Hour Detroit | March 2026

fashion bridal

SkinergyMD is expanding into Michigan with locations in Birmingham, Troy and Gross Pointe! Our refined, medical-first approach made us New England’s premier medical spa. We’re a physician-led practice and believe that great skin isn’t about trends or quick fixes, but thoughtful care guided by science, proven technology and clinical expertise designed around you. Join our Elevated Beauty Club Founder's Program and be among the first to experience Michigan’s most complete and elevated medical spa and wellness experience

Elevated Beauty Club members receive:

• $100 off your first visit

• 10% off all treatments

• $100 referral credit (you + a f riend)

• Exclusive member benefits

• Exclusive welcome package

• VIP-only access & events

Here’s why our patients love us and stay with us for life:

Physician Owned + Led

The highest standards, better results f rom providers you can trust.

Truly Full-Service

The treatments you need to help you achieve your aesthetics and wellness goals at every life stage.

One Unified Brand

A single solution under one roof

Gutfreund Principal & CEO

Luxury Innovation

Luxury and innovation with our state of the art facilities located in Michigan and Florida.

Cutting-Edge Care

Highest standards of care by integrating the latest medical techniques and technology

DRS. VIKRAM AND CHETHANA GOTTAM

ART OF DERMATOLOGY

FOUNDERS OF PREMIER DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE

At Art of Dermatology, our Board Certified Providers are dedicated to offering exceptional care for the diagnosis, treatment, and enhancement of your overall skin health. We understand how important it is to look and feel your best. That’s why our team of highly experienced providers are dedicated to enhancing your natural beauty.

With several locations to serve you, trust us as your go-to dermatology practice, providing you with everything you need in one convenient place.

From personalized consultations to state of the art procedures, our promise is to provide the highest standard of care backed by expertise and compassion. We serve to be a one stop shop for all of your dermatology and aesthetic services.

Art of Dermatology is dedicated to offering exceptional care for the diagnosis, treatment, and enhancement of your overall skin health. Experience the art of beautiful, healthy skin at Art of Dermatology.

Iconic Moments.

Iconic moments deserve iconic settings. As we celebrate our 100th year of hospitality, envision celebrating your special day in one of our beautifully restored ballrooms. Our thoughtfully redesigned guestrooms and event spaces create a sophisticated urban oasis perfect for any occasion. Connect with one of our wedding specialists today at westinbookcadillac.com or by calling 313-442-1616.

centric

Bridal Fashion

With wedding bells ringing, we take a look at the finest bridal gowns and jewelry the region has to offer.

Dr. David S. Balle and Dr. Meredith Price

At Grosse Pointe Dermatology & Cosmetic Center, our Board-Certified Dermatologists combine medical expertise with the advanced aesthetic treatments that inspire natural confidence. Every patient sees Dr. Balle or Dr. Price at each visit.

Comprehensive Care Including:

Medical Dermatology:

• Skin Cancer

• Full Body Skin Exams

• Acne

• Psoriasis

• Eczema

Aesthetic Dermatology:

• Injectables

• IPL & Laser

• Regenerative Facial Aesthetics

• Body Contouring

• Medical-Grade Skincare Products

Complimentary consultations available. Let us create a customized plan for you!

The science of skin. The art of results.

History The

Events

14 can’t-miss shows and performances in March.

Essay

Ryan Patrick Hooper recommends some spring performances.

Annual Events

Le Nain Rouge: Detroit’s most misunderstood myth.

FOOD &DRINK

Review

An east-side eatery’s Polishinfluenced revival.

Dining News

New and soon-to-open bars and restaurants in metro Detroit.

Drinks

An expert weighs in on the secrets behind a proper Guinness pour.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Is it spring yet? I know it’s too early to ask that question, but this feels like the longest winter in history — and it’s not just the weather.

The country is divided, and if you’re following the national news, as most of us are, you might believe the phrase “Love thy neighbor” is obsolete.

I don’t get that feeling about Detroit, however. Even at its most hectic times — right before Christmas, for example, when I did some last-minute shopping — folks were friendly: opening doors, smiling, and genuinely appreciating our decked-out downtown.

In fact, studies have shown that the presence of neighborhood gathering places — like Campus Martius and the new Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park — can facilitate social engagement and enhance a sense of belonging. And Detroit is doing a great job of creating more public spaces, including the redevelopment plans for the RenCen.

One particular showing of community support in early February helped reinforce my faith in people. On Feb. 1, when a 6-year-old nonverbal autistic boy in Madison Heights went missing, people literally jumped to their feet to help. With guidance from the Madison Heights Police Department (MHPD), which sent out alerts and posted on social media, residents walked block by block in the bitter cold, ringing doorbells and asking neighbors to check their properties.

Thankfully, the boy was found just over eight hours after he’d last been seen — he had gone to a neighbor’s home while they were out — and was safe.

The next morning, the MHPD posted a thank-you on its Facebook page to every resident who “walked the streets, drove through neighborhoods, [and] shared information,” as well as to the first responders who “worked tirelessly, coordinated efforts, and never gave up.” The post concluded with: “When we come together, we are stronger.” Let’s hope we can all come together for a common purpose more often.

One thing I think all Hour Detroit readers can agree on is our desire to support community members, businesses, and organizations. In this month’s issue, our two features point you in the direction of great steakhouses and places to buy wedding gowns and jewelry. And in our departments section, we bring you updates on the newest riverfront luxury hotel, a list of new bookstores throughout metro Detroit, a profile of Matilda Dodge Wilson — the woman behind Meadow Brook Hall — and much more.

Enjoy. And here’s to March going out like a lamb.

KATE WALSH, EDITOR KWALSH@HOUR-MEDIA.COM

VOLUME THIRTY-ONE / ISSUE THREE

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: Karen Buscemi, Bill Dow, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Mickey Lyons, Giuseppa Nadrowski, Danny Palumbo, Sarah Wasielewski, Lauren Wethington, Julie Bonner Williams DESIGN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lindsay Richards

ART DIRECTOR: Steven Prokuda

JR. ART DIRECTOR: Sabrina Seldon

CONTRIBUTORS: Michelle Cuppy, Monica Jadan, Jacob Lewkow, Jennifer Pickering, Rebecca Simonov

ADVERTISING

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

BUSINESS

CEO: Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT: John Balardo

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS: Kathie Gorecki

MEDIA ASSOCIATE: Lachlan O’Neill

SENIOR ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE: Andrew Kotzian

ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATES: Jenna Glod, Austin Schmelzle

DISTRIBUTION: Target Distribution, Troy

5750 NEW KING DRIVE, TROY, MI 48098 TELEPHONE: 248-691-1800 FAX: 248-691-4531

EMAIL: EDITORIAL@HOURDETROIT.COM ON THE WEB: HOURDETROIT.COM

MORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS™

Detroit’s Premier surgeon for facial rejuvenation

MUNE GOWDA, MD, FACS BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON HOUR DETROIT MAGAZINE TOP DOC

When it comes to facial rejuvenation, true excellence lies at the intersection of artistry and surgical precision. Dr. Mune Gowda, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, is widely recognized for his mastery of the Modern Deep Plane Facelift and Advanced Neck Lift— procedures that restore youthful contours while preserving a natural, elegant appearance.

Dr. Gowda’s approach goes far beyond tightening skin. By expertly repositioning the deeper facial structures, his modern deep plane techniques address the true foundations of aging, creating refined, long-lasting results that look refreshed rather than “overdone.” This advanced method allows for improved definition of the jawline and neck, smoother transition of the face, and separation of the neck, for a balanced look.

The featured patient is shown just one month post-operation following a Modern Deep Plane Facelift and Modern Approach to Neck Lift—already demonstrating remarkable improvement in contour, definition, and radiance. Prior to surgery, she had explored numerous non-surgical options including CoolSculpting, Kybella, thread lifting, and microneedling. During her consultation, Dr. Gowda thoughtfully explained why a surgical solution would best achieve her goals, delivering results unattainable through noninvasive treatments alone.

In addition to his leadership in facial rejuvenation surgery, Dr. Gowda is highly skilled across all areas of aesthetic plastic surgery, including rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, brow lifts, liposuction, and breast procedures. He also offers a full spectrum of non-surgical treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, and advanced laser technologies— allowing patients to maintain and enhance their results with precision and care.

With decades of experience and an uncompromising commitment to excellence, Dr. Mune Gowda continues to set the standard for refined, natural-looking aesthetic outcomes in Michigan.

UP FRONT

First Look at JW Marriott Detroit Water Square

BY WILL REAUME

Hour Detroit took a hard-hat tour of the newest face of Detroit’s riverfront hospitality

The next evolution in the Motor City’s luxury hospitality transformation is well underway on the riverfront, with the construction of the JW Marriott Detroit Water Square on track for completion in 2027. The 25-story development, located on the former Joe Louis Arena site, will be the city’s first hotel that connects to the adjacent Huntington Place convention center via a third-floor skybridge.

Boasting 601 guest rooms, including 44 suites, and more than 53,000 square feet of meeting and event space, Water Square takes advantage of its location with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, providing views of the Detroit River, the Ambassador and Gordie Howe bridges, and the city skyline.

Water Square will offer multiple dining and drink options, including The Veranda, offering all-day local fare, and the 200-seat Andiamo Italian Chophouse. Guests can enjoy cocktails and small bites at The Assembly, which has both indoor and

Design Is in the Details

A chat with members of the interior design team

By Giuseppa Nadrowski

“A contemporary expression of luxury that reflects the dynamic spirit of Detroit” is how Jim Looney, CEO and founder of Dallasbased interior design firm Looney & Associates, defines the new 25-story JW Marriott Detroit Water Square.

The hotel’s interiors were masterfully designed by Looney

covered outdoor seating. Andiamo Italian Chophouse is scheduled to open in 2027, while its RenCen location — Andiamo Detroit Riverfront — is slated to close in November.

Amenities — like a 10,500-square-foot fullservice spa, complete with nine treatment rooms and a sauna, cold plunge, and whirlpool — are exclusive to hotel guests. A fitness center will offer 24-hour access to free weights, cardio equipment, and a 50-foot lap pool, as well as instructor-led health classes. And for those who prefer to get their exercise outdoors, the Riverwalk, located just outside the Water Square doors, has 5.5 miles of nearly unobstructed walking and biking paths.

The addition of Water Square will provide a much-needed boost to downtown Detroit’s lodging capacity, which Visit Detroit hopes will also help attract larger-scale events.

“Huntington Place is the 16th largest convention center in the country, with the capability and versatility to host those events,” Visit Detroit’s president and CEO,

Andiamo Italian Chophouse will feature a menu of steaks, chops, pastas, and a curated wine list.

The grand ballroom will look much grander than this photo from our tour. The floor-toceiling windows offer scenic river views.

and his team, who also have o ces in Chicago and Honolulu.

details,” she says.

have o ces in Chicago

Kaitlyn Totter, a

Kaitlyn Totter, a senior designer at the firm, explains that looking into the city’s rich history was key to the interior design.

“The city’s legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and resilience informed our approach to the materials, the movement, and the

For the 601 guest rooms and suites, the team brought in soft neutrals, warm woods, bronze metals, and tactile fabrics, while also adding “subtle shifts in tone, from lighter river-inspired hues to deeper cityscape accents” to create a space that felt both luxurious yet calming, says Totter.

For the 601 guest team brought in soft they leave the room —

“We want the guests to have that serene sense of renewal when they leave the room — they’ll feel refreshed and connected to the city,” she says of the rooms, which will have floor-to-ceiling windows and waterfront views. “We want them to come back to Detroit.”

When the Hour team took a hard-hat tour, we saw what Emily

designer at the firm, ceiling element” that

McDonald, a senior designer at the firm, calls “a dramatic ceiling element” that resembles a river. It will lead guests through the lobby to a central bar, “where you’ll have these expansive views of the city. It’s a moment that opens up the whole experience and gives you connection back to the city.” Down the lobby’s

On average, guest rooms are 430 square feet, and offer sweeping skyline views.

Claude Molinari, said in a statement to Hour Detroit. He added that the hotel “was always the missing piece” and “will elevate the economic impact of tourism to downtown Detroit for years to come.”

Another key development related to the Water Square project is the extension of Second Avenue, which will connect Congress Street to the riverfront. Construction on the $103.9 million roadway is being funded by the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority and will offer improved access for pedestrians, motorists, and cyclists. The extension is slated for completion by summer.

grand stairs, guests will discover the new Andiamo Italian Chophouse, which will o er dining both indoors and out. “It was essential for us to include an outdoor terrace because the Detroit River is so central to the experience of this hotel,” says Totter. She states that the warm woods, polished stone, softly

Abstract Art Is in Bloom

BY WILL REAUME

Metro Detroit artist Tim Yanke is named the official artist of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C.

Like many kids’ earliest art projects, Tim Yanke’s took the form of multicolored scribbles on any available flat surface. While most children grow out of this phase of selfexpression, Yanke actually grew into it as an art form.

