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Here’s Where to Eat and Drink in Downtown Detroit

From swanky cocktail bars, classic steakhouses, and juicy smash burgers, here’s where to eat downtown

by Serena Maria Daniels Updated
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by Serena Maria Daniels Updated
Getty Images

Downtown Detroit has experienced an incredible influx of restaurants, bars, and cafes over the past decade. The scene has gone from the expected coneys, boring chains, and tired fine dining establishments to creative tasting menus, elegant cocktail bars, and creative little nooks where one can grab a treat on the run.

Regardless of how one feels about the changes, for better or worse, the fact remains that if you’re visiting the city for the first time or travel to the Motor City often for business, there have never been so many eating and drinking places to choose from in the 21st century.

Whether you’re downtown for the Detroit Jazz Festival, a convention at Huntington Place, the North American International Auto Show, or just headed out for a night on the town, here are 30 options ranging from fine dining brasseries, casual walk-ups, interesting cafes, and swanky bars.

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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.

Union Assembly

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The menu features Detroit-style pizza, triple pepper buffalo wings, macaroni and cheese, blood orange barbecue ribs, a variety of salads, and an extensive array of beers, wine, and cocktails like the Jobbie Nooner made with Tito’s Vodka, rosemary Demerara, and lime juice. If you’re looking for a little something touristy to write home about, head around the corner to the alleyway window service eatery Mom’s Spaghetti, a collaboration between Union Assembly and Eminem, where diners can get a to-go carton of spaghetti and take a stroll to nearby Grand Circus Park.

2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 636-6000
(313) 636-6000

Also featured in:

Frita Batidos Detroit

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Cuban-influenced burger hotspot Frita Batidos first reached popularity with its original outpost in Ann Arbor and now it’s recreating that vibe on Columbia Street in downtown’s “District Detroit.” Guests can expect to see the spot’s popular Cuban-style burgers, twice-fried plantains, hibiscus shakes, and churros.

66 W Columbia St, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 725-4100
(313) 725-4100

Also featured in:

The Royce Detroit

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The Royce is the Grand Circus Park-adjacent wine bar and bottle shop situated on the first and second levels of the Kales Building. The storefront features custom shelving made from walnut wood and piping, globe light fixtures, and library ladders. A 12-seat bar fills out the center of the first floor. Owners Ping Ho and Angela Rutherford have curated a massive wine program featuring some 300-plus bottles available for retail, an extensive menu for pours by the glass or bottle, and a selection of cured meats and cheeses. The spot even offers classes for those who want to expand upon their wine knowledge base.

76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 481-2160
(313) 481-2160

Also featured in:

Candy Bar

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After enjoying a bite at Karl’s stop by Candy Bar downstairs for a night cap that reveals hints of Hollywood glamor. Reservations are recommended to secure one of the plush booths, but the curved marble bar inside the tiny, luxe space is always open on a first-come, first-serve basis. Take in the hulking glass chandelier bar top while sipping on a rotating menu of cocktails.

1509 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

The Monarch Club

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One of the highest rooftop patios in the city, The Monarch Club is perched atop the Metropolitan Building. It’s a chill and elegant place to sip classic cocktails and enjoy small plates while taking in sweeping views of downtown Detroit from three terraces. Make a reservation for seating with a fire pit.

33 John R St Penthouse, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 306-2380
(313) 306-2380

Also featured in:

Prism

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Situated inside the Hollywood Casino at Greektown, chef Petro Drakopoulous brings a touch of modern updates to the classic steakhouse with a selection entree-sized salads like the chilled lobster salad, Grecian lamb chops, and the prime butcher burger. Opting to hit the gambling floor? Drakopoulous recently added a full food menu at the casino’s Rock Bar, located in the first floor gaming area. To eat, there’s a selection of sliders, wraps, desserts, a cocktail menu, and dozens of TV screens perfect for catching the sports games.

