Detroiters are lucky to have easy access to an impressive array of restaurants from all sorts of diverse culinary traditions. Throughout our city’s neighborhoods, fantastic food abounds, whether you’re craving something classic or more inventive. When you’re searching for your new favorite eatery here in the Motor City, check out these nine unforgettable dining destinations.
1. Marrow Detroit (8044 Kercheval Ave, Detroit)
This unique destination is both a local butcher shop and a restaurant where guests can enjoy a welcoming and cozy dining experience. With an emphasis on sustainably sourced ingredients, Marrow offers one of Detroit’s most fantastic date night options. Whether you’re enjoying a flavorful charcuterie board or digging into a heartier dish, you’ll easily fall in love with this neighborhood gem.
2. Norma G’s Detroit (14628 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit)
Searching for a quick and easy trip to the Caribbean without dropping money on plane tickets? Norma G’s in Grosse Pointe Park has you covered with its colorful menu and bold flavors - not to mention incredible service. Kick things off with jerk chicken sliders or codfish rice cakes before digging into an order of red snapper, vegan curry, or delicious chicken pelau. Is your mouth watering yet?
3. Xochimilco Restaurant (3409 Bagley St, Detroit)
It’s no secret that the Motor City is an awesome option for folks who love Mexican fare, and Xochimilco Restaurant in Mexicantown is a must-visit spot when cravings strike. With its unassuming atmosphere and plentiful portions, it’s nearly impossible to go wrong with a visit to this eatery and cocktail bar. From enchiladas to classic tacos to crispy flautas, there’s so much to appreciate.
4. Red Hots Coney Island (12 Victor St, Highland Park)
Many Detroiters flock to American or Lafayette to get their coney island fix, but we think Red Hots deserves a space on your must-visit list. Situated in the Highland Park neighborhood, this no-frills locale is sure to keep your taste buds delighted as you indulge in an order of chili or a classic coney with all the fixings. It’s no surprise that Red Hots has kept customers coming back for more since 1921 - a full century.
5. Capers (14726 Gratiot Ave, Detroit)
For those of us who consider ourselves carnivores, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty serving of steak. Generations of Detroiters have stopped here to enjoy mouthwatering steak at reasonable prices while enjoying a few drinks. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll feel right at home as soon as you settle in for a meal at Capers.
6. D’Amato’s Restaurant (222 Sherman Dr, Royal Oak)
If Italian food is your favorite, hop in the car and make a trip to Royal Oak for some of the tastiest fare in Metro Detroit. There’s frequently live jazz music to enjoy as you dine at D’Amato’s, a popular spot for Sunday brunch and dinner throughout the rest of the week. While the eatery is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, you’ll want to stop by during its open hours to try prime rib, fresh pasta, and more.
7. Selden Standard (3921 2nd Ave, Detroit)
The atmosphere at Selden Standard perfectly combines modern design with cozy, welcoming vibes that make visitors feel welcomed immediately. There’s a certain warmth here that will make you want to return time and time again to try everything on the restaurant’s New American menu, which features an array of small plates. Customer favorites include rainbow trout, herbed flatbread, and rabbit ragu. Yum!
8. Polonia Restaurant (2934 Yemans St, Hamtramck)
We’d be hard-pressed to compile a list of Detroit restaurants without including at least one option for Polish cuisine, which has a long-standing presence here in the Motor City. For upwards of 40 years, this awesome spot in Hamtramck has provided guests with traditional Polish dishes and an unbeatable atmosphere that will have you coming back for more. From pierogies to stuffed cabbage, the eats are worth exploring.
9. J’s Cafe (20853 Grand River Ave, Detroit)
Craving soul food in all its hearty glory? Head to Detroit’s west side for a meal at J’s Cafe, which has drawn in hungry visitors since 1983. With delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner alike, there’s never a bad time of day to stop in for a bite from J’s. Whether you opt for meatloaf, short ribs with your favorite sides, or a classic B.L.T, you’ll enjoy service with a smile.
Have you and your family checked out any of these neighborhood favorites throughout Metro Detroit during previous dining adventures? Did we leave any must-try spots off our list? We’re always happy to hear from our readers, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments or recommend another Motor City locale by filling out our official nomination form here .
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