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The Michigan Daily – michigandaily.com
S P U S R E N N U R & WINNERS Best Breakfast
Best Sunday Brunch
Best Sandwich
Best Coffee
Best Bagel
RoosRoast
Zingeran’s
Afternoon Delight
Sava’s
Zingerman’s
Sweetwaters
Bruegger’s Bagels
Angelo’s
Angelo’s
Maize and Blue Deli
Best Salad
Best Burger
Sava’s
Frita Batidos
Cottage Inn
Sadako
TK WU
Salads UP
Blimpy Burger
Mani
Miki
China Gate
Best Indian
Best Korean
Cardamom
Tomukun
No Thai
Jerusalem Garden
Chela’s
Shalimar
Miss Kim
Marnee Thai
Palm Palace
Isalita
Best Vegan/ Vegetarian
Best Sweet Treat
The Lunch Room
Washtenaw Dairy
Blank Slate
Blank Slate
Fleetwood Diner
Jerusalem Garden
Zingerman’s
Ben & Jerry’s
Washtenaw Dairy
Pizza House
Best OnCampus Bar
Best OffCampus Bar
Ashley’s
The Last Word
Blind Pig
Necto
Circus
Charley’s
HOMES Brewery
The Ark
Rick’s
Charley’s
Best Happy Hour
Best Landlord
Frita Batidos
J. Keller
Foundry
Landmark
Arcade Barbers
Bar Louie
Oxford
411 Lofts
Foundry
Coach & Four
Best Pizza
Best Thai
Best Dessert
Best Live Music
Best Housing
Best Sushi
Best Mediterranian
Best Ice Cream
Best Dance Club
Best Amenities
Best Chinese
Best Mexican
Best Late Night Food
Best Karaoke
Best Barber
The Michigan Daily – michigandaily.com
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WINNERS & RUNNER S-UPS Best Hair Salon
Best Spa
Aveda Institute
Aveda Institute
M Den
Bivouac
Ragstock
Tricho
Oasis Hot Tub Gardens
Underground Printing
M Den
Treasure Mart
Best Party Store
Best Bookstore
Campus Corner
Literati
IM Building
aUm Yoga
UMCU
Main Street Party Store
Barnes & Nobel
YMCA
Tiny Buddha
Chase
Best New Restaurant
Best Hidden Gem
Avalon
The Arb
Avalon
Fleetwood Diner
The Arb
Chela’s
Fairy Doors
Miss Kim
Sleep
Matthei Bottanical Gardens
Best Fan Apparel
Best Place to Workout
Best New Business
Best Clothing Store
Best Yoga Studio
Best Hangover Remedy
Best Thrift/ Vintage
Best Bank/ Credit Union
Best Park
It is impossible to truly capture the best of Ann Arbor in just words. The city — home to the Michigan Wolverines — is more than just a sum of its parts. Consistently named one of the best college town in America, Ann Arbor has the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation, a place that anyone call call home. The Michigan Daily’s Best of Ann Arbor guide captures the highlights of Ann Arbor’s most loved finds, from best foods to the city’s hidden gems. Never finding a full moment, Ann Arbor continues to warm the heats of its Michigan Wolverines. - Danielle Yacobson & Madeleine Gaudin, Managing Arts Editors
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The Michigan Daily – michigandaily.com
Best Coffee Shop Roos Roast MA X KUANG / DAILY
Arguably one of the happiest in Ann Arbor, Liberty Street is peppered with treasures catered to Michiganders and visitors alike. Of these treasures, the crown jewel is the long list of coffee shops. When traveling down Liberty, it is nearly impossible not to be drawn into the welcoming embraces of each spot. But, if you stick it out for long enough, down on Liberty is the number one of Ann Arbor’s coffee destinations: Roos Roast. A perfect backdrop for a long day of studying or catch up with old friends, Roos Roast truly functions as the heart of Ann Arbor’s coffee shop scene. The friendly, homey aesthetic of the space makes every visit a treat and the quality of the coffee is unmatched to that of its competitors. From the hand printed labels on every bag of coffee for sale, to the iconic and addictive Lobster Butter Love, Roos Roast is selling more than just coffee. It is selling art. It is selling an authentic lifestyle that is unlike anything else on the coffee market. Roos Roast has reached beyond just the streets of Ann Arbor. Delivering across the country, it’s authentic recipe is here to stay. There’s a reason people keep coming back to Roos Roast. Founded on a genuine love for coffee and companionship, it truly is the best in Ann Arbor, one that can satisfy the caffeine fix of every coffee lover. - Margaret Sheridan, Daily Arts Writer
The Michigan Daily – michigandaily.com
Best Bookstore Literati “This is my favorite corner in Ann Arbor” reads a quote painted on the brick wall exterior of Ann Arbor’s most coveted bookstore: “Literati”. Located on E. Washington in the heart of the Main Street district of Ann Arbor, Literati is absolutely one of the best corners of town holding the hearts of students and Ann Arbor residents alike. On any given day, Literati is filled with browsers and students looking to study in their quaint and not quite secret coffee shop, up a slim staircase in the bookstore’s back corner. One can pass quite a bit of time in the bookstore’s interior, as the cozy shop is lined with books from wall to wall. The personality of the store is inherent in its sweet decorations, passionate and lovely employees and many quirks. The booksellers are fantastic at recommending and speaking to the books they sell, with many handwritten recommendations posted near and around book displays in the store. Going into Literati and coming out empty handed is a near impossible feat, given the wide array of options and alluring recommendations. The basement of the store is another lovely quirk, with travel and cook books lining the walls. The basement is dimly lit and comfortable, allowing browsers to really get lost in the spines of books. There is also, a creaky old typewriter, always stocked with paper, that allows patrons to write out messages, poems and words. In short, Literati is a whole different world, taking you away from the stresses of your everyday, and into an oasis of literature and cappuccinos. - Eli Rallo, Daily Arts Writer
Best Korean Food Tomukun The main attraction of Tomukun, Ann Arbor’s most versatile and en vogue Korean eatery, is intimidating. While one half functions as noodle bar, serving up phở, udon and a miscellany of Asian slurpy staples, the other beckons you with flame, calling your name from beyond its willowy windows. Oh yes, I’m talking BBQ; however this time, the fate of the meal lies in your hands. Each of the handful of tables is equipped with a personal grill, cylindrical, basket-like contraptions that only carry your hunger and intensify its voracity as you yearn for the heaps of meat to sear to perfection. Stroll down E. Liberty St. and Tomukun’s menu might catch your eye — but not your wallet. Waltz in with seven of your closest friends, now that’s a different story. Pick your appetizers and settle on the most expensive combo, which now trembles at your group’s decision to go dutch. Whatever you do though, make sure a Tomukun veteran joins your party. They’ll save you from charring the mouthwatering sirloin and short ribs and make you eat your oft-undervalued kimchi. Hell, don’t even go with your closest friends; the hospitable, at home atmosphere of Tomukun invites friendship and inevitably supplies laughs as you fumble with utensils and fight over the last piece of spicy pork. So go ahead, invite seven different Tinder matches to the same dinner date and get ready to feel the heat, literally, as a carnivorous carnival scorches before your eyes. - Robert Mansuetti, Daily Arts Writer
