The Definitive Guide to New Restaurants in Detroit – Winter 2020

It seems as though a new restaurant pops up in Detroit every week. Well, that’s basically correct. In the past year or so, The D has gained Italian delis, vegan coney islands, shipping container food halls, bakeries, James Beard-nominated chefs and everything in between. Here is the definitive list of all the new restaurants in Detroit, and the ones we’re keeping on our radar (fingers crossed that they open soon). Print this off and use it as your Detroit restaurant bucket list. And check back here every few months–we’ll keep this list up-to-date.

Confirmed Open: New Restaurants in Detroit

Buddy’s Pizza (Winter 2020)

Pizza
1565 Broadway St., Grand Circus Park

The iconic Detroit-style pizza has finally opened a downtown location. Since 1946, Buddy’s has been serving Detroiters pizza, appetizers, as well as tasty minestrone soup. While it’s one of many pizza options in the area, visitors to the arenas will make for a great crowd to enjoy a slice on their way to and from a game.

Mink (Winter 2020)

Light Apps
1701 Trumbull St., Corktown

Featuring a dinner only and light apps menu, Mink is a part of the new venture from the owners of Farmer’s Hand, Marrow, and Folk, making them an all-female led restaurant group. Mink features only 20 seats and sells no cocktails, but does offer beer, wine, and sake. The restaurant is a great spot where guest can come by for a bite and a drink on the way for a night out on the town.

Ivy Kitchen & Cocktails (Winter 2020)

American Fusion
9215 E. Jefferson Ave., East Village

This 60-seat restaurant has brought a fab flair to East Village with new food options on the east side. Developer Nya Marshall decorated the space herself with rich tones like blues and golds as well as a velvet-upholstered banquette. With seasonally rotating dishes that are a mix of classic Americana, Mexican, Italian, and Caribbean, Ivy Kitchen & Cocktails offers lunch and dinner service as well as a reduced late-night menu from 10 p.m. to midnight.

The Highlands (Winter 2020)

Steakhouse, Open Fire Cooking & Bar
Renaissance Center, 72nd Fl., Downtown

James Beard Award-winning chef, Shawn McClain has brought three food and beverage concepts to the Renaissance Center. The Highlands Steakhouse is a 140-seat American and Mediterranean-influenced steakhouse that serves locally raised beef. Hearth 71 is a smaller and more casual counterpart that specializes in open fire cooking. Lastly, High Bar features unique whiskeys paired with desserts.

El Zocalo (Winter 2020)

Mexican Casual
3400 Bagley St., Mexicantown

The classic has returned. After shuttering its doors in 2017, the building that housed El Zocalo was recently acquired by Dennis Kefallinos reopened the beloved Mexican restaurant. The restaurant is still serving up hearty classic Mexican flavors like fajitas and taco platters, as well as tasty drinks.

Brewery Faisan (Winter 2020)

Microbrewery
1087 Beaufait St., Islandview

Located in a historic brew center of the city, Brewery Faisan serves Belgian-inspired beers that are the passion of owners Rachel and Paul Szlaga. Events are planned in the space, and food trucks also make appearances. Visit the website and Instagram to check the schedule.

Ima (Winter 2020)

Japanese
4870 Cass Ave., Midtown

Chef Mike Ransom has brought his unique vision to Midtown with a third Ima location. The popular Japanese restaurant serves a menu similar to the Corktown and Madison Heights restaurants with highlights like the popular smoked salmon potato salad, tacos, noodle bowls and rice dishes. But unique to the Midtown location is their Japanese fried chicken sandwich – sure to be a fan fave.

Savant Detroit (Fall 2019)

French and American
51 W. Forest Ave., Detroit

Serving up a blend of French and American cuisine, Savant offers a delicious and decadent menu at a reasonable price. Most entrees will be priced at about $10, like croissant biscuits with gravy and pomme frites with aioli and house ketchup. The most expensive item on the menu will be a “caviar bump” – a serving of caviar on an edible gold leaf with a shooter of French champagne, which will definitely be a fan favorite.

