasta and pizza, salads, and entrées, including bistecca di gancio, a sliced hanger steak with crispy Brussels sprouts and house bistro sauce. 27919 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-879-6764. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Host Utica
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VARIOUS • With a rotating cast of culinarians that shifts every few months, Host Utica is a great place to constantly try something new — and get a first taste of concepts from up-and-coming chefs. The dining room has a full-service cocktail bar as well as brunch and dinner service, plus coffee and pastries. The building regularly holds culinary events and is home to a coworking office space. 7759 Auburn Road, Utica; 586-488-0134. D Tue.-Sat., BR daily.
Isla
$$$
FILIPINO • Dishes at this Filipino restaurant, formerly sheltered at Fort Street Galley, are reflective of the culinary traditions of the founders’ Iloilo City hometown. Annatto is used to punch up the color of chicken adobo, the unofficial dish of the Philippines, and juicy mangoes complement sweet and savory dishes. 2496 Metro Pkwy., Sterling Heights; 586-883-7526. L,D Tue.-Sat., BR Sun.
J. Baldwin’s Restaurant
$$$
NEW AMERICAN • The menu showcases chef Jeff Baldwin’s contemporary American food: award-winning stone-fired pizza, boom-boom shrimp, burgers, and salads. The desserts include chocolate bumpy cake and spiced carrot cake. 16981 18 Mile Road, Clinton Township; 586-416-3500. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.
Khom Fai
THAI • This Macomb staple serves a modernized take on Thai food, seasoned with what they call “a dash of good ol’ Southern hospitality.” Sip a specialty cocktail, start with small plates like satay skewers, Rangoon, or sesame yellow-
fin tuna, and enjoy entrées like drunken noodles, red curry, or Khom Fai’s signature fried chicken. 48856 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb; 586-247-7773. L Tues., Sun., D Tues.-Sat.
Luigi’s Original Restaurant
$$
ITALIAN • Family-owned since 1953, Luigi’s menu offers a sizeable number of options, including filet mignon, handtossed pizzas, and pastas. Finish the meal with traditional Italian desserts such as tiramisu or cannoli. 36691 Jefferson Ave., Harrison Township; 586-468-7711; D Wed.-Sun.
Mr. Paul’s Chophouse
$$$
STEAKHOUSE • This bastion of red meat and classic dishes is still going strong. Try old-school tableside presentations such as Chateaubriand and Caesar salad. There’s also a solid selection of fresh seafood and pasta. The founding family still runs the place and emphasizes great hospitality and a good time. 29850 Groesbeck Hwy., Roseville; 586-777-7770. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.
Sherwood Brewing Co.
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GASTROPUB • Quality local ingredients raise Sherwood’s fare to well above “elevated pub grub.” Some notable choices include the hand-stretched pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and spicy buffalo mac. 45689 Hayes Road, Shelby Township; 586-532-9669. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Steakhouse 22
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STEAKHOUSE • The late Nick Andreopoulos once spent time as a “broiler man” at London Chop House. His family stays true to those roots at this American steakhouse with a casual, neighborhood feel. It offers an array of well-prepared Angus steaks, plus seafood and pasta dishes. With the sizable lunch and portions offered at Steakhouse 22, good luck saving room for dessert! 48900 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-3900. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Testa Barra
$$$
ITALIAN • Owned and run by chefs Mike and Gabriella Baldwin (of Food Network fame), Testa Barra is notable for its freshly made pasta dishes and favorites like Connie’s Lamb Shank, a fall-off-the-bone chop topped with red wine braise, stewed vegetables, polenta, and Asiago cheese. Its wine program is renowned, and the restaurant features 14 on-staff sommeliers to guide you through the list 48824 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb; 586-434-0100. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.
Waves
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SEAFOOD • Seafood covers most of the menu at this Nautical Mile favorite. It’s a tough task choosing between such popular appetizers as coconut shrimp, crispy grouper nuggets, and plump steamed mussels. Entrées include al dente pastas and protein options such as lamb chops and New York strip steak, plus lump crab cakes and beer-battered cod. 24223 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-773-3840. L,D daily.