DARBY STIPE / DAILY
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Best Yoga Studio aUM Yoga aUM knows there’s more to yoga than a girl on Instagram wearing a cute pair of leggings. And whether you like it or not, if you stop by, you’re bound to learn it, too. Founded in 2013 by University alum Jessie Lipkowitz, aUM has quickly become a key player in Ann Arbor’s hefty yoga scene. In the five years since its initial establishment, the studio has evolved from a basement studio off State Street offering a few signature classes to a powerhouse institution catering to yogis of all levels in a beautiful South University space. At aUM, all are welcome to explore the power of yoga through a diverse variety of class and workshop offerings. On the day-to-day, students can choose from three levels of vinyasa classes. A few times each week, traditional ashtanga yoga classes are available in short (one hour) and long (an hour and a half) forms. Specialty workshops, usually offered in a weekly series form, cover everything from chakra-opening to developing a safe inversions practice. Yet
Best Thai Food No Thai If you ride the Landmark elevators anytime between Thursday evening and Saturday night these days, you’re guaranteed two things: the colloquial use of Drake’s “I only love my bed and my mom, I’m sorry” lyric and at least one to-go order of No Thai. But No Thai is much more than Landmark’s cafeteria; it’s Ann Arbor’s best Thai cuisine. With four locations in Ann Arbor (South University, Main Street, North Campus and Kerrytown) and one in East Lansing, No Thai rivals chains like Domino’s and Jimmy John’s as Michigan’s most accessible takeout. Don’t be fooled by No Thai’s consistent branding and clever restaurant design — unlike the corporate chains, No Thai is a local business, a product of four friends’ mutual love of Thai food. With four different menu categories (noodles, stir fry, fried rice and sides), No Thai has plenty to offer. The fried rice and sweet and spicy chicken are classics, but don’t underestimate the sides menu; the crab wontons and veggie spring rolls are delicious and a more economical alternative to an entree while still very filling. As an extremely experienced No Thai customer (at least one order every week, on average), I suggest calling to-go in advance because you seem to get marginally more food than dining in. Substitute white for brown rice to make the entree filling enough for more than one meal and, if you’re getting the sweet and spicy chicken, ask for additional crispy noodles to complete the perfect order. - Danny Madion, Daily Arts Writer
ALEXIS R ANKIN / DAILY
what sets aUM apart the most is its genuinely inclusive atmosphere. Instructors make a bona fide effort to remember students’ names. Light studio chatter before class is common, often between first-time aUMies and their seasoned counterparts. Lipkowitz and company make it clear to clientele that there are no stupid questions, that every body is different and, most importantly, that yoga is about personal growth. No trendy Instagram in the world could teach you all of that. - Tess Garcia, Daily Style Editor
Best Mediterranean Food Jerusalem Garden No matter the weather, the shine of the sky or any other environmental variable, there is one constant in my Ann Arbor life. Whenever I saunter towards Jerusalem Garden and gaze upon the symmetrical stained glass “JG” sign, I can’t help but think they look like giraffes from afar. I am apparently the only one who holds this opinion, as my friends poke fun at my pareidolia everytime we descend upon 314 E. Liberty St. This fact is entirely extraneous to the culinary experience Jerusalem Garden serves up, but it showcases the genuine bliss the neon-cloaked joint has brought into my life. This is one of those rare restaurants where I can go on a Saturday night, yet totally be on board if someone suggests it again for a Sunday lunch. The hummus is that enchanting. I will gladly scoop mountains of that delightful dip with what seems like an endless supply of warm, perfectly baked pita bread, all with the grace of a dump truck. I’m an adventurous eater on the surface, but deep down I stay in my established comfort zone. The first time I dined at this humble mecca, I stuck to what I knew, ordering a kafta kabob sandwich and fries. After experiencing that wonderful, sun-soaked slice of the Mediterranean, I knew I had to come back and give this edible oasis its due. So naturally, I lost my falafel virginity at JG. Orders and orders of shawarma, tabbouli, baba ghanoug and baklava later, I can say my stomach — and my heart — are full. - Robert Mansuetti, Daily Arts Writer
The Michigan Daily – michigandaily.com
Best Late-Night Food Fleetwood Diner There’s no doubt that Fleetwood thrives after 11 p.m., so much so that going there while it’s still light out feels almost bizarre. Nighttime is when the most eclectic crowds flock to the diner. Ann Arborites who’ve been coming here since before current college freshman were even born cram in beside students ready to debrief about the night’s drama; this is a place where the usual town-gown divide seems to disappear completely. Tucked in a squat one-story building behind Main St., Fleetwood Diner is an Ann Arbor staple, and for good reason. It’s the kind of place that lends itself to lore. The sticker-covered walls provide endless fodder for conversation (my personal favorite: an image of Barack Obama, framed with text that reads ‘I like my presidents like I like my coffee: damn sweet’), and the gruff waitstaff adds to the sense that Fleetwood exists out of time. This place doesn’t have time for hipster minimalism. You won’t find any mason jars here, and the word ‘deconstructed’ doesn’t appear once on the sticky laminated menus. Fleetwood Diner is about food, not foodies. Whatever you order, it’s going to be greasy, delicious and – most importantly – in portions large enough to satisfy late-night cravings. You can’t go wrong with the classic hippie hash, of course, but the grilled cheese or the pancakes are also sure to satisfy. Fleetwood Diner’s
DANYEL THAR AKEN / DAILY mix of consistency and eccentricity has won the hearts (and stomachs) of Ann Arborites and Wolverines for generations. - Miriam Fransisco, Daily Arts Writer
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Best Ice Cream Blank Slate Creamery sensational snack that proved to be equally sweet and rich. To top off my first time at Blank Slate, I sat outside with my friends on a comfy, spacious bench, with enough shade to keep us cool from the sunlight dripping in. We chomped away at our ice cream, read some poetry and journaled a bit. It was a delightful summer afternoon, made only better by the delightful quality of Blank Slate ice cream. - Sam Rosenberg, Senior Arts Editor