Leila (Fall 2019)

Lebanese
1249 Griswold Street, Capitol Park

Located in the historic Farwell Building, Leila’s is owned and operated by the Eid family who have been serving up Lebanese cuisine at Phoenicia for years. With 130 seats, a lounge area, and a private dining space with a mezzanine, Leila’s is visually stunning. The menu features family-style Lebanese classics with a relaxed feel.

Poke Burri (Fall 2019)

Sushi
70 W. Alexandrine St., Midtown

The Atlanta-based Instagram sensation has arrived in Detroit inside the Strathmore apartments building. The popular burrito-style sushi rolls and poke bowls attract a fun audience who are familiar with the colorful off-menu items like donut or corn dog shaped sushi dishes. The freshness of the menu is a great addition to the bevy of Midtown offerings.

The Detroit Pepper Co. (Fall 2019)

Casual Healthy 
17180 E. Warren Ave., East English Village

The first of its kind, The Detroit Pepper Company is serving up delicious stuffed bell peppers filled with brown rice sauce and more. Customers can add a protein choice of ground beef or turkey as well as a choice of cheese. And they offer a vegan option. Detroit Pepper Co. also serves unique grain bowls, hearty soups, and nearly a dozen freshly blended smoothies. The restaurant is a cool and healthy new addition to East English Village.

Magnet (Fall 2019)

Veggie-Centric American
4848 Grand River Ave., Core City

Magnet features a ‘vegetable-centric’ menu in the former Magnet Radiator Works building on Grand River. The 14-foot exposed ceilings and open kitchen are complimented by a park that owner Philip Kafka is developing on the neighboring property. Rotating daily specials or ‘indulgences’ will be added to the vegetable menu, and most of the menu is cooked on an open fire. This restaurant has also been getting attention for giving all of its employees a salary – so no tipping here.

Pernoi (Fall 2019)

Global Cuisine
310 E Maple Rd, Birmingham

Luxury is on the menu at Birmingham’s newest global-inspired restaurant, Pernoi. Helmed by the acclaimed Luciano DelSignore and Takashi Yagihashi, Pernoi features an a la carte and optional prix fixe menu. With 66 seats inside and another 35 on the patio, Pernoi boasts an interior inspired by a luxury yacht, which is perfect for an upscale Birmingham clientele.

Snack Camp (Fall 2019)

Global Snack Foods
1464 Van Dyke, West Village

The West Village has a new eatery. Try global inspired snacks like tea sandwiches, Hong Kong toast and currywurst, and sip from their list of luxury teas. This shop and snack bar also offers specialty candy bars from around the world.

The Film Lab (Fall 2019)

Cocktails
3105 Holbrook Ave., Hamtramck

Located inside the 100-year-old P.L.A.V. Building, film screenings that range from cult classics to rarely seen masterpieces are on the books for the artsy Hamtramck crowd. The Film Lab also plans to host events for the diverse community. You can purchase beer, wine, movie-themed cocktails and popcorn.

Brush Street Stadium Deli (Fall 2019)

Bar & Grill
2458 Brush St., Brush Park

Grab happy hour and bar food at this Creole-inspired addition to Brush Park. Brush Street Stadium Deli has everything to satisfy your taste for Detroit’s sister city, New Orleans. Poboy sandwiches come in the classic shrimp and catfish, but they also have a black bean for vegans and a corned beef po’ boy in a nod to Detroit. Try the N’awlins Gumbo loaded with seafood and sausage, and the Bourbon Street Mac & Cheese with a choice of protein.

Paramita Sound (Fall 2019)

Wine Bar
1509 Broadway St., Downtown

Popular with a niche crowd, Paramita Sound closed up shop in their West Village location in 2018. Now open in a 650 square-foot space inside the Siren Hotel, Paramita sound has music sales, special DJ events, and now a 15-seat bar that serves 30-plus diverse wines and beers. The addition of Paramita Sound to the Siren Hotel will continue to make the hotel one of Detroit’s hottest rising brands.