“You were never more creative than when you were a child,” Yanke says. “As we get older, we put up boundaries around what creativity is or what art is.”

Yanke’s work is packed with bright, vivid colors — inspired by his family trips to the Southwest as a child — and infused with layers of hastily drawn manuscripts that give each piece a simple complexity. He finds inspiration through music, letting jam bands like the Grateful Dead and Goose or the classic rock sounds of the Allman Brothers flow through his work.

“Spontaneity and music are the two most important tools, not my brush or my colors,” Yanke says.

Yanke’s neo-Western style combines a contemporary palette with traditional

Southwest imagery, which gives him a deep connection to his art. So when the National Cherry Blossom Festival asked him to be the official artist of 2026, he was initially worried about creating a piece that stayed true to his style.

“They’re choosing me as an abstract artist,” Yankee thought. “How do I incorporate the cherry blossoms into an abstract feel?”

His solution: Create an abstract piece of art and worry about incorporating the cherry blossoms afterward. Once Yanke had a finished project, he went back into the piece, outlined the silhouettes of the blossoms, and added a depiction of the Washington Monument, leaving his abstract work as the background.

The painting, titled “America in Bloom,” will be on display at the festival, which runs from March 20 to April 12. The festival is a commemoration of Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo’s gift of 3,000 cherry trees to Washington D.C. in 1912. The three-week festival offers music, dancing, and art, as well as a parade that covers 10 city blocks.

ambient lighting of the amenity o ered (see

patinated metals, and ambient lighting of the dining room, paired with timeless Italian influences, define the restaurant’s experience, complementing the hotel’s refinement while adding its own distinct and intimate feel.

But what truly takes this hotel to dynamic new heights is its ability to be cohesive from the guests’ arrival all the

way through each amenity o ered (see article above for details).

“We really begin every project with a very clear design narrative,” explains Casey Bemis, the project manager and the firm’s associate architect. That story becomes a framework that “we can constantly look back to as we move from the larger pieces

into each individual amenity so that we can make sure that each space is functional and intentional.” Looney & Associates, which has over 30 years of hospitality experience, worked alongside Detroit’s Sterling Group and Southfield-based architectural firm Neumann/Smith on the expansive project.

Looney adds: “When we were doing our research, we got to go to a baseball game [at Comerica]. We did walking tours. It was very personal. We didn’t just land in Detroit and look at architecture. We got to meet people and really be immersed in a personal way.” All of this, he says, contributed to a space he

“We really begin amenity so that we can we were doing our to a baseball game [at

hopes Detroiters will connect with.

“We want the hotel to be experienced on a lot of levels,” he says, pointing out that the spaces are designed not only for conventions or big group meetings but for locals and visitors alike. “This is going to be a big social hub in Detroit.”

The Woman Who Built a Legacy with Stone and Spirit

BY SARAH WASIELEWSKI

One of metro Detroit’s greatest gems, Meadow Brook Hall is a National Historic Landmark and testament to one woman’s drive, generosity, and vision

People around the world recognize the name “Dodge” as the 112-year-old automotive brand known for everything from muscle cars to minivans. Locally, many metro Detroiters know it as the name of the family that built that brand. But few may know of Matilda Dodge Wilson — the wife of the automobile brand’s co-founder John Dodge — whose drive and generosity shaped Michigan’s cultural and educational landscape.

Born in Canada and raised in Detroit, Matilda graduated from Gorsline Business College in 1902 and started working as a secretary for John and his younger brother and co-founder, Horace Dodge. Before long,

Matilda and John fell in love and married in 1907. Together, they purchased 320 acres in Rochester as a countryside retreat.

Tragedy struck in 1920 when John died after contracting the Spanish flu, making Matilda — a widow with three young children — a major shareholder in the Dodge company. For five years, Matilda and her sister-in-law Anna Dodge managed the company before selling it in 1925 for $146 million. The same year, Matilda married Alfred Wilson, a lumber baron she’d met at church.

After marrying, the Wilsons spent $4 million to build an 88,000-square-foot mansion on the Rochester property. The

elegant Tudor Revival home was built between 1926 and 1929, and Matilda was involved in every aspect of its construction.

“She wasn’t just decorating Meadow Brook Hall,” says Madelyn Chrapla, Meadow Brook Hall’s curator. “There is a story that she crawled over the scaffolding as they were building the steps in the staff quarters and said that the staircases weren’t wide enough for the staff to be comfortable on them, so she had them rebuilt.”

More than just a home, Meadow Brook Hall became a venue for fundraisers and community events. Unafraid to get her hands dirty, Matilda could be found washing dishes

with the staff after events.

“Matilda never assigned any staff a job she hadn’t done herself,” Chrapla says.

Matilda was also deeply committed to civic service. She served as the president of the Women’s Auxiliary to the Salvation Army, treasurer of the National Council of Women, and president of the Woman’s National Farm and Garden Association. In 1940, Matilda broke barriers when she was appointed Michigan’s first female lieutenant governor.

“In the 1940s, women were not in positions of government,” Chrapla explains. “Even today, it can be an amazing accomplishment for a woman to be in a position of power. It shows how enormously respected Matilda was.”

Matilda’s most enduring legacy is in education. In 1957, Matilda and Alfred donated 1,400 acres of land and $2 million to establish a satellite campus of Michigan State University in Rochester. Providing quality education to the community, the campus grew into an independent school: Oakland University.

“There was even talk they wanted to call it Wilson University, and she disagreed.” Chrapla says. “She wanted it to be for the community, and so that is where they came up with Oakland University.”

Now part of the Oakland University campus, Meadow Brook Hall continues to serve as a historical treasure and vibrant educational hub. Visitors to the mansion can enjoy a variety of seasonal events and guided tours. Although Matilda passed away in 1967, she would be proud to see the growth of Oakland University and Meadow Brook Hall.

“Matilda was a very intriguing and special woman,” Chrapla says. “She is a real inspiration for never stopping because of other people’s expectations of you and what you can accomplish.”

Decades of Influence

BY HOUR STAFF

In honor of International Women’s Month, we present women who have helped shape Detroit and Hour Detroit

May 1996

May 1999

June 2005

A monthly feature highlighting events, promotions, and opportunities of interest to Hour Detroit readers.

COTS Soup City, The Detroit Edition

15th Annual Rugiero Casino

Royale

Downtown Royal Oak Club Pilates Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting

Read Local

BY MORGAN BROWN

For National Reading Month, we take a look at 14 independent bookstores that are starting a new chapter across metro Detroit

Bookstores are writing their own comeback story.

Though online shopping, mega-retailer discounts, e-readers, and the 2011 Borders bankruptcy threatened to seal the industry’s fate, brick-and-mortar bookshops have defied expectations.

According to the American Booksellers Association, the number of independent bookstores in the U.S. has surged 70% since 2020, with 422 shops opening in 2025.

The post-pandemic revival reflects the sustaining power of a community longing for connection, drawn to in-person experiences, and eager to support small businesses.

More than a dozen independent bookstores have opened in metro Detroit within the past year. Here are 14 that give avid readers a place to feel at home.

WASHTENAW COUNTY

Book Love Bar 

After just eight months in business, this bookshop was voted second-best in Washtenaw by readers of Ann Arbor-based magazine Current. Its event lineup includes a monthly workshop and open mic led by award-winning poet Tara Hardy. Plans are underway to serve co ee, beer, wine, and book-themed craft cocktails. 110 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti; 734-714-6124; booklovebar.com

Courageous Books

Courageous Books carries diverse genres, literary gifts, and more. With plans to add a café, it hosts book clubs, parties, weekly storytime, and creative events like book bedazzling. 8063 Main St., Dexter; 734-253-2178; courageousbooks.com

OAKLAND COUNTY

An Inkwell Spent

Shopping in Canterbury Village? Pop into this charming shop o ering new and used books, board games, and mysti-

cal gifts. 2357 Joslyn Ct., Ste. B, Orion Township; 947-886-2117; aninkwellspent.com

Page 18

New and used books share the shelves with comics, crafts, and pop-culture novelties at this downtown spot, named for the year founder Lori Miller and her husband married and adopted their goldendoodle. Page 18 recently added a room for book clubs, game nights, and events. 1 S. Washington St., Oxford; 248-800-6722

Whistler’s Daughter Books

Descendants of realist painter James McNeill Whistler carry on his artistic legacy through this family-owned gem, featuring new and used books — including a standout cookbook selection — and in-demand themed book clubs. 703 Livernois St., Ferndale; 248-397-4647; whistlersdaughter books.com

DETROIT

Purrfiction

No one embodies “curling up with a good book” quite like the cats at this Eastern Market shop, where you’ll find secondhand books, handmade gifts, made-in-Michigan snacks — and a new pet. Partnering with rescues like Colony Cat Club, Purrfiction hosts clever cat-themed events, including adoptions every Saturday. 1948 Division St., Ste. 106, Detroit; purrfiction.com

Sip-N-Read Book Bar

Author Tamela Todd created this locale for low-key nights out, with a small, curated book collection and adultsonly reading lounge, where you can bring books from home. The bar serves mocktails and Michigan wines, including Todd’s own Library of Rosé. 1620 Michigan Ave., Ste. 122, Detroit; sipandread.net

WAYNE COUNTY

The Literary Hideaway 

Founded by literacy coach Jennifer Lemerand, this cozy bookshop, co ee nook, and children’s boutique stocks reads for all ages, runs book clubs, and welcomes kids for storytime. 8166 Macomb St., Grosse Ile Township; 734-982-4028; theliteraryhideaway.com

MACOMB COUNTY

D&K Books

Dan and Kim Hull transformed their overflowing personal library into a shop o ering book-box subscriptions and plentiful signed copies, with 75% of its works written by independent authors. 18004 E. 13 Mile Road, Roseville; 586-238-2115; dkbooks.co

Inner Light

Bookstore at Crocker Co ee House

Browse new-age, wellness, romance, and Michigan-authored titles while enjoying baked goods, small bites, and co ee at this relaxed café. 26050 Crocker Blvd., Harrison Township; 586-284-0880; crockerco ee.com

Calliope Bookshelf

Bright green walls, a hint of vanilla, and Bridgerton-style string scores set the tone at Calliope, which carries classics,

bestsellers, and unique finds. Open mics, storytime, and book clubs make it a lively gathering place for local bookworms. 66870 Van Dyke Road, Washington; 586-281-3090; calliopebookshelf.com

Love at First Read Romance ranks among the most prolific and profitable genres, and booksellers have taken note. There are more than 150 romanceonly bookstores nationwide, up from just two in 2020. These new shops answer readers’ yearning with swoonworthy stories both spicy and sweet.

Mon Coeur Books 42823 Ford Road, Canton; 734-210-1372; moncoeurbooks.com

Read My Lips

768 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-590-2698; readmylipsbookshop.com

Til Death Books 46695 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-341-6061

 CANDACE JOLLIFFE of Grosse Ile

Candace says her liquid metal-esque Balmain dress was chosen to go with her limited-edition Christian Louboutin studded shoes.

 LESTER BOOKER JR. of Canton

Lester chose a red tuxedo jacket this year to “vibrate the love.” He gets all of his tuxes from Sam’s Alterations and Suits in Lathrup Village.

 TIA COOK of Novi

Tia’s colorful gown is by Sai Sankoh, a designer from Sierra Leone, West Africa, who is headquartered in Dallas. She refers to her choice of orange as an “outlier” compared to other dresses at the event.

 AVA SAND AND AL TROMBETTA of Royal Oak

The Charity Preview veterans always wear light-up shoes for the event, and this year, they also wore matching Corvette Stingray jewelry. Al made Ava’s impressive fascinator — creating headpieces is one of his pastimes.

 RICHARD SEAY of Pontiac

Noting that he dresses to impress, Richard, Pontiac’s deputy mayor, went to Harry the Hatter the day before the event to find his top hat.

Va-Va-Vroom

BY KAREN BUSCEMI

PHOTOS BY

ANDREA STINSON OLIVER

Looks we loved from the Detroit Auto Show’s Charity Preview

IN TYPICAL FASHION, Charity Preview, held at Huntington Place in Detroit, took place on a snowy evening once again. But slush doesn’t stop metro Detroiters from turning out in standout style to raise money for children’s charities around southeast Michigan. Here are some first-rate looks from the evening.

 CHRISTIAN VEGH of Windsor

Born in Detroit, the musician says his whole family took part in creating his jacket, which he describes as being like his music: rock and roll with elements of the past and future.



A short drive away from Boyne Mountain and Boyne City, Blackbirch Cabin balances stunning architecture and luxury features with Michigan's great outdoors.

Old World Charm — Up North

BY RYAN PATRICK HOOPER

A couple’s travels in Europe inspired them to build a gorgeous A-frame in Michigan

Anyone who has scrolled through Instagram long enough knows that the A-frame has become the ultimate representation of “a peaceful getaway in [insert idyllic outdoorsy destination].”

