Hour Detroit | January 2025 by Hour Media

BILL FORD LEADS THE PACK OF THIS YEAR’S HONOREES

DEFINED BY DETROIT, BUILT FOR THE WORLD.

Designed by world-renowned SHoP Architects and spanning more than 1.5 million square feet across two distinct buildings, Hudson’s Detroit is a global destination in downtown Detroit. The landmark property features Class A office space, including the future world headquarters of General Motors, The Detroit EDITION hotel and The Residences at The Detroit EDITION, a retail collection, unique bar and restaurant concepts, an event venue spanning two floors and activated public spaces. Make your mark at Hudson’s.

32

24 Detroiters

This year, we recognize an auto executive who helped revitalize a longneglected building; a philanthropist behind some important health initiatives; a social worker/CEO who dedicated her life to uplifting young girls and women; one of those women who went on to start her own nonprofit for homeless and housinginsecure children; and a sports team that roared back last season.

32 Music Guide

We attempt to scratch the surface of Detroit’s rich musical history with an A-Z guide. Plus, we take a look inside the Motown Museum’s Studio A, and sit down with Motown alum Ray Parker Jr. Plus, one of our writers recalls his rock ‘n’ roll past.

The Hammond B3 organ at Hitsville USA’s Studio A. Numerous hits, including The Supremes’ “Stop! In the Name of Love”and The Temptations’ “My Girl,” were recorded in this room.

WHAT MAKES OUR AS AMAZING AS YOUR KID? HEART CARE

When your child is diagnosed with a heart condition, big questions ll your mind. Questions like, “What are our options?” and “Which experts can I trust with my baby?” At University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, families nd answers from Michigan’s No. 1 Pediatric Cardiology & Heart Surgery program. And kids like yours receive the most advanced, evidence-based heart care—at one of the largest and best pediatric heart programs in the nation.

There’s a difference between an answer and a Michigan Answer for kids. Find your answer at MichiganAnswers.org/PedsCV.

Up Front

DEVELOPMENT

How Dan Gilbert and GM want to use your tax money. Plus, other real estate happenings on the horizon.

BOOKS

A new book chronicles the Detroit Lions’ return to glory.

BURNING QUESTIONS

We queried local experts about what will happen in Michigan politics and sports this year and beyond.

24/Seven

COMMUNITY

Dearborn’s new PEACE parks create much-needed gathering spaces.

MI STYLE

A fashion nonproft owner walks us through her style philosophy.

RETAIL

Our favorite additions to metro Detroit’s shopping scene.

CULTURE CONVO

“Why not embrace music tourism?” wonders Ryan Patrick Hooper.

2025 PREVIEW

Music, comedy, theater, dance, and other events to fill your calendar.

ANNUAL EVENTS

The Detroit Auto Show is back, but is it better? We take a look at the changing times.

DRINKS

This art deco bar has been one of Detroit’s top jazz venues for nearly two decades.

PROFILE

Saffron De Twah’s Omar Anani talks about his new restaurant plans for 2025.

NIGHT OUT

Our critic enjoys a Beyoncéinspired dinner created by local chefs who love records.

Robin

Luxury Innovation

Luxury and innovation with our state of the art facilities located in Michigan and Florida.

Cutting-Edge Care

Highest standards of care by integrating the latest medical techniques and technology

CONTRIBUTORS

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DETROIT MUSIC MEMORY?

Jim McFarlin

WROTE ROCK CRITIC ESSAY, PAGE 34

“When you’ve seen and reviewed as many Detroit concerts as I have, it’s hard to settle on a single memory. But if I had to, it probably would be Bob Seger’s last concert at The Palace of Auburn Hills in September of 2017. It was also closing night for The Palace, as it was shutting down in favor of Little Caesars Arena downtown. I got to attend as a pure fan, watched all the limos pull up and thought, ‘These people have probably loved Bob since they were teenagers,’ and joined the 17,000 other fans singing along lustily to the silver-maned Seger’s every lyric. It was a mental scrapbook night. Rock ’n’ roll never forgets.” Longtime Hour Detroit contributor Jim McFarlin, a recent inductee into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame, spent nearly a decade of his youth covering rock, pop, and R&B music for The Detroit News. “I don’t go to many live shows anymore,” McFarlin, who now lives outside Chicago, says with a laugh. “Now I have to pay.” Find him on X (@wordgrouch).

Jenny Risher

PHOTOGRAPHED DETROITERS, PAGE 24

“My favorite Detroit music memory is meeting Motown founder Berry Gordy. Just being in his presence was a moment I’ll never forget. His impact on music, culture, and Detroit itself is unmatched, and to have had the chance to meet and photograph him was truly unforgettable.”

Jenny Risher is a Detroit-based photographer known for her fashion, portrait, and lifestyle work. A graduate of the College for Creative Studies, she has built a diverse career photographing for high-profile clients in advertising, publishing, and entertainment. Risher’s first book, Heart Soul Detroit, showcases iconic local figures like Iggy Pop and Eminem. Her work is featured in the permanent collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Find her on Instagram (@jennyrisher).

Stephen McGee

PHOTOGRAPHED BILL FORD, COVER AND PAGE 25

“Right before Michigan Central opened, Jack White was rehearsing ‘Seven Nation Army,’ and my daughter ran to get her guitar. She played while he played, and I posted a video of that. It went around the world, then Jack reposted it and it racked up 1.7 million views. I was very proud of my daughter for knowing such an iconic Detroit song. And for Jack White to recognize her was just incredible.” Stephen McGee is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and reportage photographer. His feature documentary film, Resurgo Detroit: The Rise from Within, is 20 years in the making and is being released in 2025. He has traveled to 40 countries, and his clients include Goldman Sachs, Gucci, Ford Motor Co., and Intel. You can find him on Instagram (@stephen_mcgee).

VOLUME THIRTY | ISSUE ONE

PUBLISHER: Jason Hosko

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Kate Walsh

DIGITAL EDITOR: Christina Clark

COPY EDITOR: Olivia Sedlacek

ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Jack Thomas

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Juliana Lumaj

CONTRIBUTORS: Ronald Ahrens, Karen Buscemi, Bill Dow, Paul Esenstein, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Zahir Janmohamed, Mickey Lyons, Nicole Frehsee Mazur, Jim McFarlin, Danny Palumbo, Lauren Wethington, Dana White

INTERNS: Isabella Amadori, Noah Francis DESIGN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lindsay Richards

SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTIST: Stephanie Daniel

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Steven Prokuda

CONTRIBUTORS: Stephen McGee, Chuk Nowak, Ryan Olbrysh, Jenny Risher, Sal Rodriguez, Josh Scott, Rebecca Simonov, Brad Ziegler

SALES

MEDIA ADVISORS: Samantha Alessandri, Cynthia Barnhart, Hannah Brown, Karli Brown, Cathleen Francois, Donna Kassab, Lisa LaBelle, Carol Lawrence, Mary Pantely & Associates PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION MANAGER: Crystal Nelson

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Amanda Kozlowski

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Elizabeth Kowalik

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joe Salafia

SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR: Emily Doran IT

IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland DIGITAL

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY: Travis Fletcher

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Matt Cappo

SR. DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST: Luanne Lim

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST: Izak Geisler

DIGITAL STRATEGY INTERN: Isabella Amadori CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION MANAGER: Riley Meyers

CIRCULATION COORDINATORS: David Benvenuto, Cathy Krajenke, Rachel Moulden, Michele Wold

MARKETING & EVENTS

MARKETING & EVENTS MANAG ER: Lyndsay Zelenak

COMMUNICATIONS & PR LEAD: Regan Wright

WEDDINGS ACCOUNT MANAGER: Karen Wilkie

MARKETING AND EVENTS COORDINATOR: Maya Stephenson

MARKETING RESEARCH

MARKETING RESEARCH DIRECTOR: Sofia Shevin

MARKETING RESEARCH COORDINATORS: Alyssa Fueri, Kristin Mingo

MARKETING RESEARCH SALES COORDINATOR: Alexandra Thompson

MARKETING RESEARCH SALES ASSISTANT: Theresa Lowery

PRS GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kendra Okamoto

MARKETING RESEARCH INTERNS: Allyvia Hennika, Maisha Mumtaz BUSINESS

CEO: Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT: John Balardo

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS: Kathie Gorecki

PUBLISHING & SALES ASSISTANT: Logan Neaton

SENIOR ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE: Andrew Kotzian

ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATES: Austin Schmelzle

DISTRIBUTION: Target Distribution, Troy

5750 NEW KING DRIVE, TROY, MI 48098

TELEPHONE: 248-691-1800 FAX: 248-691-4531

EMAIL: EDITORIAL@HOURDETROIT.COM ON THE WEB: HOURDETROIT.COM To sell Hour Detroit magazine or for subscription inquiries: 248-588-1851

EDITOR’S LETTER

While January is a time for many to establish new habits,

Hour Detroit favors a predictable routine. Every year, we kick things off with our Detroiters feature, which highlights the individuals who are making a difference in metro Detroit and beyond.

We’ve honored as few as one person and as many as 24 people in an issue. This year, while we have only five articles in the feature, we are honoring more than 30 people: four individuals and one team. This month is also a time when we present our Burning Questions for the year, downtown developments to look forward to seeing on our horizon, and our arts and culture preview. Also in this issue, is a Detroit music guide feature, plus more music articles sprinkled throughout the issue.

One way of reflecting on the past and looking to the future is to see what Detroit anniversaries are occurring during the next 12 months. (Thank you to the Detroit Historical Society for putting together a handy timeline of many of these events.) Here are some highlights:

265 years ago: The British obtain control of Detroit, per the treaty that ended the French and Indian War (1760).

220 years ago: Following the fire that destroyed Detroit, Judge Augustus Woodward creates a new street plan for the city (1805).

160 years ago: The first Detroit police department is established; the Detroit Public Library opens (1865).

140 years ago: The Detroit Museum of Art (later renamed the Detroit Institute of Arts) is founded (1885).

125 years ago: The Detroit Tigers become members of the new American Baseball League (1900).

95 years ago: Detroit Metro Airport opens (1930).

90 years ago: The Detroit Lions win their first NFL championship (1935).

80 years ago: Henry Ford II becomes president of Ford Motor Co. (1945).

60 years ago: Cobo Hall (now Huntington Place) opens (1960).

55 years ago: The pilot for a science museum (now the Michigan Science Center) opens (1970).

25 years ago: TechTown, an entrepreneurship hub, is founded by Wayne State University, Henry Ford Health System, and General Motors Co. (2000).

20 years ago: Gannett purchases the Detroit Free Press from Knight Ridder (2005).

10 years ago: Detroit is named as the United States’ first and only UNESCO City of Design (2015).

Which brings us to five years ago, when A.J. Hinch was hired to be the Tigers’ new manager. Find out why he and the Tigers (plus Bill Ford, Danialle Karmanos, Amy Good, and Courtney Ebonique Smith) were named Detroiters of the Year beginning on page 24. Wishing you and yours a healthy and happy new year!

KATE WALSH, EDITOR KWALSH@HOUR-MEDIA.COM

From Our Readers

“Stitching to Success” (Nov. issue)

“So happy to see Dijana featured here. I’m a part of the following for her clothes — thoughtful original designs in beautiful natural fabrics. She is a gem!” —@kiplinger, Instagram

“Past Presence” (Nov. issue)

“The chandelier [at the Alger house] is amazing!! The dining chairs are amazing!! I need details!! It’s all so beautiful!!”

—@nicholewalton77, Instagram

“Decked Out Detroit Announces Winter Activities for 2024 Season” (online)

“Can not wait to get into the #holidayspirit in #Detroit!! Love the holiday market.”

—@cara.annmarie, Instagram

“Hour Detroit Attends Detroit Tree Lighting” (video)

“My literally favorite night of the year — gets better each time.” —@jordannalex, Instagram

Up Front

Hotels, entertainment venues, housing, and more are coming to Detroit this year p. 12

DEVELOPMENT

The 2025 Downtown Landscape

Exciting entertainment venues, luxurious hotels, affordable housing, and more are on the horizon this year and into the future

BY JULIANA LUMAJ

Hotels

The District Detroit development consists of 10 new builds and renovation projects, including the 14-floor Little Caesars Arena Hotel. It will have 291 guest rooms and be located in downtown Detroit just south of the arena. The developers are planning to break ground sometime in 2025. The Fox Theatre will also get guest accommodations when they convert office space into 177 hotel rooms. By May 2026, the Merchants Building, built in 1922 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, will be transformed into a 130-room boutique hotel with office space and ground-floor retail. Construction of the 25-story JW Marriott Detroit at Water Square continues this year and next and is expected to be complete — with 600 rooms, a 50,000-square-foot meeting space, and a ground-floor restaurant — by 2027. There will also be a pedestrian bridge that will span a future Second Avenue extension and provide guests access to the Huntington Place convention center.

Entertainment

After opening almost 100 years ago, Detroit’s Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts is getting an update with a $125 million expansion. By spring 2027, a new seven-story, 100,000-squarefoot structure will be built next to the original building at the corner of Brush and Madison and will feature a new concert hall, recital hall, and recording and practice studios. In 2027, soccer fans can expect to enjoy Detroit City Football Club’s new soccer stadium at the site of the former Southwest Detroit Hospital at Michigan Avenue and 20th Street; it will serve as the club and city’s permanent home for exciting soccer games. The groundbreaking is slated for spring 2025. In January 2024, Bedrock demolished the 1911 National Theatre in Detroit, while maintaining its facade, as part of its three-phase Cadillac Square development. Although the original plans were to construct a “world-class music and performance venue,” with the historic facade placed in front, its plans have since changed. By May 2025, Bedrock is expected to start construction on the first phase with Cosm, an immersive sports and entertainment venue where fans can feel as if they’re watching sports games that are taking place many miles away in person. Future phases include construction of a 30,000-square-foot market and a variety of housing, dining, and retail options.

What’s Going On with …

The Hudson’s Detroit development (formerly called the Hudson’s Site) at 1208 and 1240 Woodward Ave. is projected to be completed sometime in 2025. It will include a 49-story tower with a hotel and 97 residential units and a 12-story office block with event and meeting spaces. After a 10-month extension was announced in January 2024, the new projected completion date for the Gordie Howe International Bridge is September 2025. The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, which will feature the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden and a Delta Dental Play Garden, is still expected to open in 2025. When General Motors Co. announced it would move its headquarters to Hudson’s in 2025, the future of the Renaissance Center became uncertain. However, the week of Thanksgiving, Bedrock and General Motors released a potential plan to redevelop the Renaissance Center and the 27 acres along the Detroit riverfront into a “vibrant waterfront destination” with restaurant, hospitality, residential, and market space. The plan includes knocking down two office towers and creating a new pedestrian promenade. For towers 500 and 600, which are owned by Friedman Real Estate, the commercial real estate organization is seeking zoning changes to expand the uses at Tower 600 from just office space to also potentially include housing, retail, or restaurants. At press time, it was awaiting approval from the Detroit City Council.

Affordable Housing

The Henry Street Apartments development — which involves revitalizing seven century-old buildings that are within a 10-minute walk of Little Caesars Arena, the Fox Theatre, and Comerica Park — is estimated to be completed in 2026. There will be 170 new residential units, about 50% of which will be set aside as affordable housing, and the redevelopment will keep current residents at or near their current rental rates. Affordable housing at 725 Amsterdam is part of Henry Ford Health, Tom Gores and the Detroit Pistons, and Michigan State University’s $2.2 billion Future of Health mixed-use development in Detroit’s New Center. The project is expected to start in 2025 and feature a six-story building with 154 mixed-income units. Built in 1905, the building at 450 Amsterdam St. was once the main Cadillac Motor Car Co. assembly plant. In the summer of 2025, it will take on a new purpose as a multifamily housing structure with 90 lofted apartments, 20% of which will be designated as affordable housing, and 71 parking spots.