Pink FlaminGO to Go (Fall 2019)

Healthy Casual American
17740 Woodward Ave., Palmer Park

Known for her “food as medicine” approach to cooking, Chef Meiko Krishok is bringing her popular food truck concept into a brick and mortar space near Palmer Park. The restaurant, which is inside an old Bread Basket Deli, will serve some of the favorites that have made Krishok’s food truck Pink Flamingo so popular during its spring and summer pop-ups. Look for classics like curry veggie wraps on the menu in this neighborhood where several alternative medicine shops have sprouted up.

The Breakfast Loft (Fall 2019)

Brunch
1440 Franklin St., Lafayette Park

Micah Jenkins is a big brunch fan. Through her travels, she loved experiencing a great brunch with friends, but found that the experience was lacking in her hometown. Coached by her family friend and mentor, Steve Radden of the iconic Steve’s Soul Food, Jenkins has brought her vision to reality with The Breakfast Loft. Currently, hours are limited with breakfast sold on weekdays and an enticing brunch buffet on weekends.

Three Cats (Fall 2019)

Casual American
116 W. 14 Mile, Clawson

A Michigan-centric menu priced at under $20 is in the plans for veteran Detroit restaurateur Matt Prentice. After five years off the scene, Prentice has teamed up with lifestyle retailer, Mary Liz Curtin, for a restaurant/retail hybrid that aims to be casual fine dining and a purveyor of furniture, greeting cards, and more. Located inside the former Clawson theater, the retail concept will make even the furniture in the dining space available for sale, meaning every visit will be a unique experience.

Street Cuisine and Ocean’s Juice Bar (Fall 2019)

Global Street Food
19803 W. McNichols Rd., Rosedale Park

A new global street food restaurant and juice bar comes to Rosedale Park. With small plates inspired by tastes from around the world, Street Cuisine offers tacos, street sliders, Coney dogs, and a variety of tasty wing flavors. The neighboring Ocean’s Juice Bar has fresh pressed juices, smoothies, and wellness shots that are chock full of antioxidants and enzymes.

Smith & Co. (Fall 2019)

Americana
644 Selden St., Midtown

With patio seating in a gorgeous courtyard, Smith & Co. features unique menu items like soy smoked chicken, corned beef sandwiches with house made sauerkraut, and empanadas. The bar at Smith & Co. has unique beers from a hidden draft list. The restaurant also participates in a brewers training program from North Peak in partnership with Eastern Michigan University.

Sloppy Chops (Fall 2019)

Casual American
13226 W. McNichols Rd., NW Detroit

Starting out as a meal delivery business that grew by word of mouth and via social media, Sloppy Chops has finally opened a brick and mortar location on the booming Northwest side of Detroit. The location is a full service, casual but fine dining experience that is named for their popular lamb chops. Sloppy Chops is known for their large, tasty portions of casual comfort American food. Big, beefy burgers on sweet brioche buns are a favorite at this new neighborhood hangout.

ZZ Market & Grill (Summer 2019)

Vegetarian and Organic Americana
210 Henry St., District Detroit

Located near Little Caesars Arena and the Detroit Google HQ, ZZ Market & Grill serves up tasty sandwiches on a variety of breads with a zippy McClure’s pickle. The Michigan Salad is a favorite with sun dried cherries, blue cheese, and a dark balsamic vinaigrette. The weekly rotating soups feature the best of seasonal ingredients. ZZ Market & Grill also has a stunning line of entrees and pizzas.

Asian Corned Beef (Summer 2019)

Sandwiches & Egg Rolls
19102 Woodward Ave., Detroit

The popular locally-owned and run chain continues to expand its reach. The inventor of the immensely popular “corned beef egg roll,” Asian Corned Beef is now on their seventh location. The restaurant is also debuted a new roll that is sure to be a hit with Detroiters, the lobster roll.

River Rouge Brewing Company (Summer 2019)

Brewery
406 E. 4th St., Royal Oak

The brewery craze continues in the Detroit-area with a new brewery and tasting room opened by former businessman and film industry cinematographer, Edward Stencel. The brewery features a selection of eclectic original brews, many made with local ingredients. Try a beer flight of five, four ounce beers for $8, a pint for $5-6 bucks, or take home a growler. Fans are loving the Peanut Butter Chocolate Stencel Stout.