555 E Lafayette St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 309-2499
(313) 309-2499
The interior of Prism inside the Hollywood Casino at Greektown
Hollywood Casino at Greektown

Madcap Coffee Company

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The coffee experts from Grand Rapids-based roaster Madcap Coffee provide a full-service experience on the Farmer Street side of the Shinola Hotel complex. The primarily standing room cafe serves the typical coffee and espresso drinks as well as some rotating drink specials that mix coffee with unconventional ingredients like cola and bitters. Don’t miss Madcap’s silky smooth nitro cold brew.

1413 Farmer St, Detroit, MI 48226
(888) 866-9091
(888) 866-9091

Mister Dips

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Mister Dips, the griddled burger and fancy soft serve joint situated in Parker’s Alley in downtown, features a number of burgers, including the Classic Wedge Dip, made with crispy bacon, tomato, iceberg lettuce, and blue cheese mayo. Round out the meal with waffle fries and one of the spot’s Dairy Dips — sweet soft-serve ice cream cones that come in several flavors.

19 E Grand River Ave, Parkers Aly, Detroit, MI 48226

Also featured in:

The Skip

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One of the fun attractions to a trip downtown is exploring the decked out alleyways and The Skip, located in the Belt Alley, is worth a stop for a frozen beverage or other tiki-esque cocktails in an open-air alley bar with island vibes. For a snack, grab some street food from the Hell Yeah Dogs cart. For a more elegant affair, reserve a table at neighboring Standby.

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

Also featured in:

HOUSE OF PURE VIN

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With its Vibe on the Vin DJ nights on Fridays, jazz brunches, and heated igloo seating for up to six guests, House of Pure Vin makes wine sampling an adventure. The downtown wine spot stocks a wide variety of bottles for sale, including half-bottles. Guests can also enjoy virtual and in-person tastings by reservation.

1433 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 638-2501
(313) 638-2501

Also featured in:

Evening Bar

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Located behind a nondescript door in Parker’s Alley to the rear of the Shinola Hotel, this upscale, secluded lounge with mood lighting serves a mix of classic cocktails like Death in the Afternoon alongside original drinks. Patrons can also order high-end bar snacks like a fondue pot or mini lobster rolls.

1400 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Also featured in:

Mootz Pizzeria + Bar

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This downtown Detroit pizzeria serves New York-style slices with two different styles of service: Customers on-the-go can pick up a meal with to-go cocktails at the small carryout slice shop or dine in with full service and cocktails. The restaurant is currently open for outdoor and indoor dining and also accepts online orders for carryout.

1230 Library St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 243-1230
(313) 243-1230

Also featured in:

Iggy's Eggies

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Grab a hot egg sandwich to-go at this walk-up window in Capitol Park. Iggy’s serves build-your-own breakfast sandwiches, grass-fed burgers, and crispy hash browns daily.

34 W Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 986-1174
(313) 986-1174

Also featured in:

Spkrbox

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Spkr Box, a cafe and bar that flung open its doors in 2022, becoming the latest iteration for the space owned and operated by Josh Greenwood. During the pandemic, the space underwent an extensive facelift, including upgrades to the spot’s window panes, a tiny second-level bar, upgrades to the DJ booth, a new sound system, a liquor license, and food sourced by Village Hand Pies and thick breakfast burritos sourced from the iconic Evie’s Tamales in Mexicantown. One key highlight, the basement’s Orange Room, a futuristic looking underground lounge with soundproofing that produces crystal clear sound quality. Expect classic cocktails, beers, and of course, boozy coffee creations.

200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 469-1010
(313) 469-1010

Also featured in:

Cannelle Detroit

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This French-style pastry shop serves a resplendent selection of breads and pastries alongside coffee and espresso drinks. Choose from options like rustic loaves of sourdough, golden croissants, chocolate eclairs, and well-seasoned ham and cheese quiche.

45 W Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 694-9767
(313) 694-9767

Also featured in:

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Le Suprême

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This Parisian-inspired brasserie opened in late August 2023 and is the first of a handful of new food and drink tenants to enter the dramatically-restored Book Tower in downtown’s Washington Boulevard Historic District. Expect rich, butter escargot a la bourguignonne, extravagant seafood towers, a stylish martini service, and in-house patisserie serving decadent pastries. An extensive wine and champagne list, as well as traditional absinthe service makes this the place to go for celebrations. Breakfast and lunch service will also eventually become available. Reservations are recommended.