CARTER FOX / DAILY CARTER FOX / DAILY It’s remarkable how it took me two and a half years of living in Ann Arbor before going to Blank Slate Creamery, having known it had been a go-to favorite among Michigan students. In Sept. 2017, on what was likely the most humid day of the month, I ventured with some friends to the renowned ice cream shop located at the tail end of Liberty Street. Even on the outside, Blank Slate looked inviting; its green brick awning, pinkhighlighted sign and New England-style architecture evoked a pastoral, homey feel. Walking in, I was paradoxically overwhelmed and relaxed by the shop’s much sleeker and more modern interior. And then came the ice cream. Blank Slate includes a wonderful, diverse selection of ice cream flavors that are not only delicious-sounding, but also inclusive to lactosesensitive patrons — they offer vegan-friendly and non-dairy options. Every choice on the menu seemed enticing, from the more traditional Madagascar Vanilla to the extravagant White Chocolate Raspberry Swirl Chip. In the end, I decided to go with Chocolate Covered Pretzel with Caramel Swirl, a tasty,
Best Sweet Treat Washtenaw Dairy Washtenaw Dairy proves the fad of artisan gelatos and funky flavors cannot top an ice cream shop that serves the classics in all their creamy, sugary glory. You can choose from a diverse selection of flavors: Raspberry Sorbet, Rainbow Sherbert, Milky Way, Caramel Pretzel Crunch, Bear Claw, Mint Chocolate Chip, Superman, to name a few. For over 75 years, Washtenaw Dairy has been a summer staple and a daring winter treat, only closing its doors on Thanksgiving day and Christmas. Tucked away on a street a few blocks from the main Downtown, this ice cream parlor offers a vintage indoor seating area and shaded benches to enjoy food outdoors. The price is unbeatable, especially with the monstrous serving sizes. A “kids” scoop actually means a double decker stacked precariously on a cake or waffle cone. Plus, the donuts are out of this world and can be customized ahead of time to match your Maize and Blue pride, or whatever mood you’re feeling. Tired of the spoon-sized scoops of fancy ice cream? Tired of figuring out what Horseradish or Blue Cheese Pear flavors taste like through expensive trial and error? Washtenaw Dairy keeps it simple, reliable and satisfying — a must-stop on any food bucket list. - Meghan Chou, Daily Arts Writer
Best Dessert Blank Slate Creamery There’s nothing like fresh cookies on a cold winter day, especially when it’s too cold for Blank Slate’s Best of Ann Arbor ice cream. Whether it’s the ginger molasses cookies or the brownies, it’s hard to argue with the heart-warming taste of freshly baked dessert. And to top it off, the desserts are made from natural ingredients, most of which are made locally. While I’m not necessarily artistically inclined, I have even grown to enjoy the chalkboard walls and countertops throughout the store. It’s entertaining for younger children and some older children, and while I’m not always proud of what I’ve drawn I’m definitely proud of what I’ve tried to draw. Sometimes, I walk in just to basque in the smell of fresh cookies and fresh ice cream cones. It’s hard to describe the joy that can be derived from such simple smells. It’s even noticeable from the street, and that probably explains the stores’ slightly removed location, although the long lines forming outside the door may also explain this. With the seasonal flavor options and the affordable prices, it’s hard not to justify stopping by Blank Slate at least once a week. It’s the quintessential small-town dessert shop with a wide variety of options. - Sammy Sussman, Daily Arts Writer
DARBY STIPE / DAILY
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Best Breakfast Afternoon Delight CAMERON HUNT / DAILY
Much like the Starland Vocal band single by the same name, and much like that one scene in Good Will Hunting when Matt Damon mocks the therapist who is trying to hypnotise him free of his deep-seeded attachment issues borne out of early childhood abandonment, breakfast at Afternoon Delight is fantastic! Tucked right on the corner of South 5th and Liberty, this sunny little cafe never fails to please. Whatever you’re in the mood for — classic eggs and toast, a customized three-egg omelette, their famous eggs benedict — Afternoon Delight always delivers. You’ll find yourself nestled in amongst their regulars, served an early morning platter that can’t be beat by a waitstaff that wouldn’t let you think about going anywhere else. Take your grandma. Take your dad. Take your grandma again. Take anyone awake Monday through Saturday at 8:00 a.m. or a half hour later on Sundays. There’s a reason the café has been recognized by the people of the city. Afternoon Delight stands out in its simplicity. It hits home runs with homemade baked goods. It is the perfect venue for any early morning meal you could imagine. Don’t wait for the right circumstance; make it a point to visit Afternoon Delight today! -Stephen Satarino, Daily Arts Writer
Best New Restaurant Avalon Cafe and Kitchen I write this in a cozy chair on a Sunday morning in the corner of Avalon Café & Kitchen. The restaurant is completely full, an eclectic crowd of families, Ann Arbor locals, students and visitors. Some are working, some are eating, but all are happy. Ann Arbor has a lot of great coffee shops and Ann Arbor has a lot of great restaurants, but Avalon is one few spots in town which successfully functions as both. Opened in Winter 2016, the Detroit-based company has become an institution in Ann Arbor. The food menu is extensive and includes everything from a killer Avocado Toast to scrumptious Blueberry Quinoa Pancakes to a hearty Brassica Bowl. The coffee is hot and ever-flowing. The desserts are mouth-watering. The beer is on tap. And the bread. Oh, the bread. You name the bread, Avalon probably has it — and it’s delicious. Initially established as an international bread company in Downtown Detroit, Avalon is most famous for its loaves of doughy goodness. It can be purchased by the loaf, should (in my humble opinion) be eaten always and forever. There’s an inimitable warmth to Avalon’s atmosphere. The seamless transition from restaurant in one room to café in the other makes it feel more like a home than a store. It’s the place you can share with friends, family, dates, peers, or if you find the right cozy chair, yourself. -Emily Bice, Daily Arts Writer
RUCHITA IYLER / DAILY
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Best On-Campus Bar Ashley’s ZOEY HOLMSTROM / DAILY
Squeezed between a liquor store and a record shop, and shoved underneath a yoga studio, is Ashley’s: A hole-in-thewall bar on State Street and a staple to the University’s campus. Ashley’s cozy cabin vibes –– an array of empty bottles atop the wooden rafters and engravings of names and doodles carved into the tables –– creates the perfect atmosphere to grab a beer, a bourbon or buffalo wings with friends. Just a few steps from the diag, Ashley’s is the tiny gem that should be celebrated for its welcoming energy and diverse selection. Ashley’s drink and food selection crafts a menu that anyone can enjoy. The bar keeps its customers on their toes, awaiting the next new thing to come on the menu like seasonal