BOOKS

True Grit

Bill Morris sticks his head inside the beast’s mouth for a new book about the Detroit Lions’ decades of futility

BY RONALD AHRENS

DAYS AFTER the September 2024 release of his juicy new exposé about the Detroit Lions, author Bill Morris traveled from New York for the team’s season opener against the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field. The Lions Finally Roar: The Ford Family, the Detroit Lions, and the Road to Redemption in the NFL represents three years’ work, and this game featuring quarterbacks Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford was a flesh-andblood extension of the literary drama in Morris’s recounting of the Lions’ shocking 2021 trade of Stafford to the Rams for Goff and draft picks.

The Lions defeated the Rams on Sept. 8, 2024 — 26 to 20 in overtime — and bailed Morris out. His account of their futility and fresh success arrived with an aura of cozy affinity, as if pointing toward great deeds to come. But would the Lions start backsliding?

“I was sort of dreading they were going to stumble and lose their first six games, and the whole thing would look kind of like a bad joke,” Morris says on a video call from Wilmington, North Carolina, where he gave a book reading and signed copies. His next stop was Greensboro, where he had been a newspaper reporter and columnist and remembered having “a nice big crowd” a decade ago when promoting his novel Motor City Burning.

Morris grew up in Birmingham, graduated in 1969 from Brother Rice High, and departed for Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He followed the Lions from afar, even after settling in New York City. One key to writing about them came from his late father, Dick Morris, who served as executive assistant to longtime Lions owner William Clay Ford, during which time he saw Ford’s casual approach to

choosing Lions management, as well as hiring and firing coaches.

Setting out to write, the author wanted more than a football book. “I want to write a Detroit book,” he told himself. “And I want this to be about football, yeah, but I want it to be about class, like the Fords, the richest people on the planet, the autoworkers, the poor Black people, Motown, the MC5” — and he continues down the list. “I wanted to get it all

in there, and I hope it’s not overstuffed.”

The Lions Finally Roar is a rich, satisfying romp that serves as a counterweight to the 2019 film Ford v Ferrari with Tracy Letts’s unforgettable portrayal of William Clay Ford’s older brother, Henry Ford II. A difference in this telling is that, even under the new regime of general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions continued to flounder one-third of the way into the 2022 season. Then, principal owner Sheila Ford Hamp stuck out her neck, showing up at the Allen Park practice facility and telling reporters, “I just don’t want everyone to push the panic button. ... We’ve got the right people in place to pull this off.”

“And boom, they started winning right after that,” Morris says. He had to abandon his working title, Natural Born Losers, and find something that fit the tone of the times. On the Sunday when Morris was in Wilmington, Goff rallied the Lions to squeak past the Minnesota Vikings, taking first place in the NFC North — hardly a bad joke.

“You know what?” Morris says. “I’m glad for the people of Detroit that they’re winning. I dedicate the book to the people of Detroit with a line that I lifted from the great poet Philip Levine: ‘For the people of Detroit, who survive everything America can dish out.’”

The Lions’ win over the Rams on Sept. 8, 2024, worked well with Morris’s book release.

Burning Questions for 2025

Local experts share their predictions for metro Detroit this year

BY JACK THOMAS | ILLUSTRATIONS BY RYAN OLBRYSH

2025 IS HERE, and it’s hard to know exactly what it will look like for Michiganders. But we can sure as hell speculate. For our annual feature, we asked three political consultants, a political science professor, and (to keep it light) two sports journalists to help us make sense of what to expect this year. (And next year, we’ll see if any of it comes true).

2024 Hindsight

By Jack Thomas

HOW WE DID ON OUR PREDICTIONS FROM LAST YEAR

Can David Coulter be defeated by a Patterson?

The experts we spoke to — David Dulio, a political science professor at Oakland University, and Jason Roe, former executive director of the Michigan Republican Party — expressed skepticism about Mary Patterson’s candidacy because of her inexperience and Coulter’s advantage as an incumbent. Those views appear to have been warranted. In February, Patterson announced she was dropping out of the race due to a lack of financial support.

Will Michigan back a national popular vote?

Whether Michigan would enter the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact was not clear to the experts we spoke to last January. As we went to press with this issue in early December while Michigan’s lame duck was still taking place, it still wasn’t clear (however, by the time this story is published, it will be — so check the online version for updates).

How many of our local sports teams will make it to the postseason?

Fox 2 Detroit’s Ryan Ermanni and The Detroit News’ Nolan Bianchi both said the Lions would make it to the playoffs, but that was a no-brainer. Bianchi thought the Tigers “could” make it, but Ermanni was more confident. Both men predicted, incorrectly, that the Wings would see postseason play. The Pistons? Well, both journalists were right about them not succeeding.

Will we see more union activity in Michigan?

Following the United Auto Workers’ historic wins in late 2023, and the repeal of Michigan’s “right-to-work” law going into effect the following February, labor expert Marick Masters, a business professor at Wayne State University, predicted an increase in union activity in Michigan for 2024. The numbers didn’t lie: 148 union petitions were filed in Michigan during fiscal year 2024 — a 160% increase from 57 in fiscal year 2021 — according to Michigan Advance reporter Jon King’s analysis of National Labor Relations Board statistics. Since the beginning of 2024, there have been numerous historic union victories around the state.

Who will take Debbie Stabenow’s place in the Senate?

David Dulio predicted that Democrat Elissa Slotkin would take the seat. Republican consultant Jason Roe was on target for the primaries, predicting former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers and Slotkin would be the nominees.

Will psilocybin mushrooms be decriminalized across Michigan?

At the beginning of last year, Hazel Park’s thenmayor pro tem, Luke Londo, who has been an advocate for psilocybin mushrooms and other entheogens, accurately predicted “no.” However, last January, the Ypsilanti City Council approved a decriminalization resolution, making it the fifth Michigan city to adopt such a policy; alas, the proposal never made it to the state ballot.

WHO WILL RUN FOR GOVERNOR IN 2026, AND WHO HAS THE BEST SHOT?

IN 2026, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will reach her term limit. Already, many politicians are exploring a run, to various degrees.

On Dec. 4, Mike Duggan, the Democratic mayor of Detroit, announced he was running for governor of Michigan as an independent candidate. “It’s a gutsy move,” says Detroit Democratic consultant Adolph Mongo. “To take the seat, he’s going to have to build a coalition. So he’s looking at folks disgruntled with the Democratic Party, he’s looking at moderate Republicans that don’t drink the MAGA Kool-Aid, and looking at independents that don’t have anywhere to go.”

On the Democratic side, according to Mongo, Democratic consultant Adrian Hemond, and Republic consultant Jason Roe, contenders include Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II; Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson; state Sen. Mallory McMorrow; Genesee County Sheriff Christopher Swanson; and Biden’s Secretary of

HOW WILL THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY AND REPUBLICAN TRIFECTA IN WASHINGTON, D.C., AFFECT MICHIGAN?

MASS DEPORTATIONS

of undocumented immigrants and deregulation are among the immediate proposed changes for Donald Trump’s second term.

Michigan is home to an estimated 130,000 unauthorized immigrants, according to Pew Research Center data from 2022. On opposite sides of the political aisle, both Jason Roe and Adrian Hemond agree that the impact in Michigan will be minimal if Trump’s policy focuses on violent or drug offenders, but significant if it’s a blanket deportation of all undocumented immigrants, many of whom contribute to Michigan’s workforce and pay taxes.

“Then we could see labor shortages,” Republic consultant Roe says. “And we could see inflation, because to hire

Transportation, Pete Buttigieg (a Michigan resident since 2022). All three men generally pointed to Benson as the Democratic front-runner.

On the Republican side, contenders include U.S. Rep. John James; former Attorney General Mike Cox; state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt; businessman Kevin Rinke; 2022 Whitmer challenger Tudor Dixon; and former state House Speaker Thomas Leonard.

“Somebody threw [2006 Republican gubernatorial candidate] Dick DeVos’s name out there,” Mongo says. “Dick DeVos wasn’t good back then, and he’s not good now.”

Another is Mike Rogers, who lost the U.S. Senate race to Elissa Slotkin and was passed up by Donald Trump for the FBI director pick. “I’d be hopeful that Rogers would look at the governor’s race, because I think he could get Trump’s endorsement,” Roe says.

different workers is probably going to drive up the labor costs, which is going to be reflected in wholesale retail costs.”

Trump has promised to roll back regulations on the fossil fuels industry. He’s also said he will “rescind all unspent funds” under the Inflation Reduction Act, which provided hundreds of billions of dollars in subsidies for renewable energy sources like solar power and wind energy. Michigan, which is below average in its utilization of renewable energy sources when compared to other states — despite a climate bill passed at the end of 2023 that is intended to help the state produce 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030 and eventually 100% by 2040 — would lose access to those incentives.

Also on the chopping block are many subsidies related to electric vehicles. Late last November, a lobbying group representing major automakers including Detroit’s Big Three sent a letter to Trump urging him to retain consumer tax credits for EV purchases, Reuters reported.

EVEN BEFORE Mayor Mike Duggan announced he wasn’t seeking a fourth term in 2025, several contenders had been reported to be considering a run for the Motor City’s highest office. Among them are City Council President Mary Sheffield; City Council member Fred Durhal III; former City Council member Saunteel Jenkins; and Joel Haashiim, a local business owner.

WHO WILL BE MAYOR OF DETROIT IN 2025?

Detroit Police Chief James Craig, who ran for governor in 2022 and U.S. Senate in 2024. While Detroit native Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II’s name has been floated, “He told me he didn’t want to run for mayor — he wants to run for governor,” Mongo says.

Another possibility is former Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate. “He’s got an incredible personal story; he would be a

really interesting option for Detroiters,” Roe says. He adds that two former U.S. House candidates for the 13th District are also weighing a run: Michael Griffie, who lost the Democratic primary in 2022, and Martell Bivings, Shri Thanedar’s 2024 Republican challenger.

Duggan has declined to endorse a candidate (yet, at least), leaving the playing field wide open. “We’ll see how it plays out,” Mongo says. “It’s going to be a free-for-all.”

According to Detroit Democratic consultant Adolph Mongo, other names that are circulating include Todd Bettison, who became deputy mayor in 2022 and was appointed by Duggan as interim police chief this year; Dennis Archer Jr., the son of former Mayor Dennis Archer; and former

HOUR DETROIT spoke with two local sports commentators who generally agree on the low-hanging fruit. Both men predicted the Lions would go far.

“The Lions are the best team in the NFL, and it’s not even close,” says Ryan Ermanni, a reporter and anchor for Fox 2 Detroit and a cohost on the Woodward Sports Network. “I believe the Lions will have the No. 1 seed in the NFC … make it to the Super Bowl, and win the Super Bowl!” Detroit News sports writer Nolan Bianchi isn’t committing to the big game, saying, “I anticipate the Lions will be Super Bowl contenders over the next handful of years.”

Additionally, both predict the Tigers will make it to the postseason again. Ermanni is going as far as to say the team will make it to the 2025 World Series.

Ermanni thinks the Red Wings have no chance to go past the regular season but that the Pistons’ new manager and head coach will lead them to the playoffs. “I believe Trajan Langdon and J.B. Bickerstaff have so many parallels to the 2022 Detroit Lions when Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell came in and changed everything

WHICH DETROIT SPORTS TEAMS WILL MAKE IT TO THE PLAYOFFS AND BEYOND?

for the better. The 2022 Lions came just shy of the playoffs that year, but the Pistons will make it in!”

Bianchi says he believes a third team will make it to the postseason, but he’s undecided on whether it will be the Pistons or the Red Wings. “I think the Red Wings generally have a better team, but with the NBA’s play-in format expanding the field,

there’s a nonzero chance they find their way in as well,” he says. “Frankly, I don’t feel great about either [team], but given the good vibes that have made their way into the city’s sports scene of late, I’m going to take an optimist’s point of view and say one of them finds a way to get it done.”

Refresh Your Look with Eyelid Surgery – A Youthful Transformation Awaits!

Tired eyes can make you look older than you feel. Eyelid surgery, forehead and brow lifting, and under eye “bag” treatment are popular cosmetic procedures which rejuvenate the appearance of your face. Our minimally invasive procedures will give you a more youthful and refreshed look with natural, lasting results. Performed by our experienced board-certified surgeons, eyelid surgery is an effective way to enhance your natural beauty. With seven locations across mid and southeast Michigan, scheduling a consultation is easy. Let’s work together to create positive changes.

STYLE MENTOR

Latrice Delgado-Macon empowers Detroit’s next generation of fashionistas p. 21

MI STYLE

COMMUNITY

BUILDING PEACE and JOY

The first in a series of parks from the PEACE Project opens in Dearborn, creating a much-needed gathering space for the city

BY ZAHIR JANMOHAMED

A FEW YEARS AGO, while living in Dearborn, a friend asked me to join him and his family for a picnic. It was during the pandemic, and I figured we would sit on blankets somewhere in the grass, perhaps under a tree. Instead, we ended up meeting in the parking lot of a hotel, each of us on fold-up chairs next to our cars, with nothing above us to shield us from the sun. It’s not that my friend liked being in a parking lot; it’s just that back then, there were really no parks in Dearborn.

Today, I suspect my friend would likely choose to host a picnic at a different location in Dearborn, the newly opened PEACE park in the city’s west end. On Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, Dearborn Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud celebrated the completion of the first of three parks that are part of the Park

Equity and Access for Civic Engagement (PEACE) Project, a $29.2 million grantfunded investment into the city’s public parks, green infrastructure, and existing outdoor facilities. The second park, in the city’s east end across from the Arab American National Museum, opened in November, and a sports facility is planned to open in 2025 in the city’s south end.

The PEACE park, by Imagine Design & Build, takes up about a block and is located next to a free parking garage. It looks like the type of garden one might see in a museum courtyard, with square patches of grass intersected by wide footpaths, all in a neat, arresting geometric pattern. In the middle is an elevated stage with state-ofthe-art audio equipment. Off to the side is a semiclosed circular area to sit in, offering

an ideal space for an outdoor meeting, as well as another table with a built-in chessboard. Tucked in the corner are some of metro Detroit’s cleanest public bathrooms. Public Wi-Fi is available, too.

When I visited, on a Friday afternoon in November, the park was hosting a coffee festival, featuring some of Dearborn’s most celebrated coffee shops, most of which are owned by Yemeni Americans.

Mayor Hammoud walked around, in tennis shoes and a hoodie, shaking hands and giving hugs to those who needed a postelection embrace.

Of Michigan’s southeast cities, Dearborn has the youngest population; a sizable number of its residents are teenagers or even younger. For Hammoud, this park — and the two forthcoming — will give them a space in which to gather, an alternative to the usual hang spots in Dearborn: the shawarma restaurant or the mosque parking lot. But there is another purpose to the PEACE park, too.

“It is about encouraging Dearborn residents to visit other parts of the city,” Hammoud says.

East Dearborn is historically an Arabdominated area, and this park, on the city’s west end, is a way to encourage more intermixing within Dearborn’s diverse communities, he says.