1265 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 597-7734
(313) 597-7734

Also featured in:

The Hudson Cafe

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Named for the former department store, this downtown breakfast hotspot has a reputation for its mountain of luxuriant savory and sweet breakfast meals. The red velvet pancakes with cream cheese drizzle and the voodoo eggs benedict corn cakes, Spanish chorizo, cheddar cheese, and ranchero sauce are legendary. The spot reopened to the public in spring 2023 following a months-long closure, with several updates to the space.

1241 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 237-1000
(313) 237-1000

Also featured in:

Go! Sy Thai

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This casual Capitol Park spot specializes in takeout-friendly Thai food with an array of curry, noodles, rice dishes, spring rolls, and hot and sour soups. Oh, and they’re halal-friendly, too.

1226 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 638-1467
(313) 638-1467

Also featured in:

Leila

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This sophisticated destination brings an innovative approach to Lebanese food to downtown’s Capitol Park. Owned and operated by the father and son duo behind Birmingham’s critically-lauded Phoenicia, Sameer and Samy Eid, Leila is primarily on mezze, the small snack plates meant to be shared family-style. Guests can mix and match cold dishes like tabbouleh and labneh with hot items like grilled kibbeh, makanek (spicy lamb sausage), and falafel. With an impressive, open interior that looks into an open kitchen, Leila also offers a private dining space in the basement.

1245 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 816-8100
(313) 816-8100

Eatóri Market

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For a casual bite, generous pours of wine, and the option to grab a few grocery essentials, Eatóri Market is the spot to be. There’s ample indoor bar seating and a limited number of four-top spots, but what makes this spot stand out is its outdoor patio where, weather permitting, one can while away a warm afternoon with people watching in Capitol Park.

1215 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 395-3030
(313) 395-3030

Also featured in:

Sugar Factory American Brasserie

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The fantastical Las Vegas-based chain Sugar Factory American Brasserie famous for its outrageous Instagrammable sweets has made its way inside the One Campus Martius building. On top of its decadent “Sugar Factory’s Insane Milkshakes” — like the Cookie Monster Make a Wish shake made with cookies and cream ice cream and topped with a blue frosted cupcake — expect an overload of flavors with entrees like the Flaming Hot Cheetos Burger, rainbow-colored sliders, and more. The food and dessert spectacle is naturally set up in an immersive setting ideal for selfie-taking, complete with the obligatory neon sign, floral walls, and a colorful candy heart wall for posing.

45 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226
(947) 219-0700
(947) 219-0700

Also featured in:

Prime + Proper

Copy Link

Dry-aged beef in a variety of cuts — prepared by an in-house butcher — is showcased prominently inside in a special display case at this Capitol Park steak fortress. Another Heirloom Hospitality property, this opulent place is all about old-school Hollywood glamour. Make reservations for one of the establishment’s swanky, rounded booths, treat yourself to a Miyazaki Gyu wagyu strip, caviar service, and a bottle of Bordeaux. For a more intimate setting, opt for an experience at Cash Only Supper Club, the fancy new space below.

1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 636-3100
(313) 636-3100

Also featured in:

Sweetwater Tavern

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Ask a Detroiter where to find the best wings and Sweetwater Tavern in Bricktown probably tops the list. The wings here are a house recipe, marinated overnight, covered in spices, and fried to finger licking perfection.

400 E Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 962-2210
(313) 962-2210

Also featured in:

Parc

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Parc is literally in the middle of all the action in downtown’s always active Campus Martius Park. Retractable windows provide a front row seat to the Woodward Fountain in the summertime and the tree lighting ceremony in the winter.

800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 922-7272
(313) 922-7272

Also featured in:

Central Kitchen + Bar

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Since 2015, Central Kitchen + Bar has become downtown’s unofficial gathering spot for the city’s movers and shakers. The popular scaled-up gastropub is often packed and lively with loud music, making for an energetic atmosphere. Grab a table indoors or on the patio facing Cadillac Square or at the bar and indulge in a variety of burgers, small plates, and craft cocktails.

