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A garden patio with black seating, steps, banisters, a brick building with a sign that says Stadt Garten Wein Bier Gut at Stadt Garten in Midtown, Detroit, Michigan.

Detroit’s Essential Restaurant and Bar Patios

Where to eat and drink outdoors this summer (and always)

by Serena Maria Daniels and Eater Staff Updated May 15, 2023, 11:36am EDT

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by Serena Maria Daniels and Eater Staff Updated May 15, 2023, 11:36am EDT

GB in Detroit

Patio season is a whole thing in Upper Midwest cities like Detroit. After all, we’re typically cooped up indoors about half the year. Once the temperatures are consistent enough, restaurants, bars, and cafes throughout the region dust off their patio furniture, open up their umbrellas and awnings, and welcome guests to dine alfresco. With so much focus on spending as much time out in the sun this time of year, finding the right patio dining or drinking spot is essential.

Below, are some of the very best options — both new and venerable — for dining and drinking outdoors. From sunny seasonal gathering spots to secluded backyards to open-air oases, these are Detroit’s most indispensable spots for patio entertaining.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

ZANA

This newer Birmingham destination features floor to ceiling windows that open up to allow for an enclosed, but airy patio seating experience where one can enjoy a more open space without having to worry about unexpected summer storms. Here, guests can enjoy a modern American menu with European influences.

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210 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009

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Also featured in:

The Mood Is Just Right at These Romantic Detroit Restaurants

Petty Cash

Indulge in American cuisine informed by Black food traditions and creative cocktails from this Eater Award-winning destination on the Avenue of Fashion and be sure to secure a seat on the lounge-y enclosed patio area — complete with upholstered seating for optimal chill sessions.

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20050 Livernois, Detroit, MI 48221

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A dark-colored leather sofa to the left, a lighter-colored upholstered seat, a small round end table with a potted plant, in the background more seating and table space in an enclosed patio at Petty Cash in Detroit, Michigan.

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La Dolce Vita

La Dolce Vita means "the sweet life" and this Palmer Park area restaurant delivers just that. Dine on classic Italian food in a lush, secluded patio setting. With mimosas and bloody marys in ample supply and dressed up atmosphere, LDV’s Sunday brunch is legendary. Patio seating is first-come, first-served and reservations for indoor dining can be made online.

17546 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48203

Visit Website

Also featured in:

Bumbo's

Over the years, Bumbo’s in Hamtramck has leaned into its patio seating, adding greenery and a pergola to keep customers dry on not-as-nice days. Grab a Corn and Oil cocktail or a can of beer and head outside to sip in the shade.

3001 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bumbo's Bar (@bumbos_bar)

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The Congregation

The Congregation in Boston Edison features a gorgeous wood deck and grassy yard, complemented with a seasonal garden. This cafe and bar inside a remodeled church has quickly become a neighborhood hangout with plenty of space to spread out and free Wi-Fi that extends outdoors. Seating is first-come, first-served.

9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Congregation (@thecongregationdetroit)

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El Barzon Restaurante

El Barzon’s gorgeous bricked-in patio oasis is one of the top al fresco dining spots in the city. The white tablecloth eatery is a perfect special occasion spot with a mixture of expertly prepared Italian and Mexican dishes (not fusion). The patio roof provides just enough shade while still letting in a cool breeze and is best enjoyed with a margarita in hand.

3710 Junction St, Detroit, MI 48210

Visit Website

Customers sit at patio tables tables covered in white tablecloths in the afternoon.

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Ladder 4 Wine Bar

Built in a meticulously restored old firehouse, Southwest’s Eater Award-winning Ladder 4 wine bar has a spacious rooftop seating area with long banquettes for intimate for beautiful evening views of West Grand Boulevard.

Open in Google Maps

3396 Vinewood St, Detroit, MI 48208

Visit Website

People seated at booths, a bar, chandelier lighting, and large window doors that open up — Ladder 4 is a converted Detroit fire house with ample rooftop seating, a spacious backyard, and, pictured here, an entryway that opens up when weather permits to bring a cool breeze inside.

Also featured in:

Supergeil

Inspired by the Turkish-International Kreuzberg district of Berlin, Supergeil brings fusion food and beverage to Corktown. Think Döner Kebab and dark beer, roasted beets, and eggplant. Supergeil’s patio is bright and spacious and features picnic tables, fire pits and a whimsical mural.