“I hope people outside of Dearborn come to this park, too, to see the amazing things this city has to offer,” he adds.

Ibrahim Alhasbani, the founder and owner of Qahwah House, agrees. He opened his Yemeni coffee shop in Dearborn back in 2017 and now owns more than 20 branches across the U.S. It’s customary to see his coffee shops packed at 10 p.m., and in many ways, he is the reason why Yemeni coffee is so popular across metro Detroit.

When he created his coffee shop, he wanted to give people a sort of third place to gather, aside from their homes and places of worship. Now, they have a fourth space, the PEACE park. But the park offers something that even his café can’t provide.

“In the summer, this shade here in the park is everything,” he says. “At last, we can hang out outside in the summer.”

Dearborn’s first PEACE park, located at 22271 West Village Drive, was completed last September.

MI STYLE

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

BY KAREN BUSCEMI

PHOTO BY SAL RODRIGUEZ

DETROIT-BORN Latrice DelgadoMacon got her fashion start in 1999 styling music artists (who during her career have included Royce Da 59 and Missy Elliot, she says) and has spent the last 25 years cultivating a multifaceted career that includes giving back and shining a spotlight on mental health.

“Sharing my journey is essential to empower others on their paths in the fashion world,” says DelgadoMacon, who founded her business, The Styling Closet, in 2005.

One way she does this is through her nonprofit, Detroit Fashion Community, which hosts educational events and networking gatherings and provides scholarships to Detroit public high school students. “They give us their stories [via submitted essays], and we award at the end of the year three checks for $2,500.”

In addition to running The Styling Closet and being an influencer and a personal development mentor — a role that puts her in front of students to talk about mental health — the West Bloomfield resident has been competing in pageants. Most recently, she won Ms. Royalty International 2024-25. It’s the platform to advocate for mental health awareness that pushes her to win the crown.

“I went through a lot when my brother passed away,” says Delgado-Macon about her sibling who died at 32. “I was mentally checked out. I want to tell people … you are not alone. You have resources. It takes a long time to get over a loved one. You don’t know how bad it is until it happens to you.”

My personal style … Feeds off my mood. Whatever I feel like that day is what I am wearing.

My most important piece of shopping advice is … Be smart. Have an accountability partner and go in with a strategy.

Three staples that should be in every woman’s closet are … Blazer, simple black dress, and the perfect shoes that you can walk in, like kitten heels.

I love clothes because … I can change up my style every day. I can put on something flirty, trendy, or plain and black.

My favorite trend right now is … That you can wear whatever you want to wear. I do love the baggy clothes trend.

The person I credit most for my introduction to style is … My grandmother. She taught me how to sew and gave me the background of the fashion industry.

What most excites me about the future of fashion in Detroit is … We are the big fashion city now. It’s different, beautiful, historic — like the train station.

My go-to style for work: Look chic every day. Put on neutral colors and kitten heels so I’m comfortable.

My signature pieces of clothing are … Baggy pants and a crop top. So cute.

Shops and brands I love:

Marc Jacobs; any boutiques that have cute little girly, flirty clothes or with oneof-a-kind pieces; thrift shops. And On and Off the Runway is an online boutique [based in Michigan].

I can’t leave the house without … Mascara!

When I need inspiration, I … Get on a plane and travel. New York, Chicago, California, and even Texas. I love going Up North and sitting on the beaches to get my mind right.

My advice for aspiring fashion stylists is … Create your own styles. Be you. Take your time and play with it. Play dressup everywhere you go. If you don’t have clients, work with your friends first.

Visit Detroit Fashion Community at detroitfashion community.org.

Latrice Delgado-Macon’s love for fashion carries a deeper meaning

Latrice DelgadoMacon’s Detroit Fashion Community nonprofit gives scholarships to fashion-inclined high school students in Detroit.

New Shops on the Block

Our six favorite 2024 store openings

BY JULIANA LUMAJ

THIS PAST YEAR, metro Detroit’s retail shopping experience became more extravagant and sexier with the opening of a new lingerie brand, founded by a global music star, on Woodward and a few high-end additions at Somerset Collection in Troy.

Locals can also peruse a new affordable option for fashionistas on a budget at Great Lakes Crossing and check out Detroit’s latest American heritage store housed within Shinola’s Midtown location — all of which are the companies’ first stores in Michigan. Here, learn more about a few of Detroit’s 2024 highlights.

Prada

Right before the holidays, Prada opened its doors at Somerset Collection in November near Christian Louboutin, Dior, and Hermès. The century-old Italian retailer designed the 4,250-square-foot store with checkered marble floors, similar to those at its original location in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. And just like in Milan, Detroiters now have the chance to peruse the brand’s collection of luxury leather bags, fragrances, and shoes and a selection of men’s and women’s ready-towear items, like dresses in sable, poplin shirting, and garments designed with velvet denim. 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-923-1039; prada.com

Reformation

Known for designing beautiful sustainable clothing out of renewable, plant-based materials like regenerative cotton and linen made from flax, Reformation opened a new location at Somerset Collection in June. The store is lined with racks of clothing, including jeans, dresses, and blouses; has backlit open shelving that highlights various types of handbags and shoes; and features a cozy waiting room with cushioned seating and a plush rug within the fitting room area. There, as shoppers try on some new threads, they can choose from a range of lighting options — cool, warm, hot, and “sexy time” — to help create a flattering ambiance. 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Level 1, Troy; 517-594-4093; thereformation.com

Prada

Savage X Fenty

Founded by the music sensation Rihanna in 2018, Savage X Fenty opened a store on Woodward Avenue next to The Lip Bar in August. Her line of sleepwear, loungewear, sportswear, and more comes in sizes ranging from extra small to 4X and features products like floral laced bras and panties, flattering bodysuits, cozy pajamas, and satin boxers. Rihanna hopes her products will “make people look good and feel good.” 1442 Woodward Ave., Detroit; savagex.com

Primark

Dressing affordably just became easier in September when the Ireland-based clothing retailer Primark added a Great Lakes Crossing Outlets store to its roster of 450 globally. At the approximately 36,600-square-foot location, shoppers can find large selections of men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, along with beauty supplies, home décor, travel essentials, and more, all of which are available at low prices — including boots starting at $10, wool coats at $26, and kids’ T-shirts at $5. 4612 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills; 248-9296410; primark.com

Gorjana

Founded in 2004 inside a Laguna Beach, California, apartment, Gorjana, a jewelry brand that offers a mixture of affordable and fine jewelry, now has over 80 locations, including one at Somerset Collection. The store opened in May and is designed with blush terrazzo, a glimmering chandelier, and custom artwork. It’s a retailer where you can find a stunning variety of gold jewelry designed with diamonds, opals, sapphires, and more, including lab-grown diamond rings, adorable charms to dress up necklaces and bracelets, and everyday hoop earrings. Stylists are also available to help indecisive shoppers make their selections and provide a complimentary gift-wrapping service. 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Level 1, Troy; 248-215-2481; gorjana.com

Filson

Filson, a 127-year-old American heritage brand, opened a new 1,130-square-foot store within Shinola’s downtown Detroit location in September. Detroiters who are hikers, campers, hunters, and lovers of all things outdoors will enjoy the array of longlasting gear the Seattle-based company offers, including weather-resistant backpacks, pocketknives, and insulated water bottles, as well as men’s and women’s clothing collections composed of wool jackets, waxed down parkas, flannel shirts, and more. 441 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313285-1880; filson.com

Reformation

Savage X Fenty

Filson

FOUR INDIVIDUALS AND ONE MIRACULOUS TEAM WHOSE CONTRIBUTIONS HAVE UPLIFTED THE CITY AND THE METRO AREA

DETROITERS

BY BILL DOW, JULIANA LUMAJ, NICOLE FREHSEE MAZUR, AND DANA WHITE PORTRAITS BY JENNY RISHER AND STEPHEN MCGEE

WILLIAM CLAY FORD JR.

The executive chair of Ford Motor Co. will not rest until Detroit is the city of the future

BY DANA WHITE

he ground level of Michigan Central Station, Bill Ford’s near billion-dollar love letter to the city synonymous with his family name, is a before-and-after picture for the ages: a ruined, graffitied Beaux-Arts shell meticulously restored to glorious columned spaces with glowing limestone, enormous windows, and tiled vaulted ceilings. A futuristic light sculpture occupies the former concourse area, where passengers once bought tickets and rushed for trains, or emerged from trains into a new life in the North, while the grand hall across from it is an event planner’s dream.

When the 18-story structure was completed in 1913, it was the tallest train station in the world. That height offers 21st-century possibilities. They fly drones over the 14th floor (the Federal Aviation Administration gave Ford Motor Co. air rights), and the upper four stories will house a hotel eventually. But “we’re still trying to figure out what to do with the roof,” Ford says from a glass-walled conference room in newly completed office space on the ninth floor. A young 67, he’s still the bright-eyed, quick-to-smile guy who used to beam out of TV sets in the 2000s when he was the CEO and the public face of Ford Motor Co. “Because there’s no building of this size around, you can see downtown, all the way to Lake Erie. I mean, it’s incredible.”

Bill Ford is good at seeing what’s on the far horizon; it runs in the family. For years, he drove past the derelict station, “and it really made me sad and even angry.” He used to sit on the board of eBay, but every time he visited Silicon Valley, “it really reinforced to me there were so many interesting things

going on in the world, and none of them were happening here.”

Then one day, when he was driving past the dark, hulking train station on his way to the city, “it came to me: ‘Whoa, we can invent the future here.’ It’s not just the restoration of a wonderful building; it’s also about what we were going to use it for: to help invent the future of mobility, how things move, how people move.”

And about the electric energy that powers it all. The 30-acre Michigan Central “innovation campus” abutting Corktown includes, among other things, America’s first electric charging road, which is currently undergoing testing. The train station’s companion piece is Newlab at Michigan Central next door, a former Albert Kahndesigned post office turned abandoned book depository, which Ford bought along with the station and saved from ruin with a great industrial-chic overhaul. It opened in April 2023, and today 122 companies are ensconced there, developing and building electricpowered vehicles and inventions of all sorts. It’s not just a hub but a mind hive buzzing with brain power — a carbon-neutral reinvention of his great-grandfather Henry Ford’s entrepreneurial legacy, fueled by venture capital.

If Newlab is the laboratory, the station is the lounge. The breathtaking main floor will have restaurants and bars, coffee shops, and retail spots — all the better to lure and keep topdrawer tech talent. “We can say, ‘This is your workplace, and these are the problems you’ll be solving,’” Ford says. “They want a great place to work, and they want a great lifestyle.”

Indeed, some of these Newlab businesses may join Google here in the station’s office tower. Ford envisions the companies born at Michigan Central staying in Detroit and often talks about “where we can grow small companies into bigger companies. … These are companies that make things. They need maker space and, sometimes, big maker space. Well, guess what? Detroit’s got plenty of space. And we know how to make things here.”

Perhaps Michigan Central is Ford’s way of solving a problem that’s dogged him most of his life: how to square his twin passions for gasoline-powered cars and a healthy planet. His love of the environment earned him scorn in the hallways of Ford Motor Co. back in the 1980s, when he was fresh out of Princeton and climbing the ladder in the family firm. This was back when Ford’s uncle Henry Ford II was spearheading the construction of the Renaissance Center, his own attempt at bringing people and business back to Detroit.

In the early 2000s, as Ford ascended the ladder, he made good on his beliefs. Ford Motor Co. produced the Ford Escape hybrid, the first hybrid vehicle built in the U.S., as well as an eco-centric reconstruction of the historic Rouge factory in Dearborn, complete with solar panels, the world’s largest green roof, and a power system that converts paint fumes to electricity.

Ford is a lucky visionary, with the resources, connections, and reputation to turn dreams into reality, especially when it comes to combating climate change. He has the ruddy cheeks of an avid outdoorsman; he loves fly-fishing so much he named his venture capital firm Fontinalis Partners, after Salvelinus fontinalis, the scientific name for brook trout. He plays competitive pond hockey in the winters, but water doesn’t freeze up like it used to when he was growing up in Grosse Pointe and skating on Lake St. Clair. It’s the same lake where his great-grandfather Henry Ford set the land speed record in 1904. The same lake Ford and his father, the late William Clay Ford Sr., chairman of Ford’s design committee and owner of the Detroit Lions, flew across in their iceboats.

Ford chuckles when he remembers how his dad “didn’t know what he was doing. We’d smash into the seawalls and everything. You need thick ice to do that because those things are heavy.” He used to skate on the lake “reliably from Thanksgiving to April. Not anymore.”

Last September, in the station’s grand hall, Bill Ford was inducted into the Automotive

Hall of Fame, along with five other “global mobility pioneers,” for his “pivotal role advancing the industry while positioning an iconic, global, 120-year-old family company for the future.” He was also honored for his forward-thinking environmental views and relentless cheerleading for Detroit’s comeback. In conjunction with the grand opening of Michigan Central, his wife, Lisa Vanderzee Ford, led an effort to raise $20 million to establish endowments for 10 local family charities in coordination with the Children’s Foundation, their longtime philanthropic partner.

The father of four has a gift for connecting with people, and that’s what he loves most about this project: how people bring their own history to it. The best part of the grand opening concert, for him, “was just looking out at all the faces and everybody was smiling, you know? And after everything this city has gone through over the last 50 years, to look out and see everybody having such a good time — I loved that. This station is bringing people together in a way that makes me really happy.”

So what’s next on the horizon? He’s thinking about it. He drives the streets of the city’s empty neighborhoods, imagining what can be done. He supports a return of the Super Bowl to Detroit. He knows the next big thing will come to him.

In the meantime, he’s got a car company to oversee. For the executive chair, job one is guiding the company through the ever-shifting and highly competitive electric vehicle market.

“The opportunities and the challenges are different for each generation,” he says, “but the values themselves are timeless: taking care of each other, taking care of our communities, being there when the country needs us. I hope those continue after me. You can’t take it for granted, because I find that when management changes over, sometimes there’s not a clear handoff of that. And I have to step in and remind people that no, this is who we are and this is what we stand for. And we’re going to be different from other companies.”

The Dearborn native, philanthropist, and mom of four puts her money where her heart is

BY NICOLE FREHSEE MAZUR

KARMANOS

Walking the halls of Royal Oak’s Corewell Health Beaumont Hospital with Danialle Karmanos, one feels as if they’re in the presence of a celebrity: Nurses pop up to greet her as she passes their stations, people in the waiting room glance over at the glamorous woman in their midst, a Corewell employee is on standby for … it’s not exactly clear.

In this particular part of the third floor, Karmanos is somewhat famous: After all, the wing is named after her and her husband, Peter Karmanos Jr., who donated $6 million to create the Karmanos Natural Birth Center in 2014. Outfitted with cushy beds and big hydrotherapy tubs, the center’s six suites offer a tranquil contrast to the hospital’s traditional birthing rooms and include Karmanos’s handpicked touches, down to the same wallpaper she has in her home.

W“I felt this huge sense of responsibility to create a different experience for women who wanted natural childbirth, where they could write their own story,” says Karmanos, 51, who birthed all four of her sons — 15-year-old twins, a 13-year-old, and a 12-yearold — sans epidural. Her resolve to do so was ignited when a doctor predicted her twins would be born prematurely due to a pregnancy complication, and perhaps not even survive. “I said, ‘They’re not coming before 36 weeks, and I’m going to have them with no drugs,’” she recalls. Sure enough, she was right.