660 Woodward Ave #4A, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 963-9000
(313) 963-9000

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Sloppy Crab Restaurant

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Located in Bricktown, Sloppy Crab attracts diners with lobster tacos and saucy seafood boils. The restaurant also sports a rooftop deck for laid-back outdoor drinking. To drink, expect premium spirits, specialty cocktails, and to accompany the libations, great conversation with regulars.

519 E Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 800-5114
(313) 800-5114

Also featured in:

Dime Store

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This hip, airy all-day brunch spot gets high marks in Detroit for its tasty and creative spins on classics. Made-from-scratch breakfasts include omelets (bacon avocado, house-made sausage), sweet stuff (brioche French toast, malted Belgian waffles), and hashes.

719 Griswold St #180, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 962-9106
(313) 962-9106

Also featured in:

Townhouse Detroit

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Proprietor Jeremy Sasson of Heirloom Hospitality operates Townhouse Detroit, which recently renovated its space into a brighter and more refined aesthetic. The restaurant based in the heart of the city is great for larger parties with its stunning greenhouse-like atrium with a retractable roof. To eat, expect modern American flavors like a dry-aged burger, shareable plates of baby squid or black truffle, caviar, and raw bigeye tuna. This destination also serves lunches, an essential for downtown power players to make deals.

500 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 723-1000
(313) 723-1000

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London Chop House

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In 2012, this classic downtown chop house was revived to its original splendor, featuring full caviar service with vodka pours, steaks finished with garlic butter and served with au poivre with chimichurri or béarnaise sauce. Steaks include 35-day dry aged ribeye, American wagyu ribeye, among other premium cuts. Even the “hamburger steak” is opulent and it’s made with A4 wagyu and foie gras.

Murphy Telegraph Building, 155 W Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 962-0277
(313) 962-0277

shelby

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This intimate underground restaurant in the Financial District may be hard to find initially, but it’s worth the little extra effort. Superb cocktails have included the classic espresso martini or the Rip Tide, a twist on the classic negroni made with roasted, pineapple Averna, rum and Bruto Americano, round out the cocktail experience with a fanciful shared plates menu featuring beef tartare, and “escar-no” a vegetarian dish that trades shelled gastropods for mushrooms in buttery sauce.

607 Shelby St, Detroit, MI 48226

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Union Assembly

2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

The menu features Detroit-style pizza, triple pepper buffalo wings, macaroni and cheese, blood orange barbecue ribs, a variety of salads, and an extensive array of beers, wine, and cocktails like the Jobbie Nooner made with Tito’s Vodka, rosemary Demerara, and lime juice. If you’re looking for a little something touristy to write home about, head around the corner to the alleyway window service eatery Mom’s Spaghetti, a collaboration between Union Assembly and Eminem, where diners can get a to-go carton of spaghetti and take a stroll to nearby Grand Circus Park.

2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 636-6000
(313) 636-6000

Frita Batidos Detroit

66 W Columbia St, Detroit, MI 48201

Cuban-influenced burger hotspot Frita Batidos first reached popularity with its original outpost in Ann Arbor and now it’s recreating that vibe on Columbia Street in downtown’s “District Detroit.” Guests can expect to see the spot’s popular Cuban-style burgers, twice-fried plantains, hibiscus shakes, and churros.

66 W Columbia St, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 725-4100
(313) 725-4100

The Royce Detroit

76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

The Royce is the Grand Circus Park-adjacent wine bar and bottle shop situated on the first and second levels of the Kales Building. The storefront features custom shelving made from walnut wood and piping, globe light fixtures, and library ladders. A 12-seat bar fills out the center of the first floor. Owners Ping Ho and Angela Rutherford have curated a massive wine program featuring some 300-plus bottles available for retail, an extensive menu for pours by the glass or bottle, and a selection of cured meats and cheeses. The spot even offers classes for those who want to expand upon their wine knowledge base.

