12 Restaurants In Michigan To Get Ethnic Food That Will Blow Your Mind
By Serena Maria Daniels|Published October 31, 2015
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Serena Maria Daniels
Author
Serena Maria Daniels is an award-winning freelance journalist in Detroit, by way of Chicago, by way of the West Coast. She writes about Michigan for OIYS. Serena enjoys learning about language and culture and taking road trips with her beagle Ralph.
In Michigan we’re really lucky when it comes to food in that we have such a rich cultural history. What was once a mostly German, then Irish settlement (not to mention influences from French Canadians), the state has really grown into a hub for folks from all over the world wanting to realize the American Dream. That means a delicious mashup of all kinds of culinary influences. Check them out.
Michigan is home to the largest Middle Eastern population outside of the Middle East. So naturally there's bound to be a seemingly endless supply of amazing food from Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere. Al Ameer tends toward Lebanese traditions and has two locations in metro Detroit.
OK, so this is actually a Bangladeshi restaurant, but it decribes itself as having Indian cuisine, speaking to the influences each culture have on one another. Since its opening in 1998, Aladdin has been a staple for folks wanting no muss, no fuss Indian and Bangladeshi food at really affordable prices.
This renowed attraction celebrates Michigan's deep cultural ties with its German ancestry. Chow down on traditional dishes like schnitzels, sauerbraten, and knackwurst. Plus, German-import brews and while you're at it, all-you-can-eat buffet of chicken dinners, coleslaw and ice cream.
Metro Detroit has a sizable Chinese American population in western suburbs. So if really good Chinese food is what you're craving you may want to check out this hole-in-the-wall place, which features both a Chinese and English menu.
El Asador proves that Mexican cuisine is not just your typical tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Featuring interesting steak dishes, seafood, and yes, traditional standbys, El Asador has made an impressive imprint in Detroit's southwest side.
Situated in downtown Kalamazoo, this spot gets great props for its authentic-looking British atmosphere. Plus, the food pays homage to both British and Indian cuisine.
This fairly new Italian eatery has been getting praise since it opened. It has a lot to do with the fact that the spot has an innovative take on Italian food. Next time you're feeling adventurous, give it a try.
You haven't tried soul food until you've stopped off at this unassuming spot in Detroit. Featuring gut-busting pork chops, fried chicken, mac 'n cheese, greens, and banana pudding - all served to you carryout in styrofoam boxes from behind bullet proof glass.
Looking for Greek food in a classy setting? This hotspot offers Lobster Markaronatha, Dolmathakia, and many other delicious dishes I have no idea how to pronounce.
Makes it nearly impossible to pick a favorite kind of food out here, huh? And this is not even to mention the food that is Michigan-centric, that you can’t really find in other parts of the country. Tell us though, does this hit the mark culturally speaking? What are some other ethnic cuisines that you love, that people probably didn’t know existed here? Tell us about it in the comments below!
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