Huddle (Summer 2019)

Frozen Custard
2 John R. St., Downtown

Soft serve tasty treats are booming in Detroit. Nothing says summer like a cold treat in the evening. The owners of Gather have brought a new frozen custard location downtown as an extension of the flavors that they served inside the restaurant. Frozen custard is made with eggs in addition to cream and sugar making it creamier and lusciously silky.

Condado Tacos (Summer 2019)

Tacos
310 Main St., Royal Oak, Midtown

This Ohio-based taco franchise has come to Michigan with its first stop in Royal Oak. The build-your-own-taco concept prides themselves on fresh ingredients set in a street-art inspired decor. Enjoy creative tacos all the way down to Condado’s custom firecracker shell. Condado is also known for their attention to the best tasting tequilas and mezcal for flavorful margaritas like the Kahlo featuring Sauza Blue Reposado, soda, lime juice, and fresh mint. The Ohio-based franchise is adding a Midtown Detroit location at 634 Selden St.

Pokē Pokē (Summer 2019)

Sushi
4501 Woodward Ave., Midtown

Traditional sushi rolls are unwrapped in poke bowls. Try one of the eight signature bowls or choose from rice or spring mix, protein, veggies and sauce to make a tasty and nutritious-packed meal option. With a love and passion for interesting food, the owners of Pokē Pokē have put their spin on this traditional Hawaiian dish with the highest quality raw fish in a cool, yet casual environment.

Plum Market Kitchen (Summer 2019)

Casual Dining and Market
500 Woodward Ave., Downtown

Featuring a “street market” concept that is new to Detroit, Plum Market Kitchen features fast, casual dining and limited grocery offerings. In addition, a “Spirit Room,” serves as an event space available for lease. Plum Market Kitchen is also an outpost for the purchase of fresh flowers, baked goods, organic food and a full-service bar. The downtown location has partnered with Forgotten Harvest to pick up and redistribute surplus food to metro Detroiters in need.

Babo (Summer 2019)

High-End Diner
15 E. Kirby St., Midtown

Breakfast, lunch, and brunch come at reasonable prices but with a delicious flair at this high-end diner in Midtown. The menu features unique menu items like chilaquiles, three-egg Benedict, and a tasty bolognese. Blending the best of both worlds, a staple menu at reasonable prices but with a unique food offerings, the concept fits Detroit’s eclectic aesthetic.

Olga’s Kitchen (Summer 2019)

Mediterranean
MGM Grand Casino, 1777 3rd Ave., Detroit

The iconic chain of Greek-American food returns to Detroit after leaving the city limits a few years ago. The signature dishes will be coming to a quick restaurant inside of the MGM Grand Casino. Get your classic steakburger, the original Olga wrap, and signature snackers and curly fries between hands at the high stakes poker table. The limited menu will still feature the classic Peasant soup and cream of broccoli that has made Olga’s a Michigan fave.

Sid’s Gold Request Room (Summer 2019)

American/Piano & Karaoke Bar
1509 Broadway, Downtown

The popular New York City karaoke bar has arrived in Detroit bringing their brand of fun and music to the Motor City. Customers can request their song and belt it out while being accompanied by a live pianist. Known for their classic cocktails, Sid’s also has a signature food menu of American fare like meatballs blended with parmesan and Sid’s Fries-crispy baked Yukon gold potatoes.

Momo Cha (Summer 2019)

Dumplings
Detroit Shipping Co., 474 Peterboro St., Detroit

Get your dumpling fix inside the Detroit Shipping Company at Momo Cha. One of only a few restaurants in the area serving Nepalese cuisine, the newest addition to DSC features Nepalese dumplings called momos stuffed with three different fillings, chicken, pork, or veggie. Get them pan-fried, steamed, or deep-fried each with a signature chutney. With most items priced at $12 or less, Momo Cha is a great addition to the good food, good fun vibe of the Detroit Shipping Company.