Best Happy Hour Frita Batidos The first time I ate at Frita Batidos, it was the dead of winter and, having just trudged through Downtown Ann Arbor through what felt like a foot and a half of snow, I was decidedly ready for winter to be over. Arriving at Frita Batidos, I ordered myself a beef frita and a coconut cream batido. I proceeded to spend the next hour and half sitting with my friends, our backs turned to the frost-coated window, and managed to forget — if only for a moment — that we were in the midst of a desolate Michigan winter and not enjoying our tropical street food by the beach in Cuba. What’s more? We were able to enjoy this exercise in escapism without breaking the bank. Frita’s happy hour is perhaps the most reasonable of any business in Ann Arbor. Guests who find themselves in the restaurant between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, or during the last hour of business every night will enjoy $5 beef fritas, $1.50 fries and $1 off all beers. If you’re looking to escape the cold for a bit and you’re all about those sweet deals, you can’t do better than happy hour at Frita Batidos. -Max Michalsky, Daily Arts Writer
cocktails, daily specials and a unique collection of whiskey. Popularly known for their grandiose and international multi-tap beer, Ashey’s has almost anything and everything, ranging from sweet dark lagers to sour pale ales. Whether it’s a Saturday to watch the big game or a Monday afternoon to get some work done, Ashley’s kind staff and rotating draught beers greets you with open arms. Written on the glasses is their motto: “Life’s too short to drink cheap beer.” If you’re in Ann Arbor for a while or just for a day, enjoy your time to celebrate “good food, good drinks, and good friends” by making a stop at Ashley’s. - Erika Shevchek, Daily Arts Writer
Best Off-Campus Bar The Last Word I don’t remember who first told me about The Last Word. A friend, maybe, or a friend of a friend. It could have been when I asked musicians coming through town where they were going after a show. Or maybe it was someone else entirely. I just can’t remember. But that’s the kind of place The Last Word is — you have to hear about it from someone, you don’t just find it. I feel a bit bad writing about it, honestly, because this word-of-mouth nature is a large part of the charm. Down by the edge of town, by the tracks, its nearly unmarked door is the sort of thing you would miss if you weren’t looking for it, the only indication that there’s something there behind the brick wall being a small plaque engraved with “The LW.” Once you find it, though, it’s a bar experience you can’t find anywhere else in Ann Arbor. A lazy writer would use the word “classy” to describe its interior, and that seems about as good a way to put it as any. Once you pass through the door, you’re ushered into a dimly lit, medium sized room that gives off a vauguly speakeasy vibe. There are old books scattered around the space, and the menu is broken into “chapters,” from which one can select drinks ranging from artisanal beers to handcrafted cocktails to an impressive selection of whiskeys. If you come on Wednesdays (as I tend to do), there is a special discount off whiskey. Thursdays there’s live jazz. Everyday the (chipotle) fries are to die for. But at the end of the day, out of all the bars in Ann Arbor, The Last Word is incontestably head and shoulders above the rest. - Dayton Hare, Managing Editor
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Best Live Music Blind Pig The first time I stepped into the Bling Pig I was extraordinarily underwhelmed. I was going to see (Sandy) Alex G back in fall of 2016, and after springing to and from the union to print my tickets, I finally made my way into the dark, intimate room after a slightly less than pleasant experience with the bouncers. However, despite the fact that I initially thought that the room seemed slightly less magical than I’d imagined after hearing the hype, I finally saw the reason why so many people see the Bling Pig as one of the most special places in Ann Arbor. Once I made my way into the crowd, I started singing along, dancing and moshing with people that genuinely were enjoying the show. The intimacy of the venue, while at first might seem cramped and crowded, brought me together with really cool people that genuinely cared about the music they were listening to. You really have to experience the Blind Pig to understand the hype. There’s a reason why the venue has gained a reputation, and has historically attracted some of the biggest names in music. Even after attracting big names like Nirvana back in the day, the Pig still supports local talent by holding local showcases in conjunction with student groups like Empty Mug Records. Love it or hate it, you can’t deny the fact that the Blind Pig is a landmark in Ann Arbor, and continues to host some of the biggest acts, forty years after its foundation. -Ryan Cox, Daily Arts Writer
WINNER OF BEST OF ANN ARBOR SINCE 1995 PROUD PARTNER OF UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN SINCE 1987
Best of Ann Arbor 2018 winners for Best Mediterranean food in Ann Arbor ORDER ONLINE: www.jerusalemgarden.net 314 E. LIBERTY ST. | ANN ARBOR, MI 48104 | 734.995.5060
AMELIA CACCHIONE /DAILY
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Best Party Store Campus Corner The thing about Campus Corner is that it’s not just a party store. Serving more than simply your run-of-themill liquor market supply of wine, beer and various other spirits (with maybe a few snack options strewed amid the Pinot Noir and Merlot), Campus Corner is a verifiable smorgasbord of options. Clothing items? Check. What seems to be the entirety of Meijer’s grocery section somehow fit between two aisles? Check. Cleaning products and other household necessities? Check. I’m pretty sure I found heaps of firewood in there once too. Essentially, you could sustain yourself solely off of what Campus Corner has to offer and never once have to make the trek to Meijer or Kroger. But what truly makes Campus Corner such a renowned name on campus is the community it fosters. One that is built almost solely around the distribution of cheap booze — a phenomenon you can witness on any given Thursday/ Friday/Saturday evening. From the 2 for $14 wine specials to the gin/tonic combination you can get for under $10, these deals cause students from all areas of campus to flock to the mecca of Campus Corner. Within the refuge of its alcohol-lined walls, the young and the reckless stop a moment to gather, take a breath, before continuing their respective journeys into the Ann Arbor night.