2442 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Supergeil (@supergeildetroit)

Also featured in:

Motor City Wine

This Corktown patio hideaway is filled with tables, benches, and patio games for soaking up some rays with a bottle of pet nat. The bar hosts regular live music and DJs, as well as pop-up dinners. The approachable wine selection includes some nicer boxed wines on the lower-priced end and bottles in the wine shop that can be purchased and sipped on site.

1949 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

The patio at Motor City wine is full of people after dar. The fence with ivy is lit up with tiki torches.

Also featured in:

Momento Gelato and Coffee

Momento Gelato is the Italian-style ice cream parlor and coffee shop that specializes in using all natural ingredients. Whether stopping by for a cone or up of pistachio gelato or an affogato and hang on the patio before heading over to UFO Factory next door for a show or any of the other offerings in Corktown.

2120 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

Also featured in:

Batch Brewing Company

This Corktown brewery has become essential in the local food and drink community. Batch is a consummate neighborhood spot that keeps dozens of beers on rotation and impressive bar snacks, including a Monday and Tuesday offering of Taqueria El Rey..

Open in Google Maps

1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

Gerard + Belevender

Prime + Proper

This downtown establishment is a destination for special occasion, thanks to its dry-aged chops, raw bar and caviar, and its swanky underground experience Cash Only Supper Club. For optimal people-watching, snag a table on the enclosed patio, which faces all the action in Capitol Park.

1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

Visit Website

A black upholstered bench in the foreground, two four-top tables with seating surrounding them, facing Capitol Park in downtown, Detroit, Michigan.

Also featured in:

The Skip

Belt Alley bar the Skip remains one of the hottest spots for outdoor drinking in Detroit. The open-air cocktail lounge features garage doors for all-season service and a menu of progressive, inexpensive cocktails such as frozen Irish coffee alongside boilermakers, tequila, and tropical-style mixed drinks.

Open in Google Maps

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

Visit Website

Picnic tables and heaters are surrounded by autumn decor at the Skip in the Belt Alley.

Also featured in:

Andrews on the Corner

There are surprisingly few spots in Detroit where you can grab a beer and watch the Detroit River float by. Andrews on the Corner, a restaurant owned by the same family for more than 100 years, offers just that, with burgers, beers from Atwater next door, and stellar chicken wings.

201 Joseph Campau Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Andrews On The Corner (@andrewsonthecorner)

Also featured in:

Breadless

Breadless’ menu here emphasizes the use of greens instead of bread, making for a fresh alternative to traditional carb-heavy sandwiches. What makes this fast-casual Rivertown spot even more appealing is its proximity to the Dennis Archer Greenway, which connects folks to the riverfront and surrounding neighborhoods. An outdoor patio faces the pathway. Looking for a caffeinated beverage or a handheld snacking option? Check out Red Hook or Empacho — both neighbors — which also both boast their own outdoor seating.

2760 Larned St, Detroit, MI 48207

Visit Website

A brick-lined pathway facing a parking lot and a red brick building in Detroit, Michigan.

Also featured in:

23 Must-Try Sandwiches to Seek Out in Metro Detroit

Two Birds

The teams that run downtown Detroit custard window Huddle, Eastern Market bar Collect, and east side tropical craft cocktail and rum bar Lost River (and the new Apartment Disco upstairs) partnered to run this West Village haunt to bring cool cocktails and relaxing vibes to a sprawling patio that faces Kercheval. Stop by the bar after enjoying a hearty meal from Mumma Maria’s House next door, where folks can also dine alfresco.

8130 Kercheval Ave, Detroit, MI 48214

Visit Website

Also featured in:

Coriander Kitchen and Farm

The sunny, spacious canalside patio at Coriander Kitchen & Farm is a stellar spot to grab a bite and some drinks and enjoy the outdoors. Because of the restaurant’s close proximity to Jefferson Chalmers waterways, diners can easily drive, bike, walk, or even paddle in.

14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit, MI 48215

Visit Website

An overhead view of the grill setup and socially distance picnic tables at Coriander on a sunny day.

Also featured in:

La Ventana Cafe

This newest addition to Eastern Market was designed with meet ups and play dates in mind. Featuring espresso drinks and roasted coffee sourced from iconic Midwest brand Intelligentsia Coffee, the minimalist aesthetic invites guests to long chats with the barista from the U-shaped bar, let the toddlers explore around the elevated bleacher seating, or hunker down in front of your laptop from the handful of two-top table seating. When weather permits, be sure to chill on the outdoor patio, which is enclosed in a semi-private courtyard.