Youngblood Vineyard
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WINERY • Sitting on 25 acres of wine grapes, this winery offers year-round wine tasting with a menu that includes grilled bruschetta with tomato and mozzarella, artisan pizza, a harvest salad, and charcuterie boards. More than a dozen wines are offered by the bottle, glass, or 2-ounce pour as part of a flight. 61829 Ray Center Road, Ray Twp.; 586-770-5220; D Thu.-Sun.
Washtenaw County
Bellflower $$
NEW AMERICAN • A restaurant housed in a former exchange of the Michigan Bell Telephone Company, Bellflower answers Ypsilanti’s call for fine dining with an adventurous flair. Boudin sausage with roasted okra and ginger ale- or Coca Cola-roasted beets showed up on early menus as chef Dan Klenotic’s way of straddling the line of creole tradition and an imaginative style that is entirely his own. He was recognized as a James Beard semifinalist in 2024. 209 Pearl St., Ypsilanti. D Mon. L,D Tue-Sat., L Sun.
Black Pearl $$
SEAFOOD • This place is especially popular during patio season. But step inside for a host of craft cocktails, then stay for dinner. A seafood-dominated menu includes a notable misoyaki salmon dish. Non-seafood options include the eponymous burger and filet mignon. 302 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-222-0400. D daily.
Blue LLama Jazz Club $$
CREATIVE AMERICAN • This elegant destination for live music and dining offers gorgeous, skillfully balanced dishes designed by a fresh team of chefs. The menu brings the spirit and flavors of American jazz meccas like Harlem and New Orleans, along with flavors from Barbados and Puerto Rico, through an Afro-Caribbean lens. 314 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-372-3200. D Wed.-Sat.
The Blue Nile $$ ETHIOPIAN • The real treat at this quaint restaurant is injera, a spongy bread used to scoop the meal, eaten with your hands in traditional style. The lentil dishes, often seasoned with an Ethiopian spice mixture called berbere, and the vegetables are equally delicious. 221 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor; 734-998-4746. D Tue.-Sun. 545 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-547-6699. D Thu.-Sun.
Cardamom $$ INDIAN • Check out the Hyderabadi biryani — a chicken, goat, or vegetable dish in which the rice is first cooked, then baked. All the Indian favorites are available at Cardamom, such as chicken tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, and warm, fluffy, fresh-made garlic naan. It’s the ideal spot for when you’re craving the classics. 1739 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-662-2877. D Wed.-Sun.
The Common Grill $$
SEAFOOD • Founded by chef Craig Common, whose skilled work drew the attention of the now-shuttered Gourmet magazine and the James Beard House, this mainstay was acquired in 2022 by Peas & Carrots Hospitality. Chefs Zack Sklar and Josh Humphrey kept most of the beloved restaurant’s menu, such as the expertly prepared oysters and seafood dishes, as well as the coconut cream pie. 112 S. Main St., Chelsea; 734-475-0470. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat-Sun.
Dixboro House $$$$
NEW AMERICAN • Much like the restaurant’s ambience, the cuisine at Dixboro House is both refined and relaxed. Chef Garrett Lipar’s menu hosts rotating seasonal, fromscratch dishes that highlight local ingredients — pizzas, salads, seafood, and steaks served in a rustic barn that once housed The Lord Fox, an iconic restaurant in Ann Arbor’s
NEW AMERICAN • Placing an emphasis on wood-fired cooking and local produce, this downtown Ann Arbor restaurant offers à la carte dining in addition to a seven-course chef’s tasting menu. The vegetable-forward menu elevates simple ingredients into complex dishes filled with flavor. Enjoy the kanpachi crudo or the stone fruit and chicory salad to start, with something for both vegans and omnivores to savor. Entrées include hazelnut-apricot risotto with scallops and beef shank torchietti with smoked almond cream and grilled scallion conserva. 200 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. D Wed.-Sun.
The Gandy Dancer
$$$$ SEAFOOD • At the Gandy Dancer, located in a historic Ann Arbor train station, guests can still be found celebrating as trains pass by. Known for its seafood, the restaurant features staples like creamy lobster bisque, applejack sea bass, and oven-roasted lobster tail. For meat-centric options, try the duck, served with a Grand Marnier demi-glace, or the prime-cut 14-ounce New York strip. 401 Depot St., Ann Arbor; 734-769-0592. L,D daily.