76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 481-2160
(313) 481-2160

Candy Bar

1509 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

After enjoying a bite at Karl’s stop by Candy Bar downstairs for a night cap that reveals hints of Hollywood glamor. Reservations are recommended to secure one of the plush booths, but the curved marble bar inside the tiny, luxe space is always open on a first-come, first-serve basis. Take in the hulking glass chandelier bar top while sipping on a rotating menu of cocktails.

1509 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

The Monarch Club

33 John R St Penthouse, Detroit, MI 48226

One of the highest rooftop patios in the city, The Monarch Club is perched atop the Metropolitan Building. It’s a chill and elegant place to sip classic cocktails and enjoy small plates while taking in sweeping views of downtown Detroit from three terraces. Make a reservation for seating with a fire pit.

33 John R St Penthouse, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 306-2380
(313) 306-2380

Prism

555 E Lafayette St, Detroit, MI 48226

Situated inside the Hollywood Casino at Greektown, chef Petro Drakopoulous brings a touch of modern updates to the classic steakhouse with a selection entree-sized salads like the chilled lobster salad, Grecian lamb chops, and the prime butcher burger. Opting to hit the gambling floor? Drakopoulous recently added a full food menu at the casino’s Rock Bar, located in the first floor gaming area. To eat, there’s a selection of sliders, wraps, desserts, a cocktail menu, and dozens of TV screens perfect for catching the sports games.

555 E Lafayette St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 309-2499
(313) 309-2499
The interior of Prism inside the Hollywood Casino at Greektown
Hollywood Casino at Greektown

Madcap Coffee Company

1413 Farmer St, Detroit, MI 48226

The coffee experts from Grand Rapids-based roaster Madcap Coffee provide a full-service experience on the Farmer Street side of the Shinola Hotel complex. The primarily standing room cafe serves the typical coffee and espresso drinks as well as some rotating drink specials that mix coffee with unconventional ingredients like cola and bitters. Don’t miss Madcap’s silky smooth nitro cold brew.

1413 Farmer St, Detroit, MI 48226
(888) 866-9091
(888) 866-9091

Mister Dips

19 E Grand River Ave, Parkers Aly, Detroit, MI 48226

Mister Dips, the griddled burger and fancy soft serve joint situated in Parker’s Alley in downtown, features a number of burgers, including the Classic Wedge Dip, made with crispy bacon, tomato, iceberg lettuce, and blue cheese mayo. Round out the meal with waffle fries and one of the spot’s Dairy Dips — sweet soft-serve ice cream cones that come in several flavors.

19 E Grand River Ave, Parkers Aly, Detroit, MI 48226

The Skip

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

One of the fun attractions to a trip downtown is exploring the decked out alleyways and The Skip, located in the Belt Alley, is worth a stop for a frozen beverage or other tiki-esque cocktails in an open-air alley bar with island vibes. For a snack, grab some street food from the Hell Yeah Dogs cart. For a more elegant affair, reserve a table at neighboring Standby.

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

HOUSE OF PURE VIN

1433 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

With its Vibe on the Vin DJ nights on Fridays, jazz brunches, and heated igloo seating for up to six guests, House of Pure Vin makes wine sampling an adventure. The downtown wine spot stocks a wide variety of bottles for sale, including half-bottles. Guests can also enjoy virtual and in-person tastings by reservation.

1433 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 638-2501
(313) 638-2501

Evening Bar

1400 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Located behind a nondescript door in Parker’s Alley to the rear of the Shinola Hotel, this upscale, secluded lounge with mood lighting serves a mix of classic cocktails like Death in the Afternoon alongside original drinks. Patrons can also order high-end bar snacks like a fondue pot or mini lobster rolls.

1400 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Mootz Pizzeria + Bar

1230 Library St, Detroit, MI 48226

This downtown Detroit pizzeria serves New York-style slices with two different styles of service: Customers on-the-go can pick up a meal with to-go cocktails at the small carryout slice shop or dine in with full service and cocktails. The restaurant is currently open for outdoor and indoor dining and also accepts online orders for carryout.