A-frames are rustic yet architecturally sharp, a piece of history from America’s post-World War II architectural boom that cuts a unique silhouette against Michigan’s bounty of outdoor beauty. If you search for one Up North, you’ll find plenty of options for your next vacation in an increasingly competitive market.

In a crowded field of A-frame getaways, Blackbirch Cabin, just outside of Boyne City,

Road-Trip Playlist

A perfect road-trip playlist is all about setting the mood. For me, there’s nothing better than early Bob Seger, like cuts from his Seger System days, including “2 + 2 = ?” and “Lucifer,” which offer a rambling, rebellious feel. Once we arrived at the secluded Blackbirch, loose yet melodic jazz from Chicago guitarist Jeff Parker’s “The Way Out of Easy” album felt as open and calming as our surroundings. Trips into town were all about tuning into the local radio stations to get a feel for Boyne City, where we stumbled on this groovy deep cut: “Mr. Skin” by Spirit.

The master suite is fitted with floor-toceiling windows, a gas fireplace, and a cast-iron tub.

Blackbirch Cabin offers plenty of outdoor amenities: front and back decks, a fire pit, a hot tub, a sauna, and ready-to-explore private hiking trails.

stands alone. That’s high praise considering it’s new to the vacation rental scene, first opening to guests back in December 2024.

What makes it a standout is the taste of lead designer Michelle Fazecas, who bought and built Blackbirch with her husband, Gabriel, his brother Adrian, and Adrian’s wife, Esty.

Based out of Saline, it’s a true family affair, with Gabriel and Adrian working as business partners for 25 years under the banner of BC David Inc. (Michelle holds the title of inhouse designer and purchaser).

Michelle wanted to imbue the property with an Old World European feel. It wasn’t by flipping through magazines with pictures of properties across the pond. It was through firsthand experience. Back in 2022, the couple built an A-frame in the Apuseni Mountains of Romania. They used that experience, plus inspiration they acquired while traveling throughout Europe, to create a similar home in Michigan.

The Old World feel is in the materials and details, like a hand-carved marble bathroom

A Trip into Town

Boyne City offers plenty in terms of dining, plus scenic views of Lake Charlevoix. For breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Cafe Santé offers top-notch, from-scratch French-style cooking (some of the best eggs Benedict we’ve ever had) in an old-school, elevated tavern setting. Red Mesa Grill pulls from a range of Latin American cuisine in a vibrant setting that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. In both spots we visited, the service was above and beyond. Nearby Charlevoix, East Jordan, and Petoskey each offer unique shopping and dining options as well.

sink built by an artisan in Turkey. Or the stunning three-story stone fireplace that acts as a centerpiece for Blackbirch, capped off with a chandelier seemingly pulled straight out of a European castle. And, of course, floor-to-ceiling windows that define the A-frame style itself.

There are some Midwest cameos, too, like the 120-year-old wood walls in the bathrooms, built with wood reclaimed from an old barn in Ohio.

“I wanted a sense of history, an Old World presence, while still offering all the modern amenities that make a stay comfortable,” says Fazecas.

Some of those amenities include a sauna and hot tub — which admittedly made it

tough to leave the property at all — and a master bedroom with its own bathtub, fireplace, and panoramic views of the property, including nearby trails. You don’t have to go far to get your nature fix.

Sitting on 109 acres and accommodating up to 12 guests, Blackbirch clocks in at six bedrooms and 5.5 baths. With a spacious kitchen and a walkout basement built for entertaining, it’s perfect for hosting friends, families with kids, or special occasions.

In fact, the first “guests” the couple hosted at Blackbirch were a very special wedding party.

“We worked incredibly hard to have the cabin finished in time for my daughter to get ready there and leave as a bride,” says Fazecas. “It was a moment that made the space even more meaningful to our family.” Her hope is that Blackbirch’s guests feel a similar sentiment when they visit.

“We created this cabin for an experience, in hopes that it feels like time has slowed down and connects with those there,” says Fazecas. “Be present. Take a slow hike. Relax in the sauna.”

Resort Down the Road

Snow season (through May last year!) is prime time for this popular ski resort (a quick 10-minute drive from Blackbirch). Brand-new this year is Iglu Boyne Mountain, a mountaintop bar carved entirely from snow and ice. But the property is worth visiting all year long. I visited last October to catch the final days of peak fall foliage from Boyne Mountain Resort’s SkyBridge, the world's longest timber-towered suspension bridge. From 118 feet above the ground, we saw stunning panoramic views of the leaves ablaze.

TRUSTED ADVISORS

Local Experts You Can Trust

Finding accurate health and wellness information can be tough, especially in the age of ChatGPT and other AI models that can be convincing but not always accurate. Fortunately, there are still a wealth of experts out there, including here in southeast Michigan, to provide sound advice based on their years — and sometimes decades — of education and experience. Here, we’ve compiled a few questions and answers from dentists and plastic surgeons as a jumping-o point to get you started on your path toward a brighter, healthier smile and greater confidence.

Q: Why is it important to have a child see a pediatric dentist rather than a “family dentist”?

A: The answer is simple. Pediatric dentists have more training and experience treating and addressing childhood behaviors than a general dentist. While all dentists receive training in dental school on childhood dental issues, it is only one of many rotations. A pediatric dentist spends an additional two to three years mastering the skills to treat young patients. We all want children to see a dentist six months after the eruption of the first tooth to instill positive preventive habits, and we absolutely need general dentists to help meet this goal. However, when children have multiple cavities, a high risk of tooth decay, or underlying medical and/or behavioral challenges, many general dentists do not have the confidence, team, or ability to treat these patients. Pediatric dentists have the knowledge and ability to treat all children regardless of their mental, behavioral, or physical challenges. We also strive to make the environment one that children will enjoy.

Golnick Pediatric Dental Associates

Jason Golnick, DDS

Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, and Taylor

Q:

What’s the di erence between a Botox brow-lift and a surgical forehead-lift?

A: A Botox “brow-lift” creates the illusion of a more arched or elevated brow. Properly placed Botox can relax and soften facial muscles that pull the brow and forehead down when you squeeze your eyes, frown, or make other muscle movements. Botox doesn’t lift muscles, but it stops the muscles from pulling too hard — thereby reversing, reducing, and preventing wrinkles and sagging.

Botox treatments last about three months. It’s a wonderful rejuvenating therapy, but if you have a low brow and low forehead, Botox won’t lift those areas as much as you may hope.

An endoscopic forehead-lift is a minimally invasive solution that o ers many benefits. The outpatient procedure is done through small, unnoticeable incisions behind the hairline. Using an endoscope and a fiber optic camera, the forehead and brow area are elevated to reduce horizontal forehead wrinkles, frown lines, and crow’s feet.

With the development of innovative techniques over the last 20 years, the endoscopic procedure is extremely e ective and well-tolerated; patients have a shorter recovery, less pain, and very long-lasting, excellent results.

Q: What are my options if I’m afraid of the dentist?

A: You’re not alone — dental fear is one of the most common anxieties, second only to public speaking. For many people, the thought of visiting the dentist can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, advances in sedation dentistry can make your experience relaxed and stress-free.

Modern sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (a pill), or IV sedation allow you to feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment.

The key is to choose a dentist who is properly trained in sedation techniques and can recommend the safest, most e ective option for your specific needs.

With the right care, even the most anxious patients can enjoy safe, comfortable, and positive dental visits — achieving the healthy, confident smile you deserve.

Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery, PC

Evan H. Black, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.C.S. 248-357-5100

Oakland Family Dental

Amanda M. Sheehan, DDS 4626 W. Walton Blvd. Waterford, MI 48329 248-674-0384

Q: How did working with Beverly Hills Physicians in California shape your practice here in Michigan?

A: Beverly Hills is widely regarded as a hub for plastic and cosmetic surgery, and during my fellowship year there, I worked with a diverse range of patients and surgeons to refine my skills. I treated patients seeking comprehensive transformations as well as those looking for a single, subtle enhancement. This experience allowed me to seamlessly integrate reconstructive and cosmetic surgery — two disciplines I believe are deeply interconnected. For instance, expertise in craniofacial reconstruction enhances precision in facelifts, just as breast reconstruction directly informs cosmetic breast surgery. While this level of training is often associated with Beverly Hills, that same expertise is available right here in Michigan. At Somerset Plastic Surgery, our most common procedures include breast augmentation, tummy tucks and body contouring, and face and eyelid lifts. Every surgical consultation is personalized to ensure the procedure you choose aligns with your goals and is right for you.

Somerset Plastic Surgery

Dr. Christina Busuito 1080 Kirts Blvd., Suite 700 Troy, MI 48084 248-362-2300

Immaculate cuts of meat marbled with fat, encrusted with diamonds of salt and black pepper, then grilled rare. Crystal clear martinis pierced with olives, thick slabs of iceberg lettuce dressed with blue cheese dressing, French sauces fortified with butter and egg yolk, pristine raw oysters shimmering in their own juices, towering desserts, and cocktails conceived during the Industrial Revolution. This, friends, is a steakhouse in all of its boastful glory.

HOUSES HOUSES STEAK STEAK

By Danny Palumbo

Steakhouses have long been a symbol of luxury in America, though they continue to evolve to meet the needs of changing clientele. New York City steakhouses, initially humble, eventually became watering holes for opportunistic businessmen and big-city elites. They once shared an unsavory reputation as seedy, often sinister ecosystems for rising capitalism, greed, elitism, and masculine energy. However, over the years, steakhouses have softened.

Though they remain elegant, luxurious, and even decadent, steakhouses have become gender-inclusive and even family-driven, humble traits that suit the hardworking people of Detroit best.

In fact, the fabric of this city’s dining scene is woven together by steakhouses both new and old, and the steadfast folks keeping their traditions alive deserve their own ceremony.

All across metro Detroit, you’ll find historic steakhouses and, with them, the abiding charm of tableside Caesar salads, live jazz, dress codes, and moody lighting. Then there’s the recent wave of neoclassical steakhouses, ones that aim to redefine the steakhouse experience — filled with lively energy and global influence. Both are equally important to Detroit’s dining culture, and they continue to o er unique, perhaps even fleeting, immersive dining experiences, where guests are encouraged to stay awhile, drink multiple cocktails, indulge in curated chops of meat, and live like kings and queens.

Nothing hits quite like a steakhouse. Here’s a look at eight that define Detroit, in alphabetical order.

BARDA

BARDA

Ambiance: Located in Detroit’s shaded Core City courtyard, Barda is a modern, Argentinian steakhouse. A red glow washes over the dining room, and the blue-tiled bar is oceanic and inviting. The space thumps with energy and music, but the noise level is low enough for guests to enjoy a romantic evening.

Steak: My personal favorite cut of meat at Barda is a humongous, 32-ounce porterhouse steak cooked medium rare and served with an oily, herbaceous chimichurri. Another gem: During the summer, diners can enjoy pork tomahawk loaded with sweet peaches and a filet mignon with a charred onion truffle soubise.

Other food and drink: Argentinian food, which focuses on exquisite cuts of meat and live fire, is already steakhouse-coded, but what

sets this menu apart from other chophouse menus is the way chef Javier Bardauil deftly wields acid. The food stings and soothes everywhere you look.

Barda’s charred Caesar salad features quickly charred wedges of little gem lettuce and crests with salt and vinegary anchovies. The steak tartare is lifted with a mound of freshly grated horseradish, served with bone marrow and toast.

Scallop ceviche pops with sour stacks of thinly sliced green apples and arrives submerged in a garlicky leche de tigre.

Barda doesn’t read as a traditional steakhouse per se, but look closely, and you’ll see all the markers of

classic steakhouse fare. Start with the delightful drink menu, which nods knowingly to classic cocktails with a south-of-the-border wink: an espresso martini made with Reposado tequila, a classic Negroni twisted tropical with Jamaican rum, banana liqueur, and a coconut wash, or the Ojos de Verde — a gin and vodka martini made murky with caper and olive brine, then dotted with a green blob of fennel oil.

BARDA 4842 GRAND RIVER AVE.

Ambiance: More like an heirloom than an antique, Clawson Steak House is a true throwback to the roadhouse era of dining, when raucous live music met simply prepared food and drink. The building is mid-century modern and met with plenty of wood, carpet, white tablecloths, dim lighting, and live music in the evenings. Fantastically, it’s also open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. It can get a little loud on the weekends, but that’s part of the fun. This is the steakhouse to stay late at.

CLAWSON STEAK HOUSE

CLAWSON STEAK HOUSE

Steak: Though Clawson has a fairly extensive menu of steaks (all of which are butchered in-house), there are two steaks in particular that stand out due to their unique preparation. The “Sizzler” features a 16-ounce Delmonico steak served on a red-hot sizzler platter, which comes served with a healthy pour of au jus for a bit of drama (hence, the sizzling). Clawson Steak House is also a great place to enjoy surf and turf in the form of a charred,

12-ounce New York strip served with pan-seared sea scallops and Manhattan sauce, a Clawson original, which is a pan sauce made with sweet vermouth.