Ma Lou’s
$ CHICKEN • This is Ypsi’s destination for all things fried chicken — try it as a plate, in the form of wings, or in the chicken and waffles, with classic Southern sides like collard greens, potato salad, and coleslaw. Ma Lou’s shines especially in its ability to craft the perfect sandwich, made with your choice of chicken or tofu. Try The Hot Chick, stacked with a combination of the ultra-spicy Nashville hot baste, bacon, lettuce, tomato, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeño ranch. 15 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti; 734-905-7994. L,D Tue.-Sat.
Mani Osteria & Bar
$$
ITALIAN • This popular casual restaurant infuses freshness with lower prices than most osterias in the area. It’s a well-rounded blend of modern, eclectic Italian with classic standbys. The pizzas are hot, fresh, and perfectly executed to suit your taste. 341 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-7696700. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Miss Kim
$$
KOREAN • James Beard semifinalist Chef Ji Hye Kim‘s unique blend of modern Korean food highlights Michigan vegetables, from house-made kimchi to the tteokbokki (rice cakes). Standouts include a craveable Korean fried chicken and its plant-based counterpart, Korean fried tofu. 415 N. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-275-0099. L,D Wed.-Mon.
Palio $$
ITALIAN • Named for the historic horse race that takes place in Siena, Italy, this downtown spot has been serving up traditional Italian food since 1991. Here you’ll find favorites like the rigatoni bolognese and zuppa pomodoro — a creamy tomato soup made with leeks, fennel, and white wine. Save room for the espresso chocolate cake for an after-dinner treat. 347 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-212-1089. D daily.
Peridot
prosciutto: Italian dry-cured ham and amberjack sashimi. 118 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-773-3097. D Mon.-Sat.
Seva
$$$$
VIETNAMESE-INSPIRED • This downtown Ann Arbor eatery offers both small plates and cocktails that incorporate ingredients like tamarind, Thai basil, Vietnamese cinnamon, and cilantro — with delightfully refreshing results. On the ever-changing menu, standout small plates have included ketchup fried rice and the savory kampachi and
$$
VEGAN • Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian. There’s also a full bar, as well as a juice bar serving creamy smoothies and dense shakes, fresh-squeezed juices, and craft mocktails. Choose from one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in the Detroit area. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. L,D Mon.-Sat.
Shalimar
$$ INDIAN • Offering North Indian, Tandoori, and Mughlai dishes, Shalimar is suitable for carnivores and herbivores alike. Standouts include the lamb tikka masala, best eaten with the restaurant’s flavorful, chewy garlic naan served fresh and hot. 307 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-1500. L,D daily.
Slurping Turtle
$
JAPANESE • This fun, casual Ann Arbor restaurant, owned by celebrity chef Takashi Yagihashi, offers plenty of shareable dishes, such as hamachi nachos and duck fat-fried chicken. But the star at Slurping Turtle are the noodles (Yagihashi’s “soul food”), which are made in-house daily on a machine imported from Japan. 608 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-887-6868. L,D daily.
Spencer
$
WINE BAR • The food at this small but mighty spot is bright, fresh, and often surprising. The brief and very French menu changes frequently and is always imaginative. Previous dishes have included chicken liver mousse with violet mustard and grilled bread, as well as orange duck confit with North African spices. 113 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734369-3979; D Thu.-Sun. (By reservation only)
Tomukun
$
KOREAN • Featuring a Korean noodle bar and Korean barbecue side by side, the downtown Ann Arbor eatery is a destination for ramen, udon, and pho, plus traditional rice dishes like bibimbap. You can also order grill-it-yourself meals like short ribs, pork belly, and marinated chicken. 505 E. Liberty St., Suites 100-200, Ann Arbor; 734-995-8668 (Tomukun Noodle Bar); 734-369-2602 (Tomukun Korean BBQ). L,D daily.