CHRIS FCASNI / DAILY
- Shima Sadaghiyani, Daily Music Editor
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Best Italian Food Mani
K ATELYN MULCAHY / DAILY Much like the Starland Vocal band single by the saComing from the East Coast where the amount and quality of Italian restaurants is overwhelming, I was a bit surprised coming to Ann Arbor to find out that the familiar tastes of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes were hard to find. Until I found Mani. Mani is the most authentic Italian cuisine in this city. After living in Rome and growing up with an Italian
Nonna (or grandmother) who practically force fed me homemade marina sauce and gnocchi every Sunday, I feel like I can say I’m a reliable source. Mani’s pizza crust is simply divine. It is light and airy; just burnt enough. The pieces are small and cute, so that they don’t make you feel bloated after consumption and the ingredients are of high quality. Comparing Mani’s pizza to that of Pizza House or Cottage Inn is impossible because it’s like trying to compare Hershey’s Kisses to the finest artisan Swiss chocolate. Their margherita pizza is comforting and a staple, but their Tartufo, made with egg and black truffle, is decadent and gooey good. Every pizza is yummy in its own way (R.I.P the prosciutto and arugula) and I would definitely suggest the pizza over the pasta. My favorite hidden gem of Mani is the Vasi appetizer of pickled tomatoes with whipped ricotta and olive tapenade. With crisp, charred bread, the ricotta feels like soft little pillows on your tongue and the tomatoes add the perfect tart bite. Mani is perfect for a dinner or a date, or even when you feel like self-indulging and eating a whole pizza by yourself on a Monday night. Don’t ask me if I’ve done this. -Sophia White, Daily Arts Writer
Best Dance Club Necto From its exterior, little can be inferred about the bowels of Necto, but once inside Ann Arbor’s hottest dance club, you’re greeted with a massive dance floor, hazy lights and a stage (outfitted with poles for you to practice some moves on if you’ve attended any of Polarity’s pole classes). The ceilings are noticeable high, and there’s at least 50 feet of bar on the first floor alone lined with servers ready to put you out of your misery. All this before you even starting grooving to some Lady Gaga tracks. Would I say that Necto is a lawless wasteland? Perhaps the morning after, but in the heat of the moment, Necto is the perfect one-two punch knockout of bright dance floors, dark corners and enough two dollar long islands to kill an elephant, all sound tracked with 2000s pop hits and the occasional heavy-handed bass drop. This is what sets Necto apart from its competition. With the inclusion of a fabulous weekly Pride night on Fridays, Rick’s and Skeep’s can barely hold a candle to the club that has it all. Spacious rooms to dance, a heated patio and bathrooms that don’t appear to have been destroyed by the devil himself all allow Necto to rise above the rest, and there’s truly no comparison anywhere within 50 miles of Ann Arbor — just ask the multitudes of queer folk that drive into the city on Fridays. I haven’t even mentioned Necto gave me the opportunity to scream “Fuck out my way when you see me / I’m rolling with the LGBT” with the real life Cupcakke for the price of the five dollar cover. You know what I’ve
K ATELYN MULCAHY / DAILY never heard at Rick’s before? “We R Who We R” by Kesha. You know what song I have heard at Necto? You guessed it: “We R Who We R” by Kesha. -Dominic Polsinelli, Senior Arts Editor
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Best Thrift / Vintage Ragstock So it’s the day before Saint Patrick’s Day, and your get-up for tomorrow is looking absolutely pathetic. You’ve gone through your closet and picked out the little green you have — and boy, it was slim pickings. You’re starting to panic. Everyone else in your hall has planned ahead, having ordered beads, hats and headbands from Amazon days in advance, and now you’re the carless, penniless kid with no look to turn. Thank God for Ragstock. Ragstock, located near the corner of S. Division and Liberty St., has your back. Inside, you’ll find essentials for spirit days and the everyday. Windbreakers from the ’90s? No need to raid your parents’ closet anymore. A bold Hawaiian print button-down? Sounds like an easy choice. A crop top with a graphic print, just for the occasion? It’s going to be here. Ragstock combines the convenience of its location with its awareness of fashionable thrift. The store, neatly organized by color and theme, always has something to offer. You’ll find something quicker