The Bloomfield Hills-based philanthropist applies that same determination and focus to all her endeavors — and there have been many. In the past two decades, she has created programs that have helped countless children, teens, and women across metro Detroit. Aside from the Natural Birth Center, Karmanos was the force behind Kids Work It Out, an initiative that’s improved the lives of more than 40,000 metro Detroit kids through yoga and mindfulness. (The program, which turns 20 this year, is now run by Wayne State University.) She also founded The Cuddlers, a movement to comfort babies and children hospitalized without loved ones to care for them.

“I think I was born with a heart for service,” says the Dearborn native, who has been giving to charity since she was a 12-yearold slinging pies at her dad’s Detroit pizzeria. Raised by a single, working mom, Karmanos lived in a tiny flat, and her family was on food stamps for a time. “That defines your perspective and gives you empathy for certain situations and experiences.”

Despite the time, energy, and money she’s dedicated to the causes she’s championed, Karmanos doesn’t have a “strategic plan” for where to get involved. She simply sees a need and rises to meet it. “I bloom where I’m planted,” she says. Take The Cuddlers, for example: In 2017, her son underwent an emergency appendectomy; while in the hospital with him, she noticed that some babies didn’t have family around to soothe them. “I was like, ‘I can do something about this; I can find people to cuddle babies,’” she says. (To date, the organization has provided about 8,000 hours of cuddles.)

These days, Karmanos is nurturing young people in another way: She and Peter recently announced a $2 million gift to create a cutting-edge film center at Detroit Country Day School, where three of their sons attend school. The Studios at Detroit Country Day (slated to open in January 2025 as of press time) features a podcast studio and Hollywood-level technology, including the same StageCraft video wall used in the Star Wars series The Mandalorian

Karmanos’s passion for the project stems from her love of storytelling — her first career was writing and producing newscasts for Chrysler — and “creating more opportunities and access for kids to tell more stories.”

She is also involved with Detroit’s College for Creative Studies, where she and Peter donated $1 million to support the school’s Fashion Accessories Design program and student scholarships.

Last September, with Karmanos’s help, six CCS alumni presented their collections during Paris Fashion Week. “It’s a pinch-me moment that I get to be part of this,” she says. “Typically, I focus my energy on fixing things where they’re broken, but [my recent undertakings] are more about nourishing possibilities.”

AMY GOOD

After decades of helping thousands of girls and young women find shelter and more, the recently retired CEO of Alternatives for Girls has a lot to be proud of

BY JULIANA LUMAJ

my Good was 11 when her family moved to Michigan from Pittsburgh in 1968, a year after the five-day Detroit rebellion that resulted in the death of 43 people. Although her parents were interested in moving to Detroit, she says, her father’s coworkers urged him not to, so they purchased a home in Farmington Hills instead. “The neighborhood we lived in was very, very white,” Good says. “They regretted that they did not take the opportunity to raise us in an integrated neighborhood.”

However, her father, an attorney, and her mother, who worked in publishing and consumer relations, made sure to raise their five children with a focus on social justice and civil rights. Her parents supported foster children by inviting them to their home during the holidays or by taking them to baseball games. “Investing in our communities and our

obligation to make the world a better place motivated all of us, probably, to seek careers where we were making a difference for people and for our communities,” Good says.

By 1980, Good had graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in social work from the University of Michigan. She became a caseworker and program director at Barat Human Services and moved into a large home with seven other women in Southwest Detroit. There, they saw firsthand the impact Detroit’s economic turmoil following the rebellion had on locals, especially the girls and women, as gang activity spiked.

“Girls were sometimes treated like barter,” Good says. “For example, it would be a rite of passage to commit rape or to assault or oppress a girl or woman who was affiliated with a gang member in a different gang.”

Around 1985, Good and other locals, including a plumber, police officer, and business owner, began gathering at St. Peter’s

Episcopal Church with the Rev. John Meyer and nuns from different orders to discuss how they could help these young women and girls.

Two Sisters of Mercy started inviting girls to their home twice a week for tutoring, arts and crafts, and gardening, while Good searched for examples of street-based outreach programs for girls in the U.S. She didn’t find any. What she did find were eight that focused on boys and young men because they were often “perceived in an unjust way or an inaccurate way of engaging in activities that are threatening to others.” Whereas girls, as a mode of survival, tended to engage in activities that were harmful to themselves, Good says.

With no program to use as an example, members of the community forum met to determine their priorities to help girls and women who were unable to access assistance from the state. Those priorities included providing shelter, offering support and outreach services, and helping girls stay in school, especially as third and fourth graders dropped out to care for their siblings. They took on the name Alternatives for Girls, and Good quit her job to help search for local organizations that would provide these services — finding none.

Good and the pastor sent a proposal to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to request funding for the purpose of creating shelter services for special populations experiencing homelessness — but were declined.

In January 1988, with no funding, a five-bed shelter at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church was opened in the parish house to accommodate girls seeking refuge, its founders not knowing a $376,000 check was on its way the following spring because a program HUD had funded returned its grant. “I get chills even now talking about it,” Good says.

They hired additional staff, including two directors for their street outreach and prevention programs; expanded their shelter; and purchased a street outreach van that allowed them to drive throughout the city and provide necessities and information.

Since then, AFG has helped about 37,000 women and girls, whether by providing shelter, helping women safely navigate domestic violence situations, providing support for

human trafficking survivors, or offering afterschool programming.

Last August, in partnership with Full Circle Communities, a nonprofit developer, the organization opened the Dr. Maya Angelou Village in Detroit, a three-story building with 45 units of affordable housing. There, AFG provides its services and has counselors on-site 40 hours a week. Soon, there will also be an on-site early-childhood day care center.

Good, who was an executive director during the early stages of AFG until becoming CEO around 2000, retired last October after nearly four decades and is proud of what the organization has accomplished thus far. “AFG has contributed to creating a thriving Detroit,” Good says, adding that the thousands of girls and young women they’ve worked with have learned that “they can be leaders and that they have so much to contribute.”

COURTNEY EBONIQUE

Addressing housing insecurity by listening, sharing, and taking action

BY JULIANA LUMAJ

BBetween 7,000 and 14,000 children in Detroit are estimated to have been homeless in the 2017-18 school year, a University of Michigan analysis found. Approximately 12% of these kids were identified by Detroit public and charter schools.

Courtney Ebonique Smith, founder and CEO of the Detroit Phoenix Center, Detroit’s first and only drop-in center that caters to young people experiencing housing insecurity, says the best way to identify youth in need of support is with the help of other young people.

One way she’s done that is by creating a Youth Action Board at DPC — a team of young individuals who have experienced homelessness or are at risk of housing insecurity that develops solutions to issues they’ve observed in their communities related to housing, employment, education, and more.

Smith’s desire to bring young people to the forefront of the conversation stems from when she experienced housing insecurity herself. During her senior year of high school, she lived in a shelter at Alternatives for Girls, a nonprofit organization that

helps young girls and women experiencing homelessness, until she graduated. There, she learned how powerful a young person’s voice can be.

When Smith witnessed a few problems at AFG, she emailed then-CEO Amy Good with her concerns. Good scheduled a meeting with Smith and “listened to every concern that I had,” Smith says. A staff member later asked her to write up a proposal. After graduating from Eastern Michigan University in 2014, Smith discovered that AFG had implemented her recommendations. “I learned that my voice was valuable through that experience as well, and that always stuck with me.”

The idea behind DPC came to her after she participated in a cross-country train trip called the Millennial Trains Project in 2016, when she learned about the different interventions other organizations were using to combat youth homelessness.

One concept that stuck out to Smith was a low-barrier, drop-in resource center where young people could take a shower, wash their clothes, enjoy a meal, and have access to various types of basic resources. When she returned to Detroit, she con-

vened a group of young people experiencing homelessness to share her findings and get their input.

The next year, with the help of a $10,000 grant, Smith opened a drop-in center at the Bethel Community Transformation Center on Woodward Avenue for those ages 12 to 24. She named it the Detroit Phoenix Center to reflect the resilience and the spirit of young people. She worked there as a volunteer until 2018 when an anonymous donor awarded DPC $435,000 with the stipulation that “you’re the one that leads this organization.” Smith began that full-time job and hired staff, started an after-school program, expanded drop-in hours, and later moved DPC’s headquarters and center to YouthVille Detroit. Since then, DPC has developed a partnership with the Detroit Public Schools Community District and opened a drop-in center at Cody High School to help identify students who are experiencing housing insecurity.

As Smith looks forward to the future of DPC, she hopes it can fulfill its mission of creating “a world where every young person has a home and the resources that they need to dream and to live out the dreams that they have.”

THE 2024 DETROIT TIGERS

The boys of late summer and fall made us all feel like kids again

BY BILL DOW

t the July 30, 2024, trade deadline, with the Detroit Tigers mired in fourth place, 15 games behind Cleveland, in the American League Central, the franchise continued its seemingly annual tradition of giving up on the season and being sellers when they traded No. 2 starter Jack Flaherty to the Los Angeles Dodgers for two minor leaguers while also shipping out three other veterans for prospects.

Most Detroit sports fans were more interested in stories about the Lions’

training camp and had also given up, although they often tuned in to games when pitching ace Tarik Skubal was on the mound. (Skubal went on to win the AL Cy Young Award after leading the league in wins, ERA, and strikeouts.)

Manager A.J. Hinch was left with one proven starter, All-Star outfielder Riley Greene; a solid bullpen led by Jason Foley and Tyler Holton; and a bunch of mostly unproven young players on a team that at season’s end was the youngest in the majors (average age of 26.3).

In an interview after the trades with 97.1

The Ticket, Tigers President Scott Harris was asked what the timeline was for the team to spend more (acquire more free agents) and get back in the postseason.

Harris said in part: “The rate at which they [the young core] get better is ultimately going to determine our timeline. As soon as we think this core is ready to compete deep into October, we’re going to spend heavily.”

To everyone’s surprise, Harris’s timeline

may have disappeared as the franchise ended its seven-year streak of losing seasons and made its first playoff appearance in a decade.

In a rare team meeting after the trades, Hinch asked his players what kind of team they wanted to be to finish out the season.

Despite the daunting nature of the task, they wanted to be a playoff team.

“Our team personality was built to lean on one another and to try and win today’s game and some series,” Hinch told Hour Detroit from his offseason Houston home just hours before he was named a finalist for AL Manager of the Year.

The Tigers then staged one of the most improbable comebacks in Detroit sports history with their tenacious grit and resilience, synonymous with Detroit’s motto: “We hope for better things; it shall rise from the ashes.”

On Aug. 10, with a 55-63 record, the struggling Tigers were 10 games out of a wildcard playoff spot. Their odds of making the postseason were down to 0.2%, according to FanGraphs. But then, eight days later, in a nationally televised game against the powerful New York Yankees at the Little League Classic, the Tigers’ 24-year-old center fielder Parker Meadows hit a walk-off single for a 3-2 victory as Detroit took two of three from the Yankees and finished the week 5-1.

Some observers point to that game as a turning point.

Meadows had started the season batting .096 before being sent down to Toledo in early May to correct his batting mechanics. Upon returning in early July, he quickly went on the injured list and did not come back until early August, when he quickly emerged as a clutch hitter who made spectacular game-saving catches and was a terror on the basepaths. In early September, he hit a dramatic two-out, two-strike grand slam in the top of the ninth inning to beat San Diego 4-3.

After his Aug. 3 return, Meadows batted .296 and then hit safely in all seven postseason games.

“Part of the reason for our success was our youth because they wanted to stay in the big leagues and were focused,” Hinch says. “My coaching staff worked tirelessly to help get as much out of these players as they could.”

The Tigers leaned down the stretch on their outstanding ace, Skubal, and a rotation consisting largely of “bullpen games” creatively deployed by Hinch and pitching coach Chris Fetter that saw a parade of young hurlers pitch an inning or two. It worked. Over the last two months of the season, the Tigers posted the best team ERA in baseball.

Aggressive baserunning, clutch hitting, solid pitching, an improved defense, and lateinning heroics suddenly became the norm as the team jelled with a solid core of hungry young players that included Greene, Meadows, designated hitter Kerry Carpenter, second baseman Colt Keith, outfielder Wenceel Pérez, and infielder/outfielder Matt Vierling, the only Tiger with postseason experience.

Fans who had not stepped foot in Comerica Park for a decade began a pilgrimage to the ballpark. “Magic numbers” once again became part of the vernacular.

“We got peak performances from Tarik Skubal, Riley Greene, and Parker Meadows and someone different every night,” Hinch

says. “This team was a blast to manage because of their buy-in and the development that needed to happen.”

For the last two months of the season, the Tigers were the hottest American League team. After Aug. 10, they won 31 of the last 44 games, finished the regular season with an 86-76 record (tied for second with Kansas City in the AL Central), and secured a wild-card playoff spot.

After winning both games in Houston to win that series, the Tigers took a 2-1 series lead against Cleveland in the AL Division Series on Oct. 9 in a 3-0 victory in the first postseason game at Comerica Park since 2014 while setting the stadium’s postseason attendance record with 44,885 towel-waving fans.

But the Tigers’ improbable run to the playoffs finally ended on Oct. 12 after they lost the last two games of the ALDS.

“Winning a playoff series was very special, but our guys were genuinely crushed by how the season ended so abruptly,” Hinch says. “It left a bad taste in the mouth despite the positive season we had and the tons of fanfare we created.

“I have a ton of pride about last season because of all the things that had to happen to bring winning baseball back to Detroit,” he says. “The season taught us that we are tough and can overcome some improbable odds to win a lot of games. Our fans are incredibly loyal and patient, and they now have a team that matches the city.”

As for next season?

Hinch says his team will be ready.

“I know our players left wanting more. I love managing this team, and this is not the end of the story. We are committed to bring a World Series back to Detroit.”

Tarik Skubal went 18-4 during the season and 1-1 in the postseason — and was 30-0 when it came to votes for the Cy Young Award.

BY DANA WHITE

AN GUIDE TO THE DETROIT

IT TAKES AN ENTIRE ALPHABET TO COVER THE ARTISTS, VENUES, CONCERTS, GENRES, RADIO STATIONS, AND CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS THAT MAKE THE D THE GREATEST MUSIC CITY IN THE WORLD (YEAH, WE SAID IT). WE MAY HAVE ONLY SKIMMED THE SURFACE, BUT HERE ARE THE HIGH NOTES.

honor her memory may be to attend a concert at the exceptional Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre on the riverfront.

AALIYAH

She was a transcendent talent, the ultimate D girl.

Aaliyah Dana Haughton grew up on Detroit’s Warrington Drive singing gospel and appeared on Star Search at age 10. As a student at the Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts (now Detroit School of Arts), she maintained perfect grades despite already being a signed recording artist. By 22, she was a global superstar, a role model for young women with her fresh style and distinct voice. She was about to conquer Hollywood when she died in a plane crash in 2001, only 22 years old. For the 20th anniversary of that tragedy, the Detroit Youth Choir performed a selection of her hits; check it out on YouTube.

ARETHA FRANKLIN

No musician embodied this city like the Queen of Soul: complicated, passionate, entirely singular, and arguably the greatest singer of all time. The Michigan state Legislature declared her voice “a precious natural resource.” Aretha Franklin was born in Tennessee but was raised up in Detroit singing gospel at her father’s church. Her long career had peaks and valleys, but she always found ways to reinvent her sound. Her last Detroit performance was on June 10, 2017, at the Detroit Music Weekend at Music Hall, while she had pancreatic cancer. She passed a little over a year later and lay in state at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The best way to

THE BEATLES

Two weeks after rocking Detroit’s Olympia Stadium in 1966, the Fab Four, burned out by two or three years of Beatlemania, announced they would never tour again. In 1970, they went their separate ways, but three of the four former Beatles returned to Detroit with new bands. The closest John Lennon got to playing Detroit again was Ann Arbor in 1971, when he and Yoko Ono performed at the freedom rally for activist John Sinclair, imprisoned for marijuana possession. Sinclair was released three days after the rally.