Table No. 2 (Spring 2019)

Fine American Dining
18925 Livernois, Avenue of Fashion

Table No. 2 features the full white napkin experience complemented by incredible dishes like grilled oyster Rockefeller, king salmon, Lake Michigan Walleye, and even a gorgeous Tomahawk Steak. Table No. 2 is sure to become a destination restaurant in a neighborhood that is on its way back to the top.

The Monarch Club (Spring 2019)

Cocktail Bar
33 John R. St., Downtown

The view is one of The Monarch Club’s greatest features. Surrounded by the iconic skyscrapers of the city, the old-school intrigue harkens back to Detroit’s glory years when one could have a drink surrounded by titans of industry or kings of the underworld. Inside, intimate banquettes can make for private fun, while the outdoor, rooftop seating is sure to be the ideal summer spot. Enjoy craft cocktails along with a light bite menu. Try the popular Burnt End Poutine with brisket, tater tots, and house-made BBQ sauce.

Como’s (Spring 2019)

Casual Italian-American
22812 Woodward Ave., Ferndale

When Como’s Restaurant closed after issues with the health department and a dwindling fan base, people who still loved the iconic restaurant were verklempt. What would take the place in the large restaurant that features a 250-seat patio and a family-style dining room? Peas and Carrots Hospitality put new life into the location, specializing in Detroit-style pizza. Try out their exciting new eclectic flair, with new menu items like breakfast pizza, baked spaghetti, Italian-style guacamole, or a Detroit-style pizza like the Lucy Jean.

Traverse City Whiskey Co. Tasting Room (Spring 2019)

Distillery & Bar
22812 Woodward Ave., Ferndale

Located inside the former Como’s Restaurant, the Traverse City Whiskey Co. Tasting Room brings a taste of the “north” to the metro area. Serving cocktails and selling bottles of its classic whiskeys and bourbon, Traverse City Distillery is hoping to expand its imprint by increasing production. The company has also recently begun to offer premium, all-natural cocktail cherries from Michigan cherries.

Shimmy Shack (Spring 2019)

Vegan
1440 Sheldon Rd., Plymouth

Starting life as a vegan and gluten free food truck, Shimmy Shack is finally opening their first brick and mortar location. Featuring fast food service counters, a vegan and gluten free marketplace, and Sundays reserved for private parties. Try the “Shimmy Coney,” a Lightlife-brand soy dog grilled and topped with their signature vegan chili, mustard, and onions.

Saffron De Twah (Spring 2019)

Moroccan
7636 Gratiot Ave., East Side

There is no shortage of Middle Eastern food in Detroit. But, Saffron De Twah is serving up a twist with traditional Moroccan items that aren’t widely available. Carrots play a prominent role in this culture’s dishes, so be sure to try the carrot slaw and carrot tagine made of braised carrots, lemon vegetable couscous and pomegranate walnut salsa. The restaurant is popular on Grubhub making it a great spot to call to have a Moroccan feast at home.

Woodward Ave. Bar & Grill (Spring 2019)

Casual American
12000 Woodward Ave., Highland Park

The first sit down restaurant in over 20 years in Highland Park was highly anticipated when it opened this spring. Featuring local favorites like lamb chops, and finger foods like chicken quesadillas and mozzarella sticks, this watering hole also features a full bar with beer, wine, and craft cocktails. Come by to find neighborhood locals enjoying the lovely sun-dappled, fenced-in patio.

They Say (Spring 2019)

Casual American
17810 Vernier Rd., Harper Woods

Some of the best chicken wings in Detroit are from They Say, and now they are bringing their local flavor to a former Applebee’s restaurant in Harper Woods near the transitioning Eastland Mall. In addition to wings, They Say on the east side will have new choices like short ribs, Italian subs, and seafood. The new location will also feature lots of live music including live jazz every Thursday and Friday night.

Zao Jun (Spring 2019)

Pan-Asian
6608 Telegraph Rd., Bloomfield Township

Chinese for “kitchen god,” Zao Jun is a casual and family friendly pan-Asian restaurant complete with fried rice, spring rolls, lo mein, and other made-from-scratch dishes. With mostly small, shareable plates, at a reasonable price, Zao Jun also has a full bar and craft cocktails that complement the menu. Reviewers are raving about stir fried Kung pao chicken that packs a punch with red chili peppers, onion, and cashews.