Other food and drink: Rare, unique dishes abound at Clawson Steak House, but diners flock most to the Cajun steak tips, which amount to seared beef tenderloin tips seasoned with Cajun spices and slathered with béarnaise. The

restaurant is also a destination for seafood — come for lobster tail, pan-fried lake perch, grilled salmon, and crispy beer-battered shrimp. It’s also one of the few steakhouses to still feature a key lime pie, a signature dessert for this style of restaurant.

THE LONDON CHOP HOUSE

THE LONDON CHOP HOUSE

Ambiance:

The undisputed heavyweight champion of Detroit’s vigorous steakhouse scene? The London Chop House, of course.

It was founded in 1938, changed ownership several times before shuttering in 1991, then finally reopened in 2012 under the Gatzaros family. The Chop House has restored all its former glory. All the big, cushy booths, the wood paneling; the nightly singers, pianists, and jazz musicians; the dim lighting, and low ceilings reminiscent of a bygone era continue to charm and dazzle Detroiters.

Owner Nico Gatzaros considers it an honor to take up the mantle of

The London Chop House. He professes that his family has always been optimistic about Detroit’s comeback. “We’re all believers in Detroit.”

How does the London Chop House hold up today? Very well, it turns out. It has a dark, dank, downtown energy that beckons casual diners and social elites alike. It’s pure old school — continental cuisine and live music in a somewhat intimidating setting — but there’s a friendliness to the place, too. Yes, guests should dress nicely, but only because it allows for a more immersive dining experience.

Upon entering, the restaurant can — and I

mean this in the most flattering way possible — appear seedy and mob-like. There’s a clandestine nature to the Chop House that puts butterflies in your stomach. It feels secretive and inviteonly, but once you step in, you realize instantly that you belong. Enter through the lower level of the historic MurphyTelegraph Building on Congress Street, and a doorman shows you the way as you descend into an elegant, dimly lit cave with low ceilings, hushed conversation, and mellow live jazz. In short, the Chop House is a damn scene, and an incredible one at that.

This place goes all the way back to the 1930s, but with the

renovation, it feels crisp and brand-new. It’s got an Old World vibe that wows just as much as it soothes. The entire restaurant — from barely visible enveloping booths in back to the refurbished wooden bar up front — has clearly been cared for. It’s dark down there in the Chop House, but look closely because it still shines brightly.

Steak: The diamond of the London Chop House is a Westholme Wagyu steak, which comes from cattle raised in Northern Australia. It’s bejeweled with salt and black pepper and served with a trio of sauces, including béarnaise, chimichurri, and au poivre. The

restaurant proudly touts its beef marbling scale (which you’ll see noted as BMS on the menu). The Westholme Wagyu has a BMS of +9, while the Imperial Wagyu (American) has a BMS of +10. The higher the score, the more abundant and the finer the marbling, all of which leads to tender, fatty chunks of seared beef that melt in the mouth.

Other food and drink: The Chop House’s menu is comforting and classic; it plays the hits. Oysters Rockefeller behave as expected — a mixture made with rendered bacon, Pernod, spinach, breadcrumbs, herbs, cream, and Parmesan

cheese. The blanket of Rockefeller sauce is thick, and while I normally find oysters Rockefeller to be a dud, this one was a worthy iteration of the classic. One thing that’s slightly off-center is the Chop House’s choice to use a whole poached egg for its steak tartare. I by no means disliked it — there’s something utterly breakfast about a poached egg no matter where it’s applied — I’m just much more used to an egg yolk in my tartare. This tartare features a porcini vinaigrette, shallot so finely minced it’s nearly imperceptible, peppery frisée lettuce, and ultra-thin crostini. A fine, if not slightly odd, tartare. I dug it, right down to the old-fashioned, hyper-arranged plating.

Ambiance: A familyowned business since 1968, Mr. Paul’s Chophouse, just off Groesbeck Highway in Roseville, is one of those classic, old-school joints that never goes out of style. The interior is dark but glows with a yellow light reminiscent of the moon. Walk in for lunch, and you just might be blinded by the sunlight as you exit.

This steakhouse gets particularly festive around the holidays, which is an excellent time to make a reservation.

MR. PAUL’S CHOPHOUSE MR. PAUL’S CHOPHOUSE

MR. PAUL'S CHOPHOUSE

29850 GROESBECK HWY. ROSEVILLE MRPAULSCHOP HOUSE.COM

Steak: The steaks at Mr. Paul’s are juicy, which only adds to the nostalgia of the dining experience. The 16-ounce Black Angus ribeye comes with a thin but rich-in-flavor au jus and a seared mushroom cap that soaks up all the steak’s wonderful fluids. No compound butters, chimichurri, or au poivre sauce here.

Other food and drink:

A tableside Caesar salad is an increasingly rare occurrence these days, but, thankfully, Mr. Paul’s Chophouse delivers the goods. This salad is prepared classically and elegantly, and it comes saturated with a rich dressing made from egg yolk and anchovies. It’s my favorite Caesar in all of metro Detroit — and something I make sure to experience a few times a year.

In addition to steaks, you’ll find escargot bourguignon, sautéed lake perch, roadhousestyle frog legs, calves’ liver, loaded baked potatoes, veal Marsala, and steamed vegetables, which all echo an Old World dining style that, frankly, is refreshing in a modern restaurant landscape that chases new trends. Be sure to order a classic gin martini or a properly made old-fashioned to wash it all down. In the face of trendier concepts, Mr. Paul’s proudly stands upright, with a confidence that leaves you feeling in good hands.

RUDY’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE RUDY’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE

RUDY'S PRIME STEAKHOUSE

9 S. MAIN ST. CLARKSTON RUDYSPRIME STEAKHOUSE.COM

Ambiance: Though only 18 months old, Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse is already an exemplar of the steakhouse form. Tucked away on Main Street in Clarkston, Rudy’s has assembled a hospitality dream team who all preach from the pulpit of luscious steak, fine wine, and a good martini. The decor is modern — sleek, elegant, and spacious, making for a fantastic place to grab a big, comfortable booth or just sit at the bar. Wherever you sit, there’s a loose, private feel to Rudy’s.

Steak: Rudy’s prides itself on sourcing from heritage farms all over the country, with cuts of meat coming from

as far as Arkansas and Texas. General manager JB Caillet loves the Margaret River Wagyu strip loin, what he refers to as the “prize cut” at Rudy’s. The herd is derived

from Japanese Black Wagyu, and the steak is center-cut, buttery, and delicious. Enjoy Westholme Australia Wagyu steak frites, a 14-ounce Rosewood Ranch ribeye, or

Caillet’s personal favorite, a 28-day dry-aged bone-in New York strip, served medium rare. All the steaks at Rudy’s are chargrilled in a 1,600degree Montague broiler and finished with brown butter, which ensures incredible crust and maximum flavor.

Other food and drink: The menu at Rudy’s, realized by chef Josh Stockton (formerly of the Daniel Boulud Brasserie in Vegas and Gold Cash Gold here in Detroit), is familiar but filled with unexpected flavors. I highly recommend the classic wedge salad, which comes stacked with blue cheese crumble, creamy blue cheese dressing, thick bacon

lardons, slow-roasted tomatoes, and delicious baby gem lettuce. You might not expect excellent fried chicken at a steakhouse, but Rudy’s is precisely where it lives. Rudy’s brines Bell & Evans chicken in buttermilk and then fries it until crispy and craggy. The chicken comes with a tangy, herby, pepper vinaigrette that leaves you smacking your lips. The best deal of all at

Rudy’s might just be the cheeseburger, which is a thick patty formed with Wagyu beef, cheddar cheese rendered melty, caramelized onions, and B&B pickles. Pub burgers are making a comeback, and Rudy’s is leading the charge. In addition, Rudy’s serves some stellar classic cocktails, from a classic espresso martini to a Paper Plane with Angel’s Envy bourbon.

Ambiance: A newcomer on the steakhouse scene, Sexy Steak is gaudy, glittering, and flirtatious. Located in the newly remodeled Grand Army of the Republic Building in Detroit, this modern steakhouse is a four-story project, with floors 1 and 2 representing the restaurant and floors 3 and 4 serving as elegant event spaces. It’s quite an impressive undertaking, and the restaurant itself glimmers with blushred booths, draped curtains, dim lighting, and sparkling plateware. Personally,

SEXY STEAK

SEXY STEAK

I find it to be a little over-the-top (why exactly is there a statue of the Monopoly guy in the bathroom?), but the good news is that it serves plenty of great food and drink.

Steak: Sexy Steak specializes in dry-aged beef, the kind that has a funkier, richer texture. The 10-ounce filet mignon is aged for 29 days. A 16-ounce Australian Wagyu ribeye hails from Creekstone Farms in Kansas. Guests can order from the menu or pick their steak directly from a glass case near the kitchen.

Other food and drink:

Diners should know that the move at Sexy Steak is to order reimagined steakhouse classics like the plump shrimp cocktail, steak tartare with prime beef tenderloin, and raw oysters with mignonette. Though the kitchen serves plenty of pasta dishes, guests should instead wander toward the saucy Wagyu meatballs and a memorable sausage and peppers appetizer served with coins of tender potatoes, Hungarian hot peppers, and a tomato sauce enriched with demi-glace.

PRIME + PROPER PRIME + PROPER

Ambiance: The vibe is in the name — Prime + Proper is all about exquisite service with opulent food and drinks served classically. Residing in downtown Detroit on Griswold Street, Prime + Proper has that Art Deco charm you’ve come to expect from the surrounding area. Inside, the view is traditional: creamcolored booths, marble tabletops, and polished floors.

Steak: At Prime + Proper, cuts of steak are butchered and dry-aged in-house, which is an exceptional commitment to the craft. This is one of the few places in Detroit where one can order a 20-ounce cowboy ribeye steak — that is, a ribeye steak with the bone still attached.

While it’s debatable as to whether the bone adds more flavor, there’s no denying that the presentation is exceptional. While the steaks are wonderful, the heritage Berkshire bone-in pork chop is perhaps the prize at this restaurant. It’s thick, juicy, tender, and rich with fat. The pork chop arrives sliced (a preferred serving style for such a cut) and christened with a boozy bourbon jus and pearls of mustard seed. You’ll want to order beef, but make no mistake: Pork chops are back in style.

Other food and drink: I appreciate that Prime + Proper has both East and West Coast oysters. West Coast oysters have a fresh earthiness to them that complements the richness of steakhouse fare very well. Moreover, seafood is an excellent move here. The plump shrimp cocktail, bigeye tuna crudo, and a creamy, mustardy salmon pâté served with housemade chips are all winners.

Ambiance: What happens when you shrink the cavernous steakhouse into an intimate and artsy bistro? You get Wilder’s, a celebration of the three-martini lunches synonymous with the bustling advertisers of New York City. It comes from the people at Chickpea Hospitality, a small, family-run outfit that has impeccable taste when it comes to realizing restaurants.

“The goal was to design a space that’s a throwback to the glory days of Americana dining,” says Samy Eid, owner of Wilder’s. “The idea of the London Chop House in its prime or any of the great New York steakhouses. We’re trying to bring back some of that charm. That circumstance of dining out. We want people to try to embrace what it means to go out, dress up, and have a beautiful evening.” From the

inspired Americana art and polished brass bar to the rock ’n’ roll playlist, Wilder’s is a steakhouse shrunk into bistro form. It’s intimate, stylish, and romantic, but it still packs a wallop.

Steak: Funky, dry-aged ribeyes and strips lead the charge at Wilder’s and arrive thinly sliced for customers to easily nab with a fork. I recommend the 16-ounce Kansas City strip, another name for a bone-in strip steak, which is much richer than its boneless counterpart. In addition, Wilder’s offers several steak sauces to augment each selection, including garlic and herb butter,

au poivre sauce, and a wonderful ode to zip sauce that’s both buttery and buzzy.

Other food and drink: At Wilder’s, you want to order appetizers: big, pink prawns lightly poached and served with a horseradish spiked cocktail sauce, crab cakes, caviar service — and, of course, steaks. Though dinner is when you’re most inclined to enjoy a steakhouse, don’t forget about lunch. Wilder’s has a wildly (nice) slept-on cheeseburger made with Wagyu beef, cheddar, and a bacon

aioli. The juices from the exquisite beef patty drip down the meat into the bun and make for one of the most decadent burgers in the metro area. Some of the best burgers in

Detroit exist in steakhouses — those traditional dining experiences where you know the meat is thoughtfully sourced and expertly prepared.