Venue by 4M
$$$
COFFEE • High-quality coffee, a diverse selection of alcoholic beverages — including cocktails and sustainably sourced wine — and a wide variety of elevated cuisine, such as goat cheese ravioli, can be found in this high-end mixeduse food hall. 1919 S. Industrial Hwy., Ann Arbor; 734-8000128; experience4m.com.
Yotsuba Japanese Restaurant & Bar $$ JAPANESE • The semi-circular sushi bar is the center of this restaurant. Sushi chef Bobby Suzuki has a loyal following for his precise nigiri rolls. There are also tatami rooms and conventional seating. 7365 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-737-8282. 2222 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor; 734-971-5168. L,D Tue.-Sun.
Zingerman’s Roadhouse
$$$ CLASSIC COMFORT • This eatery celebrates food from around the U.S., from the New Mexico black bean and hominy burger to the delicacies of New Orleans. The buttermilk biscuits are out of this world. 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3663. B,L,D daily.
Jonathan Clapper, Max Broock Realtors
Elevating the real estate experience — from first home to luxury living
Jonathan Clapper believes exceptional real estate results begin with a higher level of commitment. Known for his strategic approach, attention to detail, and hands-on involvement, he delivers a level of service that exceeds that of the industry’s topperforming agents.
Working across both residential and commercial markets, Clapper approaches every transaction with a disciplined, results-driven mindset. His philosophy is rooted in one principle: True professionalism is defined by consistency.
One of his defining differentiators is how he prepares properties for market. Clapper understands that perception drives value, and first impressions set the tone for negotiation power. He is personally involved from the earliest stages of premarket strategy through staging, presentation, and final detailing. Often exceeding traditional expectations, he ensures each property is positioned with intention, presented with sophistication, and launched to command maximum impact.
Clapper approaches each listing with an investor’s mindset, focusing on the strategic decisions that can enhance both presentation and outcome. He is known for investing time, resources, and effort up front to help clients achieve stronger offers and a more efficient sale process — an approach that has earned the trust of both buyers and sellers alike.
His depth of experience extends well beyond traditional sales. Raised in a family deeply rooted in real estate, Clapper gained early exposure to property acquisition, renovation, and management through his family’s portfolio of apartment communities and residential holdings. He later expanded his expertise as a building contractor in Florida and Michigan, giving him a comprehensive understanding of construction, valuation, and the nuances that influence a property’s true market potential.
To further support his clients, Clapper provides access to a trusted network of professionals — including contractors, legal advisers, and staging and home service specialists — helping guide every stage of the process with confidence and clarity.
A longtime Birmingham resident, Clapper has extensive knowledge of the metro Detroit market and works throughout Michigan to serve his clients. Outside of real estate, he is actively involved in philanthropic efforts through his church and his family’s Oakland Civic Charities Foundation, supporting local meal programs and community initiatives.
At his core, Clapper is a problem-solver and advocate — fully invested in delivering results. With a commitment to preparation, presentation, and strategic execution, he is raising the standard of representation for clients at every stage of their real estate journey.
Thinking of Selling or Buying?
Positioning your home correctly can make all the difference.
Contact Jonathan Clapper for a confidential consultation on preparing your home for market or navigating your next purchase.
Jonathan Clapper
Max Broock Realtors
26236 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48067 248-720-9368 | clapperrealtygroup.com
Proceeds from the 2026 Friends’ Ball will support critical upgrades within the emergency department, with a focused investment in behavioral health infrastructure, team training and development, and essential equipment needs. The initiative addresses increasing patient complexity while enhancing safety for patients and care teams.
By prioritizing these areas, the event supports efforts to improve care delivery and strengthen the department’s ability to meet evolving community needs. Funds raised will help create a more supportive and efficient emergency care environment, ensuring staff are equipped with the resources, training, and tools necessary to provide high-quality care. These targeted improvements align with the organization’s goals of delivering patient-centered, equitable emergency services. The 2026 Friends’ Ball serves as a meaningful philanthropic effort and a commitment to advancing emergency care for the community it serves.