AWAKE Cafe (Spring 2019)

Coffee
4224 3rd Ave., Midtown

With a goal to improve lives locally and internationally, AWAKE coffee beans are farmed in Honduras at a farm founded by Evangelistic Faith Mission as a way to provide jobs to local Honduran families. The baked goods at AWAKE are provided by the On the Rise Bakery Cafe-a local social entrepreneurship program. Try the cinnamon rolls that are huge and topped with a dollop of sweet cream. AWAKE also offers fruit smoothies that boast five full servings of fruit in each 20 ounce beverage.

Balkan House (Spring 2019)

Modern Eastern European
3028 Caniff St., Hamtramck

Serving up their popular Doner Kebab sandwich has put Balkan House on the map. The pocket pita is stuffed with gyro meat that is a mix of lamb and veal and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, and purple cabbage. The sandwich also has a yogurt based garlic sauce that is addictive. While the doner is what Balkan House is famous for, they also offer a full Bosnian menu like grah-a traditional bean soup and cevapi, which are tasty sausages. Balkan House also offers fresh juices, Turkish coffee, and Arabic teas.

Bodega Cat (Spring 2019)

Grocery and Mexican
2200 Scotten Ave., Southwest Detroit

Claiming the best tamales in Detroit, Bodega Cat is a grocery store that also offers green chicken tamales and pork red tamales most weekdays. On Fridays, Bodega Cat offers cheese and jalapeño tamales. Named for the cats that are found inside local grocers all around New York City, Bodega Cat is small and family-friendly. The environment is casual and has a well-worn feel that virtually guarantees delicious food. Fans of Bodega Cat also rave about the vegan tamales, as well as the Mexican coffee.

A.B.’s Amazing Ribs (Spring 2019)

Halal Barbecue
27310 Ford Rd., Dearborn

Pork is usually a staple in the barbecue business. But, at A.B.’s Amazing Ribs, beef is on the menu and not just beef, but halal beef. The rich flavors of Texas barbecue in beef ribs, brisket, and chicken are paired with an amazing tangy sauce. Classic side dishes are on the menu, too, including mac and cheese, fries, and cornbread. Reviewers can’t get enough of the brisket, but the smoked chicken is quickly turning into a crowd pleaser.

Table Detroit (Spring 2019)

Classic American Comfort
Fort Street Galley, 160 W. Fort St., Downtown

Chef Phill Milton brings his passion for classic Americana to his new venture, Table inside Fort Street Galley. With modern twists on classics and comfort food, food at Table is meant to inspire memories of sitting around and dining with friends. With a menu that is perfect for brunch and lunch, try the crispy Brussels sprouts with applewood bacon, shallots, and roasted apple. The Quack Mac is sure to be a fan favorite with confit duck, truffled onions and fontina in cavatappi pasta with crispy skin and fine herbs.

Youngblood Vineyard (Spring 2019)

Winery
61829 Ray Center Rd., Ray

Youngblood Vineyard is the realization of a dream for Dave and Jess Youngblood. After spending 25 years living in some of the most beautiful wine country in the U.S., the Youngblood’s have transformed a family farm to a vineyard featuring thoroughly selected grapes that will thrive in Michigan. Stop by this summer to try the 2018 Frontenac that is aged in stainless steel and French oak barrels. The semi sweet red will be a great addition to a case which can be purchased with a 10% discount.

Cooking with Que (Spring 2019)

Comfort Food
6529 Woodward Ave., Midtown

Blogger Quiana “Que” Broden began writing and preparing awesome vegan meals after a health crisis caused her to reevaluate her dietary choices. Yet, her husband and children are still meat eaters, so her restaurant, like her home, is a space where vegans and meat eaters can gleefully coexist. Broden’s food has been featured on dozens of television shows and she opens her kitchen regularly to guest chefs. Visit her brick and mortar store and her website for recipes to try at home.