1492 Gratiot Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

Also featured in:

Eastern Market Brewing Co., Midnight Temple, and Detroit City Distillery

Eastern Market Brewing Company and Detroit City Distillery has taken full advantage of expanded street seating options, shutting down a large portion of Riopelle. The bars offer first-come, first-served patio seating, making it easy to grab a beer or a boozy ice pop and lounge outside. Folks can even grab food from Indian gastropub Midnight Temple.

Open in Google Maps

Riopelle St & Winder St, Detroit, MI 48207

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Detroit City Distillery (@detroitcitydistillery)

Detroit Shipping Company

This shipping container food hall features several different options for a meal including Caribbean-style grilled chicken, Thai food, Nepali dumplings, and even ice cream. During the pandemic, Detroit Shipping Company expanded seating outdoors to accommodate safer, socially distanced dining with both covered seating areas and outdoor booths with tall barriers.

474 Peterboro St, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Also featured in:

Nain Rouge Brewery

This hidden gem in Midtown is not only home to one of Detroit’s newest micro breweries — named after the the legendary red dwarf that costumed Detroiters drive out of the city every year. It also faces a communal outdoor patio area that is also connected to Barcade and Smith and Co. Pull up on a bicycle and grab a pint from the brewery under the sun or at the neighboring restaurant whose menu utilizes the beer for many of its food items.

666 Selden St Suite B, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Stadt Garten

Midtown’s German beer and wine patio features a robust beverage menu of wine and beer from Germany and underrepresented regions of Europe — all ordered from a window facing the spot’s outdoor garden area. Guests can grab a bottle of wine, share a handful of snacks, and gather around a small fire pit on cool summer evenings.

3980 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

A garden patio with black seating, steps, banisters, a brick building with a sign that says Stadt Garten Wein Bier Gut at Stadt Garten in Midtown, Detroit, Michigan.

Also featured in:

Old Miami

The Old Miami is a Cass Corridor bar institution, but its expansive, grassy backyard and fire pits, is the scene of legends, remaining a constant favorite for summer drinking, visiting, or catching a show under the stars.

3930 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Also featured in:

17 Essential Detroit Dive Bars

Seasons Market & Cafe

Seasons Market in Midtown offers guests a variety of dining options — whether on the go and in need of a takeout-friendly rice bowl from Baobab Fare or for those who want to wile away the hours from the gorgeous outdoor patio area and garden. Guests can also purchase beer and wine by the glass or bottle and basic grocery staples.

Open in Google Maps

4125 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Also featured in:

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ZANA

210 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009

This newer Birmingham destination features floor to ceiling windows that open up to allow for an enclosed, but airy patio seating experience where one can enjoy a more open space without having to worry about unexpected summer storms. Here, guests can enjoy a modern American menu with European influences.

Open in Google Maps

210 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009

Visit Website

Petty Cash

20050 Livernois, Detroit, MI 48221

Indulge in American cuisine informed by Black food traditions and creative cocktails from this Eater Award-winning destination on the Avenue of Fashion and be sure to secure a seat on the lounge-y enclosed patio area — complete with upholstered seating for optimal chill sessions.

Open in Google Maps

20050 Livernois, Detroit, MI 48221

Visit Website

A dark-colored leather sofa to the left, a lighter-colored upholstered seat, a small round end table with a potted plant, in the background more seating and table space in an enclosed patio at Petty Cash in Detroit, Michigan.

La Dolce Vita

17546 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48203

La Dolce Vita means "the sweet life" and this Palmer Park area restaurant delivers just that. Dine on classic Italian food in a lush, secluded patio setting. With mimosas and bloody marys in ample supply and dressed up atmosphere, LDV’s Sunday brunch is legendary. Patio seating is first-come, first-served and reservations for indoor dining can be made online.

17546 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48203

Visit Website

Bumbo's

3001 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212

Over the years, Bumbo’s in Hamtramck has leaned into its patio seating, adding greenery and a pergola to keep customers dry on not-as-nice days. Grab a Corn and Oil cocktail or a can of beer and head outside to sip in the shade.

3001 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bumbo's Bar (@bumbos_bar)

The Congregation

9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206

The Congregation in Boston Edison features a gorgeous wood deck and grassy yard, complemented with a seasonal garden. This cafe and bar inside a remodeled church has quickly become a neighborhood hangout with plenty of space to spread out and free Wi-Fi that extends outdoors. Seating is first-come, first-served.