Beauty Balanced

Defined by duality — light and shadow, structure and softness — these bridal gowns and fine jewelry are nothing short of stunning and available in metro Detroit

Opposite page: Alaska Gown by Eddy K, $1,490, Bridal Couture of Plymouth; 2.20CT 62 Round Diamond 18KW Ring, $9,150, Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers. com, thesomersetcollection.com; 1.66CT 66 Round Diamond 18KY Drop Earrings, $1,300, Tapper’s; Luminous Collection V2 Veil Style #015 by Esé Azénabor, $2,800, eseazenabor.com This page: Lyra by Viero Bridal, $3,500, 506 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 586-566-7800; 6.38CT 41 Pear Diamond 14KY Half Eternity Drop Necklace, $27,325; 4.05CT Round Lab-Grown Diamond 35 Round Lab-Grown Diamond Cut Down Pave Cathedral Ring, $8,200. Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers.com, thesomersetcollection.com

Opposite page: Evie Dress by Sareh Nouri, $6,990, sarehnouri.com; Mirabelle Veil by Sareh Nouri, $2,190; 22.20CT 121 Round Diamond 14K White Gold Graduated Eternity Necklace, $76,560; 46 Round Diamond 18K White Gold Open Bangle, $21,075. Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers.com, thesomersetcollection.com

This page: DWYN Fit and Flare by Modeco Dutch Design, $2,065, Bridal Couture of Plymouth, 734-455-1100, michigandreamdress.com; 46 Round Diamond 18K White Gold Open Bangle, $21,075; 5CT Oval Center 24 Round Diamond 14K White Gold Solitaire Mounting w/Curved Diamond, $9,280. Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers.com, thesomersetcollection.com

Opposite page: Luminous Collection V2 Style 10005 by Esé Azénabor, $7,500, eseazenabor.com; 5.47CT 400 Round Diamond 18KW Bracelet, $24,400; 13CT 980 Pave Diamond 18K Necklace, $56,050; 2.20CT 62 Round Diamond 18KW Ring, $9,150. Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers. com, thesomersetcollection. com This page: Lola 3 Piece Dress, $7,200, Hana Abboud, Dearborn, 313-900-1783, hanaabboud.com; 7.35CT 18 Round Diamond 14K Graduated Drop Earrings, $23,760; 4.05CT Round Lab-Grown Diamond 35 Round Lab-Grown Diamond Cut Down Pave Cathedral Ring, $8,200; 22.20CT 121 Round Diamond 14K White Gold Graduated Eternity Necklace, $76,560. Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers.com, thesomersetcollection.com

Opposite page: Calliope Dress by La Premiere, $3,299, The Wedding Shoppe, Berkley, 248541-1988, theweddingshoppe. net; Pave Diamond 18K Necklace, $56,050; 7.35CT 18 Round Diamond 14K Graduated Drop Earrings, $23,760; 5CT Oval Center 24 Round Diamond 14K White Gold Solitaire Mounting w/Curved Diamond, $9,280. Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers.com, thesomersetcollection.com

This page: Style 4430 Eve of Milady Dress, Overskirt and Belt $6,700, Bolero $900, Piera’s Bridal, 46509 Hayes Road, Shelby Township, 586-566-7800; 1.66CT 66 Round Diamond 18KY Drop Earring, $13,000; 4.05CT Round Lab-Grown Diamond 35 Round Lab-Grown Diamond Cut Down Pave Cathedral Ring, $8,200, Jewelry from Tapper’s, The Somerset Collection, Troy, 248-649-2000, tappers.com, thesomersetcollection.com

One Venue, Endless Experiences

Detroit’s

HOUR BRIDAL DIRECTORY

HOUR BRIDAL DIRECTORY

HOUR BRIDAL DIRECTORY

www.theweddingshoppe.net

HOUR BRIDAL DIRECTORY

HOUR BRIDAL DIRECTORY

Award-winning Japanese-inspired cuisine for your wedding celebrations.

From bridal showers to receptions, we bring a decade of culinary excellence to every gathering. Serving 10-150+ guests with extensive vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Serving Metro Detroit info@imacatering.com www.imacatering.com

BANQUET ROOMS FOR UP TO 50

THEATER

MARCH 3-15

The Outsiders: Based on the critically acclaimed book by S.E. Hinton and the film of the same name, this coming-of-age story follows 14-year-old protagonist Ponyboy Curtis as he navigates tensions between rival social groups in 1960s Oklahoma. The production has received accolades for its dynamic original score and its nuanced depiction of the complexities of teenage self-discovery, garnering four Tony Awards — including best musical — in 2024. $53+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayin detroit.com

MARCH 12-APRIL 5

Disney’s The Lion King: Strutting giraffes, bounding antelope, and swooping songbirds will transport audiences to the African savannah when this wildly creative production returns to the Detroit Opera House this month. The six-time Tony Award-winning musical features stunningly immersive set pieces, award-winning choreography, and some of Broadway’s most beloved

Don’t-Miss Events

BY LAUREN WETHINGTON

Save the dates for these can’t-miss shows and performances this March

and recognizable music. $35+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

MARCH 18

All Things Equal: The Life and Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Follow the storied career and personal tribulations of the late Supreme Court justice, played by actress Michelle Azar, in this witty, fascinating, and surprisingly funny play by Tony Award-winning playwright Rupert Holmes. $47+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

MARCH 18-APRIL 12

Come From Away: Based on a true story, this Tony Award-winning musical follows events in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, after nearly 7,000 airplane passengers and crew members

were forced to land there on the morning of the Sept. 11, 2001, World Trade Center attacks. Embraced as honorary Newfoundlanders by the town’s welcoming residents, the passengers form enduring friendships as they prepare to return home to a new reality. $49+. Meadow Brook Theatre, Rochester; mbtheatre.com

MUSIC

MARCH 7

Chris Botti: The Grammy Award-winning trumpeter and composer made himself a household name by collaborating with some of the biggest names in music, including Sting, Barbra Streisand, and Tony Bennett. Hear soulful ballads, jazz standards, and everything in between when Botti makes a stop at

interspersed with live, onstage commentary by Steves. $19+. Orchestra Hall, Detroit; dso.org

ART THROUGH MARCH 8

Detroit Red Wings Photographer Spotlight: View the work of five influential photographers whose unique perspectives have shaped and memorialized the visual legacy of Detroit’s cherished hockey franchise: Troy Anderson, Monica Bradburn, Allison Farrand, Dave Reginek, and Zack Silver. No cost with museum admission. Detroit Historical Museum, Detroit; detroithistorical.org

Music Hall this month. $98+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

MARCH 14

Colter Wall: The Canadian singer, musician, and songwriter will promote his newest album, Memories and Empties, with a stop at Detroit’s Fox Theatre this month. Known for his deep baritone voice and vivid lyrical storytelling, Wall’s blend of country, folk, and Western sounds has sold out venues in Las Vegas, Chicago, and beyond. Rising country star Kade Hoffman will kick off the show. $66+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

MARCH 27-28

Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey: This adventurous new collaboration between the world-renowned travel expert and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra features performances of Europe’s most moving orchestral masterpieces

films, each running 40 minutes or less, cover a wide range of nonfiction topics. $9+. Detroit Film Theatre, Detroit; dia.org

MARCH 8-28

THROUGH MARCH 18

A Heart and a Land: Artists Jordan Ann Craig and Joanna Keane Lopez explore the connections between Detroit and their shared communities in the American West at this dual exhibition curated by Allison Glenn. No cost. Library Street Collective, Detroit; lscgallery.com

MARCH 21-JANUARY 2027

Handmade: The Crafting of America: This new exhibit at The Henry Ford documents the story of American craftsmanship through artifacts from four distinct chapters of American culture: folk art and crafts, the Shakers, the arts and crafts movement, and modern craft. No cost with museum admission. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Dearborn; thehenryford.org

FILM

FEB. 22-MARCH 12 2026 Oscar-Nominated Short Films: Documentary: View all five of this year’s Academy Award nominees for documentary short film at this special Detroit Film Theatre viewing. The

Oscar-Winning Films: Get in the spirit for this year’s awards season at the Redford Theatre, where four Academy Award-winning films will screen this month: Greta Gerwig’s 2019 remake of Little Women, mobster classic Goodfellas, groundbreaking action-thriller Jurassic Park, and Shakespeare in Love, which took home a staggering seven Oscars at the 71st Academy Awards in 1999. $5+. Redford Theatre, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com

MARCH 22

Palestine 36: This historical drama by Palestinian filmmaker Annemarie Jacir portrays the 1936-1939 Arab revolt against British colonial rule in Palestine. The film premiered to a 20-minute standing ovation at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival and made the December shortlist for best international film at the 98th annual Academy Awards. $11.75. Michigan Theater, Ann Arbor; marquee-arts.org

MARCH 27-29

My Father’s Shadow: Set against the backdrop of the 1993 Nigerian presidential election, this film follows young brothers Remi and Akin as they accompany their deadbeat dad on a trip to Lagos to collect an unpaid salary. Largely drawn from the life experiences of first-time director Akinola Davies Jr., the film features gripping performances by real-life brothers Godwin Chiemerie Egbo and Chibuike Marvelous Egbo in the lead roles. $11.50. Detroit Film Theatre, Detroit; dia.org

WE’VE BARELY cracked open 2026, and I’ve already had mind-altering experiences at the club, the theater, and venues in between.

Let’s start in downtown Detroit, where legendary jazz club Cliff Bell’s is celebrating 20 years under its current ownership. In that time, there have been ebbs and flows of quality on both the menu and the stage.

In the past few years, however, it’s found its groove as a de facto hub for witnessing Detroit’s next generation of jazz musicians come into their own. I knew Cliff Bell’s was entering an exciting era when I watched living legend Wendell Harrison return to the stage with a cast of young musicians — true to our city’s legacy of jazz elders who pass the torch to the young cats — shortly after venues reopened following the COVID-19 shutdowns.

It was the first live show I saw out of the pandemic. Stuck in my house, I wondered whether live music even mattered. Was it ever that good? Don’t judge me for these wicked thoughts.

But witnessing Wendell on stage with his youthful supporting cast, I found myself crying in the back of the room, overwhelmed by the power of the performance and the

Let’s Do It Live

BY RYAN PATRICK HOOPER

Musings from our resident culture conversationalist

history and design of the space itself.

And today, when it comes to food at Cliff Bell’s, there’s nothing quite like slurping down drinks and oysters while sitting at one of the onstage tables, where you feel like you’re in the band.

Curious about the best upcoming shows at Cliff Bell’s to check out, perhaps for the first time? Consider witnessing another living legend with pianist Pamela Wise, presenting “Women in Jazz” on March 19. To see where the local jazz scene is heading, Kasan Belgrave’s Wednesday night residency is a must-see with a rotating cast of performers. (The next one is on March 25.)

In January, I was absolutely absorbed by Dimanche, which was presented by the University Musical Society (UMS) at the Power

Center in Ann Arbor. It was put on by a touring troupe of Belgian mimes and puppeteers using their talents to find comedy and concern about climate change at home and abroad.

There’s plenty to choose from in UMS’s spring lineup, including performances by the Karajan-Akademie of the Berliner Philharmoniker (March 13), an Irish celebration with fiddler Martin Hayes (March 20), and a show by the five-time Grammy Award winner Angélique Kidjo (March 26).

For the most out-there, “you’ll likely never see something like this again” experience, see GATZ, a production from New York theater company Elevator Repair Service (March 2729, also at the Power Center). It’s a marathon eight-hour stage production (two intermissions plus a 90-minute dinner break) that brings every word of The Great Gatsby to the stage. Are you bold enough for something like that? It’s clearly not for everyone, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

There’s still a lot of 2026 to come. Don’t let it zip by without getting out there and witnessing it for yourself.

Ryan Patrick Hooper is the host of In the Groove on 101.9 WDET Detroit Public Radio (weekdays from noon to 3 p.m.).

BEWARE the Red Dwarf

BY JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS

Detroit’s fabled front man of coming tragedy lives on. In fact, you can see him this month.

As profound as the tragedies he foretells, Detroit’s Nain Rouge (French for “red dwarf”) is older than the city itself. Even today, more than 300 years after his first appearance, he is remembered each March.

Detroit’s Marche du Nain Rouge, taking place on March 22 this year, is a parade dedicated to the notorious fellow — red face, horns, and all. Music and merriment ensue, with costumed attendees drinking and dancing to local bands before burning an effigy of the scarlet imp.

It’s in Marie Caroline Watson Hamlin’s 1883 book Legends of Le Détroit that the first written mention of the Red Dwarf appears. Yet oral history puts him in Quebec on March 10, 1701, when a fortune teller appeared at a party, reading palms with great accuracy. She read the palm of Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, Detroit’s founder, saying he’d establish a great city, but it would be the site of bloodshed. Still, Cadillac’s city would survive and thrive.

The palmist warned of his ambition, adding, “Appease the Nain Rouge. Beware of offending him.” Offending the dwarf would bring great hardship.