Best Spa The Aveda Institute The Aveda Institute has all the feel of a full-fledged salon, without all of the fuss or high prices — or maybe just the right amount of fuss. With lives run by essays, exams, jobs, sports practices and club meetings, it seems impossible to fit in the time to get that haircut you’ve been needing for weeks. Fitting in the time weeks in advance for an overpriced service that you might not end up happy with is a burden too many face. The Aveda Institute has a simple online booking system, is often available for walk-ins and is both quick and satisfying. The Aveda Institute both pampers and remains practical; it is everything that a break from busy lives should be. A salon quite perfectly attuned to the campus life, the institute is both run by students and frequented by students. While supervisors look over to ensure service quality, there is an inevitable connection between students of two worlds. With an open atmosphere and spunky stylists, the vibe resonates with the campus culture. An alternative option to your traditionally overdone spa, the Aveda Institute is a breath of fresh air. -Isabel Frye, Daily Arts Writer
than you think, without the minutes spent searching through disorganized racks of shirts that commemorated a 2001 Little League tournament or Great Aunt Jean’s 75th. Take it easy on yourself. Hit up Ragstock and buy something cute. - Jack Brandon, Daily Film Editor
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Best Mexican Food Chela’s DAILY
Much like the Starland Vocal band single by the saThere are restaurants that you go to with great frequency. There are restaurants you profess to love. There are restaurants to which you feel some kind of intense loyalty, akin to your dedication to a religion or sports team. And then there is Chela’s. Originally found on the corner of Liberty and Maple, Chelas serves without a doubt the greatest Mexican food in the greater Ann Arbor area
and quite possibly the entire country. Is that hyperbole? Not to the legions of devoted followers that pack the restaurant seven days a week. You can’t get a better meal for under ten dollars unless you make it yourself, and even then it’s not likely. Chela’s seems to effortlessly pull off that perfect local establishment atmosphere of familiarity and comfort that makes it impossible to not want to return again and again. There are people out there who hold in their hearts a great love of Chipotle and other places like it. But Chipotle is to Chela’s what McDonalds is to Knight’s Steakhouse. Where else but Chelas will you find employees who know your name after only a few visits? Where else but Chela’s can you get three tacos for less than the price of a movie ticket. Where else but Chelas can you go for a meal that is that fast, that easy, and still that good. The answer? Nowhere. There is only one Chela’s. You can find it on Maple and on 5th. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out on what has become the go-to staple for Mexican food in Ann Arbor. Jump on the bandwagon and get to Chelas as soon as is physically possible. You won’t be disappointed. -Ian Harris, Daily Arts Writer
Best Sushi Sadako Despite the fact that the midwest is not known for their sushi — one of Ann Arbor’s most popular restaurants for students and residents alike is “Sadako” — an extremely popular Japanese restaurant located on South University Avenue. Sadako’s prime location, affordable options, and wide array of different sushi rolls and Japanese entrees is a testament to its consistently busy atmosphere. Backpacks litter the ground near diner’s feet– as students coming from classes and the library constantly crowd the little wooden tables Monday through Sunday. The sushi bar is always bustling with business — a more casual spot for diners to sit against the sushi chefs constructing sushi roll after sushi roll. Sadako’s sushi rolls are pretty big — ranging from around four to eight dollars, meaning you get a real bang for your buck. In addition to sushi, customers also get a side salad and bowl of miso soup with their roll. In terms of the hungry college student looking for fast, affordable, delicious food– Sadako is the move. On the weekend nights, beginning around 5 p.m., students on dates, out with friends to celebrate a special event, or just looking for something to eat swarm the place, making it one of South U’s not so hidden gems. Other than sushi, Sadako has a wide array of Japanese options from dumplings and edamame to Katsu and Donburi, meaning there’s something for everyone, even if raw fish isn’t your thing. Sadako is a student favorite for a reason, and it doesn’t take much more than a visit to the restaurant to understand why. -Eli Rallo, Daily Arts Writer
AMELIA CACCHIONE / DAILY
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Best Date Spot The Michigan Theater ZOEY HOLMSTROM / DAILY
We all know the classic movie theatre date. Odds are your first date was spent in the back row of a movie theatre, watching a movie you barely remember, interlocking arms and exchanging kisses with your high school boyfriend or girlfriend. We all know the appeal of blockbuster loving, action movie showing chain cinema dates, but Ann Arbor offers something more. An upgrade on the typical movie theatre date, the Michigan Theatre is different than any chain cinema you went to with your high school boyfriend.