9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Congregation (@thecongregationdetroit)

El Barzon Restaurante

3710 Junction St, Detroit, MI 48210

El Barzon’s gorgeous bricked-in patio oasis is one of the top al fresco dining spots in the city. The white tablecloth eatery is a perfect special occasion spot with a mixture of expertly prepared Italian and Mexican dishes (not fusion). The patio roof provides just enough shade while still letting in a cool breeze and is best enjoyed with a margarita in hand.

3710 Junction St, Detroit, MI 48210

Visit Website

Customers sit at patio tables tables covered in white tablecloths in the afternoon.

Ladder 4 Wine Bar

3396 Vinewood St, Detroit, MI 48208

Built in a meticulously restored old firehouse, Southwest’s Eater Award-winning Ladder 4 wine bar has a spacious rooftop seating area with long banquettes for intimate for beautiful evening views of West Grand Boulevard.

Open in Google Maps

3396 Vinewood St, Detroit, MI 48208

Visit Website

People seated at booths, a bar, chandelier lighting, and large window doors that open up — Ladder 4 is a converted Detroit fire house with ample rooftop seating, a spacious backyard, and, pictured here, an entryway that opens up when weather permits to bring a cool breeze inside.

Supergeil

2442 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

Inspired by the Turkish-International Kreuzberg district of Berlin, Supergeil brings fusion food and beverage to Corktown. Think Döner Kebab and dark beer, roasted beets, and eggplant. Supergeil’s patio is bright and spacious and features picnic tables, fire pits and a whimsical mural.

2442 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Supergeil (@supergeildetroit)

Motor City Wine

1949 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

This Corktown patio hideaway is filled with tables, benches, and patio games for soaking up some rays with a bottle of pet nat. The bar hosts regular live music and DJs, as well as pop-up dinners. The approachable wine selection includes some nicer boxed wines on the lower-priced end and bottles in the wine shop that can be purchased and sipped on site.

1949 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

The patio at Motor City wine is full of people after dar. The fence with ivy is lit up with tiki torches.

Momento Gelato and Coffee

2120 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48216

Momento Gelato is the Italian-style ice cream parlor and coffee shop that specializes in using all natural ingredients. Whether stopping by for a cone or up of pistachio gelato or an affogato and hang on the patio before heading over to UFO Factory next door for a show or any of the other offerings in Corktown.

2120 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

Batch Brewing Company

1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI 48216

This Corktown brewery has become essential in the local food and drink community. Batch is a consummate neighborhood spot that keeps dozens of beers on rotation and impressive bar snacks, including a Monday and Tuesday offering of Taqueria El Rey..

Open in Google Maps

1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI 48216

Visit Website

Gerard + Belevender

Prime + Proper

1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

This downtown establishment is a destination for special occasion, thanks to its dry-aged chops, raw bar and caviar, and its swanky underground experience Cash Only Supper Club. For optimal people-watching, snag a table on the enclosed patio, which faces all the action in Capitol Park.

1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

Visit Website

A black upholstered bench in the foreground, two four-top tables with seating surrounding them, facing Capitol Park in downtown, Detroit, Michigan.

The Skip

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

Belt Alley bar the Skip remains one of the hottest spots for outdoor drinking in Detroit. The open-air cocktail lounge features garage doors for all-season service and a menu of progressive, inexpensive cocktails such as frozen Irish coffee alongside boilermakers, tequila, and tropical-style mixed drinks.

Open in Google Maps

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

Visit Website

Picnic tables and heaters are surrounded by autumn decor at the Skip in the Belt Alley.

Andrews on the Corner

201 Joseph Campau Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

There are surprisingly few spots in Detroit where you can grab a beer and watch the Detroit River float by. Andrews on the Corner, a restaurant owned by the same family for more than 100 years, offers just that, with burgers, beers from Atwater next door, and stellar chicken wings.

201 Joseph Campau Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Andrews On The Corner (@andrewsonthecorner)

Breadless

2760 Larned St, Detroit, MI 48207

Breadless’ menu here emphasizes the use of greens instead of bread, making for a fresh alternative to traditional carb-heavy sandwiches. What makes this fast-casual Rivertown spot even more appealing is its proximity to the Dennis Archer Greenway, which connects folks to the riverfront and surrounding neighborhoods. An outdoor patio faces the pathway. Looking for a caffeinated beverage or a handheld snacking option? Check out Red Hook or Empacho — both neighbors — which also both boast their own outdoor seating.