Warda Patisserie (Spring 2019)

Bakery
1464 Gratiot Ave., Eastern Market

Bringing sophisticated, hand-crafted pastries to Detroit, Warda Patisserie’s flavors are inspired by the owners’ travels around the world. Warda Bouguettaya is excited to introduce Detroit to Algerian pastries like date honey makroud. Warda offers seasonal pastries without any preservatives or additives.

Grand Circus Diner (Spring 2019)

Diner
1570 Woodward Ave., Downtown

Opened right on Grand Circus Park, this circus-themed diner serves comfort food like pasta, fried chicken, prime tenderloin meatballs and matzo ball soup. But one of the most unique options to Detroit is the Cincinnati-style chili (served over spaghetti noodles). Don’t knock it till you try it. There is also be unique vegetarian and vegan offerings like salads and a fried feta sandwich.

Yum Village (Spring 2019)

African and Caribbean
6500 Woodward Ave., New Center

Having evolved from a pop-up shop to a food truck, the focus of the restaurant is quick, casual service with North African flavor and French undertones. Owner Godwin Ihentuge launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds to open the space, and contributors earned rewards like free meals and discounts. The food truck will still operate in West Village.

Detroit Vineyards (Spring 2019)

Wine
1000 Gratiot Ave., Eastern Market

Most urban centers are not known for growing grapes and producing wines, but Detroit has historical precedent. Detroit Vineyards claims that the city’s founder had a vineyard in 1702 and they are using old and new world practices to bring the taste of Detroit and France to your glass. The winery and tasting room is located in the former Stroh’s Brewery and is sure to be a great addition to the Eastern Market assortment of flavors.

Shield’s Pizza (Spring 2019)

Pizza & Italian
5057 Woodward Ave., Midtown

A pioneer of “Detroit-style pizza,” Shield’s has outposts in several suburbs, and is now bringing their classic deep dish pizza to Midtown. In addition to pizza, calzones and other Italian food, the newest location offers more appetizers and entrees. Located across the street from the Detroit Institute of Arts, Shield’s will offer pick up service, as well as dine in. The midtown location serves the neighborhood with brunch and catering service as well.

Pinky’s Rooftop (Spring 2019)

Small Plates
100 S. Main St., Royal Oak

Bringing an eclectic, vintage vibe to Royal Oak (and a rooftop bar), Pinky’s has a gorgeous outdoor garden theme and a fun menu. The 90-seat restaurant has small plates, oysters, and very creative craft cocktails. Try a Pinky’s Ice Pop, made with rosé or prosecco with a popsicle dipped in for good measure.

Drifter Coffee (Spring 2019)

Coffee and Light Food
780 Woodward Heights, Ferndale

After starting out as a mobile coffee trailer, Drifter Coffee has found a brick-and-mortar home in Ferndale. With the coffee bar on the first floor, the second floor has a cozy seating area. The menu features espresso beverages and light food fare.

Ochre Bakery (Spring 2019)

Baked Goods
4884 Grand River Ave., Core City

From the owners of Astro Coffee comes Ochre Bakery. Known for their hit breads, pastries, and cakes, Jessica Hicks and Dai Hughes offer a wider selection of tasty treats. Ochre makes naturally leavened bread with grains that are grown and milled as locally as possible. Names number four on Bon Appetit’s America’s Best New Restaurants list in 2019.

Cǿllect (Spring 2019)

Craft Beer Bar
1454 Gratiot Ave., Eastern Market

Located above and owned and operated by Gather, this new craft beer bar features a 14-seat bar, an additional 20 more bench seats and rooftop seating in warm weather. Collect has about 14 taps, as well as cider and kombucha. An exclusive collaboration beer with Ferndale’s Urbanrest Brewing Company is in the works.

Bagley Central (Spring 2019)

Cocktails
2545 Bagley St., Southwest

What happens when you mix punk, glam, new wave, and rhythm & blues in a cocktail bar? Bagley Central aims to find out. While Southwest Detroit is sure to become a hot hangout spot over the next few years, the owners of Bagley Central hope to still have a neighborhood bar that elevates the shot-and-a-beer concept. Though it boasts no kitchen, Bagley Central wants to attract pop-up chefs and serves bar snacks alongside its custom cocktail menu.