For starters, the Michigan Theatre is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing diverse people together and building a community through the appreciation of cinema and the arts. The movies shown there are meant to communicate and share the grander human experience. More often than not, we go to the theatre and encounter movies that move us and help us see and try to understand the world in a different context, but other than the movies, appreciating the beauty of the building is also an important part of the experience. Going on dates to the Michigan Theatre quickly turns into more than just a back row make-out session. This year, my boyfriend and I decided that one of our goals was to watch every movie nominated for an Oscar. Sure enough, the Michigan Theatre showed most of them, so we quickly devised a plan to watch all of them in time for the award ceremony. We started with Shape of Water, and quickly fell into a weekly routine of movie nights at the Michigan Theatre. Every time, we would sneak a smoothie in our coats. Slyly, we would walk into the screening room or the annex, and we would enjoy our movie together while sipping on out contraband smoothies. A definite upgrade from the typical movie theatre date, artsy movie smoothie night—the name we ended up giving to our weekly movie dates—turned into us learning how to appreciate cinema and community together. - Andrea Perez, Daily Arts Writer
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Best Pizza Cottage Inn
MA X KUANG / DAILY
Best Landlord J. Keller Rent: there was a musical devoted to it, you tend to forget about it and apparently it’s too damn high. With J. Keller, paying rent is a breeze which is one reason that makes them the best landlord in Ann Arbor. Boasting some of the best properties in Ann Arbor and strong community connections, J.Keller is a dependable, honorable and responsible place to ensure a positive off-campus housing experience based right here in Ann Arbor. Living out of the dorms for the first time is a scary thought, but going through the process of living on your own with J. Keller makes it simple to understand. Paperwork, parking and plumbing, oh my! J. Keller and their team deal with it all with ease and a smile. The adult-ing part of college is tough, but J. Keller makes it easier with online payments, simple paperwork, understandable lease agreements and available assistance at any time. Living in a J. Keller property is a positive experience that makes off-campus living affordable, simple and enjoyable. -Becky Portman, Senior Arts Editor
DARBY STIPE / DAILY What started as “Mark’s Carts,” a food truck that would appear in downtown Ann Arbor’s food cart courtyard, has rapidly evolved into one of the most popular restaurants in the city. Now when one walks into the The Lunch Room they are greeted by a bustling atmosphere and an affable staff. Fitting for Ann Arbor, The Lunch
Pizza solves anything, but good pizza solves everything. Cottage Inn has been my pizza of choice since I arrived in Ann Arbor. It makes game days better, girls nights cheesier and Tuesday afternoons breezier. Good pizza solves everything because it puts a smile on your face, it makes your love life seem less pathetic and the world’s crises float away like the smell of oregano. The party platter is the best $25 you will ever spend and your friends will love you forever. The crust is buttery and bready with the perfect bite of chewiness. The sauce is perfectly spread and chunky with tomatoes that were probably picked somewhere in Southern Italy. The cheese, god, the cheese is so perfect. It is melty, but not the kind molten melty where you can burn the roof of your mouth and your tongue is so prickly that, for a few days, coffee tastes weird. No, it’s the best kind of melty, the orgasmic elasticity that only Cottage Inn can accomplish. The golden brown layer of crunch that forms over the cheese is like the top layer of a well-made crème brulee, like if you tap it, it’ll just explode with flavor. So whether you are happy drunk, sad drunk or totally sober and craving a bite, grab some Cottage Inn pizza because it literally solves everything. -Becky Portman, Senior Arts Editor
Best Vegan Food The Lunch Room Room doesn’t hide its political leanings, or the ideologies that lay at the foundation of the business. When the moron-in-chief was elected, The restaurant sold #NotMyPresident buttons, black lives matter pins and hung up posters supporting gun control. The Lunch Room doesn’t obnoxiously advertise that it’s vegan, it just is. The food takes the shape of familiar dishes like nachos, burritos, pad thai and mac n cheese, making it accessible to patrons that aren’t vegans themselves. Yet the menu is broad enough for vegans to order something new every time they visit and the dishes are constantly on rotation based on the ingredients currently in season. The main location in Kerrytown is not the only space The Lunch Room resides in. The Lunch Room Bakery and Cafe located on Fuller Court is only a short walk from north campus and the Detroit Street Filling Station, another location in Kerrytown, opened up its doors last August. The Lunch Room is always expanding, experimenting with new flavors, and adding to their menu (try their new shakes, they are delicious.) They are a forward thinking company, whether with their food, political leanings or expansion ambitions, which is why their brand is so well respected in Ann Arbor. -Joseph Fraley, Daily Blog Editor
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Best University Fan Apparel The M Den The M Den is an inadvertent representation of the American Dream, like if Jackson Pollock tackled the subject using only maize and blue paint. Anyone who’s had the slightest ounce of connection to the University is welcome to freely shop here (even for dogs). A labyrinthine vault of all things wolverine, the State Street hallmark invites you to embark on a sectional odyssey as you traverse from Block M-patterned suits and Jalen Rose jerseys to T-shirts emblazoned with “Go Blue!” in Gaelic and ASL to Beilein bobbleheads and this failed Jim Harbaugh cloning experiment. Only at the M Den can you walk in a college freshman and walk out a Michigan Grandma. This one-stop super-shop for Michigan-branded anything is equal parts inviting and intimidating. I can’t count the number of times I’ve walked into the wood-paneled bourgeoisie haven that is the Victors Collection, locking eyes with the workers as if to acknowledge we both know I can’t afford anything in there. So instead I retreat to the pragmatic bargain bin, making fun of the ironically blunt MICHIGAN ROSS shirts on the way. Meandering this magical maize mystery box I can thwart the capitalist system while simultaneously contributing to it, as the cashier rings me up for a blue headband and striped gameday overalls.
EMMA RICHTER / DAILY
-Robert Mansuetti, Daily Arts Writer
Best Clothing Bivouac A few years ago, when I found myself with a coatrelated fashion emergency on my hands — one that, according to all the winter gear blogs, could only be solved by an obscure brand of fabric tape — it was a Bivouac employee who reassured me that they carried it in-store, and helpfully demonstrated how to use it. And in all my visits since then, this is exactly the kind of service I’ve come to expect from Bivouac: relentlessly patient, always friendly and armed with an unparalleled product knowledge. That’s especially impressive given that Bivouac boasts a tremendous assortment of apparel, ranging from the utilitarian (puffy coats and waterproof boots) to the trendy (Paige denim and Free People blouses). The common thread throughout is the quality products from premium brands at a reasonable cost — they’ll also match competitors’ prices, so make sure to do some research before shopping. The store, which spans three storefronts on State Street near Nickels Arcade, feels both cozy and expansive, with a selection that makes it worth spending some time browsing here. “Outfit your life” is their very fitting motto, and you’ll certainly have no trouble doing that at Bivouac, no matter what sartorial quandaries life throws your way. -Maitreyi Anantharaman, Daily Arts Writer
