Hour Detroit // May 2021

SUMMER TRAVEL

BOOK A STANDOUT STAY

9 UNIQUE GETAWAYS THAT DON'T REQUIRE AIRFARE

MAY 2021

WANNA BET?

OUR GAMBLING APPS ROUNDUP

TRIPS AHOY!

THE PUSH TO LEGALIZE ’SHROOMS

BEER

for everyone Detroiters are leading the way to a more diverse and inclusive future for the craft brewing industry

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+

Plus, chill out with these 10 Michigan-made summer brews

4/12/21 11:20 AM

Stay Close. Go Far. TRAVEL SAFE.

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HOUR D E T R O I T

VOLUME THIRTY

|

ISSUE FIVE

PUBLISHER: John Balardo EDITOR IN CHIEF: Dan Caccavaro SENIOR EDITOR & DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR: Emma Klug NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR: Steve Friess DINING EDITOR: Lyndsay Green EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS: Rachael Thomas, Ashley Winn COPY EDITORS: Kathy Gibbons, Sydnee Thompson EDITORIAL INTERNS: Taylor Brown, Jack Szkutnik CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lindsay Richards ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Keagan Coop GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Robin Vargo CONTRIBUTORS: Joe Alisa, George Bulanda, Gerard+Belevender, Tammy Coxen, Serena Maria Daniels, Kevin Fales, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Kailey Howell, Lindsay Kalter, Rachel Idzerda, Matt LaVere, Ryan Olbrysh, Christopher Porter, Josh Scott, Rebecca Simonov, Mark Spezia, Hayden Stinebaugh, Megan Swoyer, Joe Tiano, Joe Vaughn, Ashley Zlatopolsky ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Jason Hosko ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Cynthia Barnhart, Karli Brown, Lauren DeBano, Donna Kassab, Mary Pantely & Associates, Angela Tisch IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland DIGITAL DIRECTOR: Nick Britsky WEB PROJECT LEAD: Matthew Cappo WEB PROJECT ASSISTANTS: Mariah Knott, Luanne Lim, Bart Woinski SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR: Travis Cleveland PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Jenine Rhoades SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTIST: Robert Gorczyca PRODUCTION ARTIST: Stephanie Daniel ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Amanda Zwiren ADVERTISING DESIGNERS: Daniel Moen, Amanda Zwiren PRS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Jim Bibart, Julia McGillicuddy DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT: Michelle VanArman CIRCULATION MANAGER: Riley Meyers CIRCULATION COORDINATORS: Barbie Baldwin, Elise Coyle, Cathy Krajenke, Rachel Moulden MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR: Mary Sutton DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER: Caitlin Cullen MARKETING INTERNS: Caitlin Farrand, Lexi Nixon MARKETING RESEARCH MANAGER: Ana Potter MARKETING RESEARCH ASSISTANT: Gabby Hejnar MARKETING RESEARCH SALES COORDINATOR: Hannah Thomas MARKETING RESEARCH COORDINATOR: Georgia Iden MARKETING RESEARCH INTERNS: Alexis Boeskool, Maggie Floyd, Keely Hinchen, Isabella Mitchel

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05.21

CONTENTS I S S U E T WO H U N D R E D N I N E T Y

39

Michigan opened the floodgates to legal mobile gambling in January. Since then, the market has been saturated with mobile betting apps. Our Steve Friess tried them out and ranked them from best to worst.

30 Here’s

to Beers

Detroit has a rich, if often overlooked, history of brewing. These days it’s also at the forefront of efforts to shake up old notions about who belongs both in the brewhouse and at the bar. Plus: Put these refreshing Michigan beers on ice for the summer days ahead.

.

39 I’ll Bet

Our resident gambler issues a warning about Michigan’s massive digital gambling boom.

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COVER GERARD + BELEVENDER ILLUSTRATION KEVIN FALES

4/9/21 10:53 AM

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3/23/21 4:20 PM

05.21

CONTENTS I S S U E T WO H U N D R E D N I N E T Y

Up Front

Agenda

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50 CULTURE CALENDAR

Detroit has hatched a creative plan for breathing new life into one of its historic landmarks.

Our carefully curated guide to the month in arts and entertainment.

51 WHERE KINGSTON MEETS MOTOWN

IT’S A PUZZLE 15

Take U-M’s supersized, student-built Rubik’s cube for a spin

A new exhibit celebrates the women of Jamaica’s ‘ghetto fabulous’ dancehall scene.

STILL A MIDWESTERNER 16

52 MUPPET MASTERY

Cecilia Muñoz on her time in Obama’s Cabinet, the Biden transition, and why she’ll always drive a Ford.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 fun facts about America’s favorite puppets and the man who brought them to life.

ROOM FOR ’SHROOMS 18

53 MICHIGAN ASCENT

Ann Arbor was the first Michigan city to decriminalize psychedelics. Who’ll be next?

Inside Detroit’s newest climbing gym. It boasts purple walls and challenges for all skill levels.

F I F T H E STA T E D E BAT E 19 The founder and longtime editor spar amiably over the 55-year-old radical paper’s original purpose.

24/Seven THE DOCTOR 22 IS IN (HER SHED)

How one Beverly Hills pediatrician created her own backyard getaway.

Food&Drink

56

56 TACO TOUR

Five local taquerias that give a national giant a run for its money.

57 FOOD, FARMING, AND HARD LESSONS What happens when a farmer and a chef join forces to open a restaurant? Magic.

BOLD SOUL 24

Singer-songwriter-actor Supercoolwicked lives up to her stage name.

60 GREAT TASTE

Detroit travel writer Nneka Julia earns her frequent diner miles at Selden Standard.

9 STANDOUT STAYS 25

The accommodations alone make these unique Michigan getaways worth the trip.

61 GOT THE MUNCHIES? These Michigan-made snacks are made for — well, snacking.

LEADERS OF THE PACK 28 Don’t head off to your next destination without these traveling essentials.

SHINOLA SPECS 29

The iconic watchmaker adds stylish eyewear to its sprawling luxury lineup.

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10 E D I TO R’ S L E T T E R

22

65 R E STAU R A N T L I ST I N G S

52

88 T H E WAY I T WA S McGee’s Mural, 1975

TACOS GERARD + BELEVENDER SHED JOE TIANO MUPPETS COURTESY OF SESAME WORKSHOP/MOMI

4/8/21 10:32 AM

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05.21 From Our Readers

MARCH 2021

OUR WORLD POST-COVID

FIVE WAYS THE PANDEMIC WILL CHANGE LIFE

SHUT-IN WINS

DIY-ERS WHO REALLY GOT IT DONE C H E F

M A XC E L

H A R DY

R E S TAU R AT E U R OF THE YEAR +

E D I T O R’ S L E T T E R

Please Enjoy This Issue Responsibly WE DIDN’ T PLAN for this issue to center so heavily on what some narrow-minded scolds might call “vices.” Like the ever-shifting mores of our times, it evolved that way organically, before it dawned on us that people might think we were foisting some sort of theme or agenda upon our readers.

And yet here we are: Internet gambling. Fashionable alcohol. Magic mushrooms. And a visit with a pair of 1960s radicals who somehow, with time and seasoning, seem more cuddly and quaint than threatening or scary. In retrospect, the idea that our Steve Friess didn’t even think to ask Harvey Ovshinsky and Peter Werbe of the long-lived radical mag The Fifth Estate about the illicit substances they may or may not have indulged in back in the day seems almost derelict.

This issue, however, reflects our world today. If you’ve turned on a TV lately to watch anything from Jeopardy! to March Madness, you’ve endured a barrage of ads for the many new betting apps that went live in Michigan this winter, allowing gamblers to wager away without ever setting foot in a casino. Newbies will likely find the options overwhelming. Which apps are worthwhile and which are a losing bet? Fortunately, Friess is an old Vegas hand — he spent 20 years on and off covering the gambling industry out West and loved it so much that he named his son Nevada.

He’s here to sort it all out for you with his gaming apps critique on page 39. Having spent weeks testing them out, he also offers this sobering warning: The sudden boom of on-demand betting will inevitably take a toll on Michiganders susceptible to addiction.

Craft beer, of course, has been in the zeitgeist far longer than mobile gambling, but it can still be a bit of a blur to all but the most intense hobbyists. As two pieces by Ryan Patrick Hooper reveal (pages 32 and 36), Detroiters are leading the way toward making the craft-brew world more inclusive and welcoming for both women and people of color, two constituencies who have largely been marginalized by what has traditionally been a white male-dominated niche (page 30). Plus, with summer coming, we round up 10 refreshing Michigan brews to keep on ice for the long, lazy days ahead.

Finally, frequent medical and science contributor Lindsay Kalter delves into the burgeoning national campaign to decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms (page 18) — and the fact that it landed one of its first big successes in Ann Arbor. The ’shrooms movement clearly takes a page from the stunningly successful effort to legalize marijuana. Like cannabis, which has gained acceptance as much for its medicinal uses as for its recreational appeal, mushrooms show intriguing promise as a treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental and physical health conditions.

We’re very a long way from the uptight 1960s. In their interview with Friess, Ovshinsky and Werbe note the irony of their being featured in a mainstream magazine like Hour, something that would have been unthinkable when their countercultural newspaper was in its prime. In a way, it’s a sign of their success. They may not have taken down The Man, but it must be gratifying to reflect on the part their efforts played in shaping mainstream culture a half-century later.

DA N CACCAVA RO, ED I T OR

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TEN (yes, ten!)

NEW RESTAURANTS IN METRO DETROIT WITNESS TO THE SIEGE

INSIDE THE CAPITOL MOB

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“Congrats to Mr. Hardy (‘2021 Restaurateur of the Year: Chef Maxcel Hardy Is a Hometown Hero,’ March)! It’s so wonderful to know about great chefs like him. I look forward to tasting his wonderful meals.”

—Melody Magee, hourdetroit.com “Source Booksellers is a magical place for all who love books (‘How Local Independent Bookshops Are Weathering the Pandemic,’ March). One of my favorite places in the D!” —Gloria Butler Miller, hourdetroit.com “So awesome to see [Shelby Minnix] on here (‘Celebrate Metro Detroit’s Female Bartenders This Women’s History Month,’ March)! She makes the best drinks in town, so make sure to stop by [The Sugar House] and see for yourself!”

—@anthonyballios, Instagram “We’re honored to have been named along with the other intrepid new restaurants on the list.” (‘10 New Restaurants to Dine at in Metro Detroit,’ March) —@bellflowerypsi, Instagram “Workers will go back to an office, [but] it may take a few years (‘Work Post-COVID: WFH May Be Here to Stay,’ March). They will discover ways that missing face-toface collaboration affects morale as well as people saying they’re working when they’re not. It’ll come back.”

—Rhonda Hilliard, Facebook

Hourdetroit.com Digital Extra Mother’s Day is May 9. If you’re still looking for the perfect present, head to hourdetroit.com for our roundup of gift ideas. Of course, moms appreciate your love, time, and effort above all else. (But a gift won’t hurt! *wink*)

Follow us online at hourdetroit.com or on social media: @hourdetroit @hour_detroit @hourdetroitmagazine

PHOTO BRAD ZIEGLER

4/9/21 10:52 AM

Cozy wide open Up and sp aces

with happy faces

When you’re in a pre y great place, the pace is what you make it. It’s where you can pour out your energy, or sit back for a second pour.

And where every speed---or lack thereof--- is another reminder you’re in a pre y great place.

TraverseCity.com

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3/19/21 2:55 PM

05.21

LOOKING FOR A

REAL ESTATE AGENT?

Behind the Scenes Friess won $810 in a poker tournament in Vegas in 2016 (below), then began playing online. He says he does OK, though it’s not as thrilling as that big win. "You forever chase your first high, I guess," he says.

L U X U R Y R E A L E S T A T E. R E D E F I N E D.

WORKS IN PROGRESS: Illustrator Kevin Fales’ desk area captures the creative process behind his sketches for this month’s feature by News & Features Editor Steve Friess (left) on the plethora of betting apps now available in Michigan (page 39).

CONTRIBUTORS

248.289.0660 tushar@tvahomes.com www.tusharvakhariya.com 210 S. Old Woodward Suite 200 Birmingham, MI 48009

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Hayden Stinebaugh

PHOTOGRAPHED OUR BEER PACKAGE (PAGE 30) “These days my pint glass is filled with water. Ha-ha! But when I am having a beer, I tend to lean toward ambers and citrusy style beers like Fat Tire and Blue Moon. I also really enjoy Bell’s Two Hearted Ale. If it’s a hot summer day on the lake, my go-to’s are Pacifico, Sol, and your standard Corona.” Stinebaugh is a Detroit-based automotive and lifestyle photographer known for his clean, polished, and intentional style. His clients include Ford, Lincoln, Honda, Thrillist, ASH New York, and Lululemon, among others.

When he’s not shooting professionally, you can still find him behind the lens exploring untucked corners of the Motor City.

Rebecca Simonov

PHOTOGRAPHED CORIANDER KITCHEN & FARM (PAGE 57) “I’ve only started enjoying beers in earnest in the past couple of years, so I tend to stick with Belgian-style wheat beers. I do, however, vividly remember the first pint I really loved. 734 Brewing Company is an awesome microbrewery in Ypsilanti. In addition to a chic tasting room and incredible staff, their rotating beers are unreal. Their raspberry beer was so mind-blowingly good that it was the spark I needed to start understanding the world of beer.” Simonov is a Detroit-based food and lifestyle photographer. When not behind a camera, she’s most likely developing recipes or trying to pick up new niche hobbies.

IN HONOR OF OUR BEER ISSUE, TELL US WHAT’S TYPICALLY IN YOUR PINT GLASS.

Ryan Olbrysh

ILLUSTRATED OUR STORY ON MAGIC MUSHROOMS (PAGE 18) “As a fan of what one might refer to as fizzy, beer-flavored water, I am partial to Sol, Tiger, Red Stripe, and Lucky Buddha.” Olbrysh is a photo illustration artist whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, Time, Vanity Fair, Newsweek, and The Economist. He lives in Las Vegas with his wife and four rescue cats.

SKETCHES KEVIN FALES POKER COURTESY OF STEVE FRIESS PORTRAITS COURTESY OF CONTRIBUTORS

4/8/21 5:22 PM

05.21 NEWS, NOTES, AND PERSONALITIES

Up Front D EVE L O PM E N T

HISTORY IN THE REMAKING

Detroit plots out an innovative way to revitalize moribund Historic Fort Wayne. Can new lessees give the expanse a new lease on life? p. 14

D EV E L O P M E N T p. 14 O B J E C T L E S S O N p. 15 M A D E I N M I C H I G A N p. 16 M E D I C I N E p. 18 M E D I A p. 19

BARRACKS COURTESY OF CITY OF DETROIT PARKS AND RECREATION

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Up Front

FOR ITS FIRST 1,000 YEARS or so, the area along the banks of the Southwest Detroit riverfront now known as Historic Fort Wayne was a site of perpetual human activity. Whether it was a burial site for indigenous tribes, a star fort poised to defend the United States against a possible Canadian invasion, or a refuge for Detroiters burned out of their homes by the 1967 Rebellion, the 78-acre The star shape of Historic Fort Wayne tract of sprawling fields and historic dates back to the buildings has rarely sat idle. earliest days of the Until the last few decades, that is.

United States.

Most of the property’s more than 40 The main building buildings are vacant and falling into has served as a disrepair. Various redevelopment military induction center and POW proposals over the years have bastille, among foundered, in part because National other functions.

Park Service regulations put the kibosh on them.

The latest effort, though, seems real. The City of Detroit Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees the site, has struck a deal with NPS to allow for development while providing guarantees to maintain the fort’s historic integrity. With that roadblock gone — and knowing the City of Detroit is unlikely to put up the sort of investment necessary for a full restoration — the department has laid plans for an innovative “rehab-in-lieu-of-rent” model.

That is, rather than the city handling the project DEVELOPMENT or selling out to a major developer, Detroit will divvy up the property, leasing individual buildings to a variety of organizations and companies. Fort Wayne will remain a cohesive unit, operating as a network of small adaptive-reuse projects, with tenants paying to remodel the spaces and the costs being deducted from their rent. A full redevelopment is likely to take a decade, Chief Parks Planner Meagan Elliott says.

“This is an opportunity to unlock the potential of Historic Fort Wayne,” Elliott says. “I imagine it can Detroit gets creative in its quest be one of the shining jewels of our city, in the same to breathe new life into a storied, way that Belle Isle and the Riverfront are. It’s a place ancient riverfront expanse to show off much of what’s beautiful about Detroit.”

BY ASHLEY WINN The city isn’t totally off the hook. Detroit will beautify the parade grounds and handle immediate repairs required to prevent even pricier long-term challenges. And the city’s parks department will highlight the fort’s illustrious history by developing informational signage in collaboration with the Detroit Historical Society.

That history dates back to medieval times, when there is archeological evidence that indigenous peoples buried their dead there in mounds. In 1701, French colonists established a trading center on the grounds. After the American Revolution, it became a military installation named after General Anthony Wayne, hero of a 1796 battle against the British near Maumee, Ohio, that preluded the U.S. occupation of the regions that now make up Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and a piece of Minnesota.

Fort Wayne never saw battle, but it served as a primary induction center for Michigan troops

HOLDING UP THE FORT

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serving in U.S. conflicts, from the Civil War to Vietnam. After that, it was an infantry training station, a procurement base for Detroitmanufactured vehicles and weapons, and even a bastille for prisoners of war.

Five applicants have expressed interested in joining the fort’s current tenants, which include the Detroit Historical Society, the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum, and the Historic Fort Wayne Coalition. Among the possible new arrivals is a partnership between Detroit Rising Development and Grand Circus Media to turn stables into an indoor-outdoor concert venue and brewery, as well as C.A.N. Art Handworks and the Southwest Detroit Business Association, which hope to establish a skilled trades training center and a museum focused on the region’s Latinx community.

In addition, the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi is looking to take ownership of the existing Great Lakes Indian Museum and remaining burial mound as cultural sites.

The James Oliver Coffee Co., which relocated from New Hampshire to metro Detroit in November 2019, is also taking an interest. Its product is served at several local eateries, and co-founder David Shock wants to relocate the roastery’s site at East Davison Street and Mt. Elliott Street on Detroit’s east side — an area that Shock calls “the middle of nowhere” — to Fort Wayne, where he would also add a café.

“I drive by the property every once in a while, and never feel like I’m in the city of Detroit,” Shock says of the fort area. “It’s so surreal, and it would be nice to be someplace kind of magical.”

“There’s so much diversity of people and of interests in the neighborhood, and we wanted to reflect that.”

—MEAGAN ELLIOTT

The selection of tenants will take a while, though.

Each must submit a business plan, and the department will seek input from the surrounding community before making recommendations to the city council. In fact, Elliott says, community engagement is key. The planning team assembled an advisory council of locals, neighborhood organizations, and area tribe members. The parks department has already turned down applicant requests for large chunks of the property’s buildings to ensure the fort comprises local businesses and organizations.

Elliott says she and her team are setting out to create something that belongs to the community: “There’s so much diversity of people and of interests in the neighborhood, and we wanted to reflect that.”

AERIAL, BARRACKS COURTESY OF CITY OF DETROIT PARKS AND RECREATION

4/9/21 10:51 AM

Up Front

Including its massive frame, it weighs 2,400 pounds, mainly of aluminum and steel, and stands about 8 feet tall.

The Backstory:

The interactive sculpture, unveiled in April 2017, took two teams of students three years to construct. The aim, co-creator Samuelina Wright told the Detroit News, was “to bring joy and inspiration to anyone who ever uses it and solves it. If it does that, there’s nothing I’d rather leave behind at U-M.” It suffered so much wear and tear in its first week that it had to be disassembled and fortified with stronger bolts to withstand public use, but since then U-M’s chapter of Pi Tau Sigma, the National Mechanical Engineering Honor Society, has elected two “Cubemasters” each year who are responsible for maintaining it.

What Is It?

One of the world’s largest stationary but playable versions of the famous puzzle invented in Hungary in 1974 by sculptor Erno Rubik.

It strays from the original toy only by replacing the white side with purple. The project cost $40,000 in materials, according to mechanical engineering professor Noel Perkins, the faculty member who advised on the project.

The Legacy:

Perkins says it’s an attraction that has drawn enthusiasts from around the country. In summer 2017, for instance, a couple of U-M alums in their 20s who met in the school’s Rubik’s Cube club came to play. “They solved the thing lightning fast and barked commands to one another,” he recalls. “It turned out, this was the day before their wedding in Ann Arbor and the entire wedding was Rubik’s Cube-themed. This was a part of their wedding ceremony, to come to North Campus to solve it.”

Where Is It?

The G.G. Brown Building, home of the University of Michigan’s Mechanical Engineering Department, at 2350 Hayward St. in Ann Arbor. The building is generally open to the public during the day. At press time, there were no COVIDrelated restrictions to using the Rubik’s Cube beyond the masking and distancing requirements of the building itself, Perkins says.

OBJECT LESSON

How Big Is It?

Including its massive frame, it weighs 2,400 pounds, mainly of aluminum and steel, and stands about 8 feet tall. Each side of the actual playable cube itself is 4.5 feet across.

THIS IS A REAL RUBIK’S CUBE. SERIOUSLY. TRY IT.

A senior project by a group of engineering students at University of Michigan lives on as both sculpture and plaything. Give it a go or just watch as puzzle tourists — yes, that’s a thing — take a spin.

BY STEVE FRIESS | PHOTO BY JOE ALISA

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Up Front

More recently, Muñoz, 58, served on the Biden transition team before returning to her job as senior adviser to the D.C.-based, left-leaning nonprofit think tank New America. She says she did not want to return to the White House, and that may be just as well — a large swath of progressives got cranky on social media over her involvement with Biden because she is blamed for Obama’s aggressive efforts to prevent illegal immigration.

Muñoz, the daughter of Bolivian immigrants and the third generation of her family to graduate from University of Michigan, talked to Hour Detroit about those attacks, about the Biden response to a new surge of migration, and about how her Midwest roots guide her politics and activism.

Cecilia Muñoz, an Obama White House power player, sparked controversy as part of the Biden transition. She says she takes the flak in stride.

What about your upbringing in metro Detroit informed your worldview?

MADE IN MICHIGAN

STILL A MIDWESTERNER Detroit-born Cecilia Muñoz on Obama immigration policy, the Biden transition, and why she still drives a Ford

BY STEVE FR I ES S ILLUSTRATION BY RACHE L I D ZER DA

DURING THE OBAMA YEARS, no Michigan native wielded more behind-the-scenes influence in Washington than Cecelia Muñoz. First as director of intergovernmental affairs and then as history’s longest-serving director of the White House Domestic Policy Council, the Detroit-born, Livonia-raised Latinx rights activist had a say in everything from the auto-industry bailout to immigration and much more. The DPC includes eight Cabinet secretaries, including energy, education, and transportation, so Muñoz sat at the intersection of pretty much every major issue.

My dad worked as an engineer for Ford for almost 40 years. Two things are true: One, my dad carried postcards in his pocket at work that were filled out to his congressmember and stamped, and he would hand them out to friends and colleagues to have them sign and mail. He was active and he got people around him active. I came from a family that discussed what my dad read in the Free Press every day. But the other thing that’s true is that that job at Ford made the American Dream real for my family. We lived in a comfortable house, all four of us went to college — the daughters as well as the sons, which did not happen a generation before me. We had health care, a roof over our heads, access to an excellent education. I always had a deep understanding that Detroit had made my family’s life possible and that my job was to make the same things possible for everybody else.

How was life as a Latina here back then?

I’ve been in the D.C. area now for more than 30 years, but I still see myself as a Midwesterner. I’m grateful that my ties to Michigan are still super strong. I spend CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 86

SCIENCE MITTEN

Intriguing findings from researchers across Michigan

By Steve Friess VAPING POT WORSE THAN E-CIGS? Teens who inhale cannabis via vape pens are more likely to develop breathing problems than those who vape tobacco products or even those who smoke either cigarettes or marijuana joints, according to research appearing in the Journal of Adolescent

16

Health this spring led by University of Michigan nursing professor Carol Boyd. Kids who vaped pot were twice as likely to report “wheezing and whistling” in their chests than those who did not.

Boyd says the researchers were surprised by the findings and stressed that smoking anything is dangerous and unhealthy for developing bodies.

ECO-FRIENDLY COATING TO REDUCE MICROPLASTICS A team at Michigan State

University has developed a new way to fortify paper for food and drink products without using harmful plastics that eventually end up polluting the world’s waterways. The new coating, which is patentpending and was first reported in the Journal of Applied Polymer Science, is formulated with a variety of biodegradable or eco-safe chemicals that include an oil used in contact lenses and a substance derived from shellfish. When it breaks down, it turns into water, carbon dioxide, and

other inert molecules, which is different than the waxy plastic coating on most commonly available paper plates and cups that breaks down into microscopic beads of plastic that plague the environment. The new formulation also makes the underlying paper easily recyclable, according to lead researcher Muhammad Rabnawaz, a professor in the School of Packaging.

FROM COVID TO ZINC Male and female COVID-19 sufferers and survivors

FIGHTING THE CORONAVIRUS CAN RESULT IN ZINC DEPLETION, AND THAT CAN INTERFERE WITH CONCEPTION.

trying to conceive babies may benefit from taking zinc supplements to boost fertility and prevent damage to the egg or sperm, Wayne State University researchers reported in the journal Reproductive Sciences. Fighting the coronavirus can result in zinc depletion, and that can interfere with conception, according to findings from obstetrics associate professor Husam AbuSoud, who led the research.

Zinc may also lessen pregnancy complications, Abu-Soud’s team found.

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ROOM FOR ’SHROOMS?

Ann Arbor (of course) is the state’s first city to decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms — but likely not the last

BY LINDSAY KALTER ILLUSTRATION BY RYAN O L BRYSH

“I’M FREAKIN’ OUT right now, man! The mushrooms are turning on me!”

That quote from the 2007 movie Knocked Up — in which Seth Rogen’s character eats magic mushrooms and spirals into full-on panic mode — sums up the typical Hollywood portrayal of psychedelic fungi: comedic, overwhelming, and sometimes downright terrifying.

But in Michigan and elsewhere, ’shrooms are riding pot’s coattails: They’re losing an age-old stigma as advocates tout the mellowing effects and potential for treating anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions. Last fall, Ann Arbor became the state’s first city to decriminalize entheogens — psychoactive chemicals found in certain plants and fungi. Now other efforts are sprouting across the state.

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“With the success of the cannabis movement, people have noticed nothing bad has happened since lightening up the prohibition,” says Myc Williams, director of communication for Decriminalize Nature Michigan. “The same is going to happen with naturally occurring entheogens like mushrooms. They’ve got fantastic safety profiles and they can help with depression and end-of-life anxiety.”

Williams’ group says it plans to push statelevel drug policy reform legislation. Members are writing letters to legislators and preparing to start a phone-call campaign to drum up support.

Similar movements have cropped up in other states, including Oregon, Vermont, Texas, and Hawaii. California state Sen. Scott Wiener, a Democrat, introduced a bill in February to decriminalize substances such as psilocybin, the hallucinogen found in psychedelic mushrooms.

New York mayoral hopeful Andrew Yang favors legalization. Traverse City, Detroit, Grand Rapids, and the Upper Peninsula may follow, too.

“What public safety function are we serving by prosecuting cases involving psychedelic mushrooms?” Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit asks. “I frankly couldn’t come up with one.”

Decriminalization means applying similar laws as pot — no driving while intoxicated, use by minors, or running unlicensed businesses.

“People are really thinking twice about how we

criminalize certain substances and whether people need to be facing a lifetime of stigma with a criminal record because of something they chose to use safely in their free time,” Savit says.

Those who use mushrooms now typically acquire them in much the same way cannabis users bought weed before it was legalized. Dealers charge about $25 per eighth of an ounce, but Williams discourages that route. Instead, he urging a “grow, gather, gift” model because buying from dealers goes against the sharing ethos of the movement. The Michigan Psychedelic Society will point the curious to growing classes offered statewide — often run by the same people who sell shiitake and oyster mushrooms at farmers markets.

Dosing is a little trickier because tolerance and comfort levels are personal. But generally, Williams says, it goes something like this: Less than a gram is a “microdose,” usually equivalent to a tenth of a “trip” dose. A “museum dose” is a gram or a little more — just enough to make the colors and images in a painting more vivid. The standard amount for a psychedelic experience is anywhere from 3.5 to 5 grams. A “heroic dose” is 5 to 7 grams and a macro-dose is higher than that — and neither are recommended for newbies.

The timing for this push for decriminalization may be just right. The pandemic, Williams says, brought new attention to the need for alternative treatments for anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges exacerbated by social isolation: “We need a way to reconnect to community and start to heal.”

While there is some scientific support, touting the medicinal benefits of psychedelic mushrooms may be premature, Wayne State University psychiatry professor says. At this point, he says, psychedelics remain in the category of “experimental medicine.”

But there is promising data spurring researchers to delve deeper. Last year, Johns Hopkins University used $17 million in private funding to launch the Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, which studies the effect of mushrooms on brain function and mood. Johns Hopkins researchers published a small study of adults with major depression that found two doses of psilocybin resulted in significant improvements over a four-week follow-up.

Other studies have shown success in participants with obsessive compulsive disorder and in newly diagnosed patients suffering from end-of-life anxiety, Greenwald says. But there are two key caveats to remember: These studies are conducted in controlled environments, and the long-term effects of repeated use are unknown.

“These studies use dim lighting, peaceful music, and research assistants who act as a guide in case an adverse reaction develops,” Greenwald says. “I do not advocate uncontrolled use. This is still under study and needs to be carefully monitored.”

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Up Front

DETROIT DIGITS

221%

The increase in the number of legally purchased guns per capita per year in Michigan between 2000 and 2020, the eighthlargest increase in the U.S. The District of Columbia, with a 985 percent increase, was No. 1, according to data compiled and analyzed

by SafeHome.org.

 Looking for love at Detroit’s first Love-In on Belle Isle.

Fifth Estate founder Harvey Ovshinsky (seated) with news editor Frank Joyce, and co-editor Peter Werbe (in foreground) planning the next issue a half-century ago.

$52,466

The median starting salary for recent college graduates in the Detroit area, making the region No. 5 among all major metropolitan regions nationwide. The San Jose region, aka Silicon Valley, was No. 1 with a median salary of $56,827.

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The number of Michigan-based companies included in the most recent Fortune 500 list. Ford, ranked No. 12, and GM, at No. 18, led a list that includes Dow (78), Masco (384), and American Axle & Manufacturing (460).

$22,120

The average used car price in the Detroit area, the seventh cheapest among major cities, according to data compiled by CoPilotSearch.com.

Columbus, Ohio, is the cheapest at $21,037.

The Dallas-Fort Worth region was most expensive at $26,795.

Other sources: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

MEDIA

THE FIFTH ESTATE DEBATE

The founder and longtime editor spar amiably over the 55-year-old radical paper’s original purpose

BY STEVE FR I ES S

PETER WERBE IS PARTICULARLY bemused that he and Harvey Ovshinsky are Zooming with me. For more than 50 years, Werbe has edited the underground, radical magazine The Fifth Estate that Ovshinsky founded when he was just 17, so the idea that Hour Detroit, an uber-mainstream magazine known best for coverage of celebrities, fashion, and food, finds their work of interest entertains him. “That must mean we're not a threat any longer,” Werbe, 81, says with a chuckle, thinking about the years he lived under FBI surveillance.

“Back in the 1960s, just because of the way we looked, we probably couldn't have gotten through the door.”

Perhaps, but anything that lasts 55 years and counting deserves respect. And the fact that both Detroit natives have published their first books at roughly the same time this spring — Ovshinsky’s Scratching the Surface is a memoir, and Werbe’s Summer on Fire is a semi-autobiographical novel full of violence and sex set during the 1967 Detroit Rebellion — is as good a reason as any to reflect on what the publication they have in common has meant.

This report is hardly the first mainstream moment for The Fifth Estate. Five years ago, for its 50th anniversary, the Detroit Historical Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit both mounted extensive, celebratory exhibits about the publication’s history. “I suppose when you’re around for 50 years, you do get to be a part of the city’s fabric,” Werbe says.

For the uninitiated, Ovshinsky founded The Fifth Estate in 1965 as a DIY project produced on his typewriter and mostly aimed at providing the city’s nascent hippie generation with news and information about civil rights and anti-war protests as well as a gritty, alternative arts scene ignored by the major daily news-

papers. Werbe came along the next year with a more strident, anarchist-empathetic perspective and eventually took over when Ovshinsky, who had become bored of the publishing grind and increasingly at odds with Werbe’s more extreme bent, was drafted into the military. (He served locally as a conscientious objector.)

The two friends never had a John-and-Paul-style schism, but neither did they ever — until our Zoom — hash out their disparate views on the publication’s purpose and legacy. Ovshinsky, 72, enjoyed a mainstream media career that included Peabodywinning documentary films and a stint in management at Detroit Public Television. Werbe remained ensconced in anarchistic politics and held forth for decades as a local talk radio host and purveyor of The Fifth Estate, which, since the 1970s, has published quarterly.

Still, their lives are entwined by a scrappy magazine that was a forerunner to alt-weeklies like the Detroit Metro Times. Their book tours — basically a series of online talks thanks to COVID-19 — draw fans who credit The Fifth Estate with their political and social awakenings.

“The older generation, of which Harvey and I are part, like to look back and be reminded about our ethical choices, recreational choices, and music choices,” Werbe says. “Younger people today in the new movements for social justice like Black Lives Matter look back and they say, ‘That's another era in which people confronted authority.’ ” Yet a big irony of what The Fifth Estate became is that Ovshinsky was never a die-hard radical.

Whereas many kids moved left in the ’60s to rebel against conservative parents, Ovshinsky’s father was a prominent leftist who harangued him to participate in demonstrations. “He chastised me hard CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 8 6

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05.21 MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE IN METRO DETROIT

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I NEED MY SPACE

THE DOCTOR IS IN (HER SHED) Here’s how one Beverly Hills pediatrician and parenting coach created her own backyard getaway

BY M EG AN SWOYE R P H O T O S BY JOE TIANO

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IF THE WALLS in Dr. Molly O’Shea’s nearly 1-year-old she-shed could talk, they’d say, “Thanks for giving us new life in a cool place!” Each plank was painstakingly disassembled from old wooden pallets, then cleaned, sealed, and reassembled to cover the four walls of O’Shea’s sweet retreat on the property of her Mid-Century-style Beverly Hills home.

“It was a ton of work to do that,” O’Shea recalls with a laugh. “Pallet wood isn’t meant to do anything but stay together.” Her husband, Tony Gallucci, used a saw to cut the nails that were holding the pallets together. “Two nails, times three, for each piece of wood. There were hundreds of pieces of wood!” When the wood was ready to install and nail onto the walls, O’Shea — a parenting coach and pediatrician whose office is in Bloomfield Hills — says it was “like a jigsaw puzzle.” But looking at the walls now, as summer approaches, she believes the salvaged-wood look was a great idea that “adds texture and interest” to her backyard escape.

Before they could even think about assembling the shed, O’Shea says she and her husband had to bring in a “tiny bulldozer” to make the ground level, “and then we put down 10 yards of gravel and sand.” The shed itself was very basic when the couple took delivery of it last summer.

Purchased online from Tuff Shed, it came in pieces that were assembled by the Tuff Shed delivery team. Then O’Shea, her husband, and a friend modified it by adding windows, insulation, electricity, the aforementioned walls, inviting furniture, and storage space.

“This space is a sanctuary for me,” says O’Shea, who is planning to launch a new podcast, Parenting with the Pros (and Cons)!, this month. “I enjoy the opportunity to be on my own to create, to read, and to explore who I am and what I want to be when I grow up. The quiet helps. I’m so lucky to have a husband who helped me achieve this goal.” With Mother’s Day around the corner, O’Shea, a mother of four, says her plans for the day include visiting her mother and mother-in-law, and then “heading to the shed to enjoy some quiet time.”

The doctor explains how her she-shed all came together and shares information on her favorite elements that make the space a true remedy for whatever life throws her way.

Express yourself O’Shea likes to paint with watercolors (her favorite brand is Winsor & Newton) in the shed, thanks to great natural light. “I have a lot of little palettes and I keep them in a cabinet out here, with paper.” The cabinet was discovered on Facebook Marketplace.

Window-shopping O’Shea found her windows on Facebook. “They were brand-new. The owners said they came in the wrong color, so they put them on Marketplace.”

She and her husband cut the openings and placed the windows in carefully chosen spots that look out to the Rouge River and to O’Shea’s sprawling, sloped backyard.

The write stuff As the official pediatrician for Goldfish Swim School, O’Shea writes content for the business on her trusty iPad Pro, and helps guide Goldfish’s holistic swim-school policy. She also writes parenting advice articles for a variety of publications. In her she-shed, she says, it’s easy to find time to write in her personal journal.

Please be seated O’Shea found her brown leather armchair and ottoman on Facebook Marketplace. She melts into its aged, softened surface while reading everything from daily spiritual readings to cooking magazines and novels.

“It’s apartment-size, petite, and perfect for this space.”

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“I enjoy the opportunity to be on my own to create, to read, and to explore who I am and what I want to be when I grow up.”

—DR. MOLLY O’SHEA

Practically floored The original flooring was pressed wood, so the couple installed black interlocking-square flooring. “It’s sort of foamy,” O’Shea says.

 Woodsy wonder O’Shea’s desktop is a repurposed single piece of wood that was honed, polished, and sealed.

“It’s really beautiful, and larger and deeper than a normal desktop, so I can actually keep things on it, like my painting and writing supplies.”

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“It’s necessary to be your full, authentic self, and Supercoolwicked is my full, authentic self. I feel as though I can express every bit of me when I’m assuming this character.”

—SUPERCOOLWICKED

MI STYLE

BOLD SOUL How the singer-songwriter-actor known as Supercoolwicked lives up to her stage name Stream Supercoolwicked’s music and more at supercoolwicked.com.

BY R ACHAE L THOMAS | PHOT O BY JOE A L I SA

SUPERCOOLWICKED EMBODIES every bit of her stage name. Born Morgan Hutson, the 26-year-old singer, songwriter, and actor fell in love with music in childhood as she soaked in her parents’ discography of ’70s R&B, funk, and rock music and listened to her grandmother sing spirituals. She also cultivated a love of theater, which she pursued in high school and for a time at Syracuse University.

At its core, Hutson says, her music satisfies her inner child and aims not only to encourage others to be their authentic selves but also to show reverence for the artists who came before her. Her debut project, High Gloss, is an ode to her love of both beauty and magazines. The EP features a mesmerizing blend of slow, soulful tunes and upbeat, groovy jams.

Her latest work includes “Juliet,” a self-love bop released on local record label Assemble Sound’s mixtape of artists from its 2020 residency program.

Here, she tells us about her bold style — and about performing at a Bernie Sanders rally.

Her style: I enjoy the avant-garde. I enjoy the couture. I enjoy the runway looks because I just think it’s

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so fantastical and we deserve to have them in real life. Like, I really enjoy that Carrie Bradshaw [from Sex and the City] for bowling would be in vintage Dolce and Gabbana. And when I think about style on the stage, and when I think about Black style in general and through the times, it’s always this extraordinary thing. So, I think my style is definitely just about being va-va-voom, full embodiment, and dramatic even on a regular day. Her favorite creatives: Stevie Wonder. Creator, I should say; not a creative, a creator. He’s immaculate. The fact that he can speak to decades of people, and just be so spot-on and pure with his message. And I love a lot of local artists as well. I wouldn’t even call them local artists — they’re global. So, James Ada.ms, who directed my [“Juliet”]

video; Cydney Camp, an amazing visual artist; my partner, Darius Baber; Salakastar, Ian Finkelstein, Sasha Kashperko, Kesswa, Charity — all of these people are crazy. A memorable performance: Performing at that Bernie Sanders rally that I did [at Cass Technical High School]. I was in front of all of these people who probably would’ve never interacted with my work. Bernie Sanders was there, he technically knows who I am. You know? I literally found out maybe the day before that I was chosen to be in that thing. I stayed up all night; I whipped it together and even then, things were still falling apart. … But you just make it do what it do. You show up and do the thing, and you just let it come through you. And people enjoyed it, so it was amazing.

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AFTER MORE THAN a year of pandemic restrictions, many of us feel a pent-up need for travel, but you don’t have to book an extravagant global trek to feel like you’re far away from that home you’ve spent far too much time in. We scoured the state for quirky spots within driving distance where the accommodations themselves are as much a draw as the destination — sometimes even more so. Here are nine standout stays that don’t require airfare.

Getaway from It All

 Natural wonder: The tiny cabins of Getaway Barber Creek offer relaxing views of nature.

T R AV E L

9 Standout Stays Book some time at one of these unique Michigan getaways, where the accommodations alone are worth the trip

BY KATH Y G I BBONS

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Metro Detroit native Elizabeth Kott lives in Los Angeles, where she’s cocreator and co-host of the wellness podcast That’s So Retrograde. But she misses Michigan and “craves nature,” so she found a trip to a Getaway Outpost in Big Bear, California, to be just the antidote to city life.

Getaway offers what it calls Outposts in about 14 places around the U.S., including Lisbon, Ohio, and as of April 1, Grand Junction, Michigan.

Guests can choose to stay in various sizes of tiny cabins scattered around the woods.

The new Getaway Barber Creek in Michigan sits on 79 acres and offers 41 cabins — 31 with one queen-size bed for up to two guests and 10 with queen bunks accommodating up to four people, with big windows for viewing the trees. There’s a small kitchen and bath with shower. Fire pits, firewood, and picnic tables come with each unit.

There’s even an opportunity to lock away cell phones upon arrival.

“They’re so fun — tiny cabins with massive windows with this beautiful view,” Kott says. “They really support the unplugging from technology, simplifying, for the duration of the stay.”

Rates at Getaway Barber Creek in Grand Junction will start at $129 a night.

Book at getaway.house.

Sleep Like Frodo Charlevoix and Earl Young go together. The insurance agent/realtor/ architectural designer left his imprint on the community in the form of some 30 mushroom-like homes made mostly from stone and distinctive for their M AY 2 0 2 1

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Mighty minis: The new Getway Barber Creek will offer 41 tiny cabins on 79 acres, making them an ideal place to disconnect and recharge.

Ultimate nightlight: Book a cozy stay at Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast and learn the history of this Lake Superior beacon.

“They’re so fun — tiny cabins with massive windows with this beautiful view. They really support the unplugging from technology, simplifying, for the duration of the stay.”

—ELIZABETH KOTT

low, curved, undulating rooflines.

Bill Thom says people love that they get to experience that element of architectural history when they rent his Half House, which Visit Charlevoix describes as one of the most widely photographed places in town. Thom, who grew up in Hazel Park and attended Cranbrook in Bloomfield Hills, relocated to Texas in 1984. He and his family had a house in Charlevoix, where they spent summers, and when Half House came on the market in 2001, he bought it.

At first, the family used it as their summer getaway.

“Our family of six plus our German shepherd spent summers up there,” he says — all of them packed into the approximately 700-square-foot, 1947 structure.

The house sleeps four, with a queen bed on the main level and two twin beds in a small dormer bedroom upstairs. Rent can range from $99 in the extreme off-season to up to $495 a night on weekends in July and August.

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“People are just stopped by it — ‘Oh my gosh, look at this little hobbit house,’ ” he says. “I get families who want to bring their children because they’re Lord of the Rings fanatics or Hobbit fanatics. It’s just adorable.”

Find it on vrbo.com

Bring the Outside In In 2009, Northern Michigan native Kelly Sean Karcher was remodeling a 1900s farmhouse in Northport intending to call it his new home. But then he got called away for his job, so he began renting The Modern Farmhouse through Airbnb instead, and was gratified when guests responded with enthusiasm — not just for the property itself, “but the reasoning behind the choices I made during the renovations and the lifestyle it promoted.”

He describes that lifestyle as “comfortable minimalism in a carefully curated space.” It inspired him to further explore the concept and

led him to create another Airbnb rental, The Wayfarer Tree House in Lake Leelanau. From that grew the formation of his kit home company, Hygge Supply, and another rental that is an actual Hygge Supply home: Birch Le Collaboration House, also in Lake Leelanau. All are offered on Airbnb as part of Hygge Stay, the hospitality arm of his company.

Birch Le Collaboration House features floor-to-ceiling windows that look onto the large, covered porch, which also has its own fireplace so it can be used year-round. “The way the home is built and the way the windows are positioned, it feels like you’re floating amongst the trees,” Karcher says.

With three bedrooms and 2.5 baths, the house accommodates up to seven.

Rent ranges from $389 to $589 per night. airbnb.com

See the Light on Lake Superior Nick Korstad has been making some

updates at Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast over the winter.

COVID prompted him to scale down a common area for guests and create seating space with TVs in the lighthouse’s five bedrooms so that guests trying to socially distance from others aren’t limited to sitting on the bed when they remain in their rooms.

Korstad bought the 1896 lighthouse in 2018. Isolated on a sandstone cliff overlooking Lake Superior, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One of the few surviving resident lighthouses in the country, it’s still functioning, with a rotating beacon that still shines brightly for the ships that pass through the channel below.

The lighthouse was actually built as a duplex; Korstad lives in half, and the B&B is housed in the other side.

It’s like a normal house on the inside until you get to the second level, where the Fresnel lens is; then, the metal stairways that are part of a traditional lighthouse begin.

Korstad has updated the furnishings, drawing on his background in hotels to create a more intimate and less kitschy experience for guests. “There is not one doily,” he notes.

He offers tours and gladly shares the lighthouse’s history and lore with guests.

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learn what lighthouse keepers did,” he says. “And they get to see interesting architecture that isn’t necessarily used anymore.”

Rates start around $189 per night, depending on the room and season. bigbaylighthouse.com

Groove to Motown Motown BnB officially opened in September 2019 following three years of renovation. Momentum was just starting to build when COVID struck.

That put a damper on business early in 2020, but people started booking again in the summer, and owner David King says the place has been busy ever since.

Housed in a restored 1911 mansion, the home offers a balance of modern amenities and Motown-themed touches, including working Wurlitzer jukeboxes, lots of pictures and artwork, rooms named after Motown artists, and a one-of-a-kind dance floor in the basement that’s made out of records sealed under epoxy.

Many guests come as part of a trip that includes taking in the nearby Motown Museum. The home is also available for parties and corporate retreats. “The museum is really a draw,” King says. “People love the experience of going there … they feel like they connected with the city, with the music. … Music connects us as humans — and everybody loves Motown.”

Rent for the entire home, with a capacity of 16 people, is $800 per night.

Bookings are available at airbnb.com and Vrbo.com. Guests may also book by contacting King directly at motownbnb.com.

Float This Idea Peter Morrison grew up in Redford; his wife Sally Coder-Morrison was raised in Walled Lake. After they married, she worked as a school bus driver and he drove a semi. Then they got an idea.

They had always loved being on the water. So, after their kids rented a houseboat during a trip to Kentucky, they were inspired to build a 105-foot yacht, moor it near Saugatuck, and run it like a bed and breakfast.

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make the larger boat their home in the wintertime. The vessel never comes out of the water.

For 11 years, Sea Suites Boat and Breakfast has been welcoming guests to its four staterooms, each with its own bath, from around May 1 to September or mid-October, depending on the weather.

Each room accommodates two adults and has a queen bed. The couple provides guests with breakfast; after that, they’re on their own to explore the area. Guests come from all over and many are repeat customers.

“We’ve had a ball,” Sally says. “We’ve met people from all over the world.”

Each room accommodates two adults.

Rates range from $125 to $195, depending on the day and month. Call 269-426-0381 for reservations or visit seasuites.com.

Midcentury, Modernized Frank Lloyd Wright is a big draw for those who rent the Eppstein House in Galesburg. Wright designed the Midcentury Modern home, built in 1953. It was completely restored by current owners Marika Broere and Tony Hillebrandt, Canadians who fell in love with the property at first sight and bought it in 2016. It was one of several Wright designs commissioned by a group of Upjohn research scientists who built their homes in The Acres, a 70-acre enclave near Kalamazoo.

“It’s the only neighborhood [Wright]

Wright’s stuff: The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Eppstein House is a dream destination for fans of the master of Midcentury.

designed that actually didn’t get overdeveloped,” says Fred Taber, the real estate agent who sold the Eppstein House to its current owners and now serves as its caretaker. “He built four, and one of his students built one. And that was it.”

Taber says the house was in “pretty bad shape” when Broere and Hillebrandt bought it. In addition to restoring its original finishes and updating the HVAC, bathrooms, and kitchen, they’ve furnished it with many original Frank Lloyd Wright pieces and other art and collectibles from the time period.

“Renting out the house gives us the opportunity to share it with design and architecture enthusiasts from all over the world,” Broere said via email while traveling in India. “The income from it helps us keep up the house and gain back some of the money we put into restoration.”

The couple has purchased another nearby Wright creation, Pratt House, and plan to restore and then rent that one as well, Faber notes.

Eppstein House rents for around $420 to $450 per night for two people and can be reserved at airbnb.com.

Park It Above the Garage A stay at the Mott Park Carriage House in Flint offers a glimpse into the city’s auto industry past.

In 2014, Chad Schlosser and his family bought a 1928 brick Tudor-style home that was designed by Norbert Doughterty, who was hired by General Motors to develop the neighborhood.

At the time it was built, “so many people were moving to the cities that there were housing shortages,” Schlosser says. “Workers were

living in tents in parks and things of that sort [and GM] hired Norbert Dougherty to design and lay out the whole neighborhood.”

The Schlossers’ home, which Doughterty designed for his own family, came with the original loft above the garage. Both were in bad shape and took months to renovate.

Sleeping two comfortably, the approximately 300-square-foot loft space has been rented nearly every night for the past four years. Guests range from medical students to people traveling on nearby I-75 and others who come to visit Frankenmuth — about 25 minutes away.

Schlosser says there’s lots to do nearby, including arts and cultural attractions, bike trails, and a disc golf course right next door. And it’s hard to beat the price — $58 a night.

Book a stay at airbnb.com.

Glamping Near Coloma Bruce Powell is one of the few people who can genuinely say that COVID-19 “was one of the best things that ever happened.”

That’s because Powell offers social distancing at its very best at Tipi Camper Glamping near Coloma.

Already doing well attracting customers through glampinghub.com and hipcamp.com, he saw business skyrocket when the pandemic hit.

About 19 years ago, he built a threebedroom, one-bath log home on 15 acres on Harris Lake, a mile from Lake Michigan. Having been offering it for short-term rentals year-round for the past 11 years, he eventually started getting inquiries from groups that were too large for the house.

Four years ago, he added a teepee and 1959 refurbished Mallard camper, which rent together spring to fall.

There’s no bathroom; guests use a Porta John and an outdoor shower.

“The teepee is not 100 percent waterproof, so if it rains and it rains hard, you’re getting wet, then it’s time to go into the camper,” says Powell, who last year outfitted a school bus with beds and now offers that to guests as well.

Rates vary depending on the accommodations and time of year.

Book at colomaloghome.com and tipicamperglamping.com.

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24/Seven Lip Service

The Coola Mineral LipLux Tinted Lip Balm offers relief and protection with ingredients like SPF 30 sunscreen, organic Cupuacu butter, and mongongo oil. Try Purple Sky (pictured here) or one of the other tints.

Pure Life

Keep your skin refreshed throughout your trip with Avène’s Thermal Spring Water.

The product is fragrance-, paraben-, alcohol-, soy-, wheat-, and mineral oil-free, making it optimal for sensitive skin.

Sun-Kissed

Black Girl Sunscreen was made by women of color for people of color from a need for sunscreen that caters to their skin.

The product is vegan, cruelty-free, and infused with natural ingredients like jojoba, avocado, and sunflower oil.  $19, at Bronzed N Glow Beauty Boutique, 19327 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-6515490; shopbronzed nglow.com

$18, at Mills Pharmacy + Apothecary

$9, at Mills Pharmacy + Apothecary, 1744 West Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-644-5060; millspharmacy.com

Bag Check

This versatile 24+7 Fourplay Bag by Oliver Thomas (pictured here in their Gunmetal colorway) truly meets the moment; it can convert into a clutch, belt bag, crossbody and shoulder bag.

(Hence the name!)  $99, at Oliver Thomas

Squeaky Clean Trip Wipes’ Survival Kit should be the first thing you pack. It includes the Detroit brand’s antibacterial wipes, gel sanitizer, foaming hand soap, sanitizing wipes, and hypoallergenic body wipes. $50, at Trip Wipes; tripwipes.com

SHOPPING

Leaders of the Pack Planning your next trip? Make sure your to-do list includes ( more) of these traveling essentials. packing one (or

BY R AC H A EL TH O MAS

Pack It Up

Do you bring 20 outfits for a three-day trip? No problem — even over-packers can fit it all in this duffle by local company Oliver Thomas. All OT bags are Vegan. org-certified, water resistant, and can even be customized with fun badges.

Sunny Days

Genusee, a Flintbased eyewear company, offers eco-friendly frames made of 100 percent single-use recycled water bottles. Keep it casual and chic with The Roeper, the brand’s signature frame.

Oliver Thomas 24+7 Weekender Duffle in Rose Gold, $165, at Oliver Thomas; theoliverthomas.com

Face Time

Mask On

Stay safe in style with these masks featuring designs inspired by the work of artists Louis Comfort Tiffany and Vincent van Gogh.  Magnolia, Tiffany Face Mask, $20, at DIA Shop, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-8337948; diashop.org Starry Night, Van Gogh Face Mask, $20, at DIA Shop

Hair Goals

Mielle Organics’ Pomegranate & Honey Blend Super Hold Edge Gel is a sweet-smelling product made for styling naturally coily hair and is sure to keep your curls in place through the day.

The Lip Bar’s Fast Face Kit promises a full face of makeup that you can apply in less than 10 minutes. Curated by complexion, the kit comes with a foundation, face palette, brow pencil, eyeliner, mascara, and lipstick. $99, at The Lip Bar, 1435 Farmer St., Detroit; 313-5089679; thelipbar.com

 $7, at Bronzed N Glow Beauty Boutique

 Bronze + Brown Gradient Roeper Sunglasses, $99, at Genusee; genusee.com

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PRODUCTS COURTESY OF BRANDS AND STORES

4/8/21 5:23 PM

24/Seven

FASHION

Time Frames

Shinola unveils eyewear inspired by its upscale watches and luxury wares

BY AS H L EY W IN N

 $295 each, at Shinola; shinola.com for locations

GLASSES COURTESY OF SHINOLA

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LUXURY WATCHES, jewelry, handbags, belts, journals, and even bicycles and turntables are among the upscale wares available from Detroit accessory specialist Shinola. Even still, the appetite of the brand’s enthusiastic customer base seems insatiable. And Shinola is happy to oblige, releasing its debut eyewear line this month.

The collection consists of three sunglass styles: the Rambler, the Bixly, and the Runwell — names Shinola fans might recognize from some of the brand’s legacy products. In addition to their monikers, the frames themselves bare design influences from their namesakes. “We wanted them to have the same aesthetic as our watches and audio products — that signature feel,” says CEO Shannon Washburn.

A prime example is the Runwell. Much like Shinola’s watch of the same name, this wayfarerstyle frame is classic in both shape and style.

The Bixby — a rounded style named for the brand’s beach cruiser bicycle — displays vintage details, including a keyhole bridge. The acetate aviator dubbed the Rambler, meanwhile, is bold and sporty. Even miniscule details represent carefully conceived tributes to the brand. Shinola created a signature temple shape and used custom hardware, including riveted barrel hinges, to emulate signature details that appear in its timepieces.

Each style will be available in a number of colorways, resulting in 15 variations overall.

Staying true to the collection’s classic-modernist balance, its color scheme consists of traditional blacks, grays, and tortoises while incorporating the occasional transparent shade as well. A fresh batch of colorways is expected this fall, and a few entirely new silhouettes will be released next spring.

In addition to their sleek and timeless looks, the glasses deliver premium quality. They’re made with plant-based cellulose acetate and feature scratchresistant lenses with UV 400 protection. The packaging is an innovative, reusable case that folds flat when not in use, allowing for efficient pocket or handbag storage. Plus, along with each pair comes a polishing cloth emblazoned with the signature Shinola lightning bolt.

“It’s not just about the product itself,” Washburn says. “It’s about delivering a beautiful and complete experience.”

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P H O T O S BY G E R A R D + B E L E V E N D E R A N D H AY D E N S T I N E B A U G H

all about

Detroit has a rich, if often overlooked, history of brewing. These days it’s also at the forefront of efforts to shake up old notions about who belongs both in the brewhouse and at the bar.

PHOTOS (BOTH PAGES) GERARD + BELEVENDER

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BY RYA N PAT R I C K H O O P E R P O R T R A I T BY H AY D E N S T I N E B A U G H

BROTHAZ ARE BREAKING CRAFT BEER BARRIERS How a Detroit duo is bringing Black brew fans into the fold

t’s been some eight years since Harry Weaver III, 44, and Bernard Jackson, 43, launched Brewz Brothaz, a groundbreaking Facebook group for craft beer enthusiasts of color that also begat a podcast, and even now they hear occasionally from people who ask: “Why does it always have to be about race?”

“I’m not offended by it,” says Jackson, a Detroit native who now works as a chef in Houston.

“We can’t deny that there are certain inequities. And in the state of Michigan, there have been inequities that people are unwilling to talk about.”

As with so many aspects of a culture long dominated by white people, Black and brown people not only have a history in the brewing industry but are also working to carve out a space for themselves today.

The successful growth of the Facebook group, which started with a dozen members and has now exceeded 800, is a testament to the existence of a perhaps small but nonetheless growing and passionate community joined by both their passion for beer and their collective sense of feeling overlooked or ignored by the broader beer-loving world.

“We had conversations about underrepresentation of Black and brown people in the craft beer and liquor industry as a whole,” Jackson says. “We talked about experiences we had as patrons at bars, feeling as if we weren’t necessarily welcome there. We’d get looks as if we were in the wrong place.”

The latest numbers back them up. The American craft beer industry is a blindingly white scene; of the more than 8,000 craft breweries, 88 percent are white-owned, according to a 2019 survey by the Brewers Association trade group. By contrast, just 1 percent — or maybe as many as 80 — are Blackowned, the survey showed. What’s more, most people who drink craft beer are white men, according to a 2018 study by Nielsen-Harris On Demand. In the brewhouse, the numbers are similar. Black people make up about 13 percent of the U.S. population, but just 1 percent of employees in craft breweries are Black, according to the Brewers Association survey.

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“I probably know or know of every Black craft beer enthusiast in the Detroit area,” says Weaver, a diversity and equity consultant for Chippewa Valley Schools in Macomb County who lives in Canton. “That’s not to say I know a whole bunch of people. That’s to say there’s not a whole bunch of us.”

BORN OF TRAGEDY Brewz Brothaz emerged out of the most traumatic experience of Weaver’s life, a 2012 incident in which he was shot twice during a botched armed robbery outside the Prince Hall Grand Lodge on Detroit’s east side. Weaver, at the time a 6-foot-2-inch hulk of a man, was left paralyzed from the waist down and faced grueling months of recovery and rehabilitation to regain some basic abilities.

Amid all this, Weaver wondered what parts of his prior life he could preserve. Could he smoke a cigar every now and then? Wash it down with a glass of whiskey if he wanted?

More important to Weaver, he’d been an importedbeer hobbyist for years and had fallen in love around 2008 with craft beer. He’d seek out hard-to-find limited releases, making himself a regular at local craft breweries as he chased new flavor profiles being created by Michigan brewers. Could he enjoy a cold beer again?

A nurse at Detroit Receiving Hospital gave him his answer. “She was like, ‘You know what? You need to keep doing those things. Your life can be as normal as you make it,’ ” Weaver recalls. “So I made it a point to continue to enjoy those things. And just like everything else in my life, it took some time to ease back into that.”

No one told his friends about the “easing in” process. By the time Weaver got home, a huge array of special-release craft beers waited for him thanks to an outpouring of generosity from his friends. And there was one more thing: an invitation from Jackson, his friend of more than 20 years, whom he’d met through mutual friends at a Detroit coffee shop, to help him launch a Facebook group.

Weaver and Jackson, once big fans of Guinness, discovered the craft-brew scene when they tried beers from Kalamazoo’s Bell’s Brewery. From there, the hobby took off. Their instinct that people of color needed a space where they didn’t feel out of place in the craft world quickly proved prescient.

“Coming into the group, I was never treated like I didn’t know what I was talking about,” says Sasha Womble, a Black woman from Ypsilanti who co-hosts the Brewz Brothaz podcast.

The podcast, like the group, explores inclusion and diversity in craft beer. The appeal, however, goes well beyond creating an outlet for Black craft beer fans; Jackson believes at least half of the Facebook group’s members are white. The important part is what’s not present — the elitist, know-it-all attitude that plagues so much of the craft-beer enthusiast world, discouraging beginner questions and mocking certain tastes.

Says Womble: “They were happy to educate without being patronizing. As a woman, that was a big plus. I was never treated like a moron. Everybody is treated the same.”

HOW FOUNDERS LOST THEM The Facebook group and podcast have been important means of comparing experiences and discussing problematic elements of the industry. The podcast, launched in 2018, ranges in length from one to two hours, and was released regularly before the onset of the pandemic interfered with their favorite format — recording episodes from inside metro Detroit breweries. Topics range from interviews with brewers, such as master brewer Travis Fritts from the popular Old Nation Brewing in Marshall, to stories about experiences people have had when “drinking while Black.”

Perhaps the hottest topic of discussion: a 2018 racial discrimination lawsuit against Michigan’s largest craft brewery, Founders Brewing Co., filed by a Black employee who alleged his termination was racially motivated. A leaked deposition from the case sparked a media blitz and online backlash that prompted Founders to close its Detroit site for more than three months “out of concern of our employees’ safety.” In the deposition, Founders general manager Dominic Ryan claimed not to know that the fired employee, a manager named Tracy Evans, was Black, which many found a baffling and tone-deaf defense that added credibility to Evans’ claims of a callous and racist corporate culture. Shortly after the Ryan-Evans controversy erupted in the press, the lawsuit was dismissed amid a confidential out-of-court settlement.

For Jackson and Weaver, the controversy felt personal; they followed Evans’ case on the podcast even before the lawsuit was filed. “It definitely felt like a slap in the face,” says Jackson, who says Founders makes many of the gateway beers that drew the duo into the hobby. Weaver, in fact, described himself as a “Founders fan boy” before the Evans case surfaced, and says he had offered to lend his experience in diversity and inclusion training to Founders brass.

“They really kinda blew me off, man, like they didn’t know what I was talking about,” Weaver says.

Weaver and Jackson say Founders co-owner Dave Engbers talked with them over lunch after the controversy erupted, and that Engbers accepted an invitation to appear on the podcast. Following the lawsuit settlement announcement, though, Engbers stopped responding to either one of them again, Jackson and Weaver say. “That was the nail in the coffin,” Weaver says. “The prevailing thought in the group is that we don’t drink Founders.”

A public relations representative for Founders declined to comment.

That doesn’t mean Weaver has given up on the brand entirely. He says he’d still be willing to meet.

“I would sit at a table with them and tell them exactly why I stand where I stand,” says Weaver, who adds that there’s “plenty of other craft breweries in Michigan” to give his money to in the meantime.

When it comes to the Brewz Brothaz and diversity and inclusion in the craft beer world, he says it’s “way beyond beer at this point. We’ve become a voice that’s sought out in the beer community. This is who you go to when you want a voice that represents a voice that’s not always represented when we talk about beer.”

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Harry Weaver, photographed at Brews Detroit Brewery, is on a mission to bring other non-white beer fans into the largely white world of craft brewing.

BEER GERARD + BELEVENDER PORTRAIT HAYDEN STINEBAUGH

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BY TA M M Y C OX E N

THE BEERS OF SUMMER 10 Michigan brews for the long, lazy days ahead ummer is almost here, which means lazy afternoons spent drinking beer in the sun!

Lucky for us, Michigan makes some of the best — and many of of them come from right here in metro Detroit.

Patti Smith is a home brewer and longtime beer writer for publications such as Mittenbrew and CraftBeer.com and is currently writing a book titled Michigan Beer History for The History Press. For her, the perfect summer beer will tend to be lighter — both in color and on the tongue. This includes brews such as Kolsch, classic American pilsners and wheat ales, and also gose. Smith is also a fan of fruit beers for summer. “These have been dismissed as beers for lightweights — a stereotype that I loathe,” she says. “Fruit beers are getting better every year and offer a lovely alternative.”

Beer merchant Ashley Price has been a purveyor of everything beer, mead, and cider in metro Detroit for 13 years. These days she can be found at Metropolitan Variety Store, a newly opened combination market/bar in Detroit’s West Village. When it comes to a great summer beer, she’s looking for a “whisp to a heavy load of citrus” as well as “low to medium hop bitterness for sweaty days — crushable, and crisp.”

Check out some of Ashley and Patti’s summer picks here, and stock up for your own sweaty days!

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PHOTO GERARD + BELEVENDER

4/8/21 7:58 AM

Michigan Hell

Cerveza Delray Brew Detroit “Lagers are crisper because of the way they’re brewed. I like this one because it’s a lighter lager that still fills you up, unlike a macrobrew.”

—Patti Smith

El Ligero Griffin Claw Brewing Co. “Another great lager!

Crisp, clean, everything a lager should be! Nice balance of hops and lime.” —Smith PHOTO HAYDEN STINEBAUGH

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Urbanrest Brewing Co. “This beer should just be named Crispy for the mouthfeel and finish.

Easy, bready, lemon, love. Lagers are coming to the forefront of every conversation lately, and this is one of the best from my neighborhood brewer.” —Ashley Price

Professional Pils Drafting Table “This was my reintroduction to German pils. I was never a huge fan until this beer. Light but packed with flavor. A subtle sweetness accompanies noble hops’ floral notes, making this a very quaffable any-day-ofthe-year beer.” —Price

Nothing pairs with a long, hot Michigan summer day like an ice-cold can of a made-in-Michigan beer.

Blueberry Lemonade Shandy Saugatuck Brewing Co. “They balance those flavors perfectly so that it isn’t too tart or too fruity.” —Smith

Shandy Old Nation Brewing Co. “I have been begging for this for years and I cannot wait until its release.” —Price

Tropical Oberon

Whango Atwater Brewing “Whango uses fresh mango puree for a balanced wheat and mango flavor. That’s impressive — a lot of places use extract because mango can be a tough flavor to capture.”

—Smith

Bell’s Brewing “This new iteration of a Michigan summer classic is a new 2021 release I’m looking forward to. Past variations have included Mango, Mango Habanero, and Pineapple Jalapeno. This year’s mix will be mango, guava, and passionfruit.

Bells is well known for consistently nailing flavors, and I am excited for this one.” —Price

Cucumber Lime Gose Arbor Brewing Co. “OK, I love cucumber and lime and at first I was skeptical, but they married these flavors in the best possible way.

The hint of salt rounds out the beer for me.”

—Smith

House Gose Eastern Market Brewing Co. “This is a perfect accompaniment to hot days. The light salinity and tartness might seem contradictory to heat but very much work together to create a delicious, refreshing experience. Arguably the best straight gose in the state.” —Price M AY 2 0 2 1

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Natalie Iseli-Smith, the first head brewer at Founders Brewing Co., is more concerned with proving herself as a brewer than as a female brewer.

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BEER GERARD + BELEVENDER PORTRAIT HAYDEN STINEBAUGH

4/8/21 7:58 AM

BY RYA N PAT R I C K H O O P E R P O R T R A I T BY H AY D E N S T I N E B A U G H

‘KEEPING UP’ WITH THE MEN? IT’S ALE IN A DAY’S WORK. Female brewers have no use for questions about who should brew

he’s the first female head brewer in the history of Founders Brewing Co., the 14th largest brewery in the country and the largest in Michigan. But even with the title firmly in her grasp, 32-year-old Natalie Iseli-Smith still has to convince people she’s the one making the calls at the Detroit taproom when they show up looking for the person in charge.

“Even when I would say I’m the brewer, I’d be dismissed on sight — until I started saying technical terms to them and providing proof of what I’m talking about,” says Iseli-Smith, who worked with Founders in Grand Rapids before landing in Detroit.

It’s an all-too-common story among the still relatively few women in the craft beer world — whether it’s the women behind the scenes who brew it or those sitting down to order a clean, crisp Munich dunkel at the bar. A survey by the Brewers Association trade group shows that only 7.5 percent of breweries in the United States employ even one woman in the role of brewer. Iseli-Smith isn’t the first woman to brew beer for Founders in its 24-year history, but she’s the first to hold the title of head brewer with the company.

“It’s not that I’ve had to prove myself as a woman,” she says. “It’s that I’ve had to prove myself in the industry — period.”

Her journey started at Brew Detroit, where she was hired as a bartender in 2014. The contract brewery in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood, which also makes its own small-batch varieties, had plans to double-train bartenders as brewers.

“I was working on the bottling line,” IseIiSmith says. “I helped organize their brewhouse laboratory,” which measures things like Co2 volume and alcohol by volume, or ABV — essentially the key stats of any beer.

She ended up being the only bartender to jump PHOTO HAYDEN STINEBAUGH

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into brewing in those early days, ultimately creating a beer that caught the attention of Mark Rieth, the owner of Atwater Brewery in Detroit, which was acquired by the massive beer conglomerate Molson Coors last year. It was a sessionable English pale that impressed Rieth’s taste buds with its biscuit and caramel malt tones and an earthy hop profile.

A modified version of IseIi-Smith’s Echobase ESB (extra special bitter) is now on tap at the Founders taproom in Detroit. “Within a month, I was brewing on [Atwater’s] 20 hecto-liter brewhouse,” which can produce about 16 barrels of beer, or about 520 gallons, per batch.

Iseli-Smith’s love for “nerdy science” — “I won a lot of science fair awards in middle school,” she’ll proudly tell you — plus a penchant for the arts (she often designs her own labels for her beers) and a degree in cultural anthropology propelled her interest in craft brewing, which marries all three. “I just want to push the boundaries of creativity while still paying respect to traditional styles,” she says.

“My goal is to explore new flavor pairings.”

As a belated celebration for International Women’s Day, Iseli-Smith dreamed up a mint mocha oatmeal stout named U.N.I.T.Y., which borrows its moniker from the Queen Latifah song of the same name. It’s on tap now at the Detroit taproom. She describes the beer as having a “heavy body” with hints of toasted malt, chocolate, and a slightly minty

Annette May, who is on faculty at the Brewing and Distillation Technology program at Schoolcraft College. She teaches beer styles and sensory evaluation as well as beer service and draft management — stuff like how to get a perfect pour with a 1-inch head. “A lot of women entered the industry the same way I did,” says May, who started out bartending in Chicago in the mid-’90s at one of the few bars in the city at the time that specialized in a wide variety of brews, including early craft beers and unusual, high-end imports.

She built a reputation by studying the various styles and becoming a go-to source for all things beer, especially brews that had yet to become commonplace. She’s now an advanced cicerone, a trademarked certification for beer that mirrors what a sommelier does in wine. She’s also a founding member of Fermenta, a Michigan-based nonprofit that mirrors the national efforts of the Pink Boots Society here in southeastern Michigan. The volunteer-led group has awarded more than $16,000 worth of scholarships for women to further their careers in brewing.

The question for May and other women in the industry is: Why are such efforts still necessary?

“That’s a really big mystery because, as most people know, women were the original brewers.

At some stage in history, it changed,” May says.

“In modern times, there’s been a whole persona of

“What’s it like being a female brewer? It’s the same as being a male brewer,” says Founders head brewer Natalie Iseli-Smith.

finish. A sister beer of U.N.I.T.Y. will be produced at the Founders Grand Rapids location (but expect a bit more cinnamon in that one), with a portion of sales from each unit going toward Pink Boots Society, a national nonprofit working to grow the number of women working in the fermented beverage industry.

Iseli-Smith’s path from bartender to brewer is common among the relatively few women now working in the craft brewing industry, says

beer as a men’s drink. Being an actual brewer is a physically taxing job. Women cope just fine with it.”

Iseli-Smith has coped, she says, by “keeping up” with her male peers.

“People ask me all the time: ‘What’s it like being a female brewer?’ ” she says. “It’s the same as being a male brewer. It means using your head and your hands to bring out your heart. It’s about bringing people together. We just happen to be representing underrepresented communities.”

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BY A S H L E Y W I N N

DETROIT HOPS CITY

Hear the untold story of Motor City’s other industry

ntil the craft beer movement emerged, Billy Wall-Winkel’s generation knew beer to mean pretty much three things: Bud, Miller, and Coors. So, the metro Detroit native and Detroit Historical Museum assistant curator was fascinated when he explored the depths of Detroit’s brewing history.

“It wasn’t something trendy. It was a tradition, and not a lot of people know that,” he says. “In Detroit, we tend to get stuck on cars, and the history beyond that gets drowned out.”

But the Detroit Historical Society is working to fix that, with its new podcast, Untold Detroit. The show follows a serialized format consisting of sixepisode seasons, each exploring an overlooked area of Detroit’s heritage.

As host of the podcast, Wall-Winkel kicked things off with — you guessed it —beer. Untold’s first season chronicles the history of Detroit’s brewing industry, stretching all the way from French colonization to the modern, craft-beer boom. The podcast was released shortly after the introduction of the Detroit Historical Museum’s latest exhibition, Detroit’s Brewing Heritage.

It offers an auditory complement to the collection of historical artifacts and vintage photos.

Listeners will enjoy interviews with today’s brewing heavyweights, including John Stroh III of Stroh’s Brewing and Larry Bell of Bell’s Brewery, as well as historians and other industry professionals.

One of Wall-Winkel’s personal favorite moments is a conversation with John Lenardos, owner of Motor City Brewing Works. “Motor City brews Ghetto blaster, which was the first craft beer I’d ever seen,” Wall-Winkel says. “So, knowing the story behind that was fascinating to me.”

What’s up after beer? The podcast’s second season will dive into Detroit’s musical legacy. Motown, of course, is a huge part of that legacy, but Wall-Winkel is especially interested in the city’s often-overlooked contributions to techno. “The story of Detroit techno is really well known outside of the United States — especially in Europe,” he says. He hopes to release the new season in February 2022.

Untold Detroit is available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts.

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Quirky facts about brewing in Detroit 1 In 1706, Joseph Parent became Detroit’s first brewmaster.

2 Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, the founder and attendant first commander of Detroit, sequestered a chunk of Parent’s product for himself — for free, of course.

3 Early brewing in Detroit resembled modern home brewing. It was small in scale, used primarily amateurgrade equipment, and focused on easy-to-make styles, such as ales, stouts, and porters.

4 Ales and stouts became Detroit’s drinks of choice following Britain’s takeover of the city in 1763.

5 Ales fell out of favor around 1860, after German immigrants introduced the lager.

6 Bernhard Stroh intended merely to pass through Detroit on his way to Wisconsin, but he liked the city so much he decided to stay. He was the founder of the Stroh’s Brewing family, once the nation’s thirdlargest brewer.

7 Detroit’s beer industry grew with the city’s rapidly expanding population, and in 1879, its brewers produced 3.5 million gallons of beer.

That’s 30 gallons for every Detroiter.

8 In the early 1900s, Detroit’s breweries bought up local saloons, trying to ensure that only their beer would be served.

9 Many saloons at that time provided complimentary meals to patrons who ordered beer on their lunch breaks.

10 By the time Prohibition was repealed in 1933, Stroh’s Brewing was the last operational brewery in Detroit. It survived by selling pop, ice cream, dealcoholized beer, and “Malt Extract Kits.”

The name provided legal cover for the actual product — a set containing all the necessary ingredients for home brewing.

PHOTO GERARD + BELEVENDER

4/8/21 5:24 PM

I’ll Bet

A gambler’s warning about Michigan’s massive mobile gaming boom BY

STEVE FRIESS

ILLUSTRATIONS BY

K E V I N FA L E S

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I love to gamble.

As I write, there’s a poker game in progress in another window of my laptop. There usually is. I’m not great at it, but I find it a satisfying outlet for an undiagnosed but quite obvious attention deficit disorder that seems to demand that I have at least three things going on at once. More importantly, I think I know my limits, I generally play for embarrassingly low stakes, and I rarely waste money on games of pure chance.

For those reasons, I thought I’d be elated to live in a state where gambling of all sorts is now legal online and be eager to test out the plethora of new mobile gambling apps that have launched since they were allowed in late January. I spent 15 years as a journalist in Las Vegas hearing so often that American adults ought to be trusted to stop themselves that I swallowed that belief whole and mocked the condescending prudes who warned that putting a full-fledged casino in the pocket of every man, woman, and child could cause problems.

Now I’m worried. Over the past several weeks, I’ve tested out the apps that have so far gone live, spending as little as necessary to get a feel for what it’s like to deposit money, place sports wagers, or play various casino games, and make

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withdrawals.

(Actually, my faith in Tom Brady was rewarded in requires a level of self-awareness and self-control my Super Bowl bets — go Bucs! — which made typically absent in addicts. It’s also simple to the rest of this assignment an exercise in playing work around; if, in moments of sobriety, you set with house money.) restrictions on one app, why not move to another It is so — too? — easy. As a customer and app when the urge takes hold? player, that’s exactly what we want. If you believe, I’m not sure what the answer is. This genie as I do, that gambling is a legitimate form of burst out of the bottle in January with a adult entertainment that will occur regardless of vengeance — some $115.2 million was bet and whether there’s a proper, regulated environment, $42.7 million lost by Michigan players in the first you must also believe the new system is better, 10 days of state-regulated mobile gambling. The safer, and more accountable. amount lost to online casinos in February, the first Still, this is also true: Michigan is undoubtedly full month, came in at $79.7 million — off of $301.9 about to endure an explosion of problem gambling, million wagered — and is expected to soar even and many families will suffer. It is now tragically higher in March thanks both to the millions the simple, fast, and free to pull money off a credit apps are spending on TV ads and wagering on the card or out of a bank account, lose it in minutes, NCAA March Madness tournament. and then repeat. At least in the old Lansing will be giddy about its new days, gamblers had to put in effort revenue stream arriving precisely to go to a physical casino and pay If you or someone when the state most needs one. exorbitant ATM fees to obtain cash you know needs There’s just no going back; the when they ran out. That must have more information on public is devouring this, and the slowed many rolls. And prior to gambling addiction, call the Michigan government never, ever takes its lips January, Michigan players could play Problem Gambling off a supple, steadily flowing teat. on offshore gambling sites by paying Helpline at “You’re right, it’s going to be very obscene credit card fees or using 1-800-270-7117. easy,” Michigan Gaming Control Bitcoin — both speed bumps to help Board executive director Richard slow people’s bankroll.

Kalm told me in an interview. “We’re already I appreciated the ubiquity in many of the trying to get out ahead of that. I don’t think you new apps of information about getting help for can just go on and deposit $10,000 and bet it all at gambling addiction, although it could be better once. The apps should stop you from doing that. and the state’s commitment of $500,000 per year The goal is to make sure everyone has a good for problem gambling programs is paltry given time and enjoys it for what it is, not to rely on it how large the problem likely will be. It is true that as a source of income or go too far.” all of the apps have “responsible gaming” settings Yes, that’s the goal. We’ll know pretty soon where players can self-impose restrictions on what the reality is. how much money and time they spend, but that

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O

Your phone is a casino.

Now what? Here’s your user’s guide to Michigan’s great mobile gambling boom.

BY STEVE FRIESS

nce you’ve tried out the many betting apps on the market, you realize that there’s a sameness to them that makes the exercise redundant. Most of them have a wide variety of slot and video table games in the casino, and most offer wagering for a long list of sports, including for overseas leagues you’ve never heard of.

The distinctions that led to the rankings you find here, then, are a subjective assessment about useability, look, and social responsibility. There’s no rubric or scoring; this is just how they made me, as a veteran sports bettor, poker player, and casino afficionado, feel.

One note: BetRivers is not included here because as of early April, its app was exclusively for Android devices. That may seem unfair, but I’m baffled as to why BetRivers, which has iPhone betting apps for other states, wouldn’t have been as ready as all these other entities when Michigan turned on the spigot.

Anyhow, here are three quick tips that might help as you venture into this world: • Turn off all the push and email notifications. You don’t need them. You can decide when you want to play and on what you want to bet without all that temptation and pressure. In many cases, you give the app permission to bombard you with messages when you check a list of boxes as you sign up that also include attesting to being over 21 and physically in Michigan, so it may seem like you have to agree to all the texts and emails to sign up. You don’t. I skipped that every time and still set up my account.

• While this roundup focuses on how the mobile apps work and handle, it is easier to do the sign-up on a proper computer than on a phone because there’s a bit of typing that makes a real keyboard your friend. It also makes it easier to open another browser page and look up what the casino’s current promotional offerings and codes are. They tend to change frequently.

• That said, it may be best to ignore the gazillion special offers coming at you and settle on one or two apps you find pleasing to look at and navigate. No matter how attractive the offers are, you can rest assured the casinos are probably not giving you anything out of the goodness of their hearts. Most offers are much more complicated than they seem; one $10 free slot play offer I saw actually meant I got the $10 only after I played $500 but figuring that out took a great deal of digging around in the fine print.

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From BEST to WORST:

1

FOX BET/ POKERSTARS Michigan partner: Odawa Online Minimum deposit: $10 Minimum withdrawal: $1 What’s good: For about two months, PokerStars was the only legal online poker site in Michigan, and its integration with FOX Bet is mostly lovely and seamless.

Deposit in either the FOX Bet or the PokerStars app and you can access the money from both. The efforts to remind people about “responsible gambling” are more aggressive than in any other app; every time you log off or on, you’re offered the number for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Problem Gambling hotline.

What’s more, in the desktop version of PokerStars, there is a link appearing on every poker table that takes you to phone numbers and live online chats from both the National Council on Problem Gambling and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

What’s not: The FOX Bet casino is more limited than others, with no video poker options. Also — and this is not FOX Bet’s fault — as of spring 2021, players in Michigan can only play live poker with one another online, although the Michigan Gaming Control

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Board is working to create compacts with other states where online poker is legal, including Pennsylvania, Nevada, and New Jersey.

There also is a glitch where you cannot get to the sportsbook from a poker game without logging out of the poker game/area, which means you can’t place sports bets without leaving your poker games. And, finally, the app asked me to agree to push notifications, and evidently saying “no” once — or six times — isn’t enough. It still keeps asking.

2 POINTSBET Michigan partner: Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Minimum deposit: $5 Minimum withdrawal: $5 What’s good: This is just a sportsbook, at least for now, and I like it that way. No casino games, no poker, no cacophony of distractions — just straight-up sports wagering. The app is very user-friendly for easy deposits, withdrawals, and wagers. It’s also just not as fussy as most of the others — no efforts to send a barrage of push notifications or texts or a whole lot of emails — and it boasts a fun feature where users can suggest prop bets. That’s how I came to put $5 on either Gonzaga or University of Michigan to

win March Madness for a big $12.50 payout. By the time you read this, we’ll know if I hit it big on that one.

What’s not: It’s a personal preference thing, but the advertising campaign with the evidently trademarked “make it rain” cliché just grates on me — and is unavoidable. They also could make the responsible gaming information easier to find. Also, unlike all but one other app, PointsBet does not provide an option to log in using your fingerprint — at least on iOS devices, so you’ll be typing in your password every freaking time you stop by.

3 BETMGM Michigan partner: For sportsbook and casino, MGM Grand Detroit so, really, none. For poker, partypoker.

Minimum deposit: $10 Minimum withdrawal: $10 What’s good: This app is cleanly designed and comes with the most trusted name in all of casino gambling.

MGM Resorts International owns most of the Las Vegas Strip in addition to its properties in Detroit, the Washington, D.C., area, and Atlantic City, so racking up points in its MLife loyalty program by using the app may be worthwhile. The app has all the cool frills —

almost-up-to-the-second animation of in-progress sporting events, options on some bets to cash out before the game is over to either accept a smaller payout or hedge your losses, fun prop bets. In the early going, the app made finding both problem gambling information and the funds withdrawal difficult to find, but they’ve remedied that; the problem gambling hotline now comes at you whenever you log out.

What’s not: The poker offering is a major disappointment, at least in the early going. At the launch in late March, there were hardly any players.

That might have been remedied if they’d put some marketing muscle behind that part sooner. In a race between this and the FOX Bet/PokerStars offering, BetMGM’s functionality of game play — when you can find enough people to play against — is just underwhelming. On mobile, you cannot choose to fold to any bet, interact with other players beyond a preset array of phrases and emojis or even — and this is so baffling I was sure I was doing something wrong — play on landscape orientation. There also is no bridge between the poker app and the casino/ sportsbook app, although you do see and can spend your balance from either.

Finally, there’s an option to share your sports bets with friends — basically

it generates a link that’s supposed to show whoever you send it to what you’ve wagered on — but when I tried it, the links either expired very quickly or took you to pages where it was unclear what I was trying to show my friends.

4 DRAFTKINGS Michigan partner: Bay Mills Resort & Casinos Minimum deposit: $5 Minimum withdrawal: $1 via PayPal, $15 via check What’s good: This is a great option for low-stakes players. In the sportsbook, for instance, you can bet as little as 10 cents. Since DraftKings started out as a fantasy betting site, it makes sense that it allows for folks to create their own leagues in the app. Also, there’s some hometown pride, perhaps, in the fact that the site has a partnership with the Detroit Pistons, although it’s unclear how or whether that fact has any benefit to Michigan customers.

What’s not: The app is very cluttered, confusing to navigate, and extraordinarily eager to point you to its blackjack games with ubiquitous, often oddly placed links.

Also, the responsible gaming messaging is fairly invisible; where the problem gambling helpline phone

number appears, it’s not hot-linked, so you have to write it down and dial it yourself, which seems unnecessary given you’re already on your phone.

5 BARSTOOL SPORTSBOOK & CASINO Michigan partner: Greektown Casino Minimum deposit: $10 Minimum withdrawal: $10 What’s good: This is a pleasant-looking app that’s easily navigable and allows sports bets as small as 10 cents. And Barstool takes responsible gaming seriously; after a half-hour playing video poker, the app alerted me to the amount of time I’d spent logged in and how much I’d wagered — along with a hot-linked phone number to call for help. Also, because Barstool is related to the popular sports website, fans may find it fun to make wagers in the section where you can “bet with” various Barstool personalities — as in, put your money on some bet they’ve also allegedly placed but with enhanced payouts.

What’s not: On Super Bowl Sunday, the deposit process failed. Money put in via PayPal and ACH did not appear until the next day even as the PayPal one was immediately deducted.

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A customer service guy named “Fred” via online chat answered my question about the delay by popping in to say he was “aware of the issue” but vanished before I could ask anything else. The deposits did go through by the next morning, which, of course, was too late for the bets I’d hoped to place. I tried the app two months later during March Madness only to find it refused to let me place a bet on grounds I didn’t have enough money. Yet my balance on the same screen showed otherwise.

6 FANDUEL Michigan partner: Motor City Casino Minimum Deposit: $5 Minimum Withdrawal: $1 What’s good: The app is tied into the MotorCity Casino Rewards program, so locals who have a fidelity to that resort can build up their loyalty credits online, too. The responsible gaming section is rare in that it provides numbers for both a suicide prevention hotline and Gamblers Anonymous.

There’s also a link to a live chat function with a counselor from the National Council for Problem Gaming. (That chat function is not optimized for mobile devices, but that’s not FanDuel’s fault.)

What’s not: FanDuel is a bit… needy? I hadn’t been on for more than a minute before it started pestering me to rate it in the Apple Store.

And, oddly, given that the company’s origins in fantasy sports are the same as DraftKings’, the app doesn’t seem to have any of the capabilities to create fantasy leagues or partake in them. If it’s there and I couldn’t find it, shame on them.

7 TWINSPIRES Michigan partner: The Hannahville Indian Community of the Potawatomi Minimum deposit: $10 Minimum withdrawal: $10 What’s good: This app is fine. Serviceable. Does all the things the others do. And it’s kinda cool that you can bet on professional ping pong if that’s a thing you like.

What’s not: It is stupidly easy to accidentally create an account on and deposit money with TwinSpires’ horse-racing app before realizing that it’s not the same as the sportsbook and casino. The customer service folks were great about fixing it — they’re mailing me a check to defund my horse-betting account after admitting to me this happens a lot — but TwinSpires needs to learn from the FOX Bet/

PokerStars arrangement and make the two apps operate seamlessly. Finally, it should be noted that unlike most of the others, this app views itself as a casinogames app first and makes it surprisingly difficult to find the sportsbook.

8 WILLIAM HILL Michigan partner: Turtle Creek Band of Chippewa Minimum deposit: $20 Minimum withdrawal: $20 What’s good: William Hill is a longtime sportsbook provider for hundreds of brick-and-mortar casinos across several states, so the sportsbook odds are a pretty good barometer of how a critical mass of bettors are wagering.

What’s not: This thing was super glitchy. It froze while I was making my first deposit, so after waiting a bit I clicked two more times. Turned out, that meant I had made my deposit three times. When I went to the online chat to complain, the queue was so long I would’ve missed the chance to place bets on the games I wanted.

What’s more, the promotion advertised on the front of the site for new players brought me to a screen that said the offer was “no longer active.”

Not good. Oh, and I can’t understand why anyone would use this app with its

Michigan-high minimum deposit and withdrawal requirements when they can place the same bets on sites that are happier to give you back your money at more reasonable thresholds.

9 GOLDEN NUGGET Michigan partner: Ojibwa Casino & the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Minimum deposit: $10 Minimum withdrawal: $10 What’s good: This app takes responsible gambling seriously, with a more prominent and easy-tounderstand option for “cooling off” — which is to say, self-selecting to be locked out for a period between three and 30 days.

What’s not: The array of sports to bet on seems more limited than other apps, and there’s no video poker in the casino. Also, there’s no Touch ID for passwords or any way for the app to even remember your email address, so you’ll be typing both in every time. But here’s the big problem: Remember my complaint about how confusing all the promotions and bonuses are? Well, Golden Nugget gave me $30 in bonus “money” when I deposited $10. I played some video blackjack and started out losing a bit but then went on

a good run. When I stepped out of the game, I found I had no “real” money left, but I was up to $40 in bonus “money.” Then, when I went to the section of the app where it should explain how that bonus stuff works, I hit a message that the page I was looking for “does not exist.”

The live chat was equally useless; I gave up on that after about 15 minutes of waiting for a representative.

10 WYNNBET Michigan partner: Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of the Chippewa Indians Minimum Deposit: $10 Minimum Withdrawal: $10 What’s good: Almost nothing. If you’re a fan of the Wynn casinos — and the ones in Vegas and Macau are best-in-class to be sure — you’ll like some of the familiar design elements.

Otherwise, the only surprise is that a brand known for upscale elegance is willing to let you bet as little as a penny on video slots and as little as a dime for a hand of video blackjack. Oh, and you can bet on women’s college basketball, which is unusual.

What’s not: This thing is a hot mess, which, come to think of it, the brick-andmortar casinos’ websites also were when they launched way back when. The deposit and withdrawal methods are

more limited — no PayPal, no American Express — and the app’s customer service folks redirect everyone with problems with deposits or withdrawals to a third-party entity. In my case, the system they use to connect to bank accounts refused to accept my driver’s license number and banking information for set up, and when I asked why, I was told to contact “VIP Preferred,” the financial transaction provider. This is idiotic, confusing, and cumbersome. If I have trouble on your app and there’s a support button, whoever comes on when I push it should be able to resolve my issue. What’s more, once you’re in the support chat, you cannot leave and return to the app without shutting the app down and coming back in.

Seriously. I tried this several times. Dead end. And, finally, the responsible gaming information is extremely hard to find; it hides at the bottom of a scroll-down “my account” menu. Oh, it’s also at the bottom of the logout message — just below the more prominent question: “Logged out by mistake?” No other app is so sleazy about trying to keep you from leaving.

(Disclosure: I own Wynn stock in my IRA. Nonetheless, I hate this app.)

Disclaimer: Some apps have been making adjustments since they debuted this winter. All details found in this ranking reflect what we found when we used them in February and March.

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05.21 ARTS, CULTURE, AND OTHER THINGS TO DO

Agenda R EC RE AT ION

CLIMB THE WALLS Learn the ropes or hone your skills at Dyno Detroit, the city’s new indoor climbing gym

C U LT U R E CA L E N DA R p. 50 A RT S p. 51 E XH I B I T S p. 52 R E C R E AT I O N p. 53

p. 53

CLIMBING JOSH SCOTT

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Agenda

MAY 2021

Culture Calendar

Our carefully curated guide to the month in arts and entertainment

Miss Grit, aka Margaret Sohn, quitely released her impressive, guitar-heavy debut EP, Impostor.

BY RYA N PATRICK HOOP E R

Full of heartache and humor, D.L. Rossi’s new album, Lonesome Kind, explores new territory in the realm of alt-country.

LOCAL MUSIC

D.L. Rossi Returns Home

LIVE MUSIC

Outdoor Venue Debuts in Downtown What a bag of mixed emotions to be writing about the return of live music to downtown Detroit. A new socially distanced outdoor venue is set to debut just steps from the former site of Joe Louis Arena and the Detroit Riverfront. It’s called Riverside Station (701 W. Jefferson Ave.) and is being booked by the folks behind The Crofoot music venue in Pontiac, who have long booked music throughout the state. If you attend, you’ll be watching from a pod of four to six of your friends and using an app to order everything from beer to merch. The music announced so far has been eclectic — the indie-rock of Mt. Joy and the homegrown

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talent of Michigander; the heady jam band vibes of Umphrey’s McGee; even the heavybass electronic music of Subtronics. Expect more shows from national touring artists to be announced throughout the summer.

For info, visit thecrofoot.com.

From the artwork to the music itself, there’s a lot to love when it comes to D.L. Rossi’s new record, Lonesome Kind, which he released independently last month. Originally from Sterling Heights, Rossi headed down to Nashville for three years, where his brother Nolan has a recording studio. That’s where his second full-length effort came to fruition last May. Many of the songs began as acoustic versions before his studio mates fleshed them out into full-

fledged alt-country jams that will resonate with fans of Band of Horses and Jason Isbell.

There’s a lot of heartbreak, which manages to be both humorous and oddly specific (“I’ve got a drink in my hand / the boys are in town from Michigan / and I’m not thinking about you,” from the song “Don’t Wait Up”). What makes Rossi stand out is the range of sonic flourishes and grooves he finds while exploring this tried-and-true genre.

Find Lonesome Kind on iTunes, Bandcamp, Spotify, and other streaming services.

This colorful creation by fifthgrader Morgan Covington is part of the DIA's 84th exhibition of works by Detroit Public Schools Community District students.

ART

Students Shine at the DIA

For the past 84 years, the Detroit Institute of Arts has hosted an annual student exhibition with Detroit Public Schools. It’s the DIA’s longest-running partnership with an educational organization. Back this year as a virtual affair, the exhibition will highlight works from students in kindergarten through 12th grade. This is a wide-ranging multimedia artistic window into the aesthetic influences that are resonating in the minds of tomorrow’s artists and non-artists alike. The show will feature a video of 232 artworks photographed by teachers who submitted their students’ work digitally for the first time this year. Interviews with the student artists add a wonderful dimension to this highly anticipated annual tradition at the DIA. On display now through May 30. View it virtually at dia.org.

Ryan Patrick Hooper is the host of CultureShift on 101.9 WDET Detroit’s NPR station (weekdays from noon to 2 p.m.).

On My Playlist Looking for something new to cue up? I’ve been listening obsessively lately to two Mitten State musicians you really should check out.

Madelyn Grant’s new EP, Purpose, is one of the strongest debuts I’ve ever heard — a must-listen for anyone still chasing that neo-soul sound of the late 1990s, but with plenty of contemporary updates. The title track is a gorgeous introduction to Grant’s sound. Her vocal melodies on the verses are sneaky earworms that you won’t be able to shake until you pass them along to someone else (that’s a scientifically proven fact).

Another impressive debut comes from Miss Grit, who quietly released her debut EP, Impostor, earlier this year. Miss Grit is the stage name of Margaret Sohn, who grew up in the metro Detroit suburbs before moving to New York. There are massive guitar sounds on this record that will please fans of St. Vincent and the Breeders. The title track is a standout, perfectly summing up Miss Grit’s musical mission statement — big guitars filtered through pedals that make them sound enormous while leaving some space for a deliciously fuzzy pop song to shine through.

I can’t wait to hear more from these talented young artists who are marking their mark on the music world. —RPH Madelyn Grant’s EP Purpose and Miss Grit’s Impostor are available via iTunes, Bandcamp, Spotify, and wherever else you listen to music.

D.L. ROSSI COURTESY OF THE D.L. ROSSI ARTWORK COURTESY OF THE DIA MISS GRIT NATASHA WILSON

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ARTS

WHERE KINGSTON MEETS MOTOWN With No Gyal Can Test, Akeem Smith explores the impact of Black women on Jamaica’s ‘ghetto fabulous’ dancehall scene — and here in Detroit

BY CHRIST OPHE R P ORTER

AKEEM SMITH, INSTALLATION COURTESY OF AKEEM SMITH AND RED BULL ARTS

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AKEEM SMITH: No Gyal Can Test is a ghost dance.

This multimedia exhibition at Red Bull Arts Detroit explores the fashion, music, and surroundings of 1980s/1990s street dances in Kingston, Jamaica, through archival photos and VHS videos of dancehall reggae events along with custom, impressionistic mannequins and architectural sculptures built from demolished materials gathered in the city.

It looks like you’re walking through the remnants of a long-ago party whose remains include color-washed grainy video, dilapidated buildings, and forgotten fashions. But these are specters of celebration, wraiths of youth, and creativity, not broken-down spirits.

Perhaps the closest Detroit analogs to a Kingston street dance from the same era would be a techno show at an abandoned warehouse or beat-up club, or perhaps the TV program The New Dance Show — despite being in less-than-fancy environments, they’re situations where people got dressed all the way up to boogie all the way down. In both Detroit and Jamaica, women especially helped define the aesthetics of these music scenes.

“With the visual aesthetics there are a lot of style parallels with women in Detroit,” says Smith, who lives in Brooklyn but was raised between New York

City and Jamaica. “Detroit and Jamaica have a lot of Eurocentric beauty ideals but they’re very sitespecifically Black.”

No Gyal Can Test shows these Black women owning the street dances through their sexuality and what Smith calls the “ghetto fabulous” look, featuring fancy hairdos and loud, tight, revealing clothes, often designed or modified by the dancers — or even members of his own family who founded the Ouch Crew fashion collective, whose designs were worn by dancehall reggae stars Lady Akeem Smith (below) recreates Saw and Beenie Man. the experience of Smith, who is primarily the 1990s dancehall known as a stylist and scene with the installation No Gyal fashion designer, makes the Can Test, Jamaican leap to installation artist with patois for “no girl is ease: For No Gyal Can Test, better than me.”

Smith has basically dressed a throwback Kingston street scene from the time when he was born in 1991.

Like Detroit, Kingston has suffered economically for decades, and the infrastructure in both places has been hit hard. But in the midst of all that neglect, these majority Black cities have continued to produce culture that influences the world. Like the workingclass mods in 1960s England who dressed in sharp suits that belied their economic status, many patrons at ’90s dancehall parties dressed up in extravagant, colorful fashions that conveyed a distinctly uptown outlook through a Black perspective.

“With people of color, we’re obsessed with upward mobility and, for the most part, constantly trying to exponentially grow our economic status,” Smith says.

Despite dancehall reggae being dominated by male artists, No Gyal Can Test displays how the female dancers and creatives in the scene were “the nucleus of the whole thing. This is what really gives the energy to the music,” Smith says. The exhibition’s title is Jamaican patois for “no girl is better than me,” and the phrase “no gyal can test” was a brag written on the back of a photograph from a female admirer that Smith found among his father’s belongings.

While the Detroit area doesn’t have a large Caribbean community like New York City, where No Gyal Can Test made its debut last year, that suits Smith just fine. “The show isn’t just for Caribbean people to come and see themselves,” he says. “The show is more about the visual aesthetics of people of the Caribbean. The show has a theme of memory and joy. The women act as my reliquaries.”

Through July 30 at Red Bull Arts Detroit, 1551 Winder St., redbullarts.com M AY 2 0 2 1

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Agenda

Richard Hunt (left), Jim Henson (center), and Frank Oz (right) perform Ernie and Bert, on the set of Sesame Street in the ’70s.

Walk With Giants Dino Stroll brings T. rex et al. to ‘life’

BY EMMA K LUG  Jim Henson sits with his iconic creation Kermit the Frog in front of a Muppet mural by Coulter Watt.

EXHIBITS

PUPPET MASTERY Here are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 fun facts about Jim Henson and his beloved Muppets

BY ASHLEY ZLATOPOLSKY

THE HENRY FORD IS home to George Washington’s camp bed and Abraham Lincoln’s rocking chair, and soon the Dearborn museum will welcome yet another great American treasure — the original Kermit the Frog.

This June, the museum will debut a new traveling exhibition honoring Kermit and his fellow Muppets and their genius creator, Jim Henson. The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited opens June 5 and will remain on display through Sept. 6. As a variation of the ongoing The Jim Henson Exhibition at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, New York, the traveling version will capture how Henson and a group of builders, performers, and

When Henson entered college in the 1950s, he initially considered majoring in fine arts. But then he found a puppetry class in the home economics course list. “Despite the fact that most of the students majoring in home economics were females learning domestic skills … he decided that would be his major,” Braden says.

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Henson never planned on making a name for himself in puppetry.

“He considered it merely a way of getting started in television,” Braden says. “He started performing on TV while still in college [at the University of Maryland], a twicenightly five-minute show called Sam and Friends.”

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“By stretching the known capabilities of both puppetry and the medium of television, he created a new art form.”

—DONNA BRADEN

Henson’s first rough version of Kermit was made from a turquoise coat his mother was getting rid of. “A dissected pingpong ball was used for the eyes,” Braden says.

“At the time, Kermit was just an abstract lizardtype-creature. But over the years, Henson ‘frogified’ him with a collar, a green color, and webbed feet.”

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writers brought the classic and beloved story of the Muppets to life.

“The exhibition features a broad range of amazing artifacts related to Henson’s career, including more than 20 puppets, character sketches, storyboards, scripts, photographs, film and television clips, behind-the-scenes footage, and iconic costumes,” says Donna Braden, the Henry Ford’s senior curator and curator of public life.

Braden, who first saw the exhibition in New York City a few years back, worked to bring the same experience to metro Detroit. “A brilliant innovator, [Henson] continually questioned the status quo, broke boundaries, and experimented with new ideas. By stretching the known capabilities of both puppetry and the medium of television, he created a new art form.”

The exhibition will explore the full range of Henson’s storied work, including his work on Sesame Street and The Dark Crystal.

Before you visit The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited, check out these five fun facts that you might not know about the Muppets and their creator.

During The Muppet Show’s six-year run, no celebrity guest was allowed to appear more than once. “Guest stars on The Muppet Show could request to appear in a scene with their favorite Muppet,” Braden says.

“Miss Piggy was the most frequently requested, with Animal a close second.”

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“The Rainbow Connection,” a song sung by Kermit in 1979’s The Muppet Movie, reached No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and stayed in the Top 40 for seven weeks. The scene that features the song — Kermit sings it on a log in a swamp — required Henson to crouch inside a custommade diving bell submerged under water.

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Humans have long fantasized about living among dinosaurs, but short of time travel — or ill-advised DNA experimentation — the people-dino thing just isn’t meant to be.

That’s probably for the best. Anyone who’s seen Jurassic Park knows it’s a lot safer to use your imagination. This spring, Canterbury Village in Lake Orion will offer a chance to do just that with Dino Stroll, a familyfriendly experience that lets guests come face to face with nearly 75 lifelike prehistoric creatures.

Dino Stroll will feature animatronic reptiles and dinosaurs, some of which are over 25 feet tall and 60 feet long. The dinos — including, of course, Tyrannosaurus rex and velociraptors — will come to life with head and breathing movements, blinking, and other interactive features.

The outdoor attraction, running May 20 to 23 and 28 to 31, will give guests the chance to learn more about skeletons, fossils, and dinosaur eggs. All net proceeds on opening day will benefit Jay’s Juniors.

Founded by local radio host Jay Towers, the nonprofit supports chronically and terminally ill children.

Tickets are available online and at Canterbury Village. Admission is $10 (free for active military, veterans, and children under 2).

Parking is $5. Timed tickets for limitedcapacity sessions will be offered, and face masks are required.

For more information, visit dinostroll.com.

KERMIT COURTESY OF THE JIM HENSON COMPANY/MOMI ON SET COURTESY OF SESAME WORKSHOP/MOMI

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Agenda

RECREATION

MICHIGAN ASCENT

With purple walls and challenges for all levels, Dyno Detroit brings indoor climbing to the city

BY MARK SPEZIA | PHOTO BY JOSH SCOTT

MID -MARCH FOUND Dino Ruggeri marveling at how his five-year vision to bring an indoor climbing gym to Detroit was on the cusp of becoming a reality.

What was once an empty 5-acre parcel at the corner of Mack Avenue and Orleans Street near the Dequindre Cut is now home to Dyno Detroit, an 18,000-square-foot climbing gym, fitness center, and yoga studio. Both Wayne State and the YMCA on Broadway Street offer climbing walls, but Dyno Detroit is the city’s only gym dedicated to the sport.

“We’re super pumped to provide greater access and opportunity for people of all backgrounds to experience the thrill of climbing and the fitness lifestyle and sense of community that comes with it,” says Ruggeri, the gym’s founder and owner. “I see climbing as an incredible level playing field with something for all skill levels, body types, and fitness levels.”

Dyno Detroit opened in early April with limited access and a plan to open to the general public at a later date. Online reservations will be required as long as state COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect.

About 12,000 square feet of the space is dedicated to rope climbing, featuring 75 routes on walls ranging from 30 and 47 feet high. There’s also 4,700 square feet of bouldering space for those who want to go rope-less. “I always recommend rope climbing for beginners because they can start on less-challenging routes with a trained person assisting them,” Ruggeri says.

Dyno Detroit instructors are trained by American Mountain Guide Association member Kevin Shon, who has guided for the famed American Alpine Institute and taught at Eastern Mountain Sports Climbing School in New Hampshire.

The gym’s climbing structures were designed by Jason Kehl, the 2006 winner of the Everest Award for climbing. He gained fame through his first ascents (or first bouldering ascents) of climbing routes in places like British Columbia and Japan.

“Jason is a giant in the industry and put a lot of thought into every angle and panel,” Ruggeri says.

A lifelong athlete, Ruggeri grew up snowboarding and lettered in hockey at Grosse Pointe North High —DINO RUGGERI School. He fell in love with climbing when he was a senior at the

About Dyno Detroit

 “Not many gyms are purple,” owner Dino Ruggeri says of the unique look he chose for Dyno Detroit.

“I see climbing as an incredible level playing field with something for all skill levels, body types, and fitness levels.”

University of Michigan after friends invited him to go climbing at Planet Rock.

After graduating with an environmental studies degree in 2011, Ruggeri served as a children’s ski instructor in Telluride, Colorado. He moved back to Michigan in 2016 to be closer to family. Two years later he began working to create a climbing gym.

“One day, a friend asked if there was any indoor climbing in the city of Detroit and I’m like, ‘There is none.’ It began as simply as that,” he says. “I immediately wanted to make that happen.”

But the process of making it happen wasn’t immediate. Ruggeri first found space in an old church in the Jefferson-Chalmers area, but he wasn’t able to negotiate a deal. Then he inquired about an old freezer building in the Eastern Market area, but it ended up being leased out to, logically, the Michigan Farm to Freezer produce company.

That same landowner also owned a vacant lot next to that building and offered part of it to Ruggeri.

Three years ago, Dyno Detroit broke ground.

“We just kept plugging away and are fortunate to have a great building contractor, great investors, and a forward-thinking landowner who stuck with us,” Ruggeri says. “It’s been more than worth it.”

Location: 3500 Orleans St., Detroit Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Saturday, and 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday.

Getting in: Online reservations are required.

Pricing: Recurring monthly memberships are $79 for adults and $69 for students in addition to a $50 enrollment fee. Recurring family memberships are $79 for the first adult, $59 for the second, and $25 for each child under 18.

Annual memberships are $869 for adults and $759 for students. Family annual memberships are $859 for the first adult, $649 for the second, and $275 for each child $175 for anyone 15 and older and $120 for those under 15.

Facilities: About 12,000 square feet of ropeclimbing space and 4,700 square feet for bouldering (climbing without ropes); a 2,000-square-foot fitness center open to anyone 14 and older; and yoga studio. A 2,000-square-foot restaurant attached to the main building will open later this year.

Info: dynodetroit.com or 313-444-0161

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05.21 AN EPICUREAN’S GUIDE TO THE REGION’S DINING SCENE

Food&Drink TAC O TO U R p. 56 R E STAU R A N T R E P O RT p. 57 G R E AT TA ST E p. 60 R E TA I L p. 61

RE S TAURANT RE P ORT

FARM TO WATERFRONT The much-anticipated Coriander Kitchen and Farm brings a fresh-casual concept to Jefferson Chalmers p. 57

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Serena Maria Daniels reveres Jose’s Tacos for its variety of offerings.

The Crispy Beef Taco topped with cilantro and onion is a diner favorite.

“The great thing about the menu at Jose’s Tacos ... is that it offers a little bit of everything. ” —SERENA MARIA DANIELS

Loncheria El Parian

With taco trucks scattered across Southwest Detroit and its flagship brickand-mortar La Palapa del Parian situated on Lawndale, this booming local taco empire is beloved by Detroiters of all types. Its specialty?

Tacos al pastor. Drawing from the Lebanese tradition of shawarma, the taco al pastor uses pork that’s marinated in sweet pineapple juice and various spicy chili peppers and cooked on a spit (trompo, in Spanish), and stuffs it all into soft corn tortillas.

Make sure to order several at a time. La Palapa del Parian, 1633 Lawndale St., Detroit; 313-749-7143

TACO TOUR

Small Shops, Big Flavors

Chicana journalist and founder of Tostada Magazine Serena Maria Daniels rounds up five local taquerias that give a national giant a run for its money

BY SER ENA MA R I A DA NI EL S

| PH O T O BY G ER A R D + BEL EVE N D ER

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A good chunk of the Mexican community in Detroit hail from Jalisco, which sits on the western side of the country along the Pacific Ocean. What does this mean for local taco lovers? The state’s specialty, birria (a goat or beef dish stewed in a fiery consommé) from the rural highlands, and a wealth of seafood dishes are aplenty. La Terraza has made a name for itself with its coastal classics, such as tostadas topped with citrusy shrimp, octopus, or white fish, but its quesabirria is a true homage to Jalisciense culture. It’s made up of a corn tortilla griddled with tender birria and cheese.

Add a side of that savory, fatty consommé for dipping and you’re in for a treat. La Terraza, 8445 W. Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-843-1433; laterraza. shopsouthwestdetroit.com

Jose’s Tacos

The great thing about the menu at Jose’s Tacos, which recently opened a location in Eastern Market, is that it offers a little bit of everything.

Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy Del Taco-style taco with ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and tomato tacos dorados — with freshly fried corn or flour tortillas — or a soft taco filled with chorizo, cilantro, and onion, Jose’s is a crowd-pleaser for any preference. Jose’s Tacos, 2510 Market St., Detroit; 313-638-1782

La Jalisciense Supermercado y Taqueria

This supermarket and restaurant will cover all of your bases: fresh produce, a fully stocked butcher’s counter, and pantry basics as well as an impressive dining area. Highly recommended are the carnitas tacos. Carnitas is composed of slowcooked pork that, once roasted, is shredded and fried, giving it a bit of a crispy, charred effect.

Not every restaurant in Detroit offers carnitas — it’s a bit of a specialty given the amount of time needed to prepare the dish. La Jalisciense is an expert in the genre, making carnitas fresh several days a week.

It’s available both in the dining section and in the grocery store, so you can enjoy it at home however you like. Try it as a taco, burrito, torta, or on its own. La Jalisciense Supermercado y Taqueria, 3923 Vernor Hwy., Detroit, 313-551-0522

La Terraza

Taqueria El Rey PANDEMIC TIMES HAVE FORCED ALL OF us to seek the little joys in life, and tacos seem to be a source of great comfort. According to a recent survey by the global marketing agency TOP, American taco consumption has risen nearly 13 percent during the crisis. Michiganders, the study shows, rate Del Taco as the No. 1 chain for a taco in the state. Now don’t get me wrong, I’ve spent many a late night in the Del Taco drive-thru line to get my fix of crunchy, cheesy American taco goodness, but if I’m being real, I would much rather hit up a local, Mexican-owned taqueria whenever I’m having a craving for tacos. Luckily, there is no shortage of taco spots in Detroit where one can discover many of the taco’s regional differences.

Come for the chicken, stay for the tacos. This takeout-friendly eatery is cash-only and especially known for its smoky grilled chicken and ribs.

You can easily make your own chicken tacos when you order the half or whole chicken dinner with charro beans, rice, and tortillas, but the taco menu is worthy of praise on its own.

While just about every taqueria offers carne asada (steak), chicken, and chorizo, this place also offers lengua (beef tongue), cabeza (steamed beef head), and buche (tripe) — all considered delicacies in Mexican food culture.

Taqueria El Rey, 4730 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-357-3094

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Food&Drink

 The Grass Fed Cheeseburger at Coriander Kitchen and Farm features char-grilled beef sourced from Marrow.

R E STAU R A N T R E P O RT

Food, Farming, and Hard Lessons

What happens when a farmer and a chef join forces to open a restaurant? Magic.

BY LY NDSAY G R EEN | PH OT OS BY R EBECCA SI MO NOV

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 (Clockwise from top left) One of two salads on the menu, the Romaine + Kale Caesar can be enjoyed with flatbread, rice pilaf, or extra greens; Calm waters set a serene outdoor dining experience at Coriander Kitchen and Farm; From vegetables to herbs to grains, dishes are balanced with whole ingredients; Cocktails at Coriander get only the finest garnishments, too!

“WE DRAGGED OUR FEET about opening a restaurant,” says Gwen Meyer, a farmer and co-owner of Coriander Kitchen and Farm. Since 2014, Meyer and her business partner, Chef Allison Heeres, had run a catering business that served imaginative dishes using fresh ingredients sourced from their Eastern Market-adjacent farmland.

Their produce landed on the menus of some of Detroit’s most popular restaurants — bright green tomatoes reincarnated as crispy slivers coated in tempura breading and served with a pistachio-dilly bean chutney at Marrow; fuchsia radish rounds atop bowls of warm Le Puy green lentil soup at Warda Pâtisserie. But the idea of opening their own eatery was daunting.

“It’s so much work and there are so many risks involved,” Meyer says.

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“I did the numbers on restaurants and it seemed like a terrible idea,” Heeres laughs in agreement.

Still, the duo’s interest in filling a void in the market for “good food grown locally” at an affordable price point in Detroit soon outweighed their concerns.

And as it turns out, Meyer and Heeres never shy away from hard work.

This winter, Coriander Kitchen and Farm opened its doors — well, its patio. For the health and safety of their employees during the ongoing pandemic, Meyer and Heeres have opted to limit service to outdoor dining. The restaurant shares a building with Detroit River Sports, a business owned by Meyer’s husband, Alex Howbert, at Fisherman’s Marina in Jefferson-Chalmers. “My husband had a vision of food being at the marina, and upon really getting to know Allison’s food, I knew Coriander would be so good there,” Meyer says. Since 2016, she and Heeres have collaborated with Detroit River Sports with Paddle to Table, a ticketed event series that guides participants through the canals of Detroit’s east side by kayak and paddleboard, and ends with a waterside meal prepared by Heeres.

Now, walk-ins are welcome to experience the fullservice restaurant on weekends.

On cool evenings, guests can rent personal fire pits and roast housemade marshmallows to make s’mores, or sip mugs of Hot Buttered Rum made with a blend of dark rum, brown sugar, and cinnamon and topped with a dollop of unsalted butter. By day, grab a picnic table where you can dip hunks of grilled flatbread or gluten-free crackers

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Food&Drink

Allison Heeres (left) and Gwen Meyer treat their sliver of Jefferson Chalmers with care.

“We have to respect the spaces we’re in,” Meyer says.

into a creamy fish dip made with smoked white fish and lake trout and seasoned with herbs and pickles yanked from the farm. On balmy days, the Goose Snow Cone is a nostalgic take on an of-age treat, combining rye whiskey and vermouth with a pickled gooseberry puree.

The vision of the dining experience at Coriander Kitchen and Farm is nothing short of magical.

Beside still waters and lush parks, farm-fresh ingredients filling your belly, it’s easy to forget you’re in a bustling neighborhood in the city. “It’s impossible not to fall in love with the space,” Heeres says. “Before we opened, we were constantly torn between wanting people to experience it and also loving that it was our own quiet place for a number of years.” But under the surface, the challenges of creating the urban oasis abounded.

The duo’s instinct that opening a restaurant would be an arduous task proved prescient. Coriander has been among Detroit’s most anticipated restaurant openings since Meyer and Heeres announced the expansion of the farm and catering business in 2016, and yet consistent setbacks — not limited to a global pandemic —delayed the opening they’d envisioned.

The duo has navigated staffing challenges and the rigorous nature of running a 1-acre farm, while also hosting pop-ups with limited resources (an incident with malfunctioning propane tanks nearly broke Heeres). “Everyone says that it’s going to take way longer than you expect when you’re doing these projects and also that there will be these little pieces that you have to tie up at the end that take forever — you just don’t even know what those little pieces are going to be,” Meyer says.

Last March, when COVID-19 decimated the restaurant industry, the trials continued. Amid the pandemic, Meyer and Heeres lost their only private investor in the business as well as an original contractor, grinding their progress to a halt. As a multihyphenate business — part farm, part catering company, part new restaurant — Coriander experienced the toll of the crisis threefold. “We had to replace the money we lost, and we’d also predicted to have a certain number coming in from our Paddle to Table events and weddings that were booked, which disappeared overnight,” Heeres says.

“At the beginning of COVID, everyone else was talking about being bored at home and trying out new hobbies and we were reinventing this thing we had spent three years planning,” Reinvention meant accommodating deliveries to metro Detroiters interested in meals, produce, or even floral bouquets from the farm. “We weren’t making real money compared to what we’d typically make, but people sent us emails saying, ‘This is the bright spot in my week,’ so it was nice to be able to drop something on people’s doorstep that was delicious and came from someone they trusted,” Heeres says.

“We have a certain amount of synergy and magic to us. You have to have somebody you trust to the end of the earth, which is how I feel about Gwen.”

—ALLISON HEERES

Through their partnership, they prevailed. As the perfect pair, Heeres and Meyer leaned on each other to weather the storms and celebrate small victories along the way. “I think we’re a magical combination,” Heeres says. “We have a certain amount of synergy and magic to us. You have to have somebody you trust to the end of the earth, which is how I feel about Gwen.”

Meyer adds that the community stepped in to support their success as well. “We’re so lucky that

the small business community in Detroit really supports each other,” she says. “The privilege we have in knowing people and nontraditional lenders, we’re so grateful to them.” From grants to loans, the helpful resources locals were able to provide were integral, she says.

“We said, if something wasn’t actually lifting off the ground in five years, we were going to reevaluate, but we did it,” Heeres says. “Even with COVID, we did it.”

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Food&Drink

GREAT TASTE

Among its fresh food and impeccable service, Nneka Julia holds cocktails at Selden Standard in high regard.

High Standards Nneka Julia has traversed the world as a travel writer, photographer, and podcaster. At home in Detroit, she earns her frequent diner miles at Selden Standard.

BY LY NDSAY G R EEN | PH OT O BY JO E VAUGH N

NNEKA JULIA IS A STORY TELLER. At the start of her career, her primary vehicle for bringing viewers along on her journeys to far-flung destinations was a camera.

“Being the daughter of two immigrants — my mother hailing from Cambodia, my father from Nigeria — there was an innate sense of wanderlust and exploration and adventure that they passed

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VISIT HOURDETROIT.COM FOR MORE OF JULIA’S FAVORITE EATERIES IN THE DETROIT AREA.

down to me,” Julia says. “I started off as a photographer and traveled pretty extensively.”

Julia had captured striking photos of school girls crossing the rugged streets of Owerri, a city in Nigeria in the state of Imo, and vivid shots of a conch being pulled out of its shell in the clear waters of Turks and Caicos. Then, she discovered her voice. “I found that some of the photographic work that I was producing wasn’t fully encompassing my experience in these places.” A photo taken of her atop a camel in Marrakesh, Morocco, she says, left out the 20 locals she’d met along the way, as well as the illuminating stories they’d shared and the lessons she’d gleaned from them. So, she turned to a new medium to capture more of her voyages: audio.

In 2018, Julia released the first episode of Passing Through, a podcast that chronicles her travel experiences and the wisdom they impart on her life. Julia’s velvety voice narrates tales of relationship blips in Puerto Rico and lessons of selfforgiveness in Spain. “Travel is so much more than a photograph can convey, and that’s why Passing Through was such a huge turning point in how I document and tell certain stories.” Last May, she invited listeners to share travel stories of their own in a new podcast called The Layover.

Most recently, Julia has taken to a new platform, this time telling the stories of local entrepreneurs as host of Icons of Detroit, a video series presented by web hosting company GoDaddy. “I’m really thankful that they chose Detroit because it’s such a special city powered by really special people,” Julia says.

Julia is a champion of local businesses — local eateries especially — and there’s one hotspot that stands out on her list of culinary haunts in Detroit.

“My husband and I love eating at Selden Standard,” she says. “From the staff to the care, it’s just so consistent and everything tastes like it’s made with love.” Though she hasn’t met a dish she doesn’t enjoy, Julia says the Herbed Flatbread is a must.

“They have this cheese on the side with a bowl of olives and it’s just really, really delicious.

“Whenever I travel, I come back and eat at Selden Standard.”

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Food&Drink

Nothing beats the classics! Pictured: Better Made Snack Foods Original and Barbecue Flavored Potato Chips.

stone-ground tortilla chip made in the heart of Detroit’s Mexicantown.

Try the brand’s addictive Chili-Lime flavor for a snack with a kick. Hacienda Mexican Foods ChiliLime Authentic Tortilla Chips, at grocery stores, haciendadegutierrez.com

Kar’s Nuts

Another snack food staple, Kar’s has deep Detroit roots with its roasted nuts dating as far back as the 1930s. As an homage to its start as a game-day treat at Tiger Stadium, now Comerica Park, Kar’s sponsored the original stadium flagpole and continues to provide its snacks to Tigers players.

Have a sweet-savory energy fix with its Sweet’n Salty Mix, featuring a medley of peanuts, plump raisins, candy-coated chocolate rounds, and sunflower kernels. Kar’s Nuts Sweet’n Salty Mix, at grocery stores, karsnuts.com

Mindo Chocolate Makers

RETAIL

Got the Munchies?

These Michigan-made snacks are made for — well, snacking

BY LY NDSAY G R EEN PH O T O BY G ER A R D + BEL EVEND ER

Better Made Snack Foods

A Detroit icon, Better Made has been churning out savory snacks for nearly a century. Best known for its Wavy and Red Hot BBQ potato chips, the company has also expanded its offerings to include popcorn, pork rinds, cheese puffs, and more. The latest addition to its line of pretzels is the Gourmet Seasoned Pretzel Braids, dusted in a blend of butter, onion, garlic, and

pepper. Better Made Snack Foods Gourmet Seasoned Pretzel Braids, at drugstores and grocery stores, bettermade.com

Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee

Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee prides itself on being handmade, homemade, and Michigan-made — not to mention, family-made. What started as a passion project for former Detroit firefighter Dave Chmielewski has

evolved into a full line of toffees in a range of flavors carried on by Dave’s son Andrew. A fan-favorite is the Maple Bourbon Pecan.

A collaboration between Dave’s and Journeyman Distillery based in Three Oaks, Michigan, the flavor layers Michigan maple sugar, dark chocolate, Journeyman bourbon, and buttery pecans.

Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee Maple Bourbon Pecan, $8, davessweettooth.com

Daily Crunch Snacks

Is it a normal workday if you’re not mindlessly noshing on snacks while crunching numbers and sending emails? If snacking helps keep you focused — or at least you think it does — consider keeping a stash of guilt-free goodies at the ready. True to the brand name, Daily Crunch’s sprouted nuts are a crunchy-but-healthy treat.

Try the Golden Goodness

Named after a small town in Ecuador, Mindo Chocolate Makers creates artisanal chocolate bars made from pure cacao sourced from its namesake. The company operates in both Dexter and Mindo, and its North American and South American influences show up in each of its products.

The 77% Michigan Cherry Bar, for example, pairs rich Ecuadorian cacao with tart cherries harvested from Traverse City and is handcrafted in Dexter.

Mindo Chocolate Makers 77% Michigan Cherry Bar, $8.50, mindochocolate.com

Pop Daddy Popcorn

Sprouted Almonds, coated in antioxidant-rich turmeric and a dash of sea salt. Daily Crunch Golden Goodness Sprouted Almonds, $15 for two 5-oz. bags, dailycrunchsnacks.com

Hacienda Mexican Foods

Tacos may be reserved for Tuesdays, but tortilla chips are an everyday treat. At Hacienda Mexican Foods, the Gutierrez family has perfected the crispy, salty,

Pop Daddy has taken a classic snack item — popcorn — and made it even more alluring with unexpected flavors, such as Hot Sauce and Garlic.

It’s even taken a healthier approach than the standard microwave-style, using pure olive oil rather than salted butter. But the brand’s proudest feature is its use of ruby red kernels, which are lighter on the hull, the cumbersome part that tends to get caught between your teeth as you munch on handfuls of popcorn. Put it to the test with a bag of the Original.

Pop Daddy Original Popcorn, popdaddypopcorn.com for retailers

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TRUSTED ADVISERS Q&A

Rely on the Experts y Help You

Achieve Your Goals

Did your New Year’s plans come to fruition? We’re nearly at the halfway point of 2021, but there’s still time to make your resolutions come true.

Is it your dream to own a home in northern Michigan? A qualified real estate professional can give you valuable guidance and help you find a home in the competitive Up North housing market.

If you planned to redo your kitchen, seek out

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a full-service renovation company where all the experts you need are under one roof. This will save you time, and your remodel will be exactly what you envisioned.

Were you thinking about starting a new business? While the cannabis industry in Michigan is booming, it’s essential to consult with experts who can assist you with the many important aspects involved in the cannabis business.

Perhaps your New Year’s resolution was to open a franchise. The dessert market is expanding quickly. Choosing a company that can provide the resources you need to get started can make it easy to accomplish your sweet dream.

Check out what the following trusted advisers have to say. They’d be happy to share their knowledge and insight. ■

4/5/21 12:11 PM

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TRUSTED ADVISERS Q&A Q:

What are some key things business owners need to consider when thinking about a liquidity event?

A: This is a timely question. Over the past year, the M&A market has evolved and momentum continues to build. After months of waiting on the sidelines, buyer appetite has grown across private equity firms and corporates alike.

Today, financial sponsors have trillions of dollars waiting to be put to work. Corporates are seeking opportunities to gain share as their businesses return to more normalized conditions. The market is as “sellerfriendly” as it’s ever been.

Q:

• Select your internal execution team.

• Identify professional support from trusted advisers.

• Decide upon your ideal transaction (full sale, partnership with equity rollover, minority sale).

you have the benefit of working with one full-service company to take your design vision from a dream to reality. This means there’s one, unified flow of work from initial concept through completion, which reintegrates the roles of designer and contractor.

Using the design-bid-build

approach, design and construction are split: separate contracts, separate work. With a construction company, you’re often working with a salesperson who doesn’t have a degree in interior design or architecture. There’s no showroom, so you’re on your own when it comes to making selections.

At Renovation By Design, you’ll

KeyBank John Ebert john.ebert@keybank.com key.com Advertisement on page 5

This decision is often the most important and challenging in one’s career. As such, it’s never too early to start planning accordingly. In doing so, it’s critical to build a hand-selected team to help lead you through the process.

work with an on-staff designer who will listen to your needs and help you create a finished product you’ll love. They’ll become your pointof-contact person throughout the entire length of your project, and will be accountable for your design, timeline, and managing the overall investment of your project.

Renovation By Design Tom Inger Jon Ropes Owners 2516 S. Adams Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48309 248-260-7639 info@renovationbydesign.org renovationbydesign.org Advertisement on page 77

The cannabis business seems to be booming. How can I cash in on this crop?

A: The cannabis industry in

on licensing, zoning, and building Michigan is experiencing expediential codes for cannabis cultivation and growth, but it’s a very challenging and provisioning operations.

Mark Savaya and the Future expensive business to get started in.

As such, it really helps to align your- Grow Solutions team can help self with a company that knows the any size grower or investor with ins and outs of the cannabis business. any aspect of the indoor growing cannabis business, including: As the exclusive Michigan Securing Real Estate — FGS distributor of the efficient Crocan assist with locating, qualifying, pTower™ indoor growing system, Future Grow Solutions has detailed and acquiring the right parcel and property for your project. knowledge and experience with Finding Finances — FGS works working at state and local levels

Q:

• Identify what success looks like post-transaction (transaction proceeds, is my business in good hands?, plans for my future, etc.).

What makes a design/build company different?

A: With a design/build company,

Q:

There are foundational elements completing a liquidity event successfully: • Plan early and often.

with a network of private sources ranging from wealthy investors to family offices, private lenders, and hard-money lenders.

Super Security — FGS has developed an industry security system and real time, 24/7 visual monitoring exclusively for its clients.

Right Recruits — FGS can help identify, attract, and retain the most desirable talent possible by drawing on their deep network, both inside and outside the industry.

Future Grow Solutions Mark Savaya CEO 500 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 833-347-6275 futuregrowsolutions.com Advertisement on page 7

What’s the best frame material for windows in a Michigan home?

A: Michigan’s weather extremes put a lot of stress on exterior construction materials. A window frame and glass should work well together, for a good weather seal and window longevity.

Fiberglass frames won’t warp, rot, dent, twist, or crack. Given the stability of fiberglass, you’ll need less frame per window, resulting in a less bulky appearance and larger glass area, and you’ll have more design flexibility with sizes and

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colors. If you prefer dark colors, fiberglass frames won’t fade.

Fiberglass is a green product, too.

Vinyl window frames are less expensive than fiberglass, but they’re prone to expanding and contracting — making them less energy-efficient.

Wood frames cost more than vinyl, look nice, and insulate well, but can warp and rot. Aluminum frames are expensive and not good at insulating.

Overall, fiberglass-framed windows provide superior

performance and durability. The energy savings alone can sometimes make up for the cost difference when compared to less expensive and less efficient windows.

All of Performance Remodeling’s windows are made in America, and their fiberglass windows come with a lifetime guarantee. Call 586-5406000 for a free estimate. In addition, their design software can show you how different styles and colors of windows will look on your home.

Performance Remodeling Rich Hotea President 14017 23 Mile Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48315 586-540-6000 info@pr2.global windowsroofingsiding.com Advertisement on page 75

4/5/21 12:11 PM

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TRUSTED ADVISERS Q&A Q:

My family would like to buy a home in northern Michigan. When we find properties that we love, the homes are already under contract. What will give us an edge over other potential buyers?

A: It’s an extremely competitive housing market in northern Michigan. Houses are selling quickly, and if families wait for the perfect home to pop up for sale, they’re going to miss out. Once the property hits the internet, it already has a contract.

You need to get your ducks in a row when it comes to purchasing a home Up North: • Know exactly what you can afford. You can show the seller

Q:

• Inventory is tight, so form a relationship with a really good agent who has knowledge of the market in the area you’re thinking about. Ask the agent if you can have one of the first looks at a property before it comes on the market.

• Don’t be afraid to buy a house

sight-unseen. Have your agent FaceTime you on a tour through the house. You can see every room and every feature indoors and outside the property, then make a decision using FaceTime and lock that house up!

Working with the expert team at Kidd & Leavy can make the process of finding your Up North dream home much easier and more efficient.

Kidd & Leavy Real Estate Pat Leavy Owner 325 E. Lake St. Petoskey, MI 49770 231-838-6700 (mobile) 231-439-2800 (phone) patleavy@kiddleavy.com patleavy.com Advertisement on Back Cover

I’d like to open a franchise and I’ve heard the dessert market is the place to be. Is the Just Baked Café & Bake Shop a good choice?

A: Who doesn’t enjoy a sweet treat?

It’s not surprising that desserts have become our favorite indulgence during the pandemic. Sugary snacks and desserts satisfy our cravings and leave us feeling happy.

In the spring of 2016, the development of the Just Baked Café & Bake Shop came to fulfillment in a location on Evergreen Road in Southfield. The same love and passion involved in baking cupcakes and custom cakes has

Q:

that you’re pre-approved if you aren’t going with cash.

now been put into creating a full line of gourmet desserts and artisan sandwiches. Partners include local companies like Great Lakes Coffee Roasting (coffees) and Guernsey Farms (ice cream).

Just Baked aims to create a locally sourced and authentic Michigan meal for its customers.

The main goal was to create a simple operation that a potential franchise owner could run without having any baking skills.

Everything is baked fresh daily at the company’s brand-new commissary in Troy. Other than an initial franchise fee, Just Baked doesn’t demand royalties or advertising fees.

The global dessert market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 5.4 percent and reach $135 billion by 2025. This is a great opportunity to become a franchisee in one of the fastest-growing product segments in the dessert market!

Just Baked Café & Bake Shop Bassam Shamon COO 248-688-9554 justbakedcupcakes.com

Can I determine how much my home is worth from internet websites such as Zillow and Trulia?

A: The answer is no!

It’s not possible for a thirdparty website headquartered in California or New York to provide an accurate value for a home located in Oakland County.

Websites like Zillow and Trulia

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use computer-generated home values based on calculations and algorithms. They don’t consider what’s going on in your area (neighborhood preference, school districts, etc.). By providing inaccurate estimates, these

websites can create a false sense of hope and lead to frustration. It’s critical that when you’re selling a home, the value is determined by a top Realtor in your area who knows the market — not an internet website!

KW Domain Luxury Homes International Tushar Vakhariya 248-289-0660 tushar@tvahomes.com tusharvakhariya.com Advertisement on page 12

4/5/21 12:11 PM

Restaurant Guide Wayne Al Ameer $$ LEBANESE • This Lebanese restaurant is a recipient of the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award.

The Al Ameer platter is perfect for sharing: two grape leaves, two fried kibbeh, chicken shawarma, tawook, kabob, kafta,and falafel. 12710 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn;313-582-8185. 27346 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-565-9600 L,D Mon.-Sun. Amore da Roma $$ ITALIAN • Guy Pelino, Roma Café’s chef, took over the ownership reins of this restaurant on the edge of the Eastern Market. He retained the menu, adding a charcuterie board and updating the wine list, and didn’t change the character of the old-school restaurant, known for its steaks and pastas. 3401 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313831-5940. L,D daily.

elevated comfort food made from local, small-batch producers. The self-described gourmet diner offers espresso drinks and such dishes as Avocado Toast, Chilaquiles, Pasta al Limone, and the Babo Burger, which features a challah bun from Avalon Bakery.

15 E. Kirby St., Ste. 115, Detroit; 313-974-6159. B,L, D daily.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Many establishments are still finding their footing in the COVID-19 era.

Please call the numbers listed here to verify hours and space availability.

Antonio’s Cucina Italiana $$ ITALIAN • The Rugieros have impressed restaurant guests for decades with authentic cuisine. Signature dishes include Gnocchi Rita and Chicken Antonio. There’s a full bar and a very extensive wine list. 2220 N. Canton Center Road, Canton; 734-981-9800. 26356 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-278-6000. 37646 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-994-4000. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.Sun.

Bobcat Bonnie’s $ GASTROPUB • The menu is eclectic, with fried goat cheese, Korean beef bowl, vegan tacos, and chicken fingers coated with Cap’n Crunch. The weekend brunch with a Bloody Mary bar and all the classics is a hit. See bobcatbonnies.com for locations and hours.

Atwater in the Park $ GERMAN • At this casual spot, traditional German-style beer is the beverage of choice. Chef Chris Franz’ noteworthy menu is compatible with such additions as a platter of local bratwurst and other sausages teamed with housemade red cabbage and sauerkraut, plus amazing potato pancakes and daily soups. 1175 Lakepointe St., Grosse Pointe Park; 313-344-5104. L,D daily.

Brome Modern Eatery $ BURGERS • This healthy spin on a classic serves neverfrozen, grass-fed, antibiotic-free, organic burgers. There’s beef, chicken, haddock, and vegetarian dishes — but no pork, as the restaurant is halal. There’s also a coldpressed juice bar. 22062 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313996-5050. L,D Mon.-Sun.

Avalon Café and Bakery $$ ORGANIC BAKERY • The bakery’s mini-empire includes a café on Woodward Avenue in Detroit. Its bread is also the basis for dishes such as Avocado Toast with tahini, thinly curled cucumbers, lime, and chili flakes. Vegetarian fare includes a frittata oozing with goat cheese. Meatier highlights include the pork shoulder, a steak sandwich, and a trout Reuben. There’s also a handful of thin-crust pizzas. Salads are sized to be main dishes. Beer and wine are part of the package (there or to go). 1049 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-2858006. B,L,D daily.

Brooklyn Street Local $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • This Corktown spot serves breakfast, lunch, and brunch with fresh, locally grown, and organic ingredients. It lists its sources on a chalkboard and offers plenty of dishes that are vegan and vegetarian-friendly. Poutine — hand-cut fries, cheese curds, and mushroom or beef gravy — is the tip-off that the proprietors are from Canada. 1266 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-262-6547. B,L Tue.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun. Bucharest Grill $ MEDITERRANEAN-AMERICAN • This bustling sandwich shop, now with five locations, is a cult favorite with its fresh Mediterranean fare, notably the best chicken shawarma wrap sandwiches in town. We’re serious. See bucharestgrill.com for locations and hours.

Babo $ NEW AMERICAN • This all-day café settled into the Midtown Park Shelton building in June 2019, serving

Dog-friendly

Bash Original Izakaya $ JAPANESE • A new Japanese pub from the proprietor of Canton’s popular Izakaya Sanpei opened its doors in Woodbridge in January. Occupying the former home of Katsu, Bash maintains much of that eatery’s Asianinspired décor, such as hanging lanterns and bamboo shades. Bash’s drink menu focuses on Japanese craft beer, while the food menu of small plates and sashimi includes Gyoza, Tempura Udon, and fried octopus balls called Tako Yaki. 5069 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-7887208; D Tue.-Sun. Besa $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This modern fine-dining eatery takes its name from Albania — where the owners trace their heritage — and means “pledge of honor.” Choose from starters suchas honey-roasted rutabaga, pastas like ramen noodle raviolo, and entrees like Michigan-raised lamb belly porchetta. 600 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313315-3000. D Mon.-Sat.

Apparatus Room $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • The Foundation Hotel’s restaurant, the Apparatus Room, once housed the Detroit Fire Department headquarters. The cooking of chef Thomas Lents, who earned two Michelin stars while at Chicago’s Sixteen, is refined and highly skilled. A separate Chef’s Table restaurant offers a pricey but delicious option. 250 W. Larned St., Detroit; 313-800-5600. B,L,D daily, BR Sat.Sun.

Family-friendly

Baker’s Keyboard Lounge $$ SOUL FOOD • This iconic lounge serves soul food: beef short ribs with gravy, creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet cornbread muffins. 20510 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-345-6300. L Tue.-Fri., D daily.

Valet

Reservations

E N T R É E P R I C ES

YO U R C O M P R E H E N S I V E RESOURCE FOR DINING OUT IN METRO DETROIT

Cadieux Café $$ BELGIAN • This eastside institution was like a slice of home for early Belgian immigrants. They serve up four varieties of mussels, and a wide range of hearty dishes such as Belgian Rabbit, but there also are classic sandwiches. 4300 Cadieux Road, Detroit; 313-882-8560. D daily.

Café Nini $$$ ITALIAN • This intimate spot offers well-prepared food that includes eight appetizers, a half-dozen pasta dishes, and five main plates, notable among which are tournedos di vitello — medallions of veal filet in a fresh mushroom sauce.

The wine list is impressive as well. 98 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-308-3120. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

Cantoro Italian Market and Trattoria $$ ITALIAN • A restaurant inside the market serves great traditional Italian food. Do not miss the tagliatelle alla Bolognese: wide pasta with a meat sauce made of ground veal, beef, sausage, and pancetta. A delicious Italian feast you can conveniently pick up on your way home.

15550 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth; 734-420-1100. L,D Mon.-Sat., L Sun. Capers $ STEAKHOUSE • This is the type of place longtime Detroit natives describe like an old friend.On Gratiot Avenue between Seven and Eight Mile roads, this place has been packing them in for nearly 35 years. There’s a massive a-la-carte menu, but the main draw is steak by the ounce, at market price. 14726 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313527-2100. L,D Mon.-Sat., D Sun. Caucus Club $$$ TRADITIONAL AMERICAN • The reborn spot emphasizes service and a traditional steak and seafood theme, with such tasty signature dishes as dry-rubbed and wood-grilled ribs, prime rib, and steaks.150 W. Congress, Detroit; 313-965-4970. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat. Central Kitchen & Bar $$ CREATIVE COMFORT • The space facing Campus Martius is done up in gray and white under industrial light fixtures. Crowd-pleasers include buttermilk fried chicken, shrimp and grits, burgers, and salads. 660 Woodward Ave., Ste. 4A, Detroit; 313-963-9000. L,D Mon.-Fri., BR, D Sat., BR Sun. Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails $$ NEW AMERICAN • Generally, there are five “cold” starters, five offerings from the “vegetables”category, and six “hot” items that could be considered main dishes, including duck confit and Lake Superior whitefish. The wine list is brief and esoteric. 15 E. Kirby St., Detroit; 313-818-3915.

L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun. Chili Mustard Onions $ VEGAN • This is Detroit’s only Coney Island with a plantbased menu. Choose from a selection of traditional favorites including the Coney Dog, Southwest Nachos, and chili fries, all complete with owner Pete LaCombe’s secret vegan “cheeze” sauce. 3411 Brush St., Detroit; 313-4624949. L Mon.-Sat. City Kitchen $$ AMERICAN • The emphasis is on fresh fish and seafood

$ Affordable (less than $12)

$$ Moderate ($13 to $20)

$$$ Expensive ($21 to $30)

$$$$ Very Expensive (more than $30)

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R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 5 . 2 1 Ingredients:

RECIPE

CRISPELLI’S

TIRAMISU

An after-dinner sweet treat that duals as a caffeine fix R ECI P E F RO M CRISP E LLI’S | P HOT O BY K AILEY H OWEL L

Coffee Soak* 9x13-inch pan 40 Ladyfingers 2 cups strong coffee or espresso, room temperature or cold 2 Tbsp. dark rum 1 Tbsp. almond extract ¼ cup coffee extract (optional) *Add coffee, rum, almond extract, and coffee extract to a bowl and mix until combined.

Filling 2 ½ cups mascarpone 1 tsp. orange zest ½ tsp. almond extract 9 egg yolks 1 cup granulated sugar ½ oz. gelatin (2 packets of powdered or 4 silver sheets) ¼ cup cold water 2 cups heavy cream Cocoa powder (for garnish)

Directions:

Dip half of the Ladyfingers in coffee soak for a few seconds each and lay evenly across the bottom of pan. Set aside remaining coffee soak and Ladyfingers until filling is ready.

Over a double boiler or in the microwave, slowly heat mascarpone, orange zest, and almond extract in a bowl until the mixture is melted. If the fat begins to separate, remove from heat and whisk until combined.

To a microwave-safe bowl, add cold water and gelatin. If using powdered gelatin, make sure to stir until there are no clumps. Allow gelatin to bloom for about 5 minutes In a mixer, add egg yolks and sugar.

Whip together on high for about 5 minutes until it is a pale yellow color and fluffy.

Add the melted mascarpone and continue to whip for 1 minute until combined.

Place gelatin in the microwave and heat for 15 seconds at a time until melted. If using sheet gelatin, remove water before melting.

Once the gelatin is melted, slowly pour it into the mascarpone mixture while the mixer is running on medium speed. It should be added in a slow stream to avoid clumps and to ensure it is thoroughly mixed.

In a bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Fold cream into mascarpone mixture until combined. Pour half of the mascarpone filling over the Ladyfingers in the pan and spread evenly. Dip the remaining Ladyfingers in the coffee soak and lay evenly across the filling. Spread the remaining half of the filling over the Ladyfingers. Chill tiramisu for at least 4 hours, up to 2 days. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder.

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here, but also on the locals — especially lake perch. There are also such dishes as Cajun tenderloin tips and a few good angus burgers. 16844 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe; 313-882-6667. L Mon.-Fri., D nightly.

Cliff Bell’s $$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This restored Art Deco hotspot offers small plates such as duck wings “a l’orange,” and savory merguez meatballs and artisinal burrata. Large plates include shrimp and grits and steak frites. Jazz prevails on the bandstand. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-9612543. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun. Common Pub $ GASTROPUB • Fans of Atlas Global Bistro, which shuttered in 2013, should be happy to learn that some of the principals may be found at this spot in the Belcrest Apartments. The well-edited menu includes duck rangoon and a burger. 5440 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-2858849. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat. Cork & Gabel $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • Corktown’s newest eatery takes the form of a 4,450-square-foot renovated beer hall and is an ode to filling European staples. Try the crispy braised chicken wings slow-cooked in house spices and served with blue cheese. Simply delicious! 2415 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-638-2261. D daily.

Cuisine $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • Cuisine offers a romantic, white-linen experience with the level of food, service, and ambience one might call more “timeless” than “trendy.”

Examples of the expertly prepared fare include lobster bisque with lump crab and variations on duck — a coriander honey roasted breast is served with a confit leg. 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit; 313-872-5110. D Tue.-Sun. (Note: not wheelchair accessible.)

Dakota Inn Rathskeller $ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The sausages are the kind that snap when you cut them. The combo plate features one bratwurst and one knack-wurst, served with hot German potato salad and sauerkraut. And yes, sing along with the schnitzelbank song. 17324 John R St., Detroit; 313-8679722.L Wed.-Fri. D Thu.-Sat. Detroit Club $$$$ FRENCH-AMERICAN • The formerly shuttered Detroit Club was magnificently restored before reopening in 2018 — and now, the public is invited. It now operates as a boutique hotel, serving a light breakfast and full lunch and dinner. The old dining room, known as the Grille Room, looks very much as it did more than three decades ago. The food is excellent, as is the service. 712 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-338-3222. L,D Daily.

Detroit Shipping Company $ FUSION • This bi-level destination, created out of shipping containers, offers a variety of food options ranging from the Caribbean-fusion dishes at Coop to chipotleroasted grasshopper at Brujo Tacos + Tapas to Thai fare from Bangkok 96 and more. 474 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-462-4973. L,D daily.

Detroit Soul $ SOUL FOOD• A hidden gem on the city’s East Side. Detroit Soul serves its namesake with a healthy twist. Owners Sam Van Buren and Jerome Brown draw from the recipes of their grandparents, who relocated to Detroit from Alabama in the 1940s. The turkey and collard greens are savory standouts and yams are a sweet treat. This is the kind of place that every soul-food lover must visit. 2900 E. Eight Mile Road, Detroit; 313-366-5600. L,D Tue.-Sun. Detroit Vegan Soul $ VEGAN • The popular spot offers your classic soul food

favorites but with plant-based twists — mac and cheese, maple-glazed yams, collard greens, and interpretations of catfish and pepper steak. 8029 Agnes St., Detroit; 313649-2759. L Tue.-Sun., D Wed.-Sat. 19614 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-766-5728. BR Sun.

ese food, with a very personal twist. 4430 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-554-2085. D Wed.-Sun. Folk $ AUSTRALIAN • A charming Corktown storefront dishing up an all-day brunch menu. It’s an offshoot of the Farmer’s Hand grocery and farmers market. The menu focuses on beautifully plated dishes like salads, quiche, meat pies, all beautifully plated and nutritious. Infused milks and frothy lattes are well sought after, too. 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-290-5849. BR Wed-Mon.

Dime Store $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • This popular breakfast and lunch spot adds just the right retro touch to a contemporary American menu typified by fresh, hearty omelets and Benedicts early in the day. 719 Griswold St., Ste. 180, Detroit; 313-962-9106. B,L Mon.-Sun.

Ford’s Garage $$ BURGERS • Henry Ford’s legacy is celebrated on Dearborn’s main thoroughfare. There are at least 12 variations on the classic American burger here. Try the Ford’s Signature, featuring a half-pound of grilled black angus beef, aged sharp cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon, and bourbon BBQ sauce. Other appealing dishes include lobster mac and cheese, and chicken wings. 21367 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-752-3673. L,D daily.

Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe $$$ GASTROPUB • A jazz club with top guest musicians and an American bistro menu in a traditional interior. Starters include crab and salt cod cakes, pan-fried calamari with chorizo and Korean beef rib. 97 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-882-5299. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sat. Eatori Market $-$$ SPECIALTY GROCERY • This stylish spot overlooking downtown’s Capitol Park. The menu has steamed mussels with leeks, garlic, and fresh oysters. International flourishes abound with truffle aioli for the burger. 1215 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-395-3030. L,D daily.

El Asador Steakhouse $$ MEXICAN • A concentrated cuisine with little modern flairs that also stays faithful to traditional Mexican cooking. Don’t miss the Camarones en Salsa de Langosta: breaded shrimp stuffed with cheese, fried to a golden dark brown, and topped with a lobster cream sauce. It’s a delicious dinner spot you don’t want to miss and an unassuming Latin-American find in Detroit’s Springwells Village. 1312 Springwells St., Detroit; 313-2972360. L,D Tue.-Sun. El Barzon $ MEXICAN-ITALIAN • Norberto Garita prepares Italian and Mexican cuisines alongside his wife, Silvia Rosario Garita. Authentic Mexican entrees include mini tacos with beef, chicken, steak, barbecued goat, or sausage, and mole poblano, while the Italian influence takes the form of spaghetti carbonara and Suppa di pesce (seafood soup).

3710 Junction Ave., Detroit; 313-894-2070. D Tue.-Sun. Empire Kitchen and Cocktails $$ NEW AMERICAN • This relaxed Cass Corridor eatery with patio seating serves artisan pizzas and new American bistro fare. Highlights include scallops, Empire Burger, and white pizza. A range of inventive craft cocktails abound here, too. 3148 Woodward Ave.,Detroit; 313-3153131. empirekitchenandcocktails.com Evie’s Tamales $$ MEXICAN • This Mexicantown restaurant makes some of the best tamales around. Pork or chicken is jacketed with sturdy masa, a dough of ground corn, and then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. Eat in or order a dozen for later. 3454 Bagley St., Detroit; 313-843-5056.

B,L,D Mon.-Sat., B,L Sun. Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café $$ NEW ORLEANIAN • New Orleans dishes including jambalaya, and fried catfish beignets. Come for breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, or carry-out. 400 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-965-4600. 29244 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-351-2925. 23722 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-498-3000. B,L,D (downtown), L,D Southfield and St. Clair Shores. BR at all three.

Flowers of Vietnam $$ VIETNAMESE • Chef and owner George Azar transformed a former Coney Island into an industrial-cool destination, but the neighborhood joint vibe remains. The menu is shaped around Azar’s appreciation of Vietnam-

SPOTLIGHT

Highlands

STEAKHOUSE/ NEW AMERICAN Occupying the top two floors of the Renaissance Center, Highlands comprises three separate concepts. A steakhouse of the same name provides a high-end dining experience, while the more casual Hearth 71 serves locally sourced dishes cooked over an open fire. The third concept within the space is the appropriately named High Bar, where guests can choose from a vast collection of spirits and decadent desserts. 400 Renaissance Center, Floors 71 and 72, Detroit; 313-567-3126; D Mon.-Sat. $$$

Frita Batidos $ CUBAN • Since opening in 2010, Ann Arbor’s Frita Batidos has been cherished for its spicy Cuban-influenced chorizo burgers and tropical milkshakes made with fresh fruit. Now owner and Top Chef: Las Vegas alum Eve Arnoff has opened a second location in downtown Detroit. The casual eatery is the mirror image of its older sibling — bright and urban, with white walls, picnic tables, and exposed ductwork. Also featuring a full bar, the restaurant offers local craft beers, tropical cocktails, and the option to add a splash of rum to your milkshake. 66 W. Columbia St., Detroit; 313-725-4100.

L,D daily.

Giovanni’s Ristorante $$$ ITALIAN • This old-school Italian restaurant offers housemade pastas, including an outstanding lasagna.

Elaborate veal and seafood dishes and desserts like orange Creamsicle cheesecake round out the delicious menu. 330 Oakwood Blvd., Detroit; 313-841-0122. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat. Grandma Bob’s $ PIZZA • If you’re wondering what that psychedelic building on Corktown’s Michigan Avenue is, it opened last March as a pizzeria known as Grandma Bob’s.

Executive chef Dan De Wall, previously of Wright and Co., offers a small, delicious menu of pies, including sausage and pistachio with mascarpone cheese and thyme. Or try the Big Mack — the vegan pizza version of the popular burger. 2135 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313315-3177. L,D Wed.-Sun. Grand Trunk Pub $ NEW AMERICAN • Breads from Avalon Bakery and meats from Eastern Market anchor the hearty fare, which pairs well with a selection of Michigan beers. Staples include a reuben with Poet Stout Kraut and the Ghettoblaster beer-battered fish and chips. 612 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-961-3043.; L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. The Greek $ GREEK • Plaka Café was a presence on Monroe Avenue for years, and now its space is in the hands of the founders’ children. Notable dishes include spinach pie, grilled salmon, lamb chops, and New York strip steak. 535 Monroe Ave., Detroit; 313-209-6667. L,D daily.

Green Dot Stables $ NEW AMERICAN • The menu of sliders — with 20-plus eclectic bun toppings, including Cuban, Korean, and “mystery meat” — packs in fans. Local beers are spotlighted along with chicken paprika soup, a nod to the neighborhood’s Hungarian origins. 2200 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-962-5588. L,D daily.

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Jolly Pumpkin $$ BREWERY • Jolly Pumpkin’s brews rule the offerings, along with other Northern United Brewing Co. beverages, such as North Peak and Grizzly Peak beers and “Civilized Spirits.” Pizzas with creative toppings abound. 441 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-262-6115. 419 S. Main St., Ste. 9, Royal Oak; 248-544-6250. L,D daily.

Grey Ghost $$ NEW AMERICAN • The cuisine at this Brush Park hotspot isn’t easily defined, but the results are original and well-prepared. For example, the miso glazed cedar plank salmon, and lump crab cake served with a honey mustard remoulade sauce from their Ghost To-Go pickup menu. 47 Watson St., Detroit; 313-262-6534. D daily.

BR Sun.

Karl’s $$ AMERICAN • The luncheonette is part two of the Siren Hotel’s partnership with Lady of the House Executive Chef Kate Williams. Inspired by the East Side bakery of the same name that Williams’ great-great grandparents once owned, the menu features diner staples. 1509 Broadway St., Detroit; 313-855-2757. B,L,D daily.

The Hill Seafood & Chop House $$ TRADITIONAL AMERICAN • The menu is balanced between seafood and meat, with an emphasis on premium ingredients and organic produce. Swordfish, prime New York strip, and Colorado lamb chops are signatures.

123 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-886-8101.

L,D Mon.-Sat. The Hudson Cafe $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • The fresh, well-prepared fare from the kitchen of this breakfast/lunch spot has creative takes on the eggs Benedict theme, pecan-banana pancakes, and apple-walnut stuffed French toast, as well as lunchtime sandwiches and salads. 1241 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-237-1000. B,L daily.

Hungarian Rhapsody $$ HUNGARIAN • This Downriver restaurant offers authentic Hungarian dishes, such as chicken and veal paprikas, beef goulash, and palacsinta (crêpes). 14315 Northline Road, Southgate; 734-283-9622. L & D Tue.-Sun. Ima $ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Japanese-inspired fare with a Midwest emphasis. Ima tacos trade the traditional shell for a slice of jicama-stuffed spicy shrimp, roasted tofu, or garlic chicken. Appetizers include edamame, dumplings, and clams. 2015 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313502-5959. 4870 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-883-9788.

32203 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-781-0131.

L&D Daily Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This Black-owned restaurant was founded by Nya Marshall to bring fine dining to the East Jefferson Corridor where she grew up. The spot serves New American fare with international influences in a modern, elevated space bathed in neutral tones. The Mezcal Wings with pickled jalapeño and cilantro bring a Mexican kick, while dishes like the Shrimp Linguine Pomodoro contribute European flavors. 9215 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313332-0607; D Daily

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

SPOTLIGHT

Leila

LEBANESE The restaurant from the proprietors of Birmingham’s Phoenicia is named after the owner’s mother — just one facet of the establishment that pays homage to family traditions and heritage. The menu includes various Lebanese dishes, from falafel to Leila’s Bolognese, featuring spaghetti, pine nut, and basil.

Other menu items include sujuk — a spicy Armenian sausage — and tabbouleh made of parsley, cracked wheat, and spices.

The beer and wine lists offer plenty of options to accompany any meal. 1245 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-8168100; D Sun., L&D Mon.-Sat. $$$

Karl’s Cabin $$ AMERICAN • Dishes from their currently rotating drivethrough menu such as pecan crust whitefish and beef tenderloin medallions with sautéed shrimp and bearnaise sauce surpass typical roadhouse food. 6005 Gotfredson Rd., Plymouth; 734-455-8450. L,D daily.

The Kitchen by Cooking with Que $$ VEGAN • This eatery created by Detroit-based cooking blogger Quiana Broden serves lunches of smoothies, salads, and sandwiches. Broden also often offers live cooking demonstrations. 6529 Woodward Ave., Ste. A, Detroit; 313-462-4184. L Tue.-Sun. Kuzzo’s Chicken and Waffles $ SOUTHERN COMFORT • Several recipes, including a signature thin waffle, are family-owned at ex-NFL player Ron Bartell’s spot. Think comfort food kicked up a notch: fried catfish, salmon croquettes, shrimp and grits, and biscuits. Drink the Kool-Aid, too. 19345 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-861-0229. B,L,D Tue.-Sat., B,L Sun. La Dolce Vita $$$ ITALIAN • Traditional Italian cuisine is key at this Palmer Park hideaway. Recommended is the lake perch in white wine sauce, the veal scaloppine with artichokes, and the lasagna. 17546 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-865-0331.

L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., BR,D Sun. La Lanterna $$ ITALIAN • The founder of Da Edoardo, the first Edoardo Barbieri, started it all in 1956 with a restaurant called La Lanterna. Now his grandchildren have revived it. Although the white and red pizzas — like Margherita, Liguria, and Bellagio — dominate, there’s more, including a number of elegant pastas like the Lasagna Alla Bolognese. 1224 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-962-8821.

L,D daily.

2012

Joe Muer Seafood $$$$ SEAFOOD • This reborn Detroit legend is stellar for a romantic evening or a quiet business lunch or dinner.

Located on the main floor of the GMRenCen, it has sweeping views of the Detroit River and a menu that walks the line between old-time favorites and hipper Asian-influenced seafood, sushi and raw bar. There’s also a Bloomfield Hills location. There are reminders of the past as well: white-bean relish, smoked fish spread, creamed spinach, and stewed tomatoes. A true Detroit classic. 400 Renaissance Center, Ste. 1404, Detroit; 313567-6837. L Mon.-Fri., D daily, BR Sun. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. L,D Mon.-Sat., BR,D Sun.

London Chop House $$ STEAKHOUSE • The kitchen turns out classics such as oysters Rockefeller, French onion soup, and sautéed perch. This is the place to come when you need to satisfy a craving for steak in elegant surroundings with hospitable service. 155 W. Congress St., Detroit; 313-962-0277. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat.

Johnny Noodle King $ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This noodle shop offers bowls topped with pork belly, confit chicken, and tofu as well as seaweed salad and gyoza. There are several fusion bowls as well like the Southwest topped with shredded chicken and housemade crema. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-3097946. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Lovers Only $ BURGERS • The star at Lovers Only, located in downtown Detroit’s Capitol Park, is pasture-raised beef from Ferndale’s Farm Field Table, used to make its standout burgers. Other key ingredients, including baked goods, are local as well. There’s also craft cocktails and beer. 34 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-986-1174. L,D daily.

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Le Culture Cafe $$ SOUL • Eastern Market’s Le Culture Cafe is bridging finedining with comfort food. Start with the Maryland crab cakes, then the Mamba Chicken Pasta or the Lobster & Crab Grilled Cheese. 1452 Brush St., Detroit; 313-2858137. D Tue.-Sun.

Lucy & the Wolf $$ SPANISH • This Anglo-sounding restaurant offers very good Spanish-inspired tapas dining. Standouts include ceviche, double charred chicken wings, and a grilled flank steak in chimichurri sauce. 102 E. Main St., Northville; 248-308-3057. D Mon.-Sat. Lumen Detroit $$ NEW AMERICAN • A contemporary American menu and a Victor Saroki setting make the restaurant overlooking downtown’s Beacon Park one of the best of recent entrants onto the scene. Appetizers such as freshly made pretzels prelude main courses such as salmon with chimichurri herb sauce. 1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313626-5005. L,D. Closed Mon. Mario’s $$$ ITALIAN • This Midtown Detroit classic dates to 1948.

Linen-covered tables, framed paintings on wood-paneled walls, expert waiters clad in black tie, and tableside preparation survive here. Italian dinners always begin with an antipasto tray and continue through soup, salad, pasta, and entree. 4222 Second Ave., Detroit; 313-832-1616.

L,D daily.

Marrow $$ NEW AMERICAN • This West Village restaurant and butcher shop hybrid is an ode to meat, especially unusual cuts. Diners must walk through the butcher shop, bypassing cases of pastrami and sausage, before entering the restaurant. Offerings include seasonal pork yakitori and local duck breast as well Mapo Mushroom. 8044 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313-652-0200. D Wed.-Mon. Maty’s African Cuisine $$ WEST AFRICAN • A small storefront in the Detroit Old Redford neighborhood is decidedly Senegalese. Fataya, a deep-fried pastry with savory fillings, are reminiscent of an empanada. The star of the show is the whole chicken with yassa. 21611 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-472-5885.

L,D daily.

M Cantina $ MEXICAN • Nuevo Latino street food is the premise at this surprising spot where everything from the tortilla chips to the salsas are made in-house in the open kitchen.

Juices are freshly squeezed and the menu of tortas, tacos, tapas, and salads from the kitchen of Heidi and Junior Merino from Hawaii and Mexico is distinctive. 13214 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-399-9117. B,L,D daily.

Mercury Burger & Bar $ BURGERS • This Corktown joint seats 70 around the zinc-covered bar set with Mercury (Liberty) dimes. The burger is available in a variety of iterations, such as Southwest Detroit with a chorizo slider, jalapeno, Müenster cheese, tortilla strips, avocado, and pickled spiced carrots. 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-964-5000. L,D daily.

Michigan & Trumbull $$ ITALIAN-AMERICAN • After a successful four-month run at Fort Street Galley, Michigan and Trumbull left the nest in January, making it the latest in a long line of Detroit-style pizza joints to open in the area. Not your traditional carryout joint, Michigan and Trumbull is housed in a sleek, refurbished car-repair garage. The menu features square, deep-dish pies with Detroitinspired names, such as Packard Pepperoni and Vernor Vegan. 1441 W. Elizabeth St., Detroit; 313-637-4992; L&D Mon., Wed.-Sat.; D Sun. Mi Lindo San Blas $$$ MEXICAN • Heaping platters of seafood such as shrimp, octopus, and scallops, tell the story at this spot that brings a corner of Mexico’s seaside Nayarit region to southwest Detroit. On weekends when live music is

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added, the tables are often pushed back to create a dance floor. 1807 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-789-5100.

L,D daily.

Monarch Club $$$ NEW AMERICAN • At the 14th floor of the revamped Element Detroit Hotel located at the Metropolitan is the Monarch Club. It’s one of the most recent rooftop bars to open in metro Detroit and serves a variety of delicious small plates along with classic cocktails. 33 John R St., Detroit; 313-306-2380. D daily.

Mootz Pizzeria & Bar $$ ITALIAN-AMERICAN • Bruno DiFabio, a six-time World Pizza Games champ, rejects the label New York-style for his fare. “It’s authentic New York pizza,” he says. In a hurry? Grab a slice from Side Hustle, Mootz’s by-the-slice counter next door. 1230 Library St., Detroit; 313-2431230. L,D daily.

Motor City Brewing Works $ BREWERY • Just 10 mostly nontraditional pizzas on excellent, chewy crust, and the option to build your own pie with various toppings. Plus, salads from locally grown greens to accompany the house-brewed beers. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-832-2700. L,D daily.

Mudgie’s Deli $ DELI • Seats are often filled in search of the O’Leary (pastrami, Swiss, and greens) or the Brooklyn (beef brisket, bacon, and beer cheese). The dinner menu features meat and cheese boards as well as build-your-own pasta and meat and potato options. It’s a delicious place for a meal any time 1413 Brooklyn St., Detroit; 313-961-2000.

L,D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Nico & Vali $$ ITALIAN • This eatery offers favorites with unexpected twists. The artichokes and chilies appetizer boasts battered and fried artichokes with Fresno and jalapeno peppers, tossed with fresh basil in white wine. Popular choices include Vermouth Lamb Porterhouse. It’s a classic Italian spot with an update that’s worth a visit. 744 Wing St., Plymouth;734-207-7880. L,D daily, BR Sun. Norma G’s $ CARIBBEAN • Lester Gouvia, the Trinidadian chef who brought us the famed food truck, opened a full-service restaurant under the same name. Stop in for a plate of Chicken Pelau: a tasty blend of rice, diced chicken, squash, peppers, and golden-brown baked chicken. 14628 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-290-2938. D Tue.-Sat. Nosh Pit $ VEGAN • This vegan staple has been dishing up delicious plant-based takes on classic deli sandwiches for years. Try the latkes with banana jam, the housemade Coney Carrot Dog with all the traditional toppings, like diced onion and yellow mustard. It just might best the original! A new location is slated to open this spring. noshpitdetroit.com for locations. Tue.-Thu., L,D Fri., B,L Sat.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

2018

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Parks & Rec Diner $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • Breakfast and lunch are the focus, from a single menu that offers traditional breakfast dishes and sandwiches, as well as dishes such as shrimp and grits with harissa and chili atop a cornbread waffle.

Standards such as buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy are also available. To drink, there are boozy floats, too.

This spot is a classic for whenever you crave brunch food.

1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-446-8370. B,L daily.

Pegasus Taverna $$ GREEK • The cry of “opa!” resounds in St. Clair Shores at the second edition of the longstanding Greektown restaurant. The resturant boasts an extensive menu, from moussaka and spinach pie to gyros and roast lamb.

24935 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-772-3200. 558 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-964-6800. L,D daily.

The Peterboro $$ ASIAN-FUSION • A contemporary take on AmericanChinese fare gives new life to the cuisine with robustly spiced dishes, including an “absurdly delicious” cheeseburger spring roll and a take on almond boneless chicken. 420 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-833-1111. D daily.

Pho Lucky $ VIETNAMESE • This charming Midtown Vietnamese spot serves authentic fare emphasizing pho. Bowls of spicy broth with noodles, round steak, and meatballs come in several variations. Other noteworthy dishes here include summer rolls and crisp spring rolls. Look for Asian beers and robust Vietnamese coffee. 3111 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-338-3895. L,D daily except Tue. when it’s L only.

PizzaPlex $ ITALIAN • This pizza isn’t just authentic, it’s certified.

PizzaPlex earned the title of Vera Pizza Napoletana, or real Neapolitan pizza, from Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in Naples. Try the Margherita. Topped with mozzarella, basil, and EVOO, there’s nothing like a classic.

4458 Vernor Highway, Detroit; 313-757-4992. D Wed.-Sat.

Pao Detroit $$$ FUSION • Visit this upscale Pan-Asian fusion restaurant for Asian-themed cocktails and dishes, such as fried oyster, charred octopus, filet mignon, and Alaskan king crab legs. Based in the former Michigan Oriental Theater, the interior combines new and old. 114 W. Adams Ave., Ste. 200, Detroit; 313-816-0000. D Mon.-Sat.

Polish Village Café $ POLISH • The “Polish plate” includes stuffed cabbage, pierogi, kielbasa, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes and gravy. The dill pickle soup and city chicken are standouts, too. A Polish staple in Detroit, where there aren’t too many. 2990 Yemans St., Hamtramck; 313-874-5726. L,D daily. Not wheelchair accessible.

2019

Prime + Proper $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • Downtown Detroit dining gets a major shot of glamour with this over-the-top steak and seafood emporium on the corner of Griswold and State streets. Although red meat, from prime dry-aged Tomahawk ribeye to Wagyu strip is the focus — and yes, there’s a burger made with a dry-aged butcher’s blend — oysters, king crab, and caviar are not far behind. An elegant white and gold setting backgrounds it all. The niceties are maintained by an impeccably dressed staff. 1145 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-636-3100. D daily.

Park Grill $$ MEDITERRANEAN • Mediterranean fare gets a Balkan spin. The menu offers tasting plates, pita-wrapped sandwiches, and salads, as well as entrees including chicken and beef shawarma, beef and pork kafta, lemon-pepper pork tenderloin, and lamb chops. Service is friendly and informal. 15102 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park; 313264-1997. L,D daily.

Ottava Via $$ ITALIAN Chef Ariel Millan sends out great thin-crusted pizzas as well as interesting small plates typified by bruschetta, calamari, roasted garlic, and whipped goat cheese to be spread on paper-thin crostini. 1400 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-5500. L,D daily.

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Portofino $ ITALIAN • This big waterfront spot in Wyandotte is both a local hangout and a restaurant with a menu that’s surprisingly ambitious. It offers a number of fish and seafood dishes, from lake perch to coconut shrimp and fried calamari, as well as steaks. Nearly every table in the restaurant has a river view. 3455 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte; 734-281-6700. L,D daily. Br. Sun.

Parc $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Excellent food, exceptional service, and a crisp and formal but distinctly unstuffy atmosphere set this Campus Martius gem apart.

Appetizer highlights include a bright and fresh tuna tartare and wood-roasted oysters. Mint gremolata and lemon chili oil add a zippy touch to oysters on the half shell. Main courses are exceptional, including an interesting blend of Italian food, wood-grilled whole fish, and organic Scottish salmon. There’s also a large selection of dry-aged gourmet steaks, wood-grilled and served tableside. The wine selection is impressive and caters to a diverse set of price ranges and wine drinkers, so you won’t be disappointed with any bottle here. 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-922-7272. L,D daily. BR Sat.-Sun.

Prism $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Greektown Casino-Hotel’s renamed eatery is located off the main casino. ,The menu features local ingredients, steaks, and fresh seafood. 555 E. Lafayette St., Detroit; 313-309-2499. D Tue.-Sat.

SPOTLIGHT

Savant

FRENCH This addition to the Midtown restaurant scene made headlines with its “caviar bumps” — bite-sized portions of caviar intended to be eaten off the back of one’s hand — when it opened. In a cozy-yet-upscale interior with leather couches and an open kitchen, Jordan Whitmore and Rebecca Wurster, formerly of Apparatus room, serve up rotating European-inspired menu items, including Champagne Chicken, Foie Gras Clair, Calamari, and — for vegan diners — Ratatouille Confit. 51 W. Forest Ave., Detroit; 313-285-9294.D Tues.Sat., L Sun. $$$

Rattlesnake Club $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant on the river remains one of the most appealing spots in town. The casually elegant space offers a range of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Dishes that typify its style include seared diver sea scallops, an 8-ounce filet, and a 24-ounce porterhouse. 300 River Place, Detroit; 313-567-4400. L,D Tue.Fri.,D Sat. Red Dunn Kitchen $$ NEW AMERICAN • The Trumbull and Porter hotel’s spiffy restaurant is an ambitious undertaking, offering three meals a day. Chef Jay Gundy’s style is best experienced at dinner, with a la carte offerings such as foie gras-stuffed quail, smoked and marinated salmon collars, braised lamb leg, and bacon-wrapped duck breast with polenta. 1331 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-887-9477.

B,L,D daily.

Red Smoke Barbeque $$ BARBEQUE • At Red Smoke, hickory and applewoodsmoked ribs, pulled pork, Amish chicken, and an array of classic sides are served out of one of the most attractive two-story buildings that are still standing on Monroe Street. 573 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-962-2100. L,D daily.

Republic $$ NEW AMERICAN • This tavern offers rich and bold dishes befitting its castle-like home in the renovated Grand Army of the Republic Building. The locally sourced menu showcases Old World preservation methods and nose-totail cooking. While the menu may be meat-centric, vegetarians won’t feel left out. 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-446-8360. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sun. Roast $$$ STEAKHOUSE • Meat is the main focus at chef Michael Symon’s restaurant at the famous Westin Book Cadillac Hotel, as underscored by the rotisserie slowly roasting the “beast of the day.” There’s much more on the a la carte menu, including dry-aged steaks, branzino, pork, and reginette. 1128 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313-9612500. D daily.

Rocky’s of Northville $$ NEW AMERICAN • Menu includes sea scallops and Gulf shrimp. At dinner, look for grilled rainbow trout. 41122 W. Seven Mile Road, Northville; 248-349-4434. L,D daily.

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MRS. MASON’S CO. handmade premium brittles & brittle bonbons mrsmasons.com : 248-660-0675

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265 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham

248-642-2555

Monday - Saturday 10:00 – 5:00pm www.harps-lingerie.com

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RECIPE

BABO DETROIT ’S

AVO TOAST

A ubiquitous dish gets a twist with a kick RE CIP E F ROM BABO D ETRO I T PHOT O BY K AILEY H OWEL L

Ingredients:

Pickled Onions* 2 red onions 3 cups white wine vinegar 1 cups water 1/2 cup kosher salt 1/4 cup white sugar 1 Tbsp. black pepper 1 lemon, peeled

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Avo Toast 2 slices multigrain toast 1 avocado Extra virgin olive oil chili flakes Zest from 1 lemon

*Thinly slice red onions in vertical halves.

Place sliced onions in a mason jar and set aside. Starting from liquids to spices, add all remaining ingredients into a pot on medium heat. Bring to a boil then pour over sliced onions in jar. Ensure all onions are submerged in pickling juice and let sit uncovered for one hour. Seal, label, date, and refrigerate. Store for up to 30 days.

Directions:

Cut the avocado in half, remove core, and peel skin. Thinly slice it in vertical halves and place each half of the sliced avocado on toast. Add pickled onions and lightly drizzle olive oil over top. Garnish with a pinch of lemon zest and chili flakes. Enjoy!

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Roman Village $ ITALIAN • The Rugiero family has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1964. They’ve launched three additional Antonio’s Cucina Italiana locations. Roman Village is the original and features their signature gnocchi Rita. 9924 Dix Ave., Dearborn; 313-842-2100. L,D Mon.Fri., D Sat.-Sun. Rose’s Fine Food $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • The menu is straightforward, based mainly on fresh ingredients and fromscratch preparation. Breakfast eaters can choose from a variety of egg dishes, such as the ESD (egg sandwich of the day). For lunch, there’s a selection of creative sandwiches. 10551 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-8222729. B,L daily.

SPOTLIGHT

Ale Mary’s

GASTROPUB There’s no mistaking that the name of the game here is beer, and the bartenders can help with narrowing down the options.

There’s a separate vegan menu, plus such highlights as Cajun shrimp tacos, Southern fried chicken, creative burger options such as one with a macand-cheese bun, and a lot of whiskey.

Come hungry, ready to drink, and you will not be disappointed. 316 S. Main St., Royal Oak;248-268-1939.

L,D daily. BR Sat.Sun. $$

Rusted Crow $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • Mussels marinated in white wine and lemon sit alongside spinach artichoke dip. Craft cocktails utilize house spirits. Try the Rosemary’s Baby, made with Detroit Steam vodka and ginger beer. 78 W. Adams Ave., Detroit; 313-782-4751. L Tue.-Sun., D daily.

San Morello $$$ ITALIAN • This Italian gem serves pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired dishes that draw inspiration from the coastal towns of Southern Italy and Sicily out of the Shinola Hotel. Think Tartufi Pizza with fontina and black truffle, handcrafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. 1400 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-209-4700.

D daily.

The Sardine Room $$$ SEAFOOD • A seafood restaurant and raw bar, The Sardine Room is fresh, fun, and energetic, with a cleanline décor and a menu full of surprises. For starters, there are New England lobster, oysters, sashimi tuna, and shrimp cocktail. Worthwhile is a porchetta slider of slow-cooked pork served on a brioche bun with arugula, pickled onions, and a salsa verde. And don’t forget the signature fresh Portuguese sardines grilled in butter. 340 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-416-0261. D daily, BR Sun. SavannahBlue $$ SOUL FOOD • Highlights at this upscale soul food restaurant include the twice-dredged fried chicken and the shrimp and grits. Accompaniments and appetizers include yam casserole, catfish fritters, and a Georgian Hummus that substitutes black-eyed peas for chickpeas.

There’s also a great bar. 1431 Times Square, Detroit; 313926-0783. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips $ SEAFOOD • Head to this Brightmoor spot for perfectly prepared fish and chips. The key to Scotty’s longevity is the batter that coats the cod, perch, shrimp, chicken, onion rings, and frog legs. 22200 Fenkell St., Detroit; 313533-0950. L,D Tue.-Sun. Second Best $ RETRO AMERICAN • The talents behind nearby Grey Ghost have unveiled a second, more casual spot with a retro spin in Brush Park. The menu of lighter dishes includes deviled eggs, ramen noodle salad, and fried chicken sandwiches that accompany drinks that were popular more than a few years back. 42 Watson St., Detroit; 313-315-3077. D nightly.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

2016

Selden Standard $$$ NEW AMERICAN • What sets Selden Standard apart is that it is moving Detroit into a new era in which upper-end dining with starched linen and tuxedoed waiters doesn’t hold much interest anymore. Chef Andy Hollyday, a multi-

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Sweet Soul Bistro $ SOUL FOOD • The large menu includes homages to Detroit musicians, from Stevie Wonder Wonderful Wings to Aretha Franklin Catfish Bites. Also notable are the crab cakes. In the evening, the bistro transforms into a club. 13741 W. McNichols Road, Detroit; 313- 862-7685.

L,D daily.

ple James Beard semifinalist, does farm-to-table scratch cooking with ideas borrowed from around the world. A key to his cooking is the wood-fired grill. This spot has garnered national attention. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit; 313438-5055.D daily, L Mon.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun. Seva Detroit $$ VEGETARIAN • Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian.

There’s also a full bar as well as a juice bar. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. 66 E. Forest Ave., Detroit; 313-974-6661. L,D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Takoi $$ THAI • Thai-Laotian fare might seem out of place in Corktown, but virtually everything on the menu has distinction. There’s a depth, concentration, and balance between heat and coolness, the range of spices, the delight of moving from one superb bite to the next. 2520 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-855-2864. D Mon.-Sat.

2020

SheWolf Pastificio & Bar $$$ ITALIAN • Chef Anthony Lombardo takes fresh and housemade to a new level with this Midtown restaurant that serves only dinner from a menu inspired by Italian cooking specific to Rome. Milling all of his own flour for his pastas, breads, and polenta in house, Lombardo, well known as the former executive chef at Bacco, serves a selection of simple but elegant regional Italian dishes.

438 Selden St., Detroit; 313-315-3992. D Tue.-Sun.

Tap at MGM Grand $ SPORTS BAR • More than 40 HD flatscreen TVs for sports fans, plus sports memorabilia. The menu features comfort food and pub classics: burgers, wings, and fried mac and cheese. Pizza and more upscale entrees are also available, as are more than 50 beers.

Bring your family and friends for a very entertaining night on the town. 1777 Third St., Detroit; 313-465-1234.

B,L,D daily.

Slows Bar BQ $$ BARBEQUE • The brick-and-wood original in Corktown gained a following for its pulled pork, ribs, and chicken.

They expanded with a “to go” spot in Midtown, as well.

This is a true Detroit classic in every sense of the term.

Corktown location: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-9629828. L,D daily. Slows To Go in Midtown: 4107 Cass Ave., Detroit; 877-569-7246. L,D daily.

They Say $$ GASTROPUB • Many folks pass right by on their way to Atwater Brewery, Andrews on the Corner, or the Rattlesnake Club. But Chene Park regulars know They Say does triple duty as a great place to grab dinner before a show. The food is grouped into “opening acts, intermission, and encores.” 267 Jos Campau Ave., Detroit; 313446-4682. L,D daily.

Smith & Co. $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This Cass Corridor bar and restaurant is housed in the old Smith Welding Supply & Equipment Company building — hence cement ceilings and exposed brick that evoke an industrial vibe. The menu features small plates, sandwiches, and entrees such as Mushroom Toast; Michigan Pork Belly; the Fried Chicken Bowl with sweet sesame sauce and kimchi; and the Smith Burger, soy-ginger marinated and topped with a fried egg. Beverage options include craft beer, wine, and fresh takes on classic cocktails. 644 Selden St, Detroit; 313-974-7100. L&D Mon-Sat., B,L,&D Sun.

Traffic Jam & Snug $ GASTROPUB • Michigan’s first officially designated brewpub is fresh and eccentric. The menu is diverse, and somewhat slanted toward vegetarian diners with such veggie-forward dishes as spinach lasagna, quiche, and portobello mushroom soup. No worries, there’s meatloaf and crabcakes, too. 511 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-8319470. L,D daily.

Standby $$ NEW AMERICAN • The libation menu — categorized by spirit — is longer than the food menu, but both food and drinks are equally emphasized. The fare ranges from small plates of chicken liver mousse and duck confit ravioli to entrees such as a waygu strip steak and red duroc pork belly. 225 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313-736-5533. D daily.

Not wheelchair accessible.

Street Beet $ VEGAN • The popular vegan pop-up Street Beet has landed a permanent spot at Midtown’s 3rd Street Bar, serving up plant-based riffs on quintessential fast foods.

Try the Kentucky Fake Chicken sandwich, with fried tofu, pickles, and spicy mayo, or the Taco Hell Crunchywrap, with walnut chorizo and cashew nacho cheese. These faves and additions like the Phony Cheesesteak are available via counter service, carryout, and online ordering. 4626 Third Ave., Detroit; 313-312-4669; L&D Sun., D Mon., D Tue.-Sat. Supino Pizzeria $$ ITALIAN • Relax with one of the town’s best thin-crust pizzas — they come in more than a dozen variations, with or without red sauce. A few dishes from the La Rondinella menu made the list as well, such as paninis, salads, and small plates such as polpette and fagioli. Beer, wine, and cocktails add to the appeal. 2457 Russell St., Detroit; 313567-7879. L,D Tue.-Sat.

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SPOTLIGHT

Gran Castor

LATIN STREET From the duo behind hit spots like Vinsetta Garage and Union Woodshop comes this vibrant Latin-American café and restaurant.

Diners can choose to sit behind one of the two bars, a cozy café, or in the 245seat dining room all decked in colorful textiles. At Gran Castor, the dining room is equally as decadent as the food and drinks served. Grab a $5 margarita between 4 p.m.-6 p.m. daily.

2950 Rochester Road, Troy; 248-2787777. D Mon-Sun. $$

Trattoria Serventi $$ ITALIAN • The brick pizza oven turns out an array of thin-crust pizzas and there’s an interesting daytime menu that offers a real bargain. In the evening, such dishes as veal Tosca, and manicotti alla trattoria, recalling chef Aldo Ottaviani — who was instrumental in setting up the original Andiamo menu — typify the style.

20930 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods; 313-886-9933.

L,D daily.

Union Street $$ NEW AMERICAN • The extensive dinner menu includes such tasty highlights as fried calamari, pistachio-encrusted salmon, a J.L. Hudson Maurice salad, filet mignon, beer-steamed mussels, fish tacos, chicken wings, and several vegetarian options. 4145 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-831-3965. L,D daily.

Urban Ramen $$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Urban Ramen serves bowls of steaming broth filled with house-made, springy ramen noodles topped with fixings like bamboo, egg, pork chashu, and sesame seeds. The menu also includes sushi, poke, and sides such as garlic edamame and Japanese fried chicken. 4206 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313285-9869. L,D Mon.-Sat. Vertical Detroit $$$ WINE BAR • This wine-centric restaurant puts the focus on pairing Chef Matt Barnes’ innovative cuisine with owners Jim and Rémy Lutfy’s nationally recognized wine program. The menu emphasizes locally sourced protein, seafood, and produce. A must-try for any wine enthusi-

ast. 1538 Centre St., Detroit; 313-732-9463. D nightly. Not wheelchair accessible.

Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine $$ CUBAN • An evening at this lively spot is more than just Cuban and Spanish dining. Appetizers and tapas include the outstanding Tapa de la Casa, pork leg marinated in mojo; a Spanish chorizo and fresh mushrooms concoction with flambéed sherry wine; and empanadas, a Cuban turnover filled with ground beef or chicken. 1250 Library St., Detroit; 313-962-8800. L,D daily.

Vivio’s Food & Spirits $ SANDWICH/DELI • This Eastern Market classic has been run by the Vivio family for more than 40 years.

Sandwiches and burgers are mainstays, but diners also appreciate the steamed mussels. 2460 Market St., Detroit; 313-393-1711. L,D Mon.-Fri., BR,L,D Sat., L,D Sun. The Whitney $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • The historic 1890s mansion is still going strong. The menu is typified by classic beef Wellington, wrapped in spinach, prosciutto, and pastry; and pan-roasted Scottish salmon.

Tableside cooking, by reservation only, is an optional feature. Don’t forget The Katherine McGregor Dessert Parlor for a sweet treat.4421 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-832-5700. L Mon.-Fri., D and high tea daily, BR Sun. Wine Dotte Bistro $$ WINE BAR • This interesting wine bar and restaurant offers a view of the Detroit River. The menu includes shrimp scampi, lobster tails, tenderloin medallions, and lamb chops. The wine is displayed in a cabinet across one wall and it’s the main focus. 2910 Van Alstyne St., Wyandotte; 734-556-3195. L,D Tue.-Sat., BR Sun. Wright & Co. $$ NEW AMERICAN • The collaboration between chef Marc Djozlija and Dave Kwiatkowski of the popular Corktown craft cocktail bar Sugar House gives new life to the second-floor space in the vintage Wright Kay building. Small plates such as tuna tartare with pickled pears and wontons, and pork tenderloin with goat cheese purée are the focus. 1500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-962-7711. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Yum Village $ AFRO-CARIBBEAN • The former food truck opened a full-service restaurant in the North End in April. The space is bright and fun with wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and a colorful, geometric paint job. And the food is just as bold. The restaurant serves up piquant dishes like Lemon Pepper Jerk Chicken. 6500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-686-2839. L,D Tue.-Sat.

Oakland 168 KTV Bistro $$ PAN-ASIAN • Don’t judge by 168 KTV Bistro’s unassuming strip mall location. It’s a unique experience that meshes food, karaoke, and pop party culture into a one-stop destination. The dining room offers dishes blurring the lines. Standouts include stir-fried snow pea leaves with garlic and stir-fried udon. The traditional Korean noodle dish chap chae is a strong option.

32415 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-616-0168.

D daily.

220 Merrill $$$ NEW AMERICAN • The menu includes apps and small plates as well as crispy Key West shrimp, pan-roasted sea bass, and fried calamari. There are heartier entrees as

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RECIPE

THE PETERBORO’S

ALMOND BONELESS CHICKEN

An Eastern approach to the ABCs

RE CIPE F ROM THE P E TER BO RO | PH OT O BY KA I L EY H OWEL L

Ingredients:

Breaded Chicken 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs 2 cups Corn Flakes 2 eggs 1 cup corn starch Salt and pepper to taste Mushroom-Soy Gravy 3 oz. large Shiitake mushrooms, diced 3 cloves garlic, chopped 2 tsp. fresh ginger, chopped 2 cups all natural chicken stock (unseasoned) 1 /3 cup cooking wine ½ cup soy sauce (or Tamari) 1 Tbsp. dark soy sauce (optional) 1 /3 cup ice-cold water 6 Tbsp. corn starch ½ cup seasoned, toasted almonds (for garnish)

Directions:

Start by heating a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop. Once the pan is hot, add the large diced mushrooms in and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they reduce in size and begin to brown. Once the mushrooms are mostly cooked, add in the garlic and ginger and stir constantly for 15-30 seconds and immediately add in the cooking wine to deglaze the pan.

(Caution: The wine may flare up from the heat as the alcohol burns off.) Once the wine is slightly reduced and becomes syrupy, add in chicken stock, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce.

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to a mediumlow simmer. Whisk together cold water and cornstarch and immediately pour into the simmering gravy. This should thicken the sauce into gravy consistency. If it is too thick, just add water or chicken stock. If it is too thin, repeat this step, with half the amount of water and corn starch.

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Once the oven reaches temperature, place chicken thighs on a baking sheet and roast for 12-18 minutes, or until cooked through. Immediately refrigerate until they are mostly cooled all the way through.

Prepare a three-step breading station. Start by crushing Corn Flakes with your hands in a large mixing bowl. Once they are sufficiently crushed, season with salt and pepper to taste. Next, crack and whisk eggs in a separate bowl and set next to the bowl of crushed Corn Flakes. Finally, add corn starch to a third bowl, season with salt and pepper, and set next to bowl of eggs.

Take the cooled chicken thighs and begin breading them by first dredging them on both sides in the seasoned corn starch, then the whisked eggs, and finish with the crushed Corn Flakes.

The easiest way to cook your breaded chicken thighs is in an air fryer or deep fryer, which has been preheated to 400 degrees, for 6-10 minutes. If you do not have a fryer, you can cook your chicken over the stovetop in a heavy-bottom skillet or cast iron pan. Start by heating the pan on medium heat and pouring a generous amount of cooking oil into it. There should be about a ¼-inch of oil in the pan. Once the pan and oil are hot, gently place the chicken in the pan and fry on all sides until golden brown.

Slice the cooked breaded chicken and serve over plain cooked rice or shredded lettuce. Using a large ladle, pour the Mushroom-Soy gravy over the sliced chicken and garnish with toasted almonds.

Serve immediately.

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Beverly Hills Grill $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Breakfast near noon is compatible with the Grill’s dawn-to-dark schedule. Fare includes crab cake Benedict, corned beef hash with poached eggs, and omelet du jour. There are plenty of lunch and dinner options, typified by black bean chili, Caesar and spinach salads, and a notable burger. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills; 248-642-2355. B,L,D daily.

well, like the braised beef short ribs. 220 Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-646-2220. L,D Mon.-Sat. BR Sun. Adachi $$$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Heading the kitchen is Lloyd Roberts, who has trained in the kitchens of celebrity chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Nobu Matsuhisa. Here, soy truffle broth is ladled over pork dumplings reminiscent of coin purses, and miniature tacos are filled with lobster, tuna, or vegetable pickings.

325 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham. D daily, L Mon.-Fri.

Bi Bim Bab $$ KOREAN • Though sushi and a small selection of Japanese entrees share the bill here, it’s Korean food at center stage — on barbecue grills, on which meat and seafood are grilled to order. Or come for the restaurant’s namesake. 43155 Main St., Novi; 248-348-6800. L,D daily.

Andiamo Restaurants $$ ITALIAN • Steak and Italian pasta are the focus, but dessert is also impeccable. The more casual but as just delicious spots are known as Trattorias. Flagships: 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit; 313-567-6700. 21400 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-359-3300. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township; 248-865-9300. 7096E. 14 Mile Road, Warren; 586-268-3200. Fenton Trattoria. D daily.

Anita’s Kitchen $ LEBANESE • With pita pizzas and lamb chops, the Lebanese food here is some of the best around. And there’s vegetarian and gluten-free fare, too. Healthy, nutritious, and delicious. See website for locations; anitaskitchen.com Antihero $$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This Izakaya — a Japanese pubstyle bar or eatery — opened in fall 2018. Its food is focused on small plates along with an endless array of craft cocktails, beers, and more. 231 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-307-7383. D Wed.-Sun. Assaggi Bistro $$$ ITALIAN • Seasonal offers encompassing rustic Italian, country French, and authentic Lebanese are all created in the open kitchen. Standouts include Moroccan duck legs, porcini-dusted day boat sea scallops, and cioppino (seafood stew). 330 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-5843499 D Tue.-Sun. Bacco $$$ ITALIAN • Chef-owner Luciano Del Signore’s pastas are like pure art. Try the Strozzapreti Norcina: Italian sausage, truffles, tomato, and white wine, tossed in hand-rolled pasta. From local grass-fed beef to sustainably farmraised sea bass to a fresh caprese, the ingredients are top-end. Based in the heart of Southfield, Bacco is a true Italian gem in the suburbs. And the desserts, are not to be missed. 29410 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248356-6600.L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat. Beans & Cornbread $$ SOUL • Upscale soul food is the premise at Beans & Cornbread: wings, Hoppin’ John, catfish, and a gravysmothered pork chop. Tempura-battered fried shrimp comes with a choice of cocktail or spicy BBQ sauce, and there’s a notable Louisiana-style gumbo to boot. 29508 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-208-1680. L,D Tue.Fri., D Sat.-Sun. BR Sun. Bella Piatti $$ ITALIAN • The location right across from the Townsend Hotel has inspired a number of visiting celebrities, professional athletes, and film crews who stay there to check out the Italian fare at this restaurant. The menu of such dishes as Gemelli pasta with fresh tomato sauce, salmon baked with spinach, kalamata olives, white wine, and tomatoes, and tagliatelle Bolognese stands on its own. It’s one of our true f avorites in the area in terms of Italian restaurants.

167 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248-494-7110. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.

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Bigalora: Wood Fired Cucina $$ ITALIAN • The pizza concept from chef Luciano Del Signore, a four-time James Beard Award nominee, features small plates, fresh pastas, wood-roasted meats, and a range of distinctive Neopolitan pizzas. See website for locations; bigalora.com

SPOTLIGHT

Big Rock Chophouse STEAKHOUSE This old railroad station is a great setting. Portions range from a dainty filet to a huge porterhouse. There are also a variety of small plates to choose from, including tuna tartare, crab cakes, mac and cheese, and more. 245 S. Eton, Birmingham; 248-647-7774. L,D Mon.-Sat. $$$

Bistro Joe’s $$$ GLOBAL • Part of Papa Joe’s Gourmet Market, Bistro Joe’s is in a mezzanine overlooking the open kitchen and market. There is an eclectic list of dishes like Spicy Tuna “tacushi,” steamed mussels, and tasty flatbread pizzas.

34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-594-0984. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun. Café Cortina $$$ ITALIAN • Selections include prosciutto di Parma stuffed with greens and mozzarella; squid sautéed with fresh pomodori; gnocchi with porcini mushrooms; and meaty prawns finished with lemon, white wine, and herbs. For dessert, try the crepes 30715 W. 10 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-474-3033. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.

Crispelli’s Bakery Pizzeria $ ITALIAN-INSPIRED • This hybrid offers artisanal pizzas from a brick oven, salads, paninis, and soups. A bakery offers crusty breads, desserts, and meals to go. Two patios add to the appeal. See website for locations; crispellis.com Culantro $$ PERUVIAN • Native Peruvian Betty Shuell brings a taste of her home to Ferndale. The casual, homey, seat-yourself establishment is named after an herb that is often used in preparation with the more familiar cilantro. An especially notable dish is Pollo a la Brasa, marinated chicken served with French fries, rice, and a variety of Peruvian dipping sauces. 22939 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-632-1055. L,D daily.

Diamond’s Steak & Seafood $$$ STEAKHOUSE • Now with a second location in Royal Oak, this Howell-based restaurant is the perfect location for New York strip steak, fresh gulf shrimp, or a classic cheeseburger. The Royal Oak location also sports the highly anticipated lush rooftop bar called Pinky’s that opened this spring. Aptly named, it’s painted in rosy hues and features a whimsical floral mural.

There’s a buffet-style brunch at both Diamonds locations on weekends. 100 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248291-5201. D daily; 101 W. Grand River Ave., Howell; 517548-5500. D daily.

Due Venti $$ ITALIAN • Everything is precise and balanced at this northern Italian gem: food, service, and atmosphere. Try the “fritelle” of sliced cauliflower fried in olive oil or the gnocchi with 14-hour braised lamb shank ragu. Desserts include affogato, a flourless torta with chocolate cake and raspberry mousse, and biscotti — everything is completely delicious. 220 S. Main St., Clawson; 248-2880220. D Tue.-Sat.

Café ML $$ NEW AMERICAN • Café ML is contemporary, both in décor and its “globally inspired food.” Such dishes as short rib steamed buns, Chinese chicken salad, Singapore street noodles, and Korean fried chicken share the menu with burgers, steak frites, and fresh seafood.

Garage door-style windows open onto the patio on warm days. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township; 248642-4000. D daily.

Eddie’s Gourmet $$ NEW AMERICAN • Chef Eddie Hanna’s gourmet diner is a simple concept that works to perfection. The menu offers standard selection of breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, and lunch specials, but the real draw is the counter-side gourmet and pasta specials. Offerings include Veal Marsala and Chicken Milano 25920 Greenfield Road, Oak Park; 248-968-4060. L,D Mon-Sat.

Capital Grille $$$ STEAKHOUSE • Hand-cut, dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood dishes are the stars at Capital Grille. The restaurant’s outstanding wine list features over 350 labels. The setting is appropriate for both business lunches and social events and includes well-appointed private dining rooms. 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-649-5300.

L,D Mon.-Sat., D Sun.

Elie’s Mediterranean Grill/Bar $$ LEBANESE • The lamb and chicken shawarma, shish kafta, kibbee nyeh, and other Lebanese dishes are emphasized by the décor, including photomurals of old Beirut and strings of blue beads cascading from the ceiling. A fun place to frequent for a quick lunch or a night out with friends. 263 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-6472420. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Churchill’s Bistro & Cigar Bar $$$ TRADITIONAL • You can buy your cigar and smoke it, too. Plus, there are dry-aged steaks, pan-roasted sea bass, seasonal East Coast oysters, and lamb chops, among other options. A full bar boasts a large selection of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon — and plenty of wine.

116 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham; 248-647-4555. L Mon.-Sat. D daily.

The Fed $$ GASTROPUB • An attractive restaurant with great food and a delightfully refreshing atmosphere. The menu crosses boundaries, from tacos and wood-fired dishes to assorted flatbreads and fresh sushi rolls. The bright and airy bohemian-chic interior is also Instagrammably beautiful. 15 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-297-5833. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Como’s $$ NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale favorite reopened in May 2019 under the ownership of Peas & Carrots Hospitality with a trendier, fresher look. The warm, homey feel is still intact, but it’s ditched the old menu for — among other things — chef Zack Skylar’s square, deep-dish, Detroit-style pizza that’s leavened from a sourdough starter as opposed to commercial yeast.

22812 Woodward Ave., Unit 100., Ferndale; 248-6774439. L,D daily.

The Fly Trap $ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This “finer diner” typifies fashionable Ferndale with its tin ceiling, red-topped tables, and counter with swivel stools. It offers sandwiches, salads, pastas, and omelets. 22950 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248399-5150. B,L Tue.-Sun., D Tue.-Fri. Forest $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The menu is brief but designed to let the kitchen assemble sharp flavors from various

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Ingredients:

¾ oz. Prairie Organic Gin ¾ oz. Blackberry/Ginger Syrup* ¾ oz. limoncello ¾ oz. lemon juice ¾ oz. Prosecco Lemon twist (for garnish) Blackberry/Ginger Syrup* 2 ¾ oz. white wine 8 oz. blackberries ½ in. ginger root, peeled and chopped 1 ⁄6 Tbsp. allspice 1 /3 Tbsp. black peppercorn 21 ½ oz. sugar 18 ¾ oz. water *Muddle blackberries in a large pot. Add ginger and all other ingredients. Whisk and bring to a boil. Cook on low heat for 20 minutes. Let cool then fine-strain.

Directions:

Add all ingredients apart from Prosecco into a shaker with ice and stir. Strain into a flute and top off with Prosecco. Squeeze lemon peel over flute to express oils.

RECIPE

M A N I O ST E R I A A N D BA R’S

DOLCE VITA

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farm and market ingredients. Try the delightful Mandilli pasta with pistachio pesto and Tuscan kale, and the understated “Farm Egg.” 735 Forest Ave., Birmingham; 248-258-9400. D Mon.-Sat. BR Sat. Garage Grill & Fuel Bar $$ NEW AMERICAN • The car-themed rooms of a former 1940s gas station are as fresh and appealing as the dishes themselves. The kitchen serves up a variety of seafood starters and “full-size sedan” entrees, as well as pizzas. 202 W. Main St., Northville, 248-924-3367. L,D nightly, BR Sat.-Sun. Hazel, Ravines & Downtown $$ ECLECTIC • This is an inventive, casual and fine-dining eatery, grab-and-go market, and bar all in a 10,000-square-foot space in downtown Birmingham.

The restaurant itself offers three menus. Hazel focuses on comfort food. Ravines is for the seasoned traveler.

While Downtown appeals to food-trend-followers. HRD is the ultimate neighborhood hangout. 1 Peabody St., Birmingham; 248-671-1714. B,L,D daily.

Honcho $ LATIN FUSION • From the owners of Vinsetta Garage and Union Woodshop, this restaurant can be described as “Latin food that speaks with an Asian accent.” Menu items include a chicken burrito fried and tossed in a soy fish sauce and Korean pork tacos, featuring Woodshop pulled pork tossed in Korean BBQ sauce and topped with toasted sesame seeds and Malay radish slaw. 3 E. Church St., Clarkston; 248-707-3793. L,D daily.

Hong Hua $ CHINESE • One of the best area restaurants dedicated to Asian food offers some rare delicacies — shark’s fin and bird’s nest soups, fresh abalone — as well as more customary items. One signature dish is stir-fried yellow grouper fillet with vegetables. 27925 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; 248-489-2280. L,D daily.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • This plush modern steakhouse offers dry-aged prime and Kobe-style wagyu beef in a fun, clubby setting. An extensive wine list accompanies the restaurant menu that also features platters of chilled fresh seafood. 201 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-594-4369. D daily. 17107 Haggerty Road, Northville Twp.; 248-679-0007. D Tue.-Sat. Imperial $ MEXICAN-INSPIRED • The menu offers Californiastyle tacos on soft tortillas, including lime-grilled chicken, carnitas, and marinated pork, as well as slow-roasted pork tortas, and guacamole, 22828 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-850-8060. L,D daily, BR Sun. J-Bird Smoked Meats $$ BARBEQUE • Offering wood-smoked meats served with the traditional sides of cornbread, buttermilk slaw, and mac and cheese, popular dishes include the Three Meat Sampler and JBird Gumbo, as well as St. Louis Ribs and old-fashioned JBurgers. If you love meat, this is your place. 1978 Cass Lake Road, Keego Harbor; 248681-2124. D daily. BR Sat.-Sun. Kaizen Ramen $ JAPANESE • A downtown Royal Oak space with exposed ductwork, orange booths, and a lively, floor-toceiling, black-and-white robot mural may not seem like the obvious choice for authentic Asian noodles. But this casual spot offers a variety of vegan and meat-based ramen dishes, as well as gyoza, poke, spring rolls, and karaage — Japanese-style fried chicken. Don’t skip out on desserts like mochi ice cream and cheesecake tempura. 411 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak; 248-677-1236.

L,D Mon.-Sat.

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Kruse & Muer $$ SEAFOOD • The menu features seafood — lobster and shrimp in saffron cream — and pastas, pizzas, and sandwiches. There’s also beef, chicken, and a children’s menu. 327 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-652-9400. L,D daily, BR Sun. There’s also: Kruse & Muer Roadhouse, 801 S. Lapeer Road, Lake Orion; 248-814-9500. L,D daily; Kruse’s Deer Lake Inn, 7504 Dixie Hwy., Clarkston; 248-795-2077. 134 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills; 248375-2503. L,D daily; and the latest addition, Kruse & Muer on Woodward, 28028 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-965-2101. L,D daily.

248-792-6051. 115 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-924-5459. L,D daily.

Mad Hatter Bistro, Bar & Tea Room $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • The whimsical setting inspired by Alice in Wonderland welcomes far more than the tea-sipping set with burgers and sandwiches, rabbit Porchetta, truffle risotto bites, and baked brie with pistachio, honey, and pomegranate. There are also pastries and other sweets, of course. 185 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-540-0000. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Tea by reservation. Lower level not wheelchair accessible.

Lao Pot $$$ CHINESE • In early December, the owners of Madison Heights’ international market 168 Asian Mart opened Lao Pot, which specializes in Chinese Hot Pot cuisine. Hot Pot is a traditional method of cooking, using a pot of simmering broth, which sits in the center of the dining table. Lao Pot allows diners to customize and cook their meals right at their tables, combining great food and a memorable experience.

32707 John R. Road, Madison Heights; 248-6899888. L,D daily.

La Strada Dolci e Caffé $ ITALIAN • A slice of European elegance offers an impeccable little menu of Italian dishes and rich coffees and espresso. Paninis, delicious fresh green salads, hearty minestrone soup, pastas, pizzas, and decadent and artistically crafted pastries are prettily served and very tasty. 243 E. Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-4800492. B,L,D Tue.-Sat., L,D Sun. Lelli’s Inn $$ ITALIAN • Dinners begin with an antipasto tray, creamy minestrone, salad, side dish of spaghetti, and then — nine times out of 10 — a filet mignon with zip sauce. 885 N. Opdyke Road, Auburn Hills; 248-373-4440. L Mon.-Fri. D daily.

Loccino Italian Grill $$ ITALIAN • Loccino is a “family-friendly” yet upscale Italian restaurant. Choose from fresh seafood, steak, chicken, and veal dishes, plus traditional pastas, pizzas, salads, and more. They also offer happy hour specials from 3-7 p.m. weekdays. A great special occassion place or delicious workday lunch spot for whevener you need a break from the office. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-8130700. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

Lockhart’s BBQ $$ BARBEQUE • The heart of this joint’s authentic barbecue is the dry-rubbed meat smoker, which can smoke up to 800 pounds of meat at a time. Choices such as pork ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, burnt ends, and chicken are served atop butcher paper on metal trays for the true experience. 202 E. Third St., Royal Oak; 248584-4227.

L,D daily. BR Sun. Loui’s Pizza $ ITALIAN • Sure, you can now get a Michigan craft beer, but not much else has changed. And that’s a good thing.

Parties dine on square pizzas with crisp crust that’s faintly charred around the edges. Hailed by food critics and Detroiters alike as arguably one of the most classic Detroit style pizzas in the city — so it’s well worth a trip.

23141 Dequindre Road, Hazel Park; 248-547-1711. L, D Wed.-Sun. Luxe Bar & Grill $$ NEW AMERICAN • The simple menu at this Grosse Pointe Farms joint offers burgers on brioche buns and interesting salads and sides, as well as entrees typified by wild-caught salmon, prime filet, and Greek-style lamb chops. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham;

Market North End $$ AMERICAN • Joe and Kristin Bongiovanni opened this eatery just across the street from the family’s other two restaurants, Salvatore Scallopini and Luxe Bar & Grill. It represents a younger, casual alternative with a serious kitchen that offers American dishes with hints of global influences. 474 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248712-4953. L,D daily.

SPOTLIGHT

Mabel Gray

NEW AMERICAN Chef James Rigato produces some masterful dishes on this tiny menu, which does not miss a beat. The menu includes a multicourse tasting option, as well as a daily listing of changing items that never disappoint.

It’s a fine dining experience that is certainly worth a visit. 23825 John R Road, Hazel Park; 248-398-4300. D Tue.-Sat $$$

The Meeting House $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This eclectic American menu includes lobster fettuccini, steak frites remarkably close to those at Paris bistros, and housemade potato chips with a hot Jarlsberg dip. Or, try the roasted carrot risotto made with house labneh, pistachio, pomegranate gastrique, and Za’atar. 301 S. Main St., Rochester; 248759-4825. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Mesa Tacos And Tequila $ MEXICAN-AMERICAN • The two-story setting includes balcony seating in a big, open room where the bar gets equal time with the kitchen. The pop-Mexican menu — which includes gua- camole, burritos, and the titular tacos — is backed up with an array of tequilas. 312 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-545-1940. L & D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

2008

Mon Jin Lau $$ ASIAN-FUSION • Explore such dishes as Singapore noodles, combining chicken, shrimp, chilies, and curry with angel-hair pasta; Mongolian beef; or seared scallops with corn chili sauce and a side of fried taro. The patio opens up and the dining room transforms into a dance floor for weekly events. 1515 E. Maple Road, Troy; 248-689-2332. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

The Morrie $$ NEW AMERICAN • Music and munchies can be a great combination when served in the right proportions. Such offerings as the smoked chicken wings, Teriyaki salmon and Baja sweet potato tots, as well as the requisite burger and steak, appeal to a wide demographic. The rock’n’roll-themed eatery also brought its much-loved American dishes and cocktails to Birmingham in 2019. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-216-1112. D daily. 260 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-940-3260. L,D Mon.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun. BR Sat.-Sun. Oak City Grille $ NEW AMERICAN • This downtown Royal Oak spot bridges the gap between bar food and upscale dining. Order a dressed-up sandwich or burger, or elevate your dining experience with an 8-ounce filet mignon or lamb chops. The friendly price range makes anything possible. 212 W. Sixth St., Royal Oak; 248-556-0947. D daily.

Ocean Prime $$$$ SEAFOOD • An upper-end steak-and-fish place and a popular business lunch site. The menu features naturally harvested fresh fish and prime aged beef. Don’t miss

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the chocolate peanut butter pie or the carrot cake. A tried-and-true metro Detroit spot. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy; 248-458-0500. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

is notable, as is the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. 6545 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield; 248-737-7463. D daily.

One-Eyed Betty’s $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • Picnic-style tables and blackboards lettered with scores of brew choices add a beerhall sensibility to this popular spot. The kitchen delivers New Orleans-themed dishes such as po’boy sandwiches and Cajun chicken and sausage as well as a mouthwatering bacon burger. Weekend brunch features delicious housemade doughnuts. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale; 248-808-6633. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Public House $$ SMALL PLATES • This Ferndale classic once known for its sliders recently received a menu update courtesy of executive chef Nick Erven and head chef Jasmine Hughes. While old favorites like deviled eggs are still present, they’ve been updated with pork rind, and the restaurant now offers “Fancy Ass Hash Browns” with caviar and fried chicken with spicy tomato ranch. The desserts are really worth a try. 241 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-850-7420. L,D Mon.-Fri, B,L,D Sat.-Sun.

Otus Supply $ NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale stunner has delightful food, superb service, and one wild look. The menu offers eight main courses and shared plates, as well as pizza and sandwiches. Can’t-miss: The housemade rigatoni made with Italian sausage and shredded boar. There’s also a concert venue called The Parliament Room. 345 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248291-6160. D Mon.-Sat.

Quán Ngon Vietnamese Bistro $ VIETNAMESE • This gem of a bistro in a hand-some space adds to the local Vietnamese offerings. Dishes such as cha gio (elegant little eggrolls), bun bo nuong sa (grilled steak atop angel-hair rice noodles), and banh mi made with fresh ingredients. 30701 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights; 248-268-4310. L,D daily.

Redcoat Tavern $ BURGERS • The half-pound choice beef hamburger is always atop the list of local favorites. But a low-fat, highflavor Piedmontese beef one is tastier than the original.

This is the place for your burger craving. 31542 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-549-0300. 6745 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-865-0500. L,D Mon.-Sat.

O.W.L. $ MEXICAN-AMERICAN • This Royal Oak spot offers 24 hours of sustenance. Step up to the counter and order from the letterboard menu before grabbing a stool at the counter or along the window ledge. Dishes here include such diner musts as eggs, sausage and potato hash, burgers, and chicken wings as well as tacos and nachos served from the open kitchen. 27302 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-808-6244. B, L,D daily.

Rochester Chop House $$ NEW AMERICAN • Two restaurants in one; Kabin Kruser’s and the Chop House. There’s a throwback roadhouse-style feeling about the Chop House, which has a menu divided between red meat and fresh fish and seafood. Signature dishes include calamari, Maryland jumbo lump crabcakes, and a large selection of aged steaks, rack of lamb, and steak/seafood combinations. 306 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-651-2266. L Mon.-Fri., D daily

Park 600 Bar + Kitchen $$ EUROPEAN INSPIRED • Seating includes the central bar, in front of the blazing pizza oven, at a communal table and conventional tables, and on the terrace overlooking Paint Creek Trail. The menu has an array of small plates and sandwiches at lunch along with intriguing dinner entrees. Royal Park Hotel, 600 E. University Drive, Rochester; 248-453-8732. B,L,D daily and afternoon tea ($39 per person) Thurs.-Sun. by reservation.

Phoenicia $$$ LEBANESE • This long-standing upscale Lebanese eatery has clean, contemporary lines that complement the French door-style windows. Don’t miss the morel mushrooms or roasted garlic cloves with tomato and basil as an appetizer. The menu expands to unexpected items such as baby back ribs and single-serving-sized local whitefish. 588 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248644-3122. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

Polka Restaurant & Beer Café $$ POLISH • Servers in traditional garb greet you near original murals, and light woodwork is enhanced with painted floral panels. Try the dill pickle soup, city chicken, and beef short rib, plus other favorites like pierogis, schnitzel, stuffed cabbages, and several kielbasa styles.

2908 E. Maple Road, Troy; 248-817-2601. D Tue.-Sun. Pop’s For Italian $$ ITALIAN • It doesn’t sound fancy, but this Ferndale restaurant serves well-prepared, Italian dishes paired with an ambitious wine program. The fairly brief menu starts with a list of Neapolitan pizzas, then moves to pastas, but has all the classics to hit the spot. There are charcuterie boards and Italian desserts, too. 280 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-268-4806. D Tue.-Sun. Prime29 Steakhouse $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • The 29-day aged prime beef, including the 24-ounce tomahawk bone-in rib-eye, still stars here. There’s also Chilean sea bass, Loch Duart salmon, and lamb chops with lobster fried rice. The service

SPOTLIGHT

Ronin

JAPANESE The sushi menu, ranging from spicy tuna rolls to yellowtail and salmon eggs and well beyond, is augmented by a concise menu of cooked fare. Front windows open onto the sidewalk, making the cocktail lounge open-air during the warm months. 326 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-546-0888. D daily. $$

Rugby Grille $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • At the Townsend Hotel’s upscale restaurant, the classics remain, including boned-at-thetable Dover sole and hefty steaks. The eatery also introduced a new menu last year. Michigan-produced ingredients from local farmers and ranchers are still a focus here. 100 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248-642-5999.

B,L,D daily.

Sal’s $$ ITALIAN • Formerly known as Salvatore Scallopini, this old-school Italian eatery in Birmingham has long been known for its classic handmade pastas. Still, more recent menu additions — bold seafood dishes that reflect the Bongiovanni family’s Sicilian heritage —hold up just as well. 505 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-644-8799. L,D daily.

Silver Spoon $$ ITALIAN • This quintessential slice of Italy features excellent food, knowledgeable staff, and friendly service. Try the bucatini made with pancetta, onion, red wine, and fresh tomato sauce. Also worth trying: saltimbocca alla Romana, or veal scaloppini sautéed in white wine. A truly delicious place for any kind of outing. 543 N. Main St., Rochester; 248-652-4500. D daily.

Social Kitchen & Bar $$$ NEW AMERICAN • The energetic Birmingham spot allows guests a view of the kitchen action. It has a creative and varied menu typified by falafel lettuce wraps, fried chicken sandwiches, crispy Brussels sprouts, and salmon with braised lentils, crispy kale, and a mustard vinagrette. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-5944200. L Mon.-Fri., D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Streetside Seafood $$ SEAFOOD • Small and cozy yet sophisticated, the restaurant has a pared-down menu of fresh fish and seafood on a seasonal menu. There are always two soups: a bisque and a chowder. Favorites include the smoked whitefish melt at lunch. A delicious restaurant for all palates to enjoy and feel comfortable in. 273 Pierce St.Birmingham; 248-645-9123. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

Take Sushi $$ JAPANESE • Crisp salads, miso soup garnished with the tiniest dice of tofu, sashimi and sushi, oversize bowls of soba or udon noodles, and all the familiar — and some not-so-familiar — entrees, combine together to make this spot special. 1366 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248-652-7800. L Mon.-Sat., D daily.

Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro $$ WINE BAR • Understated décor and a pared-down menu of seasonal dishes make this spot a Birmingham classic. The kitchen turns out dishes like Lamb Belly Ragu with housemade pasta; and Alaskan Halibut with mushroom ragu and asparagus. Wine is served by the glass, the pitcher, or bottle. 155 S. Bates St., Birmingham; 248-731-7066. D Mon.-Sat. Three Cats Restaurant

$

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • Formerly a small café serving customers of the boutique Leon & Lulu, Three Cats is now a full-fledged restaurant and bar. Located in the former Clawson movie theater next door to the shop, the spot serves small, simple plates, including vegetarian and vegan options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The beverage menu features local selections, such as vodka from Ferndale’s Valentine’s Distilling Co. and wines from grapes grown on the Leelanau Peninsula. Patrons can even take home the colorful, quirky chairs or tables they’re dining at, as most of the furniture at Three Cats Restaurant is available for purchase. 116 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-2884858. L,D Mon.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun. Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • It’s fun, it’s breezy, and the food at Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint is very, very good. The house specialty smothered burrito has plenty of fans, as does huevos rancheros: fried eggs upon corn tortillas, pintos, and cheese. Toast, a Neighborhood Joint, the spinoff of the Ferndale original has a more elaborate setting pairing ’50s retro with sleek contemporary in a pair of rooms. The new menu features twists to comfort food. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-398-0444. L daily, B Sat.-Sun. 203 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-258-6278. B,L Mon.-Sat., B,L Sun. Toasted Oak $$$ BRASSERIE • The menu revolves around the charcuterie sold in the market next door and a list of hot grill items, such as grilled steaks with béarnaise sauce. In 2019, the restaurant earned a Wine Spectator magazine award for its outstanding wine program. Plus, just across the lot is Twelve Oaks Mall, should you fancy an evening of shopping and dinner. 27790 Novi Road, Novi; 248-277-6000. B,D daily, L Mon.-Fri. Townhouse $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This popular Birmingham spot has several exceptional offerings on its menu, such as the specialty 10 ounces of 28-day dry-aged beef hamburger on brioche. 180 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-792-5241.

L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313723-1000. L,D Mon.-Sun. BR Sun. Union Woodshop $$ BARBEQUE • Part of the ever-growing Union Joints restaurant group, this is a self-described wood-fired

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joint, where pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and beef brisket come from the smoker, and Neapolitan-style crispcrusted pizzas from the wood-burning oven. And definitely check out the mac and cheese. There’s also a delicious kid’s menu for any youngsters in your party.

18 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-625-5660. D Mon.-Fri., L,D Sat.-Sun. Vinsetta Garage $$ NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant in a vintage carrepair shop offers well-prepared comfort-food classics such as burgers on pretzel buns, macaroni and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs, pizzas, and roast chicken. A restaurant that pays true homage to Detroit. 27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley; 248-548-7711.

L,D daily.

Bad Brad’s $$ BARBEQUE • The rustic setting at Bad Brad’s is just right for the hearty menu of fall-off-the-bone St. Louis ribs, juicy brisket, and tender pulled pork. See website for locations; badbradsbbq.com Butter Run Saloon $ GASTROPUB • Solid American fare that’s beyond bar food (although their burgers are certainly noteworthy). There’s escargot, perch, steaks, and a huge whiskey selection — 900 at last count. 27626 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-675-2115. L,D daily.

Da Francesco’s Ristorante & Bar $$ ITALIAN • Da Francesco’s has been around for more than 15 years, but its massive new facility is packing in the crowds offering an upbeat modern twist to traditional Italian dining. 49521 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-7544. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., L,D Sun. Detroit Fish House $$ SEAFOOD • This restaurant feels like a true coastal eatery, serving an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood in a well-designed setting. Choose from a

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Gaudino’s $$ ITALIAN • The trend toward combining a food market with a restaurant has a good example at this spot.

It offers imported pastas and sauces, plus a butcher counter with sausages and a wine assortment. The menu offers pasta and pizza, salads, and entrees, including a Chicken Milanese. 27919 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-879-6764. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Washtenaw

Mr. Paul’s Chophouse $$$ STEAKHOUSE • This bastion of red meat as well as classic dishes is still going strong. Try old-school tableside presentations such as Chateaubriand and Caesar salad. There’s a solid selection of fresh seafood and pasta, too. The founding family still runs the place and emphasizes great hospitality and a heckuva good time. 29850 Groesbeck Hwy., Roseville; 586777-7770. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.

Yotsuba Japanese Restaurant & Bar $$ JAPANESE • The semi-circular sushi bar is the center of this restaurant. Sushi chef Bobby Suzuki has a loyal following for his precise nigiri rolls. There are also tatami rooms and conventional seating. 7365 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-737-8282.

2222 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor; 734-971-5168. L,D daily.

Macomb

and several choices from “over the wave,” such as lamb chops and New York strip steak, plus lump crab cakes, and beer-battered cod. 24223 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-773-3279. L,D daily.

J. Baldwin’s Restaurant $$$ NEW AMERICAN • The menu showcases talented chef Jeff Baldwin’s contemporary American food: cedar-planked salmon, chicken fettuccini alfredo with pesto, and herb-crusted chicken, with housemade breads. The desserts include chocolate bumpy cake, spiced carrot cake, apple cobbler, chocolate mousse layer cake, and banana foster bread pudding. 16981 18 Mile Road, Clinton Township; 586-416-3500. L,D daily, BR Sun.

Voyager $$ SEAFOOD • Fresh seafood with emphasis on oysters is the premise in this hard-to-find location. The space entails convivially close quarters for such dishes as peel-n’-eat shrimp, chili crab spaghetti and grilled swordfish. The premium bar offers short but notable lists of beer and wine as well as craft cocktails. 600 Vester St., Ferndale; 248-658-4999. D Tue.-Sat.

Zao Jun $$ ASIAN FUSION • Adachi chef Lloyd Roberts has brought his refined yet imaginative Pan-Asian cuisine to Bloomfield Township. More casual than Roberts’ first local outpost, Zao Jun boasts an eclectic menu, influenced by traditional East Asian traditions as well as New Age techniques. Alongside an extensive drink menu of wine, beer, sake, and Asian-inspired cocktails, Zao Jun offers creative dishes such as Duck Macao, Kani Crab and Green Apple salad, and Mongolian Beef.

6608 Telegraph Road., Bloomfield Twp.;248-949-9999.

D daily.

wide variety of fresh fish and meaty seafood, ranging from salmon to Lake Superior whitefish. 51195 Schoenherr Road, Shelby Charter Township; 586-7395400. L,D Mon.-Sat., D Sun.

SPOTLIGHT

Testa Barra

ITALIAN The newest spot from talented chef and restaurateur Jeffrey Baldwin and his wife, RoseMarie, offers modern Italian fare in a lively, upbeat setting. Pastas are made in-house.

48824 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb Township; 586-4340100. D nightly D Tue.-Sun. $$

Sherwood Brewing Co. $ GASTROPUB • Quality local ingredients raise Sherwood’s fare to well above “elevated pub grub.”

Some notable choices include the hearty House Beer Chili, savory Better Made-crusted fish and chips, and spicy Buffalo Mac. Homemade extends to dessert, including Cashew Outside Cookies. This isn’t just bar food,it’s elevated bar food. 45689 Hayes Road, Shelby Township; 586-532-9669. L,D daily.

Steakhouse 22 $$ STEAKHOUSE • The late Nick Andreopoulos once spent time as a “broiler man” at London Chop House.

His family stays true to those roots at this American steakhouse with a casual, neighborhood feel. They offer an array of well-prepared angus steaks, plus seafood and pasta dishes. With the sizable lunch and portions offered at Steakhouse 22, good luck saving room for dessert! 48900 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-3900. L,D daily.

Black Pearl $$ SEAFOOD • This seafood and martini bar is especially popular during patio season. But step inside for a host of craft cocktails, then stay for dinner. A seafood-dominated menu includes a notable roasted scallop dish. The Pasta Gone Bayou is also worth a try, with shrimp, chicken, andouille sausage, and a Cajun cream sauce. And make sure to order dessert.

The Sweet Potato Beignets and gluten-free Black Pearl Molten Cake are exceptional. 302 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-222-0400. D daily.

Blue LLama Jazz Club $$ CREATIVE AMERICAN • Come to this swanky jazz club for the music, which includes headliners such as the Grammy-nominated Ravi Coltrane Quartet, but stay for Chef Louis Goral’s delicious food. Try the crispy foie gras PB&J with Marcona almonds and strawberry jam. There is also a delicious Sunday brunch with decadent orange blossom beignets and strawberry pancakes. 314 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734372-3200. D Wed.-Sat., BR Sun. The Blue Nile $$ ETHIOPIAN • The real treat of the meal at this Ferndale restaurant is that it’s scooped up with a spongy bread called injera, and all the lentils, often seasoned with an Ethiopian spice mixture known as Berber, and vegetables are equally delicious. 221 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor; 734-998-4746. D Tue.-Sun.545 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-547-6699. D daily.

Cardamom $$ INDIAN • Check out the Hyderabadi Biryani — chicken, goat, and vegetable dishes, in which the rice is first cooked then baked. All the Indian favorites are available at Cardamom, such as Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Rogan Josh, and warm, fluffy, made-fresh garlic naan. It’s the ideal spot for those times when you’re craving the classics. 1739 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-662-2877. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Twisted Rooster $$ SPORTS BAR • This “Michigan-centric” chain (Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and Belleville) has takes on classics, with mac & cheese variations and steaks with “zip” sauce. 45225 Marketplace Blvd., Chesterfield; 586-949-1470. L,D daily.

The Common Grill $$ SEAFOOD • Owner and chef Craig Common’s skilled work has drawn the attention of the now shuttered Gourmet magazine and the James Beard House — as well as the Purple Rose Theatre crowd. This mainstay is best known for fresh oysters and seafood, but all the fare at The Common Grill is expertly prepared. A tried-and-true foodie destination with a range of desserts, including coconut cream pie, lemon pudding cake, and cherry cobbler. 112 S. Main St.,Chelsea; 734-475-0470. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.

Vast Kitchen and Bar $$ NEW AMERICAN • Chef Nicole Justman heads the kitchen at this fresh spot that brings a touch of Birmingham to Shelby Township. A contemporary menu at Vast Kitchen and Bar includes ginger-crusted salmon and filet mignon. 52969 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-991-6104. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Grange Kitchen and Bar $$$ NEW AMERICAN • If the charm of the brownstone storefront brought you in, regionally sourced ingredients will make you stay. From fried pig head to pigear salad, every scrap of the hog is used, reflecting a philosophy of sustainability. 118 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-995-2107. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun.

Waves $$ SEAFOOD • Seafood covers most of the menu at this Nautical Mile favorite. It’s a tough task choosing between such popular appetizers as Cuban-spiced crawfish tails, crispy grouper nuggets, and plump steamed mussels. Entrees include al dente pastas

KouZina Greek Steet Food $ GREEK • The Greek “street food” at this popular Ann Arbor spot comes in lamb and beef, and chicken. Try the lentil soup for a delicious lunch or go for something more filling like falafel. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this excellent spot. 332 S. Main St., Ann

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Mani Osteria & Bar $$ ITALIAN • This popular casual restaurant infuses freshness with lower prices than most osterias. It’s a well-rounded blend of modern, eclectic Italian with classic standbys. The pizzas are hot, fresh and perfectly executed to suit your tastes. 341 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-769-6700. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun. Miss Kim $$ KOREAN • This spinoff from the Zingerman’s mini empire comes courtesy of chef Ji Hye Kim and is a go-to spot for healthy Asian eats. Kim often incorporates ancient Korean culinary traditions, such as rice syrup and plum extracts, into her dishes. Some of the restaurant’s standouts include the Wasabi Sugar Snap Peas and Korean BBQ Ssam Plate — just to name a few of them. 415 N. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-275-0099. L,D Tue.-Sun. Paesano $$ ITALIAN • With a friendly waitstaff and decked in vibrant colors, this lively restaurant is not to be missed.

The innovative menu changes seasonally. Must-tries have included the pasta carbonara, featuring shrimp, duck bacon, and Italian greens, as well as beet and ricotta gnocchi with brown butter. 3411 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-971-0484. L,D daily.

wine list here is incredible. Try a bottle off of its New or Old World Cellared Collection. 110 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-222-9841.L Mon.-Fri. D daily.

Seva Ann Arbor $$ VEGAN • Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian.

There’s also a full bar as well as a juice bar serving smoothies and shakes, fresh-squeezed juices, and mocktails. Choose from one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in the area. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. L,D daily.

Slurping Turtle $ JAPANESE • This fun, casual Ann Arbor restaurant owned by celebrity chef Takashi Yagihashi offers plenty of shareable dishes, such as hamachi tacos and duck fat fried chicken. But the star at Slurping Turtle is the noodle (Yagihashi’s “soul food”), which is made inhouse daily on a machine imported from Japan. 608 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-887-6868. L,D daily.

Vinology $$$ ECLECTIC • Natural brick walls blended with darkwood booths and tables lend warmth to the dining room at Vinology, while tall ceilings contribute to the restaurant’s spacious feel. The menu draws on assorted cuisines to produce dishes such as Vegan Dumplings, Short Rib Tacos, Fig and Gorgonzola Flatbread, and Filet Mignon with black truffle garlic butter and burgundy reduction. As implied by the name of the venue, the

SPOTLIGHT

Shalimar

INDIAN Offering North Indian, Tandoori, and Mughlai dishes, Shalimar is suitable for carnivores and herbivores alike.

Standouts include the Tandoori Lamb Chops marinated in yogurt, ginger, and garlic, which is best eaten with the restaurant’s flavorful garlic naan served fresh and hot. 307 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-6631500. L, D daily. $$

Zingerman’s Delicatessen $ SANDWICH/DELI • Zingerman’s Delicatessen is a must-try staple in Ann Arbor. The temptations at Zingerman’s are endless: fresh breads and a menu of filling sandwiches, olive oils and housemade balsamic vinegars, chilies, and mustards. 422 Detroit St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3354. B,L,D daily.

Zingerman’s Roadhouse $$$ CLASSIC COMFORT • This eatery celebrates American food from various cities across the country. From fresh Maryland crab cakes to the delicious delicacies of New Orleans, every last bite of the country is represented here. The buttermilk biscuits are beyond-thisworld. 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3663.

B,L,D daily.

All restaurants are reviewed anonymously, all expenses are paid by Hour Detroit, and the listings have no relationship to advertising in the magazine.

All restaurants are handicapped accessible unless otherwise noted.

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CO NTIN U ED FROM PAGE 16

a lot of time in the Latinx community reminding people there’s a Latinx community in the Midwest. Like I’m a Midwestern Latina, and that’s a thing, and I’m really deeply proud of that.

We hear more about the Black experience around here.

It’s funny, but after I joined the staff of the National Conference of La Raza in Washington in the 1990s and started to describe my civil rights work to my parents, they started to tell their stories. They were almost evicted from their first apartment in Detroit because the landlady caught them speaking Spanish and she accused them of speaking “Mexican.” They never told us that when my aunt and uncle came to the States and ended up in Detroit, they came with five children and no one would rent them a house. They had to live in two apartments — he with the older kids and she with the younger kids.

Your presence in the Biden transition was controversial. People worried about you on account of your involvement in Obama-era immigration policies like family separations …

We didn’t actually separate families, but go ahead and ask your questions.

Wait, really? What about the photos of kids in cages from 2014?

Yeah. In 2014, we had an unexpected increase in the number of unaccompanied migrant children, which is the same thing that’s happening now. Under the law, those children are to be moved from the Border Patrol facilities — which are lockups and not appropriate for kids — within 72 hours. Because it was an unexpected spike, we ran out of shelter space. The photos of kids from 2014 were from holding facilities we created.

President Obama did the same thing President Biden is doing, which is bringing in FEMA to create facilities to get those kids out of Border Patrol lockups while the government set up additional shelter space. The point was to provide proper protection for kids. That became controversial only when Trump did something very different, which was taking children away from their parents.

What did you do with families, then?

Some got ankle bracelets and were released into the U.S. Some were in community monitoring, which is, essentially, where we piloted programs with some religious non-governmental organizations to release people into the community and the NGOs agreed to meet people’s needs and make sure they showed up at their asylum hearings. Some were detained, and we took great criticism for detaining families. But no, we didn’t take people’s children.

Is it fair to say people are coming now because Trump is gone and there’s a belief that it’s easier to get in?

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No, it’s not. The last four years taught us a lot about whether how people are treated at the border affects decisions to migrate. Trump took away people’s infants. They took thousands of children away from their parents, thinking that when the word got out, people would stop coming. They didn’t stop coming. Clearly something else drives migration. It has to do with the conditions in the countries that people are leaving. You can’t fix what is actively a refugee crisis in our hemisphere at the border. You have to fix it where it’s happening. The Biden administration is taking steps to do that. It will take a while for them to be effective.

Surely that was the theory when Obama was in office, but it didn’t work.

Actually, it did. There are three things which were starting to have an impact before they were dismantled by the Trump administration. The first was a program called the Central American Minors Program, which allowed kids who would otherwise be traveling alone or with smugglers to get refugee status and be brought to the United States to reunite with their families without having to cross Mexico alone. The second was a similar program for adults. And the third thing we did, and it was Vice President Biden who led this effort, was appropriate money to invest in partnerships in the countries where people come from to begin to address the reasons that they were migrating in the first place. It was starting to have impacts particularly in Honduras. None of that is a short-term fix, but a long-term fix requires an investment and work.

Was there any discussion of you joining the Biden administration?

No. I made it clear when I joined the transition that I was really, really happy to help get the Biden administration up to speed, but that I didn’t intend to go into government. I did that. I was in the White House for eight years, which is a really long tour of duty. But I’m pleased to say I helped draft a really awesome team that’s doing great work here.

Any particular victories specifically for the Midwest or Michigan that come to mind from your Obama years?

Oh my gosh. Michigan has benefited enormously from the American Recovery Act, which passed in the first few weeks of the Obama administration. Obviously, the auto bailout, I was there for all of it. The potential for bankruptcies for major companies and the downstream effects that that would have had if the administration had allowed Chrysler to go under, for example — it’s hard to overstate how devastating it would have been. The auto bailout was incredibly controversial at the time. Now it’s widely understood as having saved the industry and the Midwest. The government got its money back with interest and the auto industry is now poised to take us into a clean energy future. It’s impossible to overstate what a big deal that was for Michigan. I’m proud of it. And I still drive a Ford.

because I wanted to stay home and watch The Twilight Zone and he wanted me to go picket Woolworth’s,” he says. “He said, ‘Harvey, do you think Woolworth should discriminate against Negros?’ I mean, I was 12 years old!”

Werbe, listening to this, quips: “Well, he’s lucky he didn't turn you into a conservative!”

“Well, Peter, that’s where you came in,” Ovshinsky answers.

By this, Ovshinsky means that Werbe turbocharged the paper’s leftist conceit. “Between him and me, we created this newspaper that spoke to and connected to the various communities who were not interested in speaking to each other at the time, even though they were harassed by, arrested by, spied upon by the same police — the druggies, the politicos, the musicians,” Ovshinsky says. Adds Werbe: “And also, the Black community and certain whites in the area where we lived. I mean, that was one of the features of the 1967 Rebellion, the integrated looting.”

Werbe says the times pushed the paper farther to the left: “If we're serious revolutionaries, the paper had to move with the entire movement at that time.”

Here Ovshinsky pushes back. “Yeah, but it didn’t have to, Peter. That’s where you were at, that’s where the staff was at. I was no longer there anymore. I never saw the paper as a house organ for the revolution.”

Werbe, astonished by the remark, turns to me: “Harvey correctly tells the story in his book of the anti-war meeting in 1966 when he said, ‘Is there anyone here who would like to help on the paper?’ and I raised my hand. I raised my hand for one purpose: to make it the house organ of the movement.”

Both men erupt in chuckles. “We never had this conversation! This is great!” Ovshinsky says.

The Fifth Estate in 2021 has some 4,000 subscribers scattered across the country, and the content is as likely to be about California wildfires or a biodiversity farm in India as it is about Detroit. Most magazines of this ilk died after the heyday of Vietnam and the civil rights movement, but Werbe reinvented theirs in 1975 as a quarterly journal of essays and political analysis on issues broad enough to draw interest beyond Detroit.

Ovshinsky is proud of the magazine’s survival, even if Werbe did it differently than he would have.

“Peter broadened the vision to include the country and the world,” he says. “My focus as a storyteller has always been Detroit. That’s my muse. That’s my revolution. That’s my preoccupation. That’s what I dream about.”

Werbe replies: “Listen, that’s how the magazine survived. If I could have, like we used to have, 100 different places in Detroit selling it and young people lining up outside getting the latest issue to take it out on the streets to sell, I’d be there in a second.

But we had to evolve.”

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3RD ANNUAL SWING INTO SPRING CHARITY GOLF OUTING

GODFATHERS CHARITY GOLF OUTING

Professional Golf Planners of America (PGPA) invites you to lend your support for our chosen local charity Canine Companions Rescue Center by registering for our upcoming golf outing on May 10th at Greystone Golf Club in Washington Twp.. Canine Companions is a local 501c3 non-profit founded in 2004 promoting the adoption of dogs and “bringing great people and great dogs together for life!”

PGPA is proud to partner with and support the fundraising efforts of this outstanding organization.

There are golfer and sponsor opportunities still available. Why not sign up today for a fun day of golf, supporting our local non-profit and take advantage of our early birdie discount pricing? Deadline to register is May 8th. Register online at www.progolfplanners. com/swinginto spring or call 855.711.PGPA.

SPRING GOLF!!! Come join us for our 1st Godfathers Charity Golf Outing on Monday, May 24th at Cherry Creek Golf Club in Shelby Twp..

A portion of our proceeds will be donated to the Yellow Ribbon Fund, Inc. This 501c3 non-profit is a national organization whose primary mission is to assist US Military Service Members, Veterans and their families welcoming injured service members home! Godfathers Bistro Cigar Bar of Shelby Twp. is a full service bar with a steakhouse-style menu in a classic American setting with a fine selection of cigars. Why not sign up for a fun day of golf, help support this amazing organization, and take a shot at our $10K Hole In One Contest!

Registration is open through May 20th at www. progolfplanners.com/godfathers or call 855.711.PGPA.

PGPA GOLF CLINICS NEED HELP WITH YOUR GOLF GAME? Professional Golf Planners of America is proud to support the NFL Alumni Detroit Chapter by donating a portion of our proceeds from our 3 scheduled golf clinics, held at Fieldstone Golf Course in Auburn Hills, May 22nd, July 17th and September 18th. The NFL Alumni Detroit Chapter supports scholarships for high school student athletes and believes that these students should be recognized for their academic achievements and encouraged to pursue career goals beyond. Join us for 3 hours of rotational training with 3 of Michigan’s finest amateur golfers working on your driving, chipping and putting! All levels of play are welcome and all ages. Spots are limited! Register today at www. progolfplanners.com/golfclinic or call 855.711.PGPA.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOUR MEDIA SPONSORED EVENTS AND SEE PHOTOS FROM THOSE EVENTS, VISIT

HOURDETROIT.COM Learn about local non-profits, the work they are doing in our community, and ways you can help their causes in the digital edition of Give Detroit: A Charitable Registry at hourdetroit.com. * PLEASE NOTE, EVENT DATES MAY HAVE BEEN CANCELED OR POSTPONED. CHECK WITH INDIVIDUAL EVENT ORGANIZERS FOR MOST UP-TO-DATE CHANGES.

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1975

IN THE ART WORLD, outdoor murals are referred to as “fugitive,” which means they’re fleeting.

Subjected to the elements and faded by the sun, murals are eventually robbed of their original color and the paint begins to peel. As they decay, many are covered by ads or painted over.

Charles McGee’s untitled geometric mural on Pontchartrain Wine Cellars (now the Detroit Foundation Hotel), shown here with the artist, could have easily met that fate. In fact, it was heading in that grim direction when the proprietor of The Foundation Hotel decided the colorful 60-by-40-foot mural on West Larned in downtown Detroit should be preserved. The nonagenarian McGee was too frail to complete the task, so with McGee’s blessing and guidance, artists Hubert Massey and Henry Heading revived the 1974 work. McGee lived to see the vivid result upon its completion in 2019; he died this February at the age of 96 at his Detroit home.

At the time of his death and for much of his life, McGee, who was born in South Carolina in 1924 and came here a decade later, could be considered the dean of Detroit artists — not because of his longevity, but because of his accomplishments. His paintings, sculptures, and murals are on display at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, and his work has been exhibited in shows nationally. His animated “The Blue Nile” adorns the Broadway Station of the Detroit People Mover, and the black-and-white mural “Unity” injects vitality into downtown’s Capitol Park. McGee also organized the landmark 1969 exhibition Seven Black Artists at the Detroit Artists Market, founded Gallery 7, and co-founded the Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit. He molded young minds through his teaching at Eastern Michigan University, University of Michigan, and the BirminghamBloomfield Art Center. McGee won boatloads of accolades, including being named as the first Kresge Eminent Artist, in 2008. His art was even showcased on the PBS series Antiques Roadshow, when a Cleveland collector brought a McGee charcoal drawing in for appraisal. — George Bulanda

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The Way It Was

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WALTER P. REUTHER LIBRARY, ARCHIVES OF LABOR AND URBAN AFFAIRS, WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (THE DETROIT NEWS)

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