2760 Larned St, Detroit, MI 48207

Visit Website

A brick-lined pathway facing a parking lot and a red brick building in Detroit, Michigan.

Related Maps

Two Birds

8130 Kercheval Ave, Detroit, MI 48214

The teams that run downtown Detroit custard window Huddle, Eastern Market bar Collect, and east side tropical craft cocktail and rum bar Lost River (and the new Apartment Disco upstairs) partnered to run this West Village haunt to bring cool cocktails and relaxing vibes to a sprawling patio that faces Kercheval. Stop by the bar after enjoying a hearty meal from Mumma Maria’s House next door, where folks can also dine alfresco.

8130 Kercheval Ave, Detroit, MI 48214

Visit Website

Coriander Kitchen and Farm

14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit, MI 48215

The sunny, spacious canalside patio at Coriander Kitchen & Farm is a stellar spot to grab a bite and some drinks and enjoy the outdoors. Because of the restaurant’s close proximity to Jefferson Chalmers waterways, diners can easily drive, bike, walk, or even paddle in.

14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit, MI 48215

Visit Website

An overhead view of the grill setup and socially distance picnic tables at Coriander on a sunny day.

La Ventana Cafe

1492 Gratiot Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

This newest addition to Eastern Market was designed with meet ups and play dates in mind. Featuring espresso drinks and roasted coffee sourced from iconic Midwest brand Intelligentsia Coffee, the minimalist aesthetic invites guests to long chats with the barista from the U-shaped bar, let the toddlers explore around the elevated bleacher seating, or hunker down in front of your laptop from the handful of two-top table seating. When weather permits, be sure to chill on the outdoor patio, which is enclosed in a semi-private courtyard.

1492 Gratiot Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

Eastern Market Brewing Co., Midnight Temple, and Detroit City Distillery

Riopelle St & Winder St, Detroit, MI 48207

Eastern Market Brewing Company and Detroit City Distillery has taken full advantage of expanded street seating options, shutting down a large portion of Riopelle. The bars offer first-come, first-served patio seating, making it easy to grab a beer or a boozy ice pop and lounge outside. Folks can even grab food from Indian gastropub Midnight Temple.

Open in Google Maps

Riopelle St & Winder St, Detroit, MI 48207

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Detroit City Distillery (@detroitcitydistillery)

Detroit Shipping Company

474 Peterboro St, Detroit, MI 48201

This shipping container food hall features several different options for a meal including Caribbean-style grilled chicken, Thai food, Nepali dumplings, and even ice cream. During the pandemic, Detroit Shipping Company expanded seating outdoors to accommodate safer, socially distanced dining with both covered seating areas and outdoor booths with tall barriers.

474 Peterboro St, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Nain Rouge Brewery

666 Selden St Suite B, Detroit, MI 48201

This hidden gem in Midtown is not only home to one of Detroit’s newest micro breweries — named after the the legendary red dwarf that costumed Detroiters drive out of the city every year. It also faces a communal outdoor patio area that is also connected to Barcade and Smith and Co. Pull up on a bicycle and grab a pint from the brewery under the sun or at the neighboring restaurant whose menu utilizes the beer for many of its food items.

666 Selden St Suite B, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Stadt Garten

3980 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Midtown’s German beer and wine patio features a robust beverage menu of wine and beer from Germany and underrepresented regions of Europe — all ordered from a window facing the spot’s outdoor garden area. Guests can grab a bottle of wine, share a handful of snacks, and gather around a small fire pit on cool summer evenings.

3980 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

A garden patio with black seating, steps, banisters, a brick building with a sign that says Stadt Garten Wein Bier Gut at Stadt Garten in Midtown, Detroit, Michigan.

Old Miami

3930 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

The Old Miami is a Cass Corridor bar institution, but its expansive, grassy backyard and fire pits, is the scene of legends, remaining a constant favorite for summer drinking, visiting, or catching a show under the stars.

3930 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Seasons Market & Cafe

4125 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Seasons Market in Midtown offers guests a variety of dining options — whether on the go and in need of a takeout-friendly rice bowl from Baobab Fare or for those who want to wile away the hours from the gorgeous outdoor patio area and garden. Guests can also purchase beer and wine by the glass or bottle and basic grocery staples.

Open in Google Maps

4125 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Visit Website

Related Maps