BIG SEAN

It’s been called the greatest gathering of rap royalty in Detroit history.

On Nov. 6, 2015, Big Sean played the Joe Louis Arena to raise funds for his Sean Anderson Foundation. The longtime Detroiter, whose album Dark Sky Paradise had debuted at No. 1, welcomed a stream of guests onstage, including Lil Wayne, and ended with a rousing version of “Detroit vs. Everybody” alongside his collaborators on the hit song and video: Royce da 5’9”, Danny Brown, DeJ Loaf, Trick Trick, and Eminem. In 2017, Big Sean received the key to the city for his philanthropic work, and last September, he filmed an intimate concert at the Detroit Institute of Arts’ Rivera Court to air on Amazon Prime Video.

BLKBOK

A child piano prodigy named Charles Wilson III went on to graduate from the Detroit School of Arts and take the name BLKBOK (“Black Bach”).

This genre-bending neoclassical musician blends classical riffs with rap and hip-hop influences, and his recent compositions reflect social justice themes. “Classical music is for everyone,” he told the Detroit Free Press in 2023. “There’s no better city to grow up as a musician than Detroit because there’s so much of it there.”

BLUES HISTORY

Metro Detroit’s legendary blues history lives on in the Detroit Blues Society, a nonprofit that “keeps the blues alive” by spotlighting singers, musicians, record labels, and clubs that have made the scene sing since the early 1900s. DBS also raises funds to erect headstones for blues musicians buried in unmarked graves.

has something to do with working with big machines; it made people feel at home hearing big, loud rock music.” Cooper grew up as Vincent Furnier in East Detroit (now Eastpointe), a pastor’s son who binged on horror movies at the Eastown Theatre. The family left for Phoenix to help his asthma, where he would eventually form his band before relocating to Los Angeles. But in 1970 — a year after the infamous chicken incident — he and his band left LA (too much love and peace) for a farm in Pontiac. They shot at beer cans and did preproduction for Love It

to Death, which produced his first national hit, “I’m Eighteen.” His 2021 album Detroit Stories is a tribute to those crazy days.

C. HOWARD CRANE

From 1905 to 1930, this self-taught architect designed more than 50 movie palaces in Detroit. Many of them have been demolished, including the United Artists Theatre and the late, great Olympia Stadium, but those that remain are our favorite vintage venues: Orchestra Hall, the Majestic Theatre, the Detroit Opera House, The Fillmore, and the most lavish of them all, the Fox Theatre.

CREEM

Calling itself “America’s only rock ’n’ roll magazine,” this raunchy pub was the brainchild of two Detroit “hippies [with] electric typewriters” who chronicled the raucous Detroit music scene from 1969 to 1989. Along the way, they coined the phrases “heavy metal” and “punk rock.” Only Rolling Stone was bigger.

DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS

Detroit’s own Grammy Awards take place every year at The Fillmore, where this nonprofit foundation honors local, regional, and national musicians in all genres, from community orchestras to Lizzo.

DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Founded in 1887, the DSO struggled to survive in the 20th century. Since 1989, it has found a stable home in Orchestra Hall (itself saved from demolition). The first symphony to broadcast on radio in 1922, the DSO calls itself “the most accessible orchestra on the planet,” with free webcasts of its performances and affordable tickets.

FUNKADELIC

ALICE COOPER

In a 2021 interview, the godfather of shock rock told The Guardian, “I think the Detroit sound

EMINEM

Detroit’s most beloved rapper may be a grandfather who speaks at political rallies now, but last June’s Michigan Central grand opening concert proved he can produce stage shows pretty well, too. In the 1990s, Marshall Mathers was living the hardscrabble life that would inform 8 Mile, polishing his quicksilver freestyle rhymes in early rap battles at The Shelter on Congress Street (still in business). More than 200 million records later, rap’s elder statesman still uncorks new songs like “Houdini,” which he debuted in a surprise set for the thrilled crowd at Roosevelt Park, Michigan Central Station’s “front lawn.”

James Brown brought his percussive funk to Cobo Arena in the 1960s, but the godfather of funk is George Clinton, a producer and writer at Motown who later moved his bands, Parliament and Funkadelic, to Detroit in the late 1960s; assembled his P-Funk collective of musicians; and began recording at United Sound Systems. Funkadelic, blending funk with psychedelic rock, came out in 1970, but One Nation Under a Groove (1978) took them to No. 1. P-Funk’s touring shows were known for their outrageous costumes and showmanship; Clinton continues to perform at the ripe age of 83, with an upcoming show at Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel on Feb. 6.

Detroit has produced the most popular gospel groups in the nation, including The Meditation Singers from the New Liberty Baptist Church, The Clark Sisters from the Church of God in Christ, and The Winans, a quartet of brothers who are part of the Winans gospel dynasty. On any given Sunday, Detroit rings with songs of praise, and the Detroit Praise Network keeps the faith 24/7.

GOSPEL

Detroit’s flourishing Black churches produced a gospel tradition rivaled only by Chicago’s. It created at least two true superstars: Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin, who recorded her first gospel record at only 14 years old. That was back when Elma and Carl’s House of Music was the place to buy gospel records. Since the 1940s,

BILL HALEY

In 1954, the Highland Park native recorded “Rock Around the Clock” in New York City, not Detroit. But Bill Haley and His Comets returned here to perform it to a sellout crowd at Olympia Stadium. The song topped the charts and is credited with making rock ’n’ roll mainstream and striking fear in the hearts of parents everywhere.

THE HIDEOUT

In the early 1960s, a couple of college kids rented a VFW hall in Harper Woods and called it The Hideout, a weekend club with live music catering to teenagers. The “hideout” concept spread to similar halls in the metro burbs and helped launch the careers of Bob Seger (who recorded his first album on the Hideout label), Glenn Frey, and Suzi Quatro, among others.

JOHN LEE HOOKER

Around World War II, a young Hooker traveled from Memphis, Tennessee, to Detroit for factory work, bringing his guitar and a love for Delta blues.

Aretha Franklin

Eminem

BY JIM MCFARLIN

LATE-NIGHT

DEADLINES AND CLUB-HOPPING, HANGING WITH SEGER AT THE LAKE, WHAT HE DID TO RILE ARETHA FRANKLIN — HOURCONTRIBUTOR JIM MCFARLIN SHARES IT ALL

As my wife, Karen, is way too fond of replying whenever anyone inquires about my past, “He was a rock critic … in Detroit … in the ’80s! Anything you think he did — he did it!”

That would be funnier if it weren’t close to the truth. The ’80s, for those too young to know, were a wild ride on many levels. However, I can say my 11 years as rock and pop music critic for The Detroit News from 1979 to 1991 — longer than anyone else had held the position at the time — were the most joy-filled of my career.

And why not? I got to cover Detroit rock ’n’ roll royalty, Bob Seger and Ted Nugent, at the peak of their creative prowess. A young woman from Rochester Hills, Madonna Ciccone, was just beginning to soar. The local music scene was ablaze with emerging talents bound for national attention, like The Romantics, Was (Not Was), Art in America, Adrenalin/DC Drive, The Rockets, Stewart Francke, Detroit Energy Asylum (with Carolyn Striho), Marshall Crenshaw, Dave Edwards and the Look, and so many more. Oh, and it’s the ancestral home of Motown Records. I had landed in pop music mecca.

I was blessed to have an editor, Clifford Ridley, who believed in the power of live reviews. And since every concert tour worth its encores had to play Detroit, it was not uncommon to cover three to four shows a

week — well over 150 reviews each year. (And I can still hear!) My deadline was 1 a.m., which didn’t help my dating life: “Honey, I’d love to take you to Prince, but you’ll have to find your own way home.” Pine Knob Music Theatre even kept a cot for me in its office trailer so I could catch a wink between filing my reviews and making the long drive back from Clarkston.

Many nights when I wasn’t racing against time (“Deadline in 45 minutes,” I would tell myself. “Be brilliant!”), I was in a metro Detroit club — Bookies, Traxx, Harpos, The Ritz, wherever — watching local bands perform. I learned my predecessor at the News was known by his byline alone: He only took the job to get in at the paper and almost

During his time as The Detroit News’ rock critic from 1979 to 1991, Jim McFarlin had the opportunity to interview some of the era’s biggest musicians, which resulted in some incredible photos. From top, left to right: McFarlin poses with Bob Seger, “rival” Detroit Free Press critic Gary Graff, Ted Nugent, Pat Benatar, Don Was, and Alice Cooper.

never covered made-in-Detroit music. I was appalled … and enthused.

For a guy who grew up in tiny Spring Lake, Michigan, metro Detroit was a giant jukebox. I maintained a regular column covering local musicians, many of whom remain friends to this day.

But of course, I had a nemesis: Free Press critic Gary Graff, a dear friend today who still covers music for outlets nationwide, was my sworn enemy. I know my editor pitted us against each other: “Great review Graff has in today — why didn’t you cover that?” The longdefunct WDTX-FM even tried to put us together for a Siskel-and-Ebert-type record review show. It lasted about a month.

But oh! The concert reviews! Being a Black rock critic — one of the few in America at that time — provided a unique perspective. It led to the McFarlin Law of Expected Gratification: If you blow your paycheck to see your favorite band live, they cannot be bad. If the critic writes otherwise, he’s an idiot!

Or, at the very least, uninformed. If I wrote a negative review on, say, Metallica, I would get letters (yes, an age before email) saying, “Clearly your heritage doesn’t allow you to appreciate this music.” Once, Aretha Franklin gave a lackluster performance at Cobo Arena and I said so (leading to her brother-manager Cecil Franklin picketing the News building, demanding my

termination). The letters then read, “You poor fool: You’ve been covering rock ’n’ roll so long, you can’t relate to R&B.”

It was never the music — it was me!

Still, I remember spending pleasant days at the lake with Seger and his manager, Punch Andrews, and listening to the Like a Rock album demo as Bob sat across from me, watching every movement on my face. I recall Nugent playfully smooshing a handful of sushi in my face at a backstage soiree, spawning my love of raw fish. To this day, I can’t devour a California roll without thinking about The Nuge. (Thanks, Ted.)

I cherish the memory of interviewing Stevie Wonder in a penthouse suite at the Westin Hotel Renaissance Center, followed by him performing a 20-minute concert for an audience of one. (I think he knew I was still there.) I delighted in trying on new eyeglass frames with the late Duke Fakir, the two of us laughing and poking fun at each other’s selections. There was no friction or suspicion. I think the Motor City musical community understood I loved music and tried to write about it as honestly as I could. We were all for Detroit.

And that community helped get me inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame in 2023. Rock on.

He played local clubs like the Apex Bar on the North End (closed but still standing), but discovering the electric guitar took his foot-stomping sound to a new level. “You had to play electric in those clubs, they were so noisy. But the sounds you could make!” he said in a 1983 interview with the National Endowment for the Arts. What followed were blues classics like “Boogie Chillen,” which let him quit his job as a janitor, and “Boom Boom,” inspired by a bartender’s scolding when he showed up late at the Apex for a gig. In 1980, he famously performed the song in The Blues Brothers

butter on his bare torso. He invented stage diving — not to mention, many believe, punk rock — with his band The Stooges. They were from Ann Arbor with an attitude; their concerts were fierce, fraught, and often violent. The bad energy caught up with them in 1974 at Detroit’s Michigan Palace after a series of violent interactions with a motorcycle gang. They reunited in 2003 at Coachella and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

IGGY AND THE STOOGES

A wiry, frenetic front man inspired by Jim Morrison’s onstage antics, Iggy Pop (born James Osterberg in Muskegon) was renowned for his excess, which included rolling around in cut glass and smearing peanut

JAZZ EVERYWHERE

From intimate clubs like Baker’s Keyboard Lounge and Cliff Bell’s to the world’s largest free jazz festival, from Aretha’s Jazz Café at Music Hall to the DIA’s long commitment to jazz performance, the jazz scene in Detroit is as diverse as the genre itself. All the greats have come through, of course, but Detroit’s homegrown talent, especially women,

Iggy Pop

held its own. Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane, who was married to saxophonist John Coltrane, took jazz harp to new levels, while organist Lyman Woodard’s “Saturday Night Special” is considered a jazz fusion classic.

J DILLA

As a teenager, James Dewitt Yancey started making beats and sampling vinyl in a basement studio in his Conant Gardens family home, becoming the most influential producer in hip-hop. He co-founded the rap group Slum Village while still in high school and pursued a solo career, but collaborations with stars like

through the rap ranks in Detroit with Eminem in the 1990s before shape-shifting into several genres at once. His 1998 breakthrough album, the rap-country mash-up Devil Without a Cause, which he described as a “cross between Run DMC and Lynyrd Skynyrd,” sold 14 million copies. Thirty-five million records later, Kid Rock is still touring and playing the American badass.

CASEY KASEM

Lebanese American disc jockey Kemal Amin Kasem was born in Detroit and began his radio career at Wayne State University. He found DJ and TV success at WJW in Cleveland before earning international fame hosting American Top 40 for decades. His acting and voice-over work included playing Shaggy in Scooby-Doo

LOUDERTHANLOVE:THE GRANDEBALLROOMSTORY

In 1967, as the city was burning and Vietnam was raging, a faded 1920s dance hall on Grand River Avenue became Detroit’s counterculture hippie headquarters. This award-winning documentary recounts the Grande Ballroom’s (pronounced Grand-ee) short but psychedelic history as a venue where the world’s greatest rock bands performed (Fleetwood Mac, Pink Floyd, and The Who on the same ticket? Yep.)

In 1972, the venue closed for good; the building still stands and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

for punk. They did not play well with others. Their biggest record was the obscenity-ridden Kick Out the Jams, but J.L. Hudson’s department store refused to stock it. The band responded with more expletives, and Hudson’s dropped all Elektra Records music. Elektra then dropped MC5.

MOTOWN MUSEUM

Since 1985, the Motown Museum has told the story of Berry Gordy’s world in the original Hitsville USA house on West Grand Boulevard, home of a musical movement that changed the world. After years of fundraising, the museum has broken ground on a splashy, nearly 40,000-square-foot expansion behind the original site, with plans to open in the summer of 2026.

MADONNA

Common, Erykah Badu, Janet Jackson, and De La Soul, among many others, solidified his reputation as a visionary.

His acclaimed instrumental album Donuts was released on Feb. 7, 2006, three days before he died of a rare blood disease at age 32.

KID ROCK

This right-wing rocker’s “redneck pimp” image belies his background. Born Robert Ritchie to a wealthy car dealer in Romeo, he came up

LITTLE STEVIE WONDER

When Berry Gordy Jr. signed the sightless 12-year-old prodigy to Tamla Records in 1961, the diminutive was added to Wonder’s name to accentuate his youthful genius. He made three albums in eight months, and his harmonica-driven “Fingertips,” which he performed on The Ed Sullivan Show, knocked Andy Williams off the Billboard No. 1 spot. (He was the youngest soloist to ever chart on the Top 100.) Wonder dropped the “little” at age 15, after his voice changed, and he went on to become a very, very big star whose latest tour brought him to Little Caesars Arena this past October.