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Best Housing Foundry Lofts the ad listings. Foundry Lofts focuses on curating the best possible living experience for their tenants, through the help of extremely accommodating staff members, and community events. Foundry offers free beer on Fridays, and free breakfast some mornings as well — in an effort to create an environment for its tenants to socialize and enjoy refreshments. Starting at $2175 for a studio, these apartments offer more than just a place to live — Foundry Lofts offers a living experience. - Sofia Lynch, Daily Arts Writer
MA X VAILLIENCOURT /DAILY Foundry Lofts provides U of M students high-class, city living, only minutes away from central campus. Located on E. Huron between State and S. Division St., this industrial, yet modern apartment building has much more to offer than just a convenient walking distance. Foundry’s luxury apartments come fully-furnished, with private bathrooms, walk-in closets, in-unit washers and dryers, and more. As a tenant at foundry, you’re offered garage parking and bike storage, in addition to access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, a 24 computer lounge, and even a hot tub deck. The perks that tenants enjoy the most, however, are those one might not find in
Best Salad Sava’s I hate salad. Should I be more coy about that? Probably. But in the interest of journalistic integrity, it’s important that you have all the facts. To me, salad is the depressing pile of leaves you have to eat when your friend invites you over for dinner because it would be rude not to. It’s what you order when you go out to lunch with your mom so she’ll think that you’re a functioning human adult. It’s the universe’s sad, bitter yin to cake’s delicious yang. Sava’s salad is the exception to that rule. Forget the wilted lettuce and lemon juice you eat at home and pretend to find satisfying; Sava’s has elevated salad to its rightful place at the center of your plate with vibrant, genuinely crave-worthy options. Try the summery flavors of their Mediterranean Shrimp and Spinach Salad, with marinated artichokes, tangy goat cheese, and succulent cherry tomatoes. Celebrate local flavors with the Michigan Apple Salad, which layers sweet apple over smokey bacon, or live out your flower-child fantasies with the Hippie Bowl, a hearty combination of tempeh, avocado, sweet potato and kale. Enjoy your salad surrounded by the clean lines and colorful tiles of Sava’s dining space, and feel like the grown-up you pretend to be in job interviews. -Julia Moss, Daily Arts Writer
Best Sunday Brunch Sava’s The place to be if you’re looking to impress a first date, take some oh so aesthetic food pics or recover from a wild night out — Sava’s on State Street is a campus-wide Sunday morning staple. From the moment you step foot inside, it’s sensory overload — but in the best way possible. Lay eyes on the contemporary, whimsical decor, bask in the decadent scent of freshly-baked pastries and hear the simultaneous clinks of mimosas (which are included in the $20 brunch, might I add). Sunday brunch at Sava’s is more than just your average meal, it’s a culinary experience that I insist every Ann Arbor resident take advantage of. The signature buffet spread — an endless and varying display of meats, cheeses and seasonal fruit, as well as eggs and bread of seemingly every style — is something you’ll definitely want to write home about. Indulge, pile your plate high and feel absolutely no shame. And if you ever find yourself curious about the everyday breakfast menu, I suggest ordering the Huevos Rancheros or Puffed French Toast (for your respective savory or sweet moods). Venturing beyond the delectable food, Sava’s prides itself on an attentive staff and an inviting atmosphere. Kick back, enjoy an hour or two in good company, and feel the impending doom of the rest of the semester slip away. Brunch at Sava’s is a University essential and the perfect way to pamper yourself — because being an adult is hard work. - Morgan Rubino, Daily Arts Writer
ALEC COHEN /DAILY
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Best Housing Ameneties Landmark
CHRIS FCASNI /DAILY
Best Barber Arcarde Barbers I am surprised I have made it this far in life with the laughable lack of common sense and street smarts I display at times. (It recently came to me the other day that deodorant is aptly named because it gets rid of odor and is not some jumble of letters someone randomly put together). Haircuts are quite nerve-wracking experiences for this reason, and the first time I sought the services of Arcade Barbers, I messed up. Thinking I knew what I was doing, I gave my barber a random blade size that was often floated around whenever I got my hair cut at home. I walked out of there with my sides so short I should’ve been wearing fatigues. This anecdote is yet another testament to my incompetence, but it does not undercut the professional skill with which Arcade Barbers operates. They cut my hair so short because I mistakenly asked for it, not because they didn’t know what they were doing. And that speaks to the barbershop as a whole; no nonsense, down to earth and proficient with razor and blade. The second time I patronized Arcade Barbers, I stopped pretending like I knew what I was doing and let the barber take control. As he worked his magic, I immersed myself in both the cushy chair and the animated atmosphere. The square layout of establishment means every patron can witness fellow ragged mops transform into fresh fades, all while the barbers throw quips diagonally at their coworkers. This highlight of the Nickels Arcade is a wonderful escape from daily monotony where customer and craftsman are equal. -Robert Mansuetti, Daily Arts Writer
DANYEL THAR AKEN /DAILY
When most people picture college-living, they picture sparsely-furnished apartments and far-from-modern amenities. Landmark, however, has it all; security, comfort and convenience. Landmark apartments are all fully furnished with in-unit washers and dryers. They have air conditioning, dishwashers, hardwood floors and patios/ balconies. For students, they have high-speed Internet and cable television. And for those with a car, Landmark also has indoor parking. Most importantly, Landmark features a fob-enabled connection to 7-Eleven and an onsite fitness facility. This readily accessible workout facility easily meets the needs of even the most energetic resident. (Rumor has it they even have a yoga studio.) And on cold winter nights, the 7-Eleven is a nice way to get a quick snack without ever stepping foot outside. -Sammy Sussman, Daily Arts Writer
Best Indian Food Cardamom If you can make the trek up to North Campus, then Cardamom is definitely the way to go. Always packed with people, the restaurant has a warm ambience and modern vibes with the Indian fusion music it plays. My favorite thing to eat at Cardamom is their cucumber raita, or yogurt. It’s creamy with just the right tang, and as someone who eats a bowl of plain yogurt with every Indian meal at home, I’ve always appreciated an Indian restaurant that serves good raita. Their vegetarian dishes are also very reminiscent of the food my mom makes. The dal tarka isn’t too spicy or watery, and the aloo gobi is refreshingly authentic. Cardamom also offers an extensive drink menu as well as many meat dishes. During lunch on weekdays you can order a thali—a complete meal with the five tastes (sour, bitter, sweet, salty and spicy). Its location makes it great to grab lunch there with coworkers or pleasant for dinner with your friends. It doesn’t hurt that cardamom is also my favorite spice. -Nitya Gupta, Daily Arts Writer
ROBERT BUECLER /DAILY
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