Detroit Visitor’s Handbook

“Detroit is one of those cities that you either understand or you don’t,” states restaurant reviewer Lyndsay C. Green. “A friend once remarked, ‘Detroit has an essence,’ and that has always resonated with me.” Lyndsay’s spouse was raised in Detroit, and she found her passion for Motor City while visiting his relatives. In 2017, the duo settled in Detroit; she has since extensively covered the city’s culinary landscape. Here, Lyndsay shares insights on iconic chili dogs, a bar where dancing spills out into the streets, and enjoyable activities even during the cold…

Our guide, Lyndsay C. Green

WHERE TO EAT

Detroit-style pizza is square and deep but not as deep as Chicago’s. The sauce sits atop the cheese, which also spills over the edges, creating a crispy, lacy border. Popular venues include Jet’s and Buddy’s. Personally, I have a fondness for Grandma Bob’s. (For vegans, It’s Food hosts Detroit-style vegan pizza pop-ups.)

Detroit-style pizza at Grandma Bob’s

Every Detroiter has their preferred location of Coney Island, but the two most famous—Lafayette and American—have both been around for over a century and are situated next to each other. Try a Coney, a hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and onions.

Baobab Fare is a small East African restaurant offering a limited but high-quality menu. They have received multiple James Beard nominations while remaining relatively budget-friendly.

Some of my favorite desserts in the city include the chocolate chip cookies at an underground speakeasy called The Upright (sometimes I drop by just to enjoy the cookie without ordering a drink), the peach cobbler cookie from Good Cakes and Bakes, and The Red Hook’s oatmeal raisin cookie.

The peach cobbler cookie at Good Cakes and Bakes, one of Detroit’s cherished bakeries

Each year, the Detroit Free Press announces a restaurant of the year. Our 2024 choice was Alpino, featuring delicious fondue, homemade pasta, and other dishes hailing from the Alpine region. Though it’s an upscale place, the atmosphere remains relaxed and inviting. Our selection for 2025 is Mexican restaurant Vecino, while Ladder 4, a wine bar in a converted firehouse, was chosen for 2023. During summer, the chef serves amazing sliders, and enjoying one on the patio with a glass of wine is delightful.

Ladder 4

WHERE TO HANG

Paramita Sound is a petite Black-owned bar and record shop, where local and visiting DJs perform regularly. You’ll find everyone there enjoying drinks and having a good time. Dancing often spills into the street, creating a unique and lively atmosphere.

Many attractions that draw visitors to Detroit—like its museums and eateries—remain enjoyable during the chilly season. The Detroit Institute of Art (DIA) is a magnificent and expansive museum. One of its key attractions is Diego Rivera’s ‘Detroit Industry’ fresco, which encompasses four significant walls. Close by is the Charles H. Wright Museum, dedicated to African American history. It’s wonderful that we have such a treasure in our city. I’m eagerly awaiting the time when my child is old enough to take him to the Michigan Science Center, which is very popular among kids.

Diego Rivera’s murals at the DIA

Eastern Market is a century-old hub. I frequent it for farmers’ produce and groceries, but it’s more than a market—it’s an experience. There’s a well-known blueberry farmer along with various meats, cheeses, and prepared foods, such as pierogis. While there isn’t a formal seating area, a few small spots invite you to rest. Additionally, Bert’s Market Place across the street offers grilled food during the summer months. So, you can visit the market, then head to Bert’s for a hot sausage while enjoying live music.

Definitely check out Belle Isle, designed initially by Frederick Law Olmsted, known for Central Park. It’s a river island where you can rent bikes or boats. It also houses America’s oldest aquarium (free entrance), where admission is complimentary. Sometimes, I enjoy strolling along the river while taking in the beautiful skyline views.

The Belle Isle Aquarium

WHERE TO SHOP

Janet Webster Jones, the octogenarian owner of Source Bookstores

Two bookstores I adore are Source Booksellers and Next Chapter Books. If you’re looking to unwind, Vesper Books & Wine is also fantastic, conveniently close to Periodicals, a trendy spot for indie magazines.

Faircloth boutique is a fantastic location for vibrant statement pieces, and nearby Eugenie offers sustainable clothing, shoes, and jewelry. For vintage, I particularly enjoy the finds at Flamingo. Don’t miss Boro or the Velvet Tower as well.

Eugenie

It’s always enjoyable to stop by the Canfield store of Shinola Detroit. There’s a delightful coffee shop at the entrance, so even if you don’t leave with a new watch, you’ll still come away with something. Across the street, City Bird offers an adorable selection of plants, children’s books, kitchenware, and other trinkets. I always find myself there around the holidays.

WHERE TO STAY

One room type at the Siren hotel features bunk beds for “friends on an adventure” or “kids with parents across the hall.”

Corktown is Detroit’s oldest neighborhood; it’s very charming. For accommodations there, consider Trumbull & Porter or the Godfrey, the latter being where guests stayed during my baby shower.

Detroit also has numerous unique hotels with excellent in-house dining or bar options. The Shinola Hotel boasts San Morello, and the Detroit Foundation Hotel, located in a former fire station, features The Apparatus Room. The Siren is so aesthetically pleasing that I sometimes work in its lobby when I’m downtown, and they have Candy Bar, which is one of Detroit’s more famous cocktail spots.

Thank you for sharing your version of Detroit with us, Lyndsay. Detroiters, what else would you suggest for the list?

P.S. For more Cup of Jo city guides, along with the top trick for enjoying family travel.

(Top image by Kahari King/Unsplash.)