25 Essential Detroit Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Detroit.
Blimpie
Michigan
This counter-serve sandwich chain offers hot, cold & panini-grilled subs, plus wraps & salads.
The Original Gonella's
Michigan
A mainstay for over 75 years, this old-school deli provides hearty, sub sandwiches & grocery items.
Toastique
Michigan
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Detroit's most persuasive health food restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 88.1.
Sandy's by the Beech
Detroit, Michigan
Cash-only tavern presenting burgers & assorted pub grub in a compact, brick-lined space.
Green Dot Stables
Detroit, Michigan
Slider joint with a chill vibe serves bite-sized eats with global flavors & bottled beers.
Antojitos Southwest
Detroit, Michigan
Buzzy food truck turning out Mexican-fusion specialties like birria ramen & asada fries.
Mama Mia's Restaurant
Detroit, Michigan
Easygoing neighborhood bar & eatery with pizza, pasta & other classic Italian entrees.
Buddy's Pizza
Detroit, Michigan
Iconic pizza chain (since 1946) known for its square slices & soups, plus other Italian & fast fare.
Grey Ghost Detroit
Detroit, Michigan
Modern, hip spot for steaks & more alongside beer, wine & craft cocktails from the bar.
Sexy Steak
Detroit, Michigan
Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great cocktails, Great dessert, Great wine list, Live music.
Giovanni's Ristorante
Detroit, Michigan
Sinatra once ate at this mom-&-son-run trattoria famous for rustic Italian fare & handmade pastas.
Louie's Ham & Corned Beef
Detroit, Michigan
Diner-style spot with counter seats & booths, serving burgers, deli sandwiches & breakfast.
Pizza Joint
Detroit, Michigan
Identifies as veteran-owned, Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout.
Taqueria Lupitas
Detroit, Michigan
This low-key, family-friendly Mexican cantina provides a wide selection of traditional tacos.
Scotty Simpson's Fish & Chips
Detroit, Michigan
No-frills spot known for fish ’n’ chips also offering American eats such as burgers & fried chicken.
La Pecora Nera
Detroit, Michigan
Informal Italian cafe & deli offering hearty subs, breakfast sandwiches, salads, gelato & coffee.
Mercury Burger & Bar
Detroit, Michigan
Upbeat grill with a modern diner vibe turns out creative burgers, plus hot dogs, poutine & shakes.
Taqueria El Rey
Detroit, Michigan
Simple, cash-only eatery with counter stools offering grilled chicken & tacos, plus imported beer.
Central Kitchen + Bar
Detroit, Michigan
Industrial-chic hot spot offering creative American comfort food, plus weekend brunch and happy hours.
Harry's Detroit Bar & Grill
Detroit, Michigan
Sports bar known for pre-game pub grub eats offers a free shuttle to events & a covered roof deck.
La Palma Middle Eastern Restaurant
Detroit, Michigan
Modern counter serve offering an array of Mediterranean fare, from kebabs to lentil soup & salads.
Supino Pizzeria Eastern Market
Detroit, Michigan
Busy place for thin-crust pizza & slices with novel toppings like egg & turkey.
Gonella's
Detroit, Michigan
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot. Amenities. Planning.
Midtown Shangri-La
Detroit, Michigan
Cantonese & Thai cuisines share the menu with sushi & dim sum at this contemporary eatery.
J&T’s Kitchen
Detroit, Michigan
Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.