HAVEN SEEDS OF HOPE GALA
May 1, 6 to 10 p.m.
haven-oakland.org/haven-events/seeds-ofhope-gala
HAVEN will host its Seeds of Hope Gala at the Auburn Hills Marriott Pontiac, bringing together community and corporate leaders, advocates, and survivors for an evening of compassion and connection. For more than 50 years, HAVEN has supported survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, providing more than 30,000 individuals annually with life-saving services and care. Proceeds from the fundraiser will help cultivate healing, safety, and hope throughout the community.
SHADES OF PINK FOUNDATION: A WALK AT THE ZOO
April 25, 7 a.m. to noon
shadesofpinkfoundation.org/events-2-1
Shades of Pink Foundation’s highly anticipated annual event, A Walk at the Zoo, is set for Saturday, April 25, at the Detroit Zoo. This family-friendly event aims to bring together more than 3,000 participants in support of those undergoing breast cancer treatment in southeast Michigan, with a goal of raising $500,000. Funds raised stay local and will provide crucial financial assistance for everyday living expenses, ensuring patients can focus on healing, not bills.
The Women Helping Women Luncheon & Fashion Show is Grace Centers of Hope’s premier Mother’s Day weekend celebration, hosted at the newly renovated Royal Park Hotel in Rochester. More than 600 guests will gather for an elegant luncheon, inspirational program stories, a silent auction, raffles, and a professionally produced fashion show featuring Somerset Collection retailers and local boutiques. A highlight of the show is a special runway presentation in which women currently enrolled in the One-Year Life Skills program walk the runway, symbolizing restored dignity, confidence, and hope. All proceeds support GCH’s Women’s Program, which receives no government funding, making sponsorships essential to providing care, stability, and long-term transformation.
ON THE WINGS OF ANGELS NONPROFIT FUNDRAISING GALA
April 26, 5 to 11 p.m. givebutter.com/rmUG4G
On the Wings of Angels proudly presents its second annual Fundraising Gala, an evening dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence and celebrating the strength of the human spirit. This signature event will bring together compassionate individuals, community leaders, and generous sponsors united by a shared mission: providing immediate, tangible resources and unwavering support to DV survivors in need.
Guests will enjoy an elegant evening of fine dining, live entertainment, inspiring survivor stories, and a silent auction featuring unique items and experiences. Every dollar raised directly fuels our efforts to offer no-red-tape assistance, create a nurturing community, and drive awareness for domestic violence prevention.
Join us as we honor the resilience of survivors, recognize our incredible supporters, and build a future where every survivor has the resources they need to reclaim their independence and thrive. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
AutoGlow 2026
HOSTED BY Lisa and Bill Ford and Lia and Jim Farley, AutoGlow — the official after-party for the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview — took place at Michigan Central Station. Like the Charity Preview, AutoGlow helped raise funds for a great cause: The Children’s Center in Detroit. The Children’s Center provides a variety of services to children and families in need, including mental health services, adoption and foster services, and essential items for children and families. To learn more, visit thechildrenscenter.com
PHOTOS
1. Mary Carmen Muñoz, Jane Garcia 2. Mike Levine, Dr. Pamela Abramson-Levine 3. Markus Irving 4. Lisa Ford, Desiree Jennings 5. The Children’s Center Team 6. Giovanni and Maria Cavataio 7. Si and Dennis Edwards 8. Dena and Tarick Salmaci 9. Renee and Brian Godfrey 10. WPP Teams 11. James Heike, Douglas L. Cunningham, Marty Field, Jim Azzuz 12. Bob Baker, Alison Couzens, Evan Deneau 13. Keiya Newell, Babette Small
THIS INVITE-ONLY EVENT took place at the Foundation Hotel in support of C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, a beneficiary of the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview event. Funds received by the hospital go toward several initiatives, including the purchase of iPads — so patients can do schoolwork and stay in touch with friends — and a music studio, where the kids can learn instruments and make videos that are shared throughout patients’ rooms to grow community. To learn more about the hospital’s work as a leader in pediatrics and children’s health care, visit mottchildren.org.