Four months later, Cadillac established Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit for France as a necessary stronghold against the British. Out for a walk with his wife one day,

Cadillac saw a petite red creature with jagged teeth appear. He smacked the dwarf with his walking stick, yelling, “Get away!” The dwarf ran, laughing.

In the following years, Cadillac was imprisoned for illegal trading of furs and liquor. He was labeled a self-serving scoundrel and was later sent to Louisiana to serve a lesser position. In 1717, he was jailed in France for speaking treasonous words, but after his release, he purchased and held a French governorship until his death in 1730.

The Nain Rouge remains Detroit’s harbinger of doom. He is said to have appeared before 1763’s Battle of Bloody Run, the 1805 Detroit fire, the 1967 uprising, and the 1976 ice storm. Yet Detroiters face this question: Is the Nain Rouge evil, bringing destruction? Or is he good, warning locals to prepare for coming tragedy?

More Michigan Monsters

The Nain Rouge is just one of the legendary creatures that have made Michigan their home. Among several others, these three lurk in the shadows:

The Paulding Light: At Robbins Road and old U.S. Highway 45 in the U.P. town of Paulding, people gather to see the Paulding Light. According to legend, the light, seen regularly, is the headlight of a train or the lantern of a famed brakeman who died when the train crashed decades before the first sighting. Legend has it the switchman (sometimes brakeman) caused the crash, failing to warn an oncoming train. Every night, he goes out to atone for his error, swinging his lantern.

Mishipeshu: Indigenous legends of the Great Lakes region tell of a creature called Mishipeshu, said to guard the sacred copper of the Upper Peninsula. Known for its ferocity, it’s described as having a scaled body, reptilian tale, and the head and paws of a panther. In its role as guardian, it is said to have caused shipwrecks of vessels carrying copper from the U.P.

Loup Garou: “Loup-garou,” French for “werewolf,” also notes a Michigan legend. In Grosse Pointe’s earliest days lived a young woman soon to marry. One night, she bid her fiancé goodnight at the water’s edge, and he rowed home. She was walking home when a terrifying, wolf-like creature appeared — or so the story goes. She later told her father what had happened, grateful to be safe. The Loup Garou came to the couple’s wedding reception and abducted the bride. Her husband gave chase, but the Loup Garou – and his bride – disappeared into a swamp. Years later, the man attended a wedding reception. Seeing the Loup Garou approaching, he charged after it. At the water’s edge, with no escape, the monster summoned a large fish that rose and swallowed it. Only the wolf’s footprint on the shore remained. The imprint turned to stone, marking the last spot the Loup Garou was seen.

Private Schools

 Academy of the Sacred Heart Bloomfield Hills ashmi.org

Archdiocese of Detroit Office for Catholic Schools Detroit detroitcatholicschools.org

 Austin Catholic High School

austincatholichighschool.org

Bright Horizons at Midtown Detroit Detroit brighthorizons.com/midtowndetroit

Brookfield Academy - Rochester Hills Campus

Hills brookfieldacademy.net

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

Township eaglecreekacademy.com

etonacademy.org

Grosse Pointe Academy Grosse Pointe Farms gpacademy.org

japhetschool.org

loyolahsdetroit.org

 Orchard Lake St. Mary’s Preparatory Orchard Lake stmarysprep.com





Oak shrineschools.com

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

learning

FOOD & DRINK

Don’t Call It a Comeback!

BY DANNY PALUMBO

PHOTOS BY REBECCA SIMONOV

Confit duck leg with cherry glaze.

Navy beans with garlic breadcrumbs and herbs, plus a pickle martini.

The 2.0 version of Rose’s serves up seasonal Polish-influenced cuisine, pickle martinis, and more on Detroit’s east side

To sit at a restaurant’s bar is to partake in a peaceful revelry. The bar is a safe place, an incubator for boozy, intimate conversations. It’s a place to get to know your local restaurant staff, and to boot, the bar is usually the best spot to snag a seat without a reservation. In Detroit, I like Selden Standard on a Monday evening. My modus operandi there is to order a Negroni and whatever seasonal tartare and pasta is available. I’ll finish with a second drink, text a few friends that I miss them, and walk out feeling refreshed, having indulged in my little weekday evening treat.

Mabel Gray, Supino Pizzeria, and Forest in Birmingham are also among my favorite restaurant bars in metro Detroit. But I may just have a new favorite stool to make my home on a Monday night, and it’s at Rose’s on the east side of Detroit.

Rose’s, you may recall, was once a popular diner slinging pancakes and breakfast plates from 2014 to 2023. Having shut down for a couple of years, the new Rose’s has been talked about as a comeback, but I see

The bar at Rose's is a cozy place for a drink, like the Rosebuds cocktail or an old-fashioned.

it as more of an arrival. Again helmed by chef Molly Mitchell, Rose’s has ditched the brunch service and instead darted toward a dinner menu focused on local sourcing, delicate Polish influence, and the type of warm, nourishing dishes that, frankly, I wish were more prevalent in Detroit.

Though Rose’s utilizes Michigan’s seasons and bountiful produce, the menu is steadier than you might think. Mitchell often reimagines classic dishes with a bit of Polish flare and thrifty imagination. Take the cabbage Caesar salad — presented here with chunks of chopped, crispy green cabbage nestled snuggly into a clam-shelled cabbage leaf. The crunchy, cruciferous vegetable is dressed with a citrusy anchovy dressing and poppy seeds, served with a flaky Parmesan cheese disc baked into some local sourdough. The salad is refreshing and crunchy, and I have found it to be even better the next day after some further marination in my home fridge.

It needs to be said that if you’re going to Rose’s, prepare yourself for a lot of cabbage and dill. The braised cabbage lasagna is a glorious interpretation of vegetable lasagna — with a layer of zucchini, braised tomatoes, house-made ricotta, and a crust of Parmesan cheese and crispy rice. It’s incredibly well conceived, with a short stack of well-seasoned vegetables each providing their own delicate 

flavor and a smack of black pepper dotting your taste buds during every bite.

For those seeking a bit of fine-dining refinement, I’d recommend the crispy and fatty duck confit leg served with a sweet cherry glaze. In addition, I was impressed with Mitchell’s fine touch on her zupa rybna, a fish soup featuring buttery, flaky poached cod in a clear mushroom broth. This was one of the most magnificent soups I’ve enjoyed in all of Detroit, and one I would happily slurp up all winter long.

Rose’s is a restaurant that blossoms in the summer and settles gracefully in the winter. In early September, I enjoyed a plate of sugared peaches served sweetly and simply, adorned with a sting of jalapeño and cooling mint. In the winter, the peaches are swapped for a saucer of chunky, marinated red and golden beets with pickled red onions, fresh dill, and salt, all drizzled with olive oil. Tangy and seasoned, the beets feel unfussy and nourishing. The cucumber mizeria, a warmweather Polish classic, amounts to thinly sliced cucumbers with crème fraîche, fennel, and herbs. Meanwhile, a bowl of tender, creamy navy beans is simply topped with garlicky breadcrumbs and herbs. In the summer, the beans have a lovely char to them, but in the winter, those same beans have a little more broth, a perfect cure for the blustery, chilly weather outside. At their core, all four dishes feel like outliers in Detroit’s larger restaurant scene. A plate of beets, a saucer of peaches, a blanket of beans — “Why aren’t more restaurants serving dishes this simple and satisfying?” I thought to myself.

Rose’s also boasts a (nearly) full bar, with a small selection of craft cocktails, wines, and cans of beer. The pickle martini excites, with pickle brine and blobs of dill oil floating atop like lily pads, but I don’t recommend it if one plans to order dill- and pickle-forward dishes. A better complement to a meal at Rose’s is bourbon. The old-fashioned — made with Detroit City Distillery Butcher’s Cut Bourbon, bitters, and simple syrup — features crushed ice cubes, which at first might seem unusual, but I found them to be delightful to munch on. I felt like a kid getting to the bottom of his slushy. Crushed ice cubes feel a bit more proper with the aptly named Rosebuds

cocktail, made with the same bourbon, hibiscus syrup, and fresh lemon. It’s an energizing, fruity drink that sharpens the palate like one of the butcher knives hanging from a magnetic strip on the back wall.

Rose’s is a lived-in restaurant with plenty of congeniality and spunk. It’s a former flapjack spot turned into a cozy home. Diner-shaped, as many great Michigan restaurants are, the tiled, checkered floor is hypnotic, and the bar’s cushioned seats, though bolted in place, swivel and twist at the customer’s childlike delight.

Everywhere at Rose’s, there are empty wine bottles covered with the drippings of melted candles, along with stocky, seemingly bespoke oil paintings of vegetables and plants stuck to the walls. Meanwhile, curtains with a pink and orange hue spread brightly across the windows (whether the sun shines or not). Rose’s speaks a certain language that diners can understand: simple and soft-spoken but also weighty and filled with meaning, like a passage from your favorite poet.

Chef Mitchell herself is a writer, with an active newsletter on Substack in which she waxes about everything from poaching pears to pulling weeds. I get the sense that she understands language in all of its various forms, whether it’s the language of prose, food, drink, love, hospitality, art, or even music. (The soundtrack at Rose’s is always moody and eclectic, ranging from Bobbie Gentry, Labi Siffre, and John Fahey to more jazzy tunes in the evenings.) There is an easy elegance at

Rose’s that anyone can experience, which is what makes this place so great — the prices are affordable, the food is nourishing and delicious, the ambiance is personal, and the service is phenomenal. In short, Rose’s speaks the love language of restaurants clearly and with annunciation.

I find myself pondering all of this at the restaurant’s front counter, the bar, while munching on some boozy crushed ice. I’m alone, yes, but I would easily take my parents to Rose’s — or one of those old friends I often text after a couple drinks, or a new girlfriend I’m sweet on. But Rose’s is also the place I’ll go to when I want to take care of me. There’s something meditative about sitting at a restaurant bar alone, something restorative and self-assured about dining by yourself in a stellar restaurant. When you dine alone, you become closer to the people who built the place, those who care for it and offer their hard work, and it’s hard to think of many restaurants I want to become closer with than Rose’s.

What’s Cooking?

BY JACK THOMAS

New and soon-to-open bars and eateries in metro Detroit

COMING TO THE TABLE

Rock & Brews 

Where: Royal Oak

Slated to Open: Spring Rock & Brews — the national restaurant concept founded by KISS frontmen Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley — plans to make its Michigan debut in downtown Royal Oak this spring inside a former HopCat space. The restaurant will feature three levels: a first-floor dining room, secondfloor bar with a live concert stage, and thirdfloor open-air rooftop sky lounge with DJing. Beers, “rocktails,” and American fare will make up the menu. 208 West Fifth Ave., Royal Oak; rockandbrews.com

and

Lola's Taco Bar combines fastcasual dining with high-end hospitality.

Cardoon Cafe and Provisions

Where: Sylvan Lake Slated to Open: Spring From the team behind Sylvan Table comes an all-in-one European-inspired bakery, all-day café, deli, and provisions market highlighting local and seasonal ingredients. The food menu will include pastries, schiacciata and panuozzo sandwiches, fresh pastas, pizzas, rustic breads, and viennoiserie. Other selections include

porchetta schiacciata, a Danish-style hot dog, mortadella and pesto panuozzo, and Swedish cardamom buns, along with house-made sausages and cured-inhouse charcuterie. Cardoon will be owned by Sylvan Table owners Nicole and Tim Ryan and helmed by Scott Martinelli, the opening executive sous chef at Sylvan Table. 2190 Orchard Lake Road, Sylvan Lake

Lola’s Taco Bar 

Lola’s Taco Bar celebrated its grand opening on Monday, Jan. 12. It serves tacos, burritos, bowls, queso, rotisserie chicken, margaritas, beers, and more in a fast-casual setting. One of its owners, Branden McRill, founded Rebelle, a Michelin star-winning restaurant in New York City. 20195 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods

Medusa Cucina Siciliana

This Sicily-inspired eatery is the second Detroit restaurant from SheWolf chef-owner Anthony Lombardo — a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist. Medusa officially debuted on Thursday, Jan. 15, in Midtown Detroit. The menu features wine, cocktails, Sicilian street food, pastas, couscous, and small seafood bites like insalata di mare (grilled octopus, shrimp, calamari, banana pepper, potato, and caper dressing). 644 Selden St., Detroit

Slows Bar BQ Berkley Founded in Corktown, Slows Bar BQ is known for staples like brisket, pulled pork, ribs, mac and cheese, and signature sandwiches like the Yardbird. Its new Berkley location finally opened in late December inside the former Berkley Common building. Weeks before that, it opened another location in downtown Ann Arbor. 3087 12 Mile Road, Berkley; slowsbarbq.com

The perfect pint. It’s an obsession that’s crept into social media in the last year or so, leading to silly challenges and a renewed interest in the creamy stout among younger consumers. But for the classicists, the die-hard bit-of-the-black-stuff purists, it’s a love affair that’s been around since Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease in St. James’s Gate, Dublin, back in 1759. In anticipation of St. Patrick’s Day and the celebration of all things Irish, I decided to take a stab at figuring out what makes a proper pint of Irish stout so alluring.