1230 Library St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 243-1230
(313) 243-1230

Iggy's Eggies

34 W Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Grab a hot egg sandwich to-go at this walk-up window in Capitol Park. Iggy’s serves build-your-own breakfast sandwiches, grass-fed burgers, and crispy hash browns daily.

34 W Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 986-1174
(313) 986-1174

Spkrbox

200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Spkr Box, a cafe and bar that flung open its doors in 2022, becoming the latest iteration for the space owned and operated by Josh Greenwood. During the pandemic, the space underwent an extensive facelift, including upgrades to the spot’s window panes, a tiny second-level bar, upgrades to the DJ booth, a new sound system, a liquor license, and food sourced by Village Hand Pies and thick breakfast burritos sourced from the iconic Evie’s Tamales in Mexicantown. One key highlight, the basement’s Orange Room, a futuristic looking underground lounge with soundproofing that produces crystal clear sound quality. Expect classic cocktails, beers, and of course, boozy coffee creations.

200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 469-1010
(313) 469-1010

Cannelle Detroit

45 W Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

This French-style pastry shop serves a resplendent selection of breads and pastries alongside coffee and espresso drinks. Choose from options like rustic loaves of sourdough, golden croissants, chocolate eclairs, and well-seasoned ham and cheese quiche.

45 W Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 694-9767
(313) 694-9767

Related Maps

Le Suprême

1265 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226

This Parisian-inspired brasserie opened in late August 2023 and is the first of a handful of new food and drink tenants to enter the dramatically-restored Book Tower in downtown’s Washington Boulevard Historic District. Expect rich, butter escargot a la bourguignonne, extravagant seafood towers, a stylish martini service, and in-house patisserie serving decadent pastries. An extensive wine and champagne list, as well as traditional absinthe service makes this the place to go for celebrations. Breakfast and lunch service will also eventually become available. Reservations are recommended.

1265 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 597-7734
(313) 597-7734

The Hudson Cafe

1241 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Named for the former department store, this downtown breakfast hotspot has a reputation for its mountain of luxuriant savory and sweet breakfast meals. The red velvet pancakes with cream cheese drizzle and the voodoo eggs benedict corn cakes, Spanish chorizo, cheddar cheese, and ranchero sauce are legendary. The spot reopened to the public in spring 2023 following a months-long closure, with several updates to the space.

1241 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 237-1000
(313) 237-1000

Go! Sy Thai

1226 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

This casual Capitol Park spot specializes in takeout-friendly Thai food with an array of curry, noodles, rice dishes, spring rolls, and hot and sour soups. Oh, and they’re halal-friendly, too.

1226 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 638-1467
(313) 638-1467

Leila

1245 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

This sophisticated destination brings an innovative approach to Lebanese food to downtown’s Capitol Park. Owned and operated by the father and son duo behind Birmingham’s critically-lauded Phoenicia, Sameer and Samy Eid, Leila is primarily on mezze, the small snack plates meant to be shared family-style. Guests can mix and match cold dishes like tabbouleh and labneh with hot items like grilled kibbeh, makanek (spicy lamb sausage), and falafel. With an impressive, open interior that looks into an open kitchen, Leila also offers a private dining space in the basement.

1245 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 816-8100
(313) 816-8100

Eatóri Market

1215 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

For a casual bite, generous pours of wine, and the option to grab a few grocery essentials, Eatóri Market is the spot to be. There’s ample indoor bar seating and a limited number of four-top spots, but what makes this spot stand out is its outdoor patio where, weather permitting, one can while away a warm afternoon with people watching in Capitol Park.

1215 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 395-3030
(313) 395-3030

Sugar Factory American Brasserie

45 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226

The fantastical Las Vegas-based chain Sugar Factory American Brasserie famous for its outrageous Instagrammable sweets has made its way inside the One Campus Martius building. On top of its decadent “Sugar Factory’s Insane Milkshakes” — like the Cookie Monster Make a Wish shake made with cookies and cream ice cream and topped with a blue frosted cupcake — expect an overload of flavors with entrees like the Flaming Hot Cheetos Burger, rainbow-colored sliders, and more. The food and dessert spectacle is naturally set up in an immersive setting ideal for selfie-taking, complete with the obligatory neon sign, floral walls, and a colorful candy heart wall for posing.