1. Andrew and Stephanie Olsen 2. Ashleigh Imerman, Kiernan O’Donohue, Angela Gonino, Jon Paul Gorinski 3. JJ Vélez, Rico Razo, Denise Fair Razo, Dr. Aisha Akpabio, Jazelle Irons, Erin A. Moss Ferguson, Brent and Ann Hollenbeck 4. Sunil and Shivani Arjun 5. Maria Bertram, Paul Glantz, Luanne Thomas Ewald 6. Mike Sullivan, Claire Flood, Justin Rose, Dr. Cindy Pavicic, Kyle Bogenschutz, Audrey Russman 7. Don and Jody Weissler DeFoe 8. Connie Blake, Caroline Breen 9. Luke McMurray, Kelly Muldoon 10. Brian and Andrea Cartwright 11. Brian Uridge, Ronald Henry, Tim Woodhams 12. Mike and Kristy Bristol, Jeff and Sharon Stover
11th Annual KIDSgala
PHOTOS BY KEVIN BEAN
HOSTED BY Emmy Award-winner Jay Towers, the 11th Annual KIDSgala, which raises funds for children battling life-altering illnesses and disabilities, took place at the Westin Book Cadillac in downtown Detroit. This year’s gala, “Into the Wild for a Worthy Cause,” featured guests in “jungle chic.” To learn more about the work of KIDSgala, a David C. McKnight Foundation, visit kidsgala.org.
1. Glenn Snively, Johana Eckerman, Anel Hujdurovic 2. Brendan Britt, Sophia Canine, Suzie and Bill Britt, Nanci and Dr. John Canine 3. Carrie Lee, Allison Collada, Nicole Beaudoin, Kate Ciuffetelli 4. Diedre and Peter Creal 5. Dan and Laura Waitz 6. Mike and Krissy Procissi, Kristy and Joe Welch 7. Jim Dunn, Jay Towers, David C. McKnight 8. Ken and Cherri Eick, Stephanie and Kevin Nowakowski 9. Amy Pisano, Lauri Stewart, Anne Caldwell 10. Daryl Jackson, Crystal and Mike Freel 11. Erinn Dombrowski, Kayleigh Brochert, Kimberly Britt 12. Alex Idziak, Jessica Dodge, Sean Walker
THE START OF BASEBALL season brings back fond memories of seasons past and the sights and sounds of the game. For generations of fans, some of the most treasured sounds were the distinctive voices and often-imitated trademark calls of play-by-play Tigers announcers Ernie Harwell (left) and George Kell (right), pictured above in the Tiger Stadium broadcast booth. The beloved broadcasters are also inextricably linked, for each played a role in advancing the other’s career.
In 1957, at the invitation of Baltimore Orioles radio announcer Harwell, the team’s third baseman, Kell, provided color commentary for broadcasts during a 10-day stint on the injury list. Two years later, the Tigers hired fan-favorite Kell — who had played for the team from 1946 to 1952 and appeared in five consecutive All-Star games — to do play-by-play with Van Patrick after his co-host, Mel Ott, was killed in an auto accident in 1958. When Patrick left the following year, the Tigers hired Harwell for the 1960 season upon Kell’s recommendation. From 1960 to 1963, the duo switched off four-and-a-half innings apiece between the TV and radio booths for televised
games and co-announced on radio-only days. Kell sat out the 1964 season to be closer to his family in Arkansas but returned to the television booth the next year, where he remained for 36 seasons. During 21 of those seasons, he teamed up with fellow Hall of Famer Al Kaline.
Meanwhile, Harwell stayed in the radio booth and is best remembered for sharing duties with Ray Lane and later Paul Carey for 19 seasons. At the end of the 1990 season, to the shock and eventual protests of Tiger fans, Harwell — a recipient of the Ford Frick Award from the National Baseball Hall of Fame — was fired by the team and WJR radio, though he was allowed to broadcast in 1991 for a farewell season. After Mike Ilitch purchased the team, Harwell returned to the radio booth in 1993, sharing duties with his replacements, Rick Rizzs and Bob Rathbun. He did telecasts for five seasons before returning to radio from 1999 to 2002.
Kell passed away in his sleep in 2009 at age 86. Fourteen months later, Harwell succumbed to cancer at 92. To countless Tigers, they remain the voices of summer.
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