Detroit is full to the brim with delicious food options. No matter what your favorite flavors are, there’s surely something in the Motor City to strike your fancy. But while this vast selection is certainly worth celebrating, our hometown’s massive number of food options means there’s plenty of room for slip-ups. Here are nine food faux pas you should avoid while dining and drinking in Detroit.
1. Putting ketchup on a coney dog.
Come on, Detroiters: you should know better than this! While there’s nothing wrong with ketchup in itself, it simply doesn’t belong on a coney dog. If you’re caught dousing your Detroit dog in anything other than the classic combination of onions, cheese, chili, and a little mustard, you’ll get some odd looks.
2. Choosing non-square pizza.
Motor City residents know that there’s just something deliciously special about square pizza. When we opt for a cheesy slice, we look for something with four corners — and we’re proud of it! When you’re enjoying pizza here in Detroit, stick with the classic square style.
3. Eating Mexican food from a chain restaurant.
Okay, we all enjoy a trip to Taco Bell from time to time, but living in Detroit without taking advantage of Mexicantown is a true sin. When you’re craving authentic Mexican food, make your way to the neighborhood and enjoy all sorts of tasty tacos, burritos, and so much more. From Mexican bakeries to tasty flan, there’s truly something here for everyone — so get out there and enjoy it!
4. Letting Fat Tuesday pass you buy without a paczki or two.
Detroiters wait all year for the joy of Paczki Day, so it would be an utter shame to let this fantastic day pass without indulging in at least one of these sugary-sweet, jelly-filled pastries. For the tastiest options available, make your way to nearby Hamtrack and pick up a dozen — or more!
5. Calling it "soda."
It’s "pop." Period. Whether you’re talking about Mountain Dew, Coca-Cola, or our beloved Faygo, every Detroit resident knows that these fizzy beverages should be referred to by their rightful name. If we hear the word "soda" here in the Motor City, we’re sure to raise an eyebrow in disapproval.
6. Eating a potato chip that's not from Better Made.
We Detroiters sure are proud to be the home of Better Made Potato Chips, so reaching for any other brand when your salty cravings strike will certainly be frowned upon here in the Motor City. After all, Better Made chips are just… better — so why not enjoy them in all their deliciousness?
7. Thinking Vernor’s is just another fun beverage.
Sure, Vernor’s definitely works when you’re in the mood for ginger ale — but every true Detroiter knows that it’s so much more than just a beverage. In actuality, Vernor’s is a magical elixir that heals us when our stomachs turn on us. There’s nothing more soothing than a sip of Vernor’s when nausea strikes.
8. Mispronouncing "gyros" while dining in Greektown.
Greektown is one Detroit’s most famous neighborhoods, and its name alludes to the fact that it also houses some truly delicious and authentic Greek eateries. When you sit down to dine at one of these restaurants, make sure not to embarrass yourself by saying "gy-rose."
9. Eating just one slider at Green Dot Stables.
Green Dot Stables is overflowing with incredibly delicious slider options, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more wonderful array of flavors in the Motor City. When you sit down to dine here, don’t make the mistake of ordering just one (or even two) of these tiny sandwiches! From BBQ to black bean, there’s a flavor for every palate.
Okay, Detroit: it’s your turn! Can you think of any other food faux pas that should have been included on our list? Share your suggestions in the comment section below!
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