The unique, robust flavor of Irish stout and its undeniable visual appeal stem from the richness of the malted barley and the use of nitrogen gas in dispensing it. The resulting creamy head is the center of the viral “Split



Whether you "split the G" or savor your pint, there's no wrong way to enjoy this Irish stout.

Standout STOUT

BY MICKEY LYONS

A pro bartender in Detroit shares the real secrets behind the mythical “perfect pint” of Guinness

the G” challenge: Participants try to drink just enough in a few gulps to bring the border between the foam and the beer in a straight line right through the middle of the G on a Guinness pint glass.

Although it’s fun, there’s really no need for all this fuss when it comes to a good pint. I talked to Zak Pashak, owner of Cannons Bar on Detroit’s east side near the Grosse Pointe border. “Guinness is a product that people are almost superstitious about,” he says. “There's something about the idea of a perfect pint and how to get there. It's almost alchemy.”

According to Pashak, there are four key elements to pouring the perfect pint of Guinness: clean glassware, clean lines, the right temperature, and proper pouring technique. He’s working on a plan to “retire”

each Guinness glass after it starts showing signs of wear and makes sure that each vessel is spotless and bears no trace of cleaning residue. The same goes for the lines that connect the Guinness beer tap to kegs in a specially built cabinet directly under the taps. Pashak has settled on his ideal temperature: between 8 and 10 C (46 to 50 F) for storage, running through the glycol cooling line, served between 5 and 7 C (41 to 45 F).

The pouring method is designed to bring out the complementary bitter, caramel, coffee, and cream flavors in a Guinness. First, Pashak holds the glass at a 45-degree angle until it’s about three-quarters full — roughly at the top of the harp emblem. Then, Pashak sets the glass down and flips over a sand-filled hourglass set to two minutes. “Each pour, every pour, every time,” says Pashak.

This step is crucial, he says, because “it allows all that cascading to come up and form that top layer. You want to arrest it. Allow it to settle and form that head.” After two minutes, holding the glass vertically, he presses back on the tap handle and finishes filling the glass slowly, building a flawless dome of pillowy, creamy head on top.

As for enjoying the glass, there’s no secret to that. Tip back, sip — splitting the G is entirely optional — and enjoy a proper pint of the plain.

HAND SURGERY

Emily E. Abbott, D.O., FACS Michigan Surgery Specialists, P.C.

Avery A. Arora, M.D. Arora Hand Surgery

Mykola J. Bartkiw, D.O. Center for Advanced Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Kyle C. Bohm, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Kirk Cleland, M.D.

St. Clair Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Alexander J. Colen, D.O.

Hand Surgery Associates of Michigan, P.C.

Charles S. Day, M.D., MBA

Henry Ford Medical Center

James Dietz, M.D.

St. Clair Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Christina Endress, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

John A. Gorski, M.D.

Michigan Surgery Specialists, P.C.

Jean-Paul Guiboux, M.D. Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

E. Aron L. Haass, D.O., FACOS Michigan Surgery Specialists, P.C.

Elizabeth A. King, M.D. Henry Ford Center for Athletic Medicine

John S. Papakonstantinou, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic & Spine Surgeons

Jeff D. Placzek, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

» Top Orthopedic Surgeons

Rachel Rohde, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Jason Samona, D.O.

Jason Samona, D.O., P.L.L.C.

Richard M. Singer, M.D.

Michigan Surgery Specialists, P.C.

Gregory Sobol, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Brett Wiater, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

HAND SURGERY - PEDIATRIC

Heather V. Lochner, M.D.

Children’s Hospital of Michigan

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Sean F. Bak, M.D.

Motor City Orthopedics

Trevor R. Banka, M.D.

Henry Ford Medical Center

Preetinder Bhullar, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Shariff K. Bishai, D.O., M.S., FAOAO, FAANA, FAAOS

Detroit Orthopaedic Institute, P.L.L.C.

Michael A. Charters, M.D.

Henry Ford Hospital

Christopher L. Cooke, M.D.

DMC Specialists in Orthopedic Surgery

Charles S. Day, M.D., MBA

Henry Ford Medical Center

Jeffrey H. DeClaire, M.D., FAAOS

Michigan Knee Institute

Eddie El-Yussif, D.O.

The Knee Pain Center, P.L.L.C.

Laith Farjo, M.D.

Advanced Orthopedic Specialists, P.C.

Todd Frush, M.D.

Motor City Orthopedics

Stuart T. Guthrie, M.D.

Henry Ford Hospital

Derek L. Hill, D.O.

Hill Orthopedics

Joseph J. Hoegler, M.D.

Henry Ford Hospital

David A. Knesek, D.O.

Motor City Orthopedics

Robert B. Kohen, M.D.

Robert B. Kohen, M.D.

Nathan Marshall, M.D.

Nathan E. Marshall Orthopedics

Ben Mayo, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Scott McCarty, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

David H. Mendelson, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Jeffrey D. Mendelson, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Stephen D. Mendelson, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Michael P. Mott, M.D.

Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital Clinics

DISCLAIMER The doctors in this feature were selected by Professional Research Services (PRS), which conducted an online peer-review survey of area physicians in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Livingston counties. Physicians were asked to nominate fellow physicians they deemed the best in their field of practice. Many votes were cast honoring excellence in all fields of medicine. The featured doctors were screened and selected through the verification of licensing and review of any infractions through applicable boards, agencies, and rating services. Physician information listed in this feature was provided by PRS and confirmed by health systems and the nominated physicians. For additional information, visit prscom.com. Hour Detroit was not involved in the screening or selection process.

Stephanie J. Muh, M.D. MI Shoulder, P.L.C.

Kerellos Nasr, M.D. DMC Heart Hospital

Trevor T. North, M.D. Henry Ford Hospital

Richard Perry, M.D. St. Clair Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

David W. Prieskorn, D.O. Orthopedic Surgery Specialists, P.L.L.C.

Nicholas Schoch, D.O.

St. Clair Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Kanwaldeep Sidhu, M.D. St. Clair Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Diana R. Silas, D.O. Motor City Orthopedics

Ali Sobh, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Michael A. Yusaf, M.D.

Center for Advanced Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Christopher Zingas, M.D. St. Clair Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERYPEDIATRIC

Ahmed A. Bazzi, D.O. Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Christopher Minnock, M.D. Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Jeffrey Settecerri, M.D. Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Steven Slotkin, M.D.

Children’s Hospital of Michigan

» Top Orthopedic Surgeons

Walid Yassir, M.D.

Children’s Hospital of Michigan

Ira Zaltz, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

PAIN MANAGEMENT

Leila Ettefagh, M.D.

The CORE Institute

Brian Kassa, D.O.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Kevin R. Lee, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

John M. Marshall, M.D.

Michigan Head & Spine Institute

Mark H. Mounayer, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Jason Mulawa, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Anthony J. Oddo, D.O.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Hanish Singh, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

SPORTS MEDICINE

Shawn Achtman, D.O.

Specialists in Rehabilitation Medicine, P.C.

William B. Acker II, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Christopher L. Cooke, M.D.

DMC Specialists in Orthopedic Surgery

Corey Dean, M.D.

Trinity Health Neighborhood Primary Care

Nicholas Dutcheshen, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Michael J. Ellenberg, M.D.

Rehabilitation Physicians, P.C.

Todd Frush, M.D.

Motor City Orthopedics

Joseph Guettler, M.D.

Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons

Brandon Kakos, M.D.

DMC Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Ben Mayo, M.D.

Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedics & Spine Specialists

Nicholas Moore, M.D.

Motor City Orthopedics

John Morasso, D.O.

DMC Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

David W. Prieskorn, D.O.

Orthopedic Surgery Specialists, P.L.L.C.

Ramsey Shehab, M.D.

Henry Ford Center for Athletic Medicine

DISCLAIMER The doctors in this feature were selected by Professional Research Services (PRS), which conducted an online peer-review survey of area physicians in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Livingston counties. Physicians were asked to nominate fellow physicians they deemed the best in their field of practice. Many votes were cast honoring excellence in all fields of medicine. The featured doctors were screened and selected through the verification of licensing and review of any infractions through applicable boards, agencies, and rating services. Physician information listed in this feature was provided by PRS and confirmed by health systems and the nominated physicians. For additional information, visit prscom.com. Hour Detroit was not involved in the screening or selection process.

Top Orthopedic Surgeons

Michigan Knee Institute

For over three decades, the Elite Team at Michigan Knee Institute has led the way in orthopedic knee surgery, earning national recognition for innovations in minimally invasive robotic and outpatient knee replacement and a reputation for advancing patient mobility and quality of life. Together, the team performs more than 1,000 knee surgeries each year.

Led by board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic knee specialist Jeff rey H. DeClaire, M.D., FAAOS, Michigan Knee Institute brings together a highly specialized team of surgeons, physician assistants, anesthesiologists, and surgical technicians dedicated to precision, innovation, and exceptional outcomes. With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. DeClaire guides a collaborative approach that blends advanced technology with individualized patient care.

At the core of the institute’s success is the Elite Knee program — a groundbreaking fusion of computergenerated imaging, robotic precision, and decades of surgical insight. e Elite Team utilizes state-of-the-art technology, digital implant modeling, and robotic surgical tools to ensure optimal implant positioning and balanced-ligament knee replacements. e result is a more natural-feeling knee, less pain, improved mobility, and faster recovery.

Patients treated through the Elite Knee program report a 98% satisfaction rate, significantly reducing complications such as malalignment, instability, stiffness, and persistent pain compared with traditional techniques.

In May 2025, the Elite Team reached another milestone by becoming the first in Michigan to perform an uncemented partial knee replacement using robotic-assisted technology. Designed for patients with localized knee arthritis, this bone-preserving, minimally invasive implant allows for faster recovery and excellent long-term results while preserving all ligament structures, including the ACL.

“Our goal is to provide more options, better outcomes, and faster recovery, in addition to returning patients to their pre-injury level of activity, including high-level athletics,” Dr. DeClaire says.

At Michigan Knee Institute, the Elite Team collaborates in a supportive, patient-focused environment while remaining at the forefront of orthopedic innovation through national and international collaboration, improving lives one patient, one step, one innovation at a time.

Dr. DeClaire is the chief of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Henry Ford Rochester Hospital, clinical assistant at Oakland Community, and board chair at the Michigan Institute for Advanced Surgery. ■

Michigan Knee Institute

1135 W. University Drive, Suite 450 Rochester Hills, MI 48307

248-650-2400 | michiganknee.com

Your Comprehensive Resource for Dining Out in Metro Detroit

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.

to

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

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.,

Detroit; 313-237-1000. 17101 Haggerty Road, Northville; 248-308-3793. B,L daily.

Iggy’s Eggies

$

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  2012

Joe Muer Seafood

$$$$ 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.

Kuzzo’s Chicken and Waffles $ SOUTHERN COMFORT • Several recipes, including a signature thin waffle, are family owned at ex-NFL player Ron Bartell’s spot. Think comfort food kicked up a notch: fried catfish, salmon croquettes, shrimp and grits, and biscuits. Drink the Kool-Aid, too. 19345 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-861-0229. B,L,D Tue.- Sun.

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, Muenster cheese, tortilla strips, and avocado. 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-964-5000. L,D daily.

Metropolitan Bar and Kitchen

$$ 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 

Oak & Reel

2022

$$

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.

Pao Detroit

$$$

FUSION • Visit this upscale Pan-Asian fusion restaurant for Asian-themed cocktails and dishes, such as creamy rock shrimp, charred octopus, and filet mignon. Based in the former Michigan Oriental Theatre, the interior combines new and old. 114 W. Adams Ave., Ste. 200, Detroit; 313-816-0000. L Sun., D Tue.-Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 

Parc

2018

$$$ NEW AMERICAN • Excellent food, exceptional service, and a crisp and formal but distinctly unstuffy atmosphere

EAT. SLEEP. PLAY.

At The Detroit Club, life is meant to be savored. Dine beneath chandeliers in the Library, retreat to a suite that blends heritage and indulgence, and discover a hidden world of leisure in the spa and saltwater grotto. From exquisite meals to timeless rooms to unforgettable evenings, The Detroit Club redefines what it means to Eat. Sleep. Play.

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-Chinese 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

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 location: 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

$$$$

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 

Selden Standard

$

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

2016

$$$

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

$$

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

$$

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 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

$

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.

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 naleśniki, 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 mussels. 3601 12 Mile Road, Warren; 586-576-0495. L,D daily.

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

$$ GEORGIAN • At Anano’s celebrates the largely obscure cui-

sine 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 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

$$$

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 South-

field 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 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; 248-707-3793. 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.