Pao Detroit (Spring 2019)

Asian
114 W. Adams St., Grand Circus Park

With 110 seats, Pao Detroit will have plenty of space to offer as a unique dining option with “nightlife elements.” Located on the first floor of the new Briggs Houze apartments, Pao has a five-star menu that includes filet mignon and crab legs. Playing off the Asian design of the building which was built in the 1920s, Pao also has a full bar and craft cocktails.

Peso Bar (Spring 2019)

Casual Mexican
2547 Bagley Ave., Southwest Detroit

Comfort food is on the menu at this new Mexican eatery in Southwest Detroit. Soups, tortas, sandwiches, and burritos will be served up alongside a fleet of 20–yes, 20–margaritas. Peso is owned by the owners of Toma Detroit and is sure to feature the best tasting tequila and mezcal in the city alongside a long line of Mexican beers that are rarely found in Metro Detroit on tap.

Lucki’s Cheesecakes (Spring 2019)

Cheesecake & Bakery
5063 Trumbull Ave., Suite 2, Woodbridge

Joining the suddenly popular block in Woodbridge is Lucki’s Cheesecakes. Owner Rhonda Crenshaw Morris is becoming a neighborhood favorite, serving up crazy cheesecake flavors such as Superman and banana pudding.

Madcap Coffee Company (Spring 2019)

Coffee
1001 Woodward Ave., Downtown

Grand Rapids-based coffee company Madcap opened their first Detroit location. Able to offer their own roasts, the company is hoping to be a place for more than just a great cup of coffee, but a place where connections are formed. Brewing small batch coffee since 2008, Madcap has cultivated a cult following and also sells a lot of cool coffee-oriented merchandise to fans.

Grandma Bob’s (Spring 2019)

Pizza
2135 Michigan Ave., Corktown

Offering artisanal, Detroit-style pizzas in Corktown, Grandma Bob’s (formerly called White Star Pizza) creates vegan-friendly, gluten-free and other fun, tasty pies. With its friendly take on the local “pizza joint,” Grandma Bob’s also features a menu of local craft beers and ciders.

Destination 1905 (Spring 2019)

Bar
8130 Kercheval Ave., West Village

Destination 1905 bills itself as a neighborhood bar with international flavor, joining Detroit’s beloved West Village, where it’s already a favorite. This bar serves classics like mojitos and martinis. Check out their happy hour with complimentary popcorn.

Barter (Spring 2019)

Cocktails
11601 Joseph Campau Ave., Hamtramck

Hamtramck’s flourishing art scene continues to attract quality brands and experiences. Owners of Barter were inspired by their passion for the arts and memories of New York’s bar scene. The unique 3,500 square feet that is Barter is split into two with a cocktail bar in the front and a community space in the back. Happy Hour is happier at Barter on weekdays from 4pm to 7pm with $2 beer, $5 wine, and $7 craft cocktails. Try Kerry’s Country Breakfast featuring Benchmark bourbon, smoked maple syrup, black walnut bitters, and a mini waffle.

Evening Bar (Spring 2019)

Bar
1424 Woodward Ave., Downtown

Located inside the new Shinola Hotel, Evening Bar is serving up classic Americana cuisine paired with seasonal cocktails. A Detroit outpost of its NYC location, Evening Bar is known for their tasty burgers and warm cookies. The cocktails are billed by reviewers as “detailed and ambitious.”

The Brakeman (Spring 2019)

Beer Hall
1424 Woodward Ave., Downtown

The newest opening within the Shinola Hotel, The Brakeman is a beer hall that offers a host of craft beers, a rotation of classic cocktails and an alleyway with lots of iconic games to keep visitors entertained. You can also order food from Penny Red’s and bring it into the beer hall.

Penny Red’s (Spring 2019)

Casual American
1400 Woodward Ave., Downtown

The Shinola Hotel has several great food options that are sure to satisfy the taste buds from both home and away. Penny Red’s has three chicken sandwiches which can then be customized to sensational flavors with their tangy sauces. Penny Red’s also serves up chicken by the bucket and amazing, unique sides like crispy brussel sprouts.

 

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