45 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226
(947) 219-0700
(947) 219-0700

Prime + Proper

1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

Dry-aged beef in a variety of cuts — prepared by an in-house butcher — is showcased prominently inside in a special display case at this Capitol Park steak fortress. Another Heirloom Hospitality property, this opulent place is all about old-school Hollywood glamour. Make reservations for one of the establishment’s swanky, rounded booths, treat yourself to a Miyazaki Gyu wagyu strip, caviar service, and a bottle of Bordeaux. For a more intimate setting, opt for an experience at Cash Only Supper Club, the fancy new space below.

1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 636-3100
(313) 636-3100

Sweetwater Tavern

400 E Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226

Ask a Detroiter where to find the best wings and Sweetwater Tavern in Bricktown probably tops the list. The wings here are a house recipe, marinated overnight, covered in spices, and fried to finger licking perfection.

400 E Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 962-2210
(313) 962-2210

Parc

800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Parc is literally in the middle of all the action in downtown’s always active Campus Martius Park. Retractable windows provide a front row seat to the Woodward Fountain in the summertime and the tree lighting ceremony in the winter.

800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 922-7272
(313) 922-7272

Central Kitchen + Bar

660 Woodward Ave #4A, Detroit, MI 48226

Since 2015, Central Kitchen + Bar has become downtown’s unofficial gathering spot for the city’s movers and shakers. The popular scaled-up gastropub is often packed and lively with loud music, making for an energetic atmosphere. Grab a table indoors or on the patio facing Cadillac Square or at the bar and indulge in a variety of burgers, small plates, and craft cocktails.

660 Woodward Ave #4A, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 963-9000
(313) 963-9000

Sloppy Crab Restaurant

519 E Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48226

Located in Bricktown, Sloppy Crab attracts diners with lobster tacos and saucy seafood boils. The restaurant also sports a rooftop deck for laid-back outdoor drinking. To drink, expect premium spirits, specialty cocktails, and to accompany the libations, great conversation with regulars.

519 E Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 800-5114
(313) 800-5114

Dime Store

719 Griswold St #180, Detroit, MI 48226

This hip, airy all-day brunch spot gets high marks in Detroit for its tasty and creative spins on classics. Made-from-scratch breakfasts include omelets (bacon avocado, house-made sausage), sweet stuff (brioche French toast, malted Belgian waffles), and hashes.

719 Griswold St #180, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 962-9106
(313) 962-9106

Townhouse Detroit

500 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Proprietor Jeremy Sasson of Heirloom Hospitality operates Townhouse Detroit, which recently renovated its space into a brighter and more refined aesthetic. The restaurant based in the heart of the city is great for larger parties with its stunning greenhouse-like atrium with a retractable roof. To eat, expect modern American flavors like a dry-aged burger, shareable plates of baby squid or black truffle, caviar, and raw bigeye tuna. This destination also serves lunches, an essential for downtown power players to make deals.

500 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 723-1000
(313) 723-1000

London Chop House

Murphy Telegraph Building, 155 W Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226

In 2012, this classic downtown chop house was revived to its original splendor, featuring full caviar service with vodka pours, steaks finished with garlic butter and served with au poivre with chimichurri or béarnaise sauce. Steaks include 35-day dry aged ribeye, American wagyu ribeye, among other premium cuts. Even the “hamburger steak” is opulent and it’s made with A4 wagyu and foie gras.

Murphy Telegraph Building, 155 W Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 962-0277
(313) 962-0277

shelby

607 Shelby St, Detroit, MI 48226

This intimate underground restaurant in the Financial District may be hard to find initially, but it’s worth the little extra effort. Superb cocktails have included the classic espresso martini or the Rip Tide, a twist on the classic negroni made with roasted, pineapple Averna, rum and Bruto Americano, round out the cocktail experience with a fanciful shared plates menu featuring beef tartare, and “escar-no” a vegetarian dish that trades shelled gastropods for mushrooms in buttery sauce.

607 Shelby St, Detroit, MI 48226

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