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

$$ 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 (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  2025

Mabel Gray

$$$

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

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

$$

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

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

$

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

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 • This lively neighborhood bar features

RESTAURANT

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 triedand-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

$$$$ NEW AMERICAN • Located on the top floor of RH Detroit, The Gallery in Birmingham, the American and Mediterranean-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

$$$ 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

$$

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



2026

Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse

$$$$ 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 • 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 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 $$

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 • 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 $

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.

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

$$ 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 yellowfin 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.

$

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

$$

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

$$

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 $$

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 historic Dixboro neighborhood. 5400 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-669-3310. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Echelon Kitchen & Bar

$$$$

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.

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.

Peridot

$$$$

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 prosciutto: Italian dry-cured ham and amberjack sashimi. 118 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-773-3097. D Mon.-Sat.

Seva $$ 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; 734-8876868. 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.

Stella Plastic Surgery

Maristella S. Evangelista, M.D., MBA, is no stranger to entrepreneurship and good business practices. Her parents, Jose and Stella, are her role models for building a successful business and raising exceptional children.

A board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Evangelista opened Stella Plastic Surgery this year with her husband, Travis, and is determined to build a legacy for their four children.

“My parents worked hard to build something for their six children, and we would like to do the same for ours,” says Dr. Evangelista, whose parents own southeast Michigan’s Maple Manor Rehab.

After 10 years in practice, Dr. Evangelista opened her Bloomfield Hills office to offer patients exceptional care in both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.

A graduate of the University of Michigan and Tufts University School of Medicine, and with residencies at the University of California Irvine for plastic surgery and the University of California San Francisco for microvascular surgery, Dr. Evangelista brings a wealth of experience to her practice.

Dedicated to providing beautiful, naturallooking results, Dr. Evangelista is excited to offer many procedures, including hybrid facial rejuvenation. “Though I’ve used many of these technologies before, access and time in my previous practices was always difficult,” she says. “Now, I can offer the full package in a thoughtful way, both for nonsurgical and surgical.”

The same is true for offering the latest technology in skin resurfacing, face/body contouring, and breast augmentation. “Though similar technology and techniques have been around, the latest devices offer the best results with the least downtime,” Dr. Evangelista says.

She points to the new minimally invasive breast augmentation Motiva Preservé, which disrupts less of the natural breast and thus allows for better support of the implant and longevity of results. The look and feel are very natural, and with only local anesthesia and one week of downtime, it is a game changer. “This is just hitting the market in the U.S., and I’m one of the first in Michigan to be trained in and able to offer the new technique,” Dr. Evangelista says.

Of course, in addition to her aesthetic procedures, breast cancer reconstruction is near and dear to her heart. “This affects so many women and changes their lives dramatically,” she says. “Having spent the last 10 years helping many of these patients, I believe they deserve as much

joy and satisfaction from a reconstruction as with an aesthetic operation. If a patient can go through breast cancer and come out looking and feeling like they had a mommy makeover, that’s the ultimate gift I can give to a patient.”

Indeed, patient testimonials point to her precise and effective surgical skills along with her sincere valuing of each individual she meets. In response to a thank you note from a patient, Dr. Evangelista wrote, “I want to take my patients beyond just the physical transformation; I want to give them the confidence, the self-love, and the sense of worth they deserve. Stella Plastic Surgery

is about making a different kind of difference. It’s a safe space for women to share their stories, find their voices, and get back into the world feeling better than ever.”

Maristella S. Evangelista, M.D., MBA

Founder and CEO | Stella Plastic Surgery

36880 Woodward Ave., Suite 203A Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304

248-329-3571

info@stellaplasticsurgery.com stellaplasticsurgery.com

2026 Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview Red Carpet

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE M.J. HATHAWAY

HOUR DETROIT was a sponsor of the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview, welcoming guests with a red carpet and photo opportunities at the step-and-repeat. To learn more about the Charity Preview, visit detroitautoshow.com.

2026 Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE M.J. HATHAWAY AND ANDREA STINSON OLIVER

THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW Charity Preview kicked off the 2026 event season on Jan. 16 at Huntington Place in Detroit. This annual black-tie event has raised more than $100 million for children’s charities in southeast Michigan over the past 25 years. This year, beneficiaries of the Charity Preview included the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, The Children’s Center, the Children’s Foundation, Detroit Auto Dealers Association Charitable Foundation Fund, Detroit PAL, and the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. To learn more about the Charity Preview, visit detroitautoshow.com

Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit

Ifyou’ve ever wondered where that incredible barbecue smell on Southfield Road comes from, here’s your answer. Hidden in a small strip mall between a coffee shop and a pizza place, Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit is easy to overlook as traffic speeds by between 12 and 13 Mile. But once you’ve eaten there, forgetting it is impossible.

Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit opened in 2015 when Arkan “Arkin” Karana, a Chaldean Iraqi immigrant, decided to step away from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine and pursue his dream of opening a barbecue restaurant. His goal was simple but ambitious: to create the perfect dry rub with a carefully balanced blend of seasonings and serve food his customers would never forget.

He was living that dream alongside his wife, Reem, and their children — Mary and twins John and Peter — until his death on April 3, 2024.

Reem shared her grief with the Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit community in a heartfelt message of love: “To many, he was a pitmaster who came into work late at night to put the meats in the smoker. To others, he was a son, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He found great joy in the moments when his customers would smile, thank, and appreciate his cooking after tasting his food. Without you, there is no Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit. … His legacy will continue to live on through his family and this establishment.”

In the wake of his passing, Reem did what she had to do — for herself, her family, and, most of all, her late husband. Along with her crew, she kept the smoker lit.

“I felt like this was him and that the love didn’t disappear — it’s just in this place now,” says Reem, who has honored her husband by appearing on local television cooking segments. “He was so very happy to be on TV. This past Labor Day, I agreed to go on. I felt like this was a message from him.”

Viewers watched as Reem spoke passionately about the brisket, the smoking process, the wood used, and the quality of the meat. No detail is too small — and that attention is what makes the brisket, ribs, chicken, sausages, and even side dishes stand out. Customers travel from miles away for favorites like mac and cheese, fresh collard greens, coleslaw, and homemade corn bread. Arkins also caters everything from small family gatherings to large corporate events.

This past August, Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit celebrated its 10th anniversary. Though the restaurant has only a handful of tables, its carryout business remains steady and strong. Arkan often said the “sweet” in the name came from the love

poured into every dish and shared with others. As Reem guides the restaurant forward, keeping that love alive, she proves that grief and survival can occupy the same space. While it still bears his name, Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit has become hers — a testament not only to loss but to endurance.

Arkins Sweet BBQ Pit

30140 Southfield Road

Southfield, MI 48076

248-731-7397 | arkinsbbq.com

Charity Calendar

ALTERNATIVES FOR GIRLS

ROLE MODEL CELEBRATION

March 5, 6 to 9 p.m. alternativesforgirls.org/ support/role-modelcelebration

In 1987, AFG began as a community effort to help girls and young women in southwest Detroit avoid violence, early pregnancy, and exploitation. The organization serves girls and young women experiencing homelessness and other risks through shelter, prevention, outreach, and housing stability, helping them explore and access the support, resources, and opportunities necessary to be safe, grow strong, and make positive life choices.

The Role Model Celebration, first held in 1989, is AFG’s biggest fundraising event of the year. The 2026 Role Model Celebration takes place on March 6 in recognition of International Women’s Day. This is the premier event in the Detroit area, celebrating the achievements of extraordinary women in the community and the accomplishments of the girls and young women AFG serves. The Role Model Celebration features both live and silent auctions, honored role models, and testimonials.

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DETROIT PRESENTS: 313 RESERVE!

March 13, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

detroit.jl.org/events/313-pours

Guests are invited to experience 313 Reserve, an elevated wine, bourbon and cigar tasting celebrating the creativity, culture, and resilience of Detroit. The one-of-a-kind evening highlights the city’s vibrant culinary and craft beverage scene, bringing together local tastemakers, partners, and supporters committed to strengthening the community. Hosted at the iconic Roostertail along the Detroit River, the event will feature curated wine and bourbon tastings, hand-rolled cigars, and elevated small bites inspired by Detroit neighborhoods. Guests will also enjoy music, networking, and a lively atmosphere reflecting the city’s distinctive spirit and style. Former Detroit Lions legend Robert Porcher will serve as honorary chair. Proceeds will support the Junior League of Detroit’s mission to strengthen communities locally.

ACG INSPIRE & IGNITE LUNCHEON

March 6, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

acg.org/detroit/events/acg-detroit-2026inspire-ignite-luncheon

Industry professionals will gather March 6 at Detroit’s Book Tower to recognize the contributions and achievements of women in the mergers and acquisitions community. The event will highlight the growing influence of women in the middle-market sector and celebrate their accomplishments during a champagne lunch. Programming includes an awards presentation honoring standout leaders, followed by a fireside chat with keynote speaker Alaina Money-Garman, founder and former CEO of Garman Homes. Money-Garman will share insights from her career, discussing leadership, impact and giving back, as well as the bold decisions that shaped her journey. Designed to be both informative and celebratory, the event offers opportunities for networking and connection. Attendees are encouraged to attend with colleagues or friends for a day of recognition and conversation.

47TH ANNUAL SALUTE TO DISTINGUISHED WARRIORS

March 19, 5:30 to 10 p.m.

deturbanleague.org/sdw-detail

10TH ANNUAL WOMEN OF INFLUENCE SUMMIT

March 13, 8 to 11 a.m.

unitedwaysem.org/get-involved/give/ affinity-groups/women-united/women-ofinfluence-summit

United Way’s Women United affinity group will present the 10th annual Women of Influence Summit, marking a decade of leadership, generosity and collective action. The 2026 summit will take place at Ford Field and bring together business owners, executives, thought leaders, and community and corporate partners from across southeast Michigan for a day of connection and inspiration.

Since its launch, the Women of Influence Summit has raised more than $2 million to support local children and families while empowering thousands of women through high-impact networking, keynote speakers and opportunities to give, advocate and volunteer. The milestone event honors the legacy of women driving change throughout the region while highlighting the ongoing work needed to strengthen families and communities.

The Urban League of Detroit & Southeastern Michigan will host its 47th annual Distinguished Warriors Dinner, a signature black-tie fundraising event honoring leaders whose service has advanced equity, justice, and opportunity across Detroit and southeast Michigan. Held during the organization’s 110th anniversary year, the event celebrates five distinguished honorees whose work has made a lasting impact on civil rights, education, community advocacy, and civic engagement. Since 1980, more than 220 individuals have been recognized as distinguished warriors. The evening also features the Youth Dialogue, an intergenerational experience held prior to the dinner that connects young people from Urban League programs with past and present honorees for meaningful conversations about leadership, service, and pathways to success. Proceeds support the Urban League’s youth, workforce development, education, and family-support programs.

Attendees will hear from influential women making a measurable impact in southeast Michigan. Walker-Miller Energy Services will serve as the presenting sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to investing in people and communities.

IT’S RARE FOR an auto executive to become a household name across the country, but Lee Iacocca earned that distinction over an impressive 46-year career that saw him introduce the world to the iconic Ford Mustang, lead the Ford Motor Company, and orchestrate the impressive turnaround of the struggling Chrysler Corporation. In a 1985 Gallup poll of the men most admired by the American people, Iacocca ranked third behind Ronald Reagan and Pope John II, respectively.

The Pennsylvania native and son of Italian immigrants was hired by Ford in 1946 as an engineer but soon pivoted to sales and marketing, where he climbed the corporate ladder and was named vice president and general manager of the Ford Division at age 36. Four years later, his image graced the cover of Time and Newsweek magazines in April 1964, the same month as the official unveiling of the Ford Mustang — the sporty car that he had championed — at the World’s Fair in Queens, New York. Nearly 15 million visitors rode in a Mustang convertible in a fixed-track ride during the fair, and the car went on to set an industry record for sales during its first year.

Iacocca was named president of Ford in 1970. Two years later, renowned Detroit Free Press photographer Tony Spina took

the above portrait of him in front of the Rouge Plant and a Lincoln Continental Mark IV.

In July 1978, Ford’s chairman and CEO, Henry Ford II, made national headlines when he fired Iacocca without offering a public explanation, though internally the two were known to have clashed at times. Just four months later, Iacocca was hired by Chrysler to lead the floundering company. There, he cemented his legacy by engineering one of the greatest corporate comebacks in history.

While securing labor concessions and a $1.5 billion federal loan guarantee, of which $1.2 billion was used and paid back early, he introduced the successful K-cars and minivan, and he acquired the Jeep brand.

His 1984 autobiography became a bestseller, and before he retired as chairman and CEO in 1992, Americans had seen him in countless television commercials, saying, “If you can find a better car, buy it!” Appointed by President Reagan, Iacocca also proudly and successfully chaired the project to restore the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Iacocca died in 2019 at age 94 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. —Bill Dow

An Iconic City Venue | Expertly Crafted Cuisine

Book your wedding or special occasion by calling 313.465.8773 or by scanning the QR code below

us: sales@det.mgmgrand.com