In the 1970s, a certain wild child from Rochester Hills danced all night in Detroit’s gay bars. She was famously kicked out of Menjos for indecent exposure. Madonna is still alive and kicking, and so is Menjos.

MC5

More influential than famous, this hard-partying late-’60s “proto-punk” band (MC stands for Motor City) set the stage

NIRVANA

In late 1991, Kurt Cobain and company were relatively unknown when they played a now-legendary set at Saint Andrew’s Hall in support of their second album, Nevermind. By the beginning of 1992, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” had vaulted grunge into American living rooms.

ORION MUSIC AND MORE FESTIVAL

Heavy metal dominated Belle Isle in the summer of 2012, when Metallica’s festival brought 32 acts to Detroit, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Arctic Monkeys. Forty thousand people were transported to the venue by school bus. A highlight was Metallica’s performance of Kill ’Em All in its entirety. “We’ll be back, Detroit!” they proclaimed, but the festival proved too expensive and never happened again.

PARADISE VALLEY

For 40 years, Black music and life thrived on the east side of Detroit. Nightclubs and music venues were packed into a few square blocks, attracting the greatest singers and musicians of the day — and lots of white music fans, too. The dress code was furs and pearls at the upscale Flame Show Bar, where Berry Gordy, a young songwriter, liked to hobnob with greats like Billie Holiday and Jackie Wilson. (His sisters ran the photography concession.) Most of Paradise Valley was demolished for highways and urban renewal projects in the ’50s and ’60s, but the Paradise Valley Conservancy aims to return the neighborhood to its past glory.

Kid Rock

Madonna

BY JACK THOMAS

THE DETROIT NATIVE HAS A MIND-BOGGLING DISCOGRAPHY

When you hear the name Ray Parker Jr., chances are your mind goes to the Ghostbusters theme song, not Motown. But the writer and singer of that No. 1 hit from 1984 got his start in his hometown of Detroit.

When Parker was attending Cass Technical High School and then Northwestern High School (class of 1971), his father, Ray Parker Sr., hoped his son would follow in his footsteps at Ford Motor Co. But all Parker Jr. wanted to do was be a musician; it had been his dream since age 6.

As a young teen, he was a supporting musician at iconic nightclubs like the Latin Quarter and the 20 Grand for acts like The Spinners, The Temptations, and Gladys Knight and the Pips. Work as a session

musician followed, and he laid guitar for acts like Motown songwriter-producers HollandDozier-Holland; Marvin Gaye; and Stevie Wonder, who would invite Parker to be part of his band for their 1972 tour with The Rolling Stones.

In 1977, he formed his own group, Raydio, and released hits like “A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do),” “You Can’t Change That,” and “Jack and Jill.”

During his career, he’s contributed to a staggering number of timeless songs. To name just a few: His guitar parts can be heard on Barry White’s “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe” and Bill Withers’s “Lovely Day,” and he penned New Edition’s “Mr. Telephone Man.” Additionally, Parker has

long maintained he wrote Leo Sayer’s Grammy-winning No. 1 hit “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” but didn’t receive a songwriting credit and, thus, has never seen a cent for it.

When it came time to record “Ghostbusters” in 1984, Parker turned to another Detroiter to accompany him: jazz musician Dorothy Ashby. The two first met when Parker was a teenage session guitarist. “At Motown, all sessions … if they were going to use a harp player on the record, she was the one,” Parker told Hour Detroit over Zoom in early April, during a press run for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire “I thought, ‘If I'm gonna get a harp, I need to get Dorothy Ashby.’” Her part, however, can be heard only on an extended version of the track.

“Musicians from Detroit, they’re some of the best in the world,” Parker says. “They have a seriousness about their music and an extra talent that most of the people in the world just don’t have.”

Ray Parker Jr. (second from right) appears for a Tonight Show segment last March, with (from left) fellow Michigan native Ernie Hudson, Jimmy Fallon, and Bill Murray.

AN INSIDE LOOK AT LEGENDARY

On the last leg of the one-hour tour at the Motown Museum on West Grand Boulevard, where generations of music fans from around the globe make pilgrimages to see where Berry Gordy Jr. created an assembly line of stars and hits, the best is saved for last.

Patrons are typically awestruck when they quietly and rather reverently take four steps down onto hallowed ground, the tiny Motown Studio A that was open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from 1959 to 1972.

It remains frozen in time, left just as it was when Gordy moved operations in 1972 to Los Angeles.

In the space long ago dubbed the “snake pit” due to the numerous microphone cords that still hang from the ceiling and walls, visitors view original Motown instruments and stand in the same place where Diana Ross and The Supremes recorded “Stop! In the Name of Love” and where David Ruffin provided the lead vocals for The Temptations’

hit “My Girl.”

RECORDING STUDIO

In 1959, the 29-year-old Gordy, a former Golden Gloves boxer, Ford assembly line worker, and record store owner, purchased the building at 2648 W. Grand Blvd. and converted the former photography studio into one of the world’s most famous recording studios.

The “Motown sound” was created by talented writers, producers, and arrangers; pioneering sound engineers; and the legendary house band of musicians dubbed The Funk Brothers, who were often joined by Detroit Symphony Orchestra strings.

From 1961 to 1971, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Supremes, The Temptations, the Four Tops, Martha and the Vandellas, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and others collectively scored over 100 Top 10 hits on the various Motown record labels.

“Walking into the studio really overwhelms people, and it often evokes emotional and spiritual feelings when they

 Motown Studio A, dubbed the “snake pit.” Most of the company’s hits were made in this small space from 1959 to 1972. The wood floor was sometimes used as an instrument of sorts when singers would stomp their feet to the beat, as heard on The Supremes’ “Where Did Our Love Go.” Weekly “quality control” meetings were also held in the studio, when new unreleased records were played and discussed. Employees would raise their hand if they thought the song would be a hit.

BY BILL DOW

sense the creativity and talent that was once there,” says Robin Terry, the chair and CEO of the museum. Her grandmother Esther Gordy Edwards, a former Motown vice president and Berry Gordy’s sister, founded the museum in 1985.

“Celebrities at every level, be they musicians, singers, songwriters, and other entertainers, come here because I think they are drawn to this hallowed ground that inspires them,” Terry says.

Among the countless A-listers who have made the pilgrimage, (and sometimes repeatedly) are Paul McCartney, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, Demi Lovato, Motown stars, various actors, and Wynonna Judd, the last of whom, according to Terry, once spent three hours in the famous space.

Recently, this writer, along with photographer Josh Scott, paid a visit to the famous studio to provide in these pages an inside peek at where all the magic happened.

PHOTOS BY JOSH SCOTT

 Funk Brothers including Robert White, Joe Messina, Dennis Coffey, Bob Babbitt, and James Jamerson plugged their guitars into this innovative homemade amplifier made by sound engineer Mark McLean that was directly connected to the control room. This ES 335 Gibson guitar and wah-wah peddle were used by Dennis Coffey on numerous songs, including “Cloud Nine” by The Temptations and “Smiling Faces Sometimes” by Undisputed Truth.

 The vibes, or vibraphone, were played by the likes of Jake Brokensha and Jack Ashford and can be heard on countless hits, including the Isley Brothers’ “This Old Heart of Mine (Is Weak for You).”

 Berry Gordy, engineers, and producers would stand or sit at the control room console table tapping their feet to the beat and wearing holes into the floor while they monitored or balanced the sounds during recordings. This photo was taken from inside the studio looking through the control room window.

This 1877 Steinway grand piano and Hammond B3 organ to the left were used by numerous Motown keyboardists, including Funk Brothers bandleader Earl Van Dyke. In 2011, Paul McCartney visited the studio and tried to play the piano but discovered it was out of tune and needed work. McCartney helped get it refurbished in New York by the Steinway company. It is now occasionally played by visiting artists.

 The singers would often stand in front of the overdub isolation rooms behind these windows, where the horn section and the DSO strings led by concertmaster Gordon Staples played so as not to bleed their instruments into the rhythm section microphones. One of the overdub rooms is where visitors view a short film on the history of Motown. The photo at the top left is of Stevie Wonder recording with The Funk Brothers. The photo at the top right is of The Temptations recording at this very spot.

SUZI QUATRO

Long before she was Leather Tuscadero on Happy Days, Suzi Quatro

ing to a harder sound. In 1971, Quatro decamped for the U.K. and a solo career (one rock critic called her “a refugee from the frightened city of Detroit”). Her iconic publicity shoot in a black leather jumpsuit predicted the tough

was watching The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show from her home in Grosse Pointe Woods. Inspired, she and her three sisters started an all-girl rock band called The Pleasure Seekers. They made their name at The Hideout, with Quatro on lead vocals and bass, and later opened for Bob Seger, Ted Nugent, and Chuck Berry. In 1968, the band signed to a major label, Mercury Records, and they later renamed themselves Cradle, turn-

(nicknamed Keener 13), Robin Seymour introduced Detroiters to Black R&B, Motown, and Bob Seger, while Dick Purtan hosted one of the top-rated morning shows in the nation before moving to CLKW. WRIF was the rock station of the 1970s and ’80s and led the charge to abolish disco. And for the past 76 years, WDET — Detroit’s NPR station, which was founded by the United Auto Workers and is broadcast from Wayne State University — has been living up to its mission to “serve an engaged, diverse and curious audience through trusted news, inclusive conversations and cultural experiences that empower our community to move forward.”

DIANA ROSS

sexiness of Joan Jett. She’s 74 and still touring, and the suit still fits.

RADIO STATIONS

Long before streaming services, bands relied on radio airplay to promote and sell their music. This gave DJs a lot of power to shape musical tastes. At WKNR, the top station of the 1950s and ’60s

She is 80 now but still all about love, a product of the Brewster-Douglass Housing Projects who went on to front The Supremes, the most successful singing group of the 1960s — female or otherwise — with 12 No. 1 hits and then six more as a solo artist. Ross has two Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Grammys. She and Berry Gordy broke a lot of hearts when they moved Motown to Los Angeles, but Hollywood was calling. Of course, she was nominated for an Oscar for her first starring role as Billie Holiday in Lady Sings the Blues. Of course, she built a still-vital solo recording and touring career, with all the awards that came with it. And of course, when she took the stage at Michigan Central last June, resplendent in a voluminous orange gown — her first performance in the city proper since 2013 — she reminded everyone who reigns supreme.

BOB SEGER

It’s hard to believe that Detroit’s favorite blue-collar rocker had only one No. 1 single in his 50-year career, and it was for a movie (“Shakedown” for Beverly Hills Cop II in 1987). But 10 platinum albums prove Seger is No. 1 in the hearts of his fans. Born in Henry Ford Hospital, the son of a Ford Motor Co. executive, he grew up in Ann Arbor and fronted various bands until hitting the right formula with the Silver Bullet Band. Live Bullet, filmed at Cobo Hall, and Night Moves made him a national star. After he retired from touring in 2018, Pine Knob Music Theatre changed its address to 33 Bob Seger Drive, for the record 33 sold-out shows he played there.

SEARCHINGFORSUGARMAN

This Oscar-winning documentary traces the path of Sixto Rodriguez, the enigmatic singer-songwriter from Detroit who found unlikely fame in South Africa, where he was “more popular than Elvis.” He passed away in 2023 at age 81, but not before becoming a global phenomenon thanks to the film and his remarkable talent.

TECHNO

Electronic dance music is rooted in Europe but found new expression in the Detroit suburbs in the 1980s. Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson were some of the only Black kids at Belleville High School; inspired by a radio show called The Midnight Funk Association on

WGPR, they bought a synthesizer and turntables and learned to mix music in their basements — music that May described as “like Kraftwerk and George Clinton are stuck together on an elevator with only a sequencer to keep them company.” In the 1990s, a new generation of techno DJs played their hypnotic, repetitive tracks in Detroit’s abandoned industrial buildings, attracting hundreds of revelers; the old Packard Plant was ground zero for the rave culture. Techno has lots of subgenres, and all are celebrated at Detroit’s Movement festival in Hart Plaza and at clubs like TV Lounge and Elephant, while Exhibit 3000, the world’s first techno museum — a few blocks from the Motown Museum — breaks it all down, by appointment only.

Diana Ross

Bob Seger

TEJANO

Two new historic markers stand in Southwest Detroit, honoring the musicians who brought Tejano music here 70 years ago. An accordionand guitar-driven blend of Eastern European polka rhythms and traditional Mexican music, Tejano came here from Texas, and as Mexicantown grew, so did the number of conjuntos, or bands, playing local clubs, dances, and events. The Las Vegas Lounge was the epicenter, and that’s where Martin Solis Jr. and his conjunto, Los Primos, played their first gig in the late ’50s. For the next five decades, Los Primos and other bands popularized Tejano around Michigan but never made a record. After Solis passed away at the age of 90, his son Frank found a paper bag of reel-to-reel tapes — unknown recordings of Los Primos. He happened to know Jack White’s brother Eddie Gillis (they grew up together in Southwest Detroit), production manager at Third Man Records, who pressed them into vinyl for the first time. Third Man also helped to sponsor the plaques.

UNDERGROUND

MUSIC ACADEMY

Not your average music education, the curriculum at this new school from DJ and producer Waajeed emphasizes Detroit’s legacy of Black electronic music, with lessons in DJing and music production. Waajeed — a Kresge Artist Fellow in 2014 and an Hour Detroiter in 2024 — draws from his experience with the

Underground Resistance, a collective popular in the 1990s that advocated for social justice and self-determination through the lens of “sonic communities” steeped in techno music. Last October, UMA completed its first online course, and it’s planning a winter semester in 2025.

The Temptations

VERONA APARTMENTS

Joni Mitchell was 21 when she moved to Detroit in 1965 and married folk singer Chuck Mitchell. They lived in a fifth-floor apartment in the Cass Corridor, where she wrote “The Circle Game” and “Both Sides Now,” and she performed them at folk clubs around Wayne State University like the Chess Mate and The Living End. The marriage lasted two years; she moved on to New York City and greatness.

JACK WHITE

This upholsterer turned indie superstar guitarist is the patron saint of Detroit music. Born here in 1975, he grew up John Anthony Gillis in Mexicantown and played in local garage bands. In 1997, he and his first wife, drummer Meg White (he took her name and insisted

they were siblings), first performed as The White Stripes at the Gold Dollar in Midtown. The quirky duo released 10 albums and rewrote indie rock history with their simple, primitive sound; Rolling Stone considers White Blood Cells and Elephant among the greatest 500 albums of all time. The duo divorced in 2000 but continued playing together, with Jack White pursuing side projects with The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather. Since The White Stripes ended in 2011, White has pursued a prolific songwriting, producing, and performing career; his label and store, Third Man Records in the Cass Corridor, boosts the local economy and presses vinyl in the back. As a board member of the National Recording Preservation Foundation, White finds and reissues rare recordings, such as those of Tejano, on vinyl. In 2013, White was the

“mystery donor” who saved the Detroit Masonic Temple from foreclosure, and he later had a theater named after him. Eleven years later, at the Masonic Temple, during the first stop on his Supply Chain Issues tour, he proposed to and married his third wife, singer Olivia Jean, onstage.

“haunting and timely.”

(That same year, Sharon was named to Time’s list of 100 emerging leaders.)

Detroit Opera’s slate for 2025 includes Davis’s The Central Park Five

X:THELIFEAND TIMESOFMALCOLMX

Under Artistic Director Yuval Sharon, Detroit Opera has emerged as a force in progressive opera. In 2020, he staged his first production, Twilight: Gods, in the opera house’s parking structure. In 2022, Sharon revived Anthony Davis’s 1985 visionary work on Malcolm X in a production Detroit News critic Maureen Feighan called

“(YOU’RE MY) DREAM COME TRUE”

The Temptations’ first single, written by Berry Gordy and released in 1962, hit the R&B charts and kick-started the group’s remarkable career. The rest is history (and a Broadway musical).

Zeppelin’s North American tour The 1980s: Part One. On Sept. 25, during rehearsals in England, drummer John Bonham was found dead at the home of Jimmy Page after a day of heavy drinking. The tour was canceled, leaving thousands of Detroit fans holding tickets for a concert at Joe Louis Arena that never happened. On Dec. 4, Led Zeppelin disbanded. But the music lives on: Jason Bonham and his Led Zeppelin Experience, a tribute to his late father, played at The Fillmore two years ago.

ZEPPELIN CRASHES

In October 1980, Detroit was the fifth city on Led

DR. MUNE GOWDA, FACS 26850 PROVIDENCE PARKWAY, SUITE 125, NOVI, MI 48374 | GOWDAMD.COM

Dr. Mune Gowda, FACS, is a top-tier, board-certified plastic surgeon renowned for his expertise in facial cosmetic surgery, including rhinoplasty, facelifts, and neck lifts. He excels in preservation rhinoplasty techniques, which allow him to maintain the natural structures of the nose while delivering stunning results. Dr. Gowda also employs the advanced Piezo technology to minimize trauma and expedite healing.

In addition to his rhinoplasty prowess, Dr. Gowda specializes in deep-plane facelifts and neck lifts, using deep-plane contouring

to achieve natural, long-lasting rejuvenation. His meticulous approach and artistic vision have garnered him numerous awards and honors for surgical excellence.

Dr. Gowda performs his procedures in a state-of-the-art, certified surgical center within his Novi office, located in the Henry Ford Providence Hospital Novi Medical Building. This fully accredited facility is equipped with the latest technologies and highest-quality equipment, ensuring the best outcomes for his patients.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Birmingham, you will find Margot’s, a name that has become synonymous with “awardwinning day spa.” Holding diplomas from around the world, Margot Kohler educates staff and clients on European skin and body care. Clients have come to trust the process as they see and feel the desired results. Customized services utilizing exclusive patented ingredients, combined with specialized and experienced staff, allow Margot to offer nothing less than continued excellence.

Celebrating 45 years of serving locals and global travelers alike, Margot and daughter Ursula Froehlich are looking to the future and what Margot 2.0 has to offer for generations to come. Clients can look forward to an innovative succession plan for Margot’s to carry on as a legacy business while ushering in new technologies, ideas, and services. Clients can expect continued trust in their spa experiences along with unparalleled excellence through the infusion of ancient European rituals with 21st-century ingredients and techniques.

PILATES

CLUB PILATES

NOVI, BEVERLY HILLS, ROCHESTER HILLS, TROY, WEST BLOOMFIELD, BRETON VILLAGE, AND KNAPP’S CROSSING | CLUBPILATES.COM

The trio of Thomas Babineau, Brandi Freeman, and Amy Warner are the largest provider of reformer Pilates in Michigan, with seven Club Pilates locations and two more opening soon. No one is doing more to bring the beneﬁ ts of Pilates to everyBODY throughout metro Detroit and Grand Rapids.

As a team, they are passionate about health and fitness and the body’s ability to heal itself through movement. It is their mission to create a welcoming and motivating space filled with encouragement where everyBODY can find fitness success through Pilates.

Value-driven leadership, comprehensively trained and certiﬁed instructors, and robust class schedules set them apart. Over 3,600 members appreciate the expert instruction, ﬁve-star customer service, and sense of community their Club Pilates studios provide.

Located in Novi, Beverly Hills, Rochester Hills, Troy, West Bloomﬁeld, Breton Village, and Knapp’s Crossing, with Northville and Royal Oak opening soon, your next Pilates workout is just around the corner.

Today, Hamzah Nasser is widely recognized as “The Face of Co ee,” a testament to his dedication and passion for elevating Yemeni co ee on a global scale.

In 2021, Hamzah Nasser set out on a mission to bring a unique co ee experience to life by opening the ﬁrst Haraz Co ee House in Dearborn, Michigan. Guided by his vision of sharing Yemeni co ee culture and heritage, Hamzah introduced a concept that quickly resonated with co ee lovers. Since its humble beginnings, Haraz Coffee House has grown to 17 locations across metro Detroit and other cities with 142 in the pipeline, becoming a symbol of authenticity and excellence in the coffee industry. By blending rich traditions with modern tastes, Hamzah has created a space where culture and community thrive.

Cerec Technology is a CAD system that can make a patient’s crown or cap in the same visit — meaning there’s no need for messy impressions or painful temporaries that don’t stay in place. Dr. Dolores J. Baran has been successfully using this technology for more than 15 years. “Dedicated,” “innovative,” and “astute” are words patients have used to describe Dr. Baran.

A graduate of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry,

Dr. Baran and her team perform most dental procedures in the office, including root canals, dental implant placement and restoration, and the removal of wisdom teeth. Dr. Baran, who is well known for her cosmetic work (such as veneers and invisible braces) has been having success with treating patients who have migraine headaches with Botox. Call today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Your overall skin health and beauty can be trusted to Dr. Chethana Gottam and her team of expert providers at Art of Dermatology. Dr. Gottam’s meticulous approach and commitment to exceptional care have earned Art of Dermatology a reputation for being a best-in-class dermatology practice serving all your medical and cosmetic skin care needs. A multiyear Hour Detroit Top Doc honoree, Dr. Gottam serves as medical director at Art of Dermatology, overseeing a highly reputable team of medical providers, injectors, and

aestheticians equipped to provide you with the latest in dermatological care. With nearly two decades of experience in treating patients of all ages, Dr. Gottam and her team provide the most cutting-edge combinations of medical and aesthetic treatments for the skin. Their personalized approach is unparalleled.

With state-of-the-art facilities serving multiple locations in metro Detroit, Art of Dermatology is your trusted partner in the health and beauty of your skin.

Carl

Additionally, Carl is deeply committed to helping his clients enjoy

Carl Gill’s extensive experience, compassionate approach, and unwavering dedication to his clients’ success make him a trusted and invaluable resource. Whether you are just beginning your retirement planning or are seeking to enhance your current ﬁnancial strategy, Carl is here to provide the expertise and support you need.

Mendola says staying on top of trends while consistently elevating quality is important for restaurant success: Guests

come for what’s new and keep returning for their favorite dishes.

“We incorporate trends and tradition — our butternut squash ravioli with maple cream, cranberries, and walnuts is incredibly popular.”

Mendola invested significantly in D’Marcos’ recent contemporary renovation. He also invests in the community.

“In the end, we have each other and community. I firmly believe in my role to serve an affordable, delicious Italian meal where community can come together and just enjoy life.”

Heather

ﬁrm is not built by billboards — it’s built by clients who spread the word.

Beyond her legal practice, Heather is a leader in the legal community, having served in several state and national leadership positions. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Heather is passionate about advancing fairness, integrity, and professional growth in the ﬁeld of law.

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE DEFENSE

CULLEN B. MCKINNEY — NAUTS, MCKINNEY, DWAIHY & BEACH 38777 SIX MILE ROAD, SUITE 101, LIVONIA, MI 48152 | 313-964-4500

Cullen B. McKinney is a founding member of Nauts, McKinney, Dwaihy & Beach, Michigan’s largest medical malpractice defense firm. He is a zealous advocate and defender of health care specialists and institutions across the state of Michigan, and he has the trial record to prove it. In 2024 alone, he successfully tried nine medical malpractice cases to a defense verdict. McKinney also regularly serves as a consultant to several national physician insurance companies. In this role, he works closely with individual physician groups

of all sizes, consulting on everything from reducing liability to improving patient communication. McKinney’s years of rigorous training and education have given him the knowledge and skill necessary to provide health care professionals with prudent and sensible guidance on how to navigate malpractice litigation. He says that “medical malpractice litigation is a complex and distressing reality for all physicians and health care professionals, and they deserve attentive, compassionate representation and guidance.”

When reﬂ ecting on memorable customer experiences, a visit to the orthodontist might not be the ﬁrst thing that comes to mind. However, Dr. Jamie Reynolds and Dr. Jenn Bonamici are changing that perception with their innovative approach to patient care and the customer experience.

A nationally recognized orthodontic teacher, Dr. Reynolds and his team deliver world-class orthodontics using state-of-the-art Damon System braces and Spark aligners. These technologies not only enhance comfort and aesthetics, but they also yield life-

changing results in fewer visits.

One distinguishing aspect of the practice is its commitment to ensuring that financial considerations never hinder the delivery of quality orthodontic treatment. Dr. Reynolds is a co-founder of OrthoFi, a company dedicated to making orthodontic treatment more a ordable through fl exible financing options. Additionally, the practice is actively involved in charitable initiatives, including Smiles Change Lives and Smile for a Lifetime, and it has developed its own charitable program, Project Mariposa.

Remembering the good old days of the Detroit Auto Show p. 60

FOR TOO MANY years, Detroit has had a bad reputation.

I’ve defended this city countless times against accusations true and false. The sad truth is there’s a negative stigma about this city that still sticks in the craws of most Americans.

But there’s something we could do to change that perspective. We need to tell the story of Detroit’s cultural wealth to the rest of the world.

I wanted to say sell our story, but that makes me think we’re taking a second mortgage out on the Motown Museum.

Here’s what I mean. Detroit is a cultural mecca. It’s a creative capital like Berlin, Paris, Los Angeles, New York City. It’s one city under a groove that not only put the world on wheels but helped it find its sense of rhythm, too.

And that’s the nickname I’m pitching: “one city under a groove.” Because it puts all the musical genres we’ve touched — jazz, gospel (you could make the argument that Black church is responsible for all genres), techno, rock, Motown — under one umbrella.

But when you look around, it’s criminal how little of our artistic, cultural, and musical heritage is billboarded to tourists. Don’t get me started on engaging people who already live here.

How many people with a Detroit address have actually been to the Motown Museum? How many people who haven’t been here think of Motown music before they think of cars and crime?

Cultural tourism has always felt like a back seat passenger in the Motor City. It’s a form

CULTURE CONVO

ONE CITY UNDER A GROOVE

Detroit needs a new slogan and a plan to promote our cultural riches

BY RYAN PATRICK HOOPER

of soft power that the city never manages to gas up.

Detroit painter Mario Moore once described our arts-rich city to me like this: “We’re talking about techno, hip-hop, art, murals, music. That’s why people want to come here.”

And when people travel for culture, they spend more.

Before the pandemic, the nonprofit Americans for the Arts released a national study examining how supporters of the arts spent their money. While locals spent an average of $23.44 per person at an art-related event, cultural tourists spent double.

It’s shocking to me that the mayor isn’t bragging about cultural tourism and its impact on the city’s bottom line at the State of the City every year.

It’s a felonious-level failure of city and state officials not to push for that revenue. Or even invest in that idea, as Austin, Texas, and Nashville, Tennessee, have.

When you land at Detroit Metro Airport, there’s no Motown music playing. No largerthan-life displays bragging about the music we make.

When you arrive in Nashville’s airport, you know you’re in Music City (they’ve even got the nickname down). Live musicians are performing. Terminals feel like honky-tonks on Broadway Street. You might just be flying through, but it makes an impression that lasts. It’s meant big money: Last year, tourists spent $29 million a day in Nashville.

In Austin, they’ve captured tourists’ wallets for decades by being the “live music capital of the world.” Isn’t that sexy? That’s created an annual revenue of $1.8 billion tied to the music industry. There are over 250 venues around the city. Live entertainment every night.

In Detroit, we don’t have that kind of calendar, but there is some coin coming into the city. In 2023, 19 million visitors spent over $10 billion in Detroit and the metro region. The vast majority of that sum was spent on dining, attractions, and entertainment, according to Visit Detroit.

But it could be more. More money, more jobs, more respect for being the greatest music city on the planet.

Maybe it’s a catchy nickname that sticks. Maybe a “city pass” that gets you a discount at major museums. Is it more signage, maps, and plaques? More festivals? Maybe it’s funding for indie music venues and grants for local musicians.

But right now, unless you’ve got an idea for a mural, good luck getting a check for cultural investment out of city hall.

And hey, I get it. Our mystery (and misery) is part of our appeal. It’s a city that doesn’t beg you to love it. And that’s attractive!

But even in our own city, we don’t know enough about our cultural legacy, how it still impacts us and the world today.

An investment in arts and culture visibility is an investment in our own history.

And if we can’t handle that, then we’re not just failing to tell our story to the world — we’re selling ourselves short.

Ryan Patrick Hooper is the host of In the Groove on 101.9 WDET, Detroit’s NPR station (weekdays from noon to 3 p.m.).

ARTS & CULTURE

2025 PREVIEW

Save the dates for these can’t-miss shows and performances from January through July

COMPILED BY LAUREN WETHINGTON

JAN. 7-12

THEATER

Six the Musical: The six wives of King Henry VIII unite as a pop band in this hilarious musical comedy by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. Sparring over whose marriage to the infamous king was most torturous, the queens take turns belting out autobiographical songs in an effort to win the coveted title of lead singer. Along the way, they seek to reclaim their own identities and imagine what their lives could have been like if they’d never married at all. $55+.

Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

JAN. 10-12

COMEDY

Kevin Hart: The Emmy-nominated comedian and actor will perform three shows at Detroit’s Fox Theatre during his Acting My Age tour. Boasting a long list of film and television credits, Hart currently lends his voice to a character in the Amazon Prime Video series Secret Level alongside Keanu Reeves, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Temuera Morrison. $87.50. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

JAN. 11-12

MUSIC/FILM

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert: Experience the second Harry Potter film in a uniquely immersive way courtesy of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. As the film plays out on a giant screen in Orchestra Hall, a live symphony will perform the iconic John Williams score right in time with the scenes. $79+. Orchestra Hall, Detroit; dso.org

JAN. 7-12, 16-19

THEATER

Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue: Laugh along with Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia as they get busted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, launch a dating app for seniors, and find love in unexpected places in this hilarious parody show. Featuring a wealth of local talent both onstage and behind the scenes, the show is directed by Eric Swanson, co-founder of the Detroit Actor’s Theatre Co. $61+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

FEB. 9

THEATER

Ruby: This new musical production channels jazz, gospel, and blues music to tell the true story of Ruby McCollum, an affluent Black woman

who was accused of murdering a white man in Jim Crow-era Florida. Ruby’s experiences with racism and injustice are brought to vivid life through emotionally charged original songs performed by a profoundly talented cast of Black performers. $45+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

FEB. 25-MARCH 9

THEATER

Parade: Based on the true events that led to the formation of the Anti-Defamation League, this Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of Leo and Lucille Frank, a newly wed Jewish couple trying to make ends meet in 1913 Atlanta. When a murder occurs at the factory Leo manages, the couple find themselves at the center of a racist and antisemitic witch hunt that tests their faith, resilience, and humanity. $50+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

MARCH 14-16

DANCE

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: Founded in 1958 by legendary choreographer, dancer, and activist Alvin Ailey, this New York-based modern dance company aims to communicate the lived experiences of Black Americans through stunning modern choreography. The troupe has performed in 71 countries and in 2008 was designated as a “vital American cultural ambassador to the world” by the

United States Congress. $30+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org

APRIL 6

THEATER

Menopause the Musical 2: The trailblazing musical that celebrates women as they go through “the change” gets a second installment of hot flashes, mood swings, and hilarious hijinks in this new sequel. Picking up with the Menopause heroines five years after their initial meeting in a department store, the nautically themed show is set on the high seas and features a toe-tapping soundtrack of parodied hits from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. $40+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

MAY 10-18

THEATER

The Central Park Five: Composer Anthony Davis won the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for music for this operatic adaptation of the true story of five African American and Latino teenagers wrongfully convicted of assault in New York’s Central Park. The opera grapples with themes of racial injustice, systemic discrimination, and resilience as the five young men fight to clear their names. $30+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org

MAY 22

MUSIC

Shakira: The Colombian singer and songwriter first dominated American airwaves in 2001 with her ubiquitous single “Whenever, Wherever.” Since then, she’s released three English-language albums, served as a coach on the television series The Voice, and even shared the 2020 Super Bowl stage with Jennifer Lopez. She’ll be touring in support of her latest album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, when she makes a stop at Little Caesars Arena this spring. $79.50+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

JUNE 17-29

THEATER

The Wiz: This groundbreaking retelling of The Wizard of Oz won seven Tony Awards when it debuted on Broadway in 1975, including best musical. Set to a score rich with soul, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk sounds, the colorful production features direction by Schele Williams and choreography by JaQuel Knight, who is best known for his work on Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies”

video. $50+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

JULY 2

MUSIC

“Weird Al” Yankovic: The king of parody will embark on his first large-venue tour in six years and will perform fan favorites that have never been enjoyed live. Expect to hear original songs along with comedic renditions of singles by some of pop’s biggest artists, including Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, and Madonna. $39.50+. Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston; 313presents.com

JULY 16-20

ART

Detroit Art Week:

Get acquainted with the city’s up-and-coming artists, designers, and cultural pioneers during this weeklong program of exhibitions, performances, panel discussions, and special events. While some events require a ticket purchase, others are available at no cost. Event locations to be announced. Various locations, Detroit; detroitartweek.org

The Wiz

CARS ON CARPETS

The Detroit Auto Show isn’t what it used to be — but it’s still worth a visit

BY PAUL A. EISENSTEIN

“WHAT’S IN A NAME ? ” the Bard once asked. When it comes to the North American International Auto Show, that’s more than a rhetorical question. Come January, it will once again be known as the Detroit Auto Show, a name it hasn’t used since 1988. And that’s more than just rebranding.

At its peak, NAIAS was among the world’s preeminent automotive events. It routinely drew over 5,000 journalists from across the globe to see a who’s who of manufacturers roll out as many as 70 new models each year. Over the past decade, however, the numbers have steadily dwindled. Where planeloads of scribes once flew into Detroit Metro Airport, media attendance will likely be largely local this year — with just a handful of news conferences to attend. Once-familiar brands like Mazda and Hyundai will sit out this year’s gathering, and Mercedes-Benz is said to do so as well. And the once-lavish two-story stands of the golden years will largely be replaced by basic displays featuring “cars on carpet.”

What’s happened? We can take solace knowing Detroit isn’t the only place where auto shows have fallen on hard times. The oncemassive Frankfurt Motor Show is but a memory, and organizers said the annual Geneva International Motor Show would end “indefinitely” last May. Similar industry flagship events in Paris, Tokyo, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York are also mere shadows of their former selves.

“Car shows can’t keep doing it the same way,” explains Rod Alberts, the retiring head of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association — which sponsored NAIAS and, now, DAS. It’s easy to blame COVID or, if you prefer, the Great Recession that nearly destroyed two of Detroit’s Big Three. And it’s true: Automakers, much like the broader

 Although glitzy and glamorous auto shows, like the 1957 Detroit Auto Show at the Detroit Artillery Armory, seem like a thing of the past, attendees at this year’s event can enjoy test-driving some of the newest rides.

business world, have had to rethink their marketing strategies.

Car shows aren’t cheap. Even the smallest stand at Cobo Center (now Huntington Place) cost more than $1 million to set up in NAIAS’s heyday; add a bigger display and fancy press conference and you might write a check for $5 million.

“Marketing dollars are shifting to [other] opportunities,” says Jennifer Morand, president of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, which runs the also-downsized Chicago Auto Show.

Highlights of the 2025 Detroit Auto Show:

Charity Preview

Friday, Jan. 10 (With a performance by Flo Rida)

Public Show

Saturday, Jan. 11, through Monday, Jan. 20

Industry Days

Wednesday, Jan. 15 & Thursday, Jan. 16 (Exclusive industry access 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.), Including the AutoMobili-D technology showcase, the Mobility Global Forum, and the Future Leaders Forum

Racing Day presented by the Detroit Grand Prix Friday, Jan. 17

Go to detroitautoshow. com for tickets and information.

The internet has played a major role as well. It’s given manufacturers the ability to launch new products in ways that can reach a far bigger audience than any physical auto show could, say analysts like Sam Abuelsamid, lead automotive researcher at Guidehouse Insights. And even when they do show off products in the real world, some manufacturers have taken to setting up their own events where they don’t have to worry about competitors. And there are other opportunities. A score of high-end brands, like BMW, Rolls-Royce, and Lamborghini, have turned to events such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance to showcase new products that once would have drawn the spotlight in Detroit. Other manufacturers, including General Motors, Hyundai, and Mercedes-Benz, have become regulars at the CES technology trade show in Las Vegas.

But while it has shrunk in size, don’t dismiss the Detroit Auto Show entirely.

This year’s Mobility Global Forum (part of Industry Days) includes 30-plus presentations. And the public show will draw hundreds of thousands of visitors. After all, there are still plenty of potential buyers who want to see the real sheet metal and rubber. And as at other shows, Detroit will even offer attendees the opportunity to test-drive some products — a plus in an industry electrifying. So while it won’t match the glory of the old NAIAS, the DAS will still be a hot spot along the Detroit River during the cold winter month of January.

ANNUAL EVENTS

PHOTO COURTESY OF DETROIT AUTO SHOW

Experts at educating students who learn differently

Eton Academy is a nationally recognized school for students who are struggling with ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, executive functioning disorder, some forms of ASD, and other learning difficulties.

What Sets Eton Apart:

Small class sizes of 10 students or less in grades K-12

Multisensory, direct, and explicit teaching through Eton’s instructional framework, The Eton Approach®

A positive, nurturing learning environment that enables students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Explore Eton Academy!

Discover Day:

Attend sessions with Division Directors to learn about our curriculum, tour the school, and learn about the admissions process.

January 30, 2025.....On-Campus at 9:00 AM

Admissions Presentations:

Learn about Eton through virtual and on-campus presentations.

January 14, 2025.........Virtual at 7:00 PM

February 11, 2025.....On-Campus at 9:00 AM

Eton Academy meets students where they are at and moves them forward by focusing on how they learn best. VISIT ETON ACADEMY! SIGN UP FOR AN ADMISSIONS PRESENTATION, DISCOVER DAY OR PRIVATE TOUR!

Food & Drink

LIVE/WORK

Saffron De Twah’s chef Omar Anani has a bold new idea for a pair of restaurants he plans to open this year p. 67

A GENERATIONS-LONG HOME FOR JAZZ

Nearly 20 years ago, Cliff Bell’s returned in style. Today, it remains a top destination for drinks and music.

BY MICKEY LYONS | PHOTOS BY REBECCA SIMONOV

DETROIT’S MUSICAL heritage is unparalleled. Motown, electronic dance music, R&B, gospel, and more: They all have a home here in Detroit. But the city’s love affair with jazz has deep roots and a long history. One of the city’s premier spots for jazz for nearly 20 years, Cliff Bell’s is a downtown beacon for music lovers of all ages.

Elegant, warm, and classy with streamlined curves, brass accents, and plenty of mahogany, the historic bar oozes cool. It hasn’t always looked like this. When co-owner Paul Howard took over the space in 2005, it was a mess. The building’s previous tenant, a dungeon-themed disco club named La Cave, simply closed the doors and walked out one night in 1985. Says Howard, “There were still ashtrays on the bars with cigarette butts in them, and then the place sat empty for 20 years. During that time, the building deteriorated; there was lots of water damage. It was dank and wet and dark and rotting, basically, and moldy.”

Before the disco era, the original Cliff Bell’s was a show bar (notably, not a jazz bar) that operated between the ’30s and the late ’60s, named for its charismatic and occasionally incarcerated owner, who owned several speakeasies during Prohibition. For the revamp, Howard took inspiration from the bar’s original streamline moderne décor. Drink offerings include a deep whiskey list, a well-considered selection of wine by the glass and bottle, and a solid representation of classic and modern cocktails.

One of the bar’s most striking design elements was added around 2015: the roomwide mural of playful cats fishing in a water garden. The subject was inspired by the revived bar’s former doorman, Roosevelt Callen, known to most as Rosie, who rescued the many cats in a nearby vacant building. Keen-eyed visitors can spot a representation of Rosie feeding his strays in the mural.

Five nights a week, guests can listen in on two sessions of jazz music. The crowd is as



Cliff Bell’s has had the likes of Dr. Lonnie Smith and André 3000 perform on its stage.

eclectic as the musical offerings, Howard says. “Often, three generations will be here together,” he says. “It’ll be the young kids, their parents, and the grandparents that knew Cliff Bell’s from back in the day.”

Howard has a hard time picking his favorite acts from the decades of musicians who’ve appeared at the club. Legendary organist Dr. Lonnie Smith, bassist Rodney Whitaker, The Bad Plus, and even André 3000 have all performed on the intimate stage at Cliff Bell’s. The club has never had a house band, finding plenty of talent through booking local and national acts, but it does sometimes have musical residencies, in which musicians like Detroit-born Kasan Belgrave, son of legend Marcus Belgrave, perform every Wednesday night.



The mural was inspired by Rosie, the revived bar’s former doorman who liked to feed stray cats.

“We’re just really lucky in Detroit,” he says. “You couldn’t do this in a lot of places. We have the community here, we have the fan base, we have the talent — and that doesn’t exist everywhere, particularly the talent. The ecosystem that’s here … it’s deep. It’s the schools, it’s the churches, it’s the clubs, it’s the universities, it’s the [Detroit Jazz] Festival, and it’s the audience, and without any one of those things, it would be much more difficult” to run the club.

Whether it’s an old club getting a new look or three generations of music lovers tapping their toes while musicians of all ages jam together, Cliff Bell’s has proved its ageless appeal.

DRINKS

LAST YEAR, Chef Omar Anani of Saffron De Twah purchased a property for two new east-side Detroit eateries set to open sometime in 2025. But it’s not just the restaurants, which are housed in the same building at 16620 E. Warren Ave., that he’s focused on. Anani wants to push the entire industry forward.

 Omar Anani stands outside the East Warren Avenue building where he plans to open two brand-new eateries this year.

It’s a vision that starts with people — that’s why plans are for the top floor of his new venture to feature three or four single apartments, which the company intends to subsidize for employees.

“To give that excellent experience — and be mindful of sustainability and waste management — requires people who are very passionate about what we do,” Anani says.

The restaurant industry is fraught with unpredictability. Wages are low, benefits are often nonexistent, and restaurant profits are dwindling.

A recent survey in Michigan showed that 60% of restaurants are seeing fewer customers than they were a year ago. And in an interview with ABC12 News in Flint, Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association, said that Michigan is in the bottom third of all states in terms of restaurant industry workforce

growth since the pandemic.

Low pay and lack of health insurance, plus the physical and mental demands of the industry, have made restaurant life less and less desirable. It’s an occupation that has developed a nasty reputation — work hard and work often at the expense of your happiness and well-being.

Anani hopes to change that. He is changing that. At Saffron De Twah, the chef takes care of his employees in exemplary fashion, offering excellent pay ($15 an hour), health insurance, and paid time off. He also invests in his employees personally, often nurturing their interests.

At Saffron, Anani talks about an employee, Emily Crombez, whose passion is photography. Instead of sourcing out the restaurant’s photography to a freelancer, he has Crombez take the photos. It feeds her passion and also puts some more money in her pocket.

Anani understands that his people are the key to creating a sustainable and equitable restaurant industry. What if you could eliminate the highest cost of all: rent?

According to Rent.com, Michigan saw a 12.4% increase in rent costs from 2023 to 2024. A study done earlier this year by Harvard University showed that half of all U.S. renters

PROFILE

Live and Work

Saffron De Twah’s Omar Anani plans to open a pair of new restaurants this year with a radical new business feature — free employee housing

BY DANNY PALUMBO

were cost burdened. Rent unaffordability has hit an all-time high, and people are finding themselves having to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet.

“When you’re selling $10 to $15 sandwiches, you can’t afford to pay someone $20 to $25 an hour, right?” Anani says. “And so how can we pay them less is by subsidizing the most expensive cost of living, which is your rent.”

When asked whether the living situation would be considered a landlord-tenant relationship, how the restaurant would determine which employees would receive the housing, and what would happen if a housed employee quit or was fired, Anani says, “Let’s say you live there and you quit, right? I can’t just kick you out. There’s a lot of legal stuff that needs to happen, too. I don’t know what the final structure will be, to be honest.”

Anani dreams about a new, better restaurant model to take the place of one that’s outdated, that doesn’t serve its community as best it could.

“Our mission is to break barriers through food,” Anani says. It’s a sentence often uttered by restaurant owners, sometimes rather vacantly, but there’s a steadfast tone in Anani’s voice. He means it, and he believes there’s a barrier between restaurants and their employees that needs to be torn down.

PHOTO BY CHUK NOWAK

NIGHT OUT

DINNER FIT FOR A QUEEN

Our critic tries Vinyl Tasting’s track-for-track culinary interpretation of Beyoncé’s Renaissance album BY DANNY PALUMBO | PHOTOS BY BRAD ZIEGLER

 Chefs Jermond Booze and Amber Beckem are the duo behind Vinyl Tasting, a bimonthly popup tasting dinner that features dishes inspired by songs.

OCCASIONALLY, a meal is so good you nod along to each bite, grooving to the pulsing rhythm of different flavors and textures. Maybe you even find yourself doing a little dance while seated in your chair, twirling your fork along to an imaginary beat only you can hear.

Then there’s Vinyl Tasting, a bimonthly pop-up where you vibe to the music and the food. Chefs Amber Beckem and Jermond Booze have been curating these musically themed dinners since 2022. It works simply: The chefs pick a musical artist, select some of their songs, and then create dishes based on the music.

“A lot of people don’t consider hip-hop or R&B or techno acceptable in fine-dining spaces,” Beckem explains. “We love bridging that gap.”

At the particular event I attend one night in late September, the artist is Beyoncé, and the dinner is held at the Detroit People’s Food Co-op — a Black-led, community-owned and -focused grocery store in the North End. The co-op asks and answers important questions: “How can grocery stores better serve their community?” and “What do people need from their food?”

Vinyl Tasting poses similar questions: What does the dining world need? Does it need more stuffy sit-down dinners? Does it need gold-leaf garnishes, caviar bumps, valets, and dress codes?

Or does it need a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere with total freedom of expression?

The answer comes thumping through the speakers as our host waves us into the co-op’s banquet room, a welcome departure from many of the eerily quiet, antiquated dining rooms where prix fixe dinners usually live. This has the vibe of a wedding reception — guests pick from seats available at big communal round tables. There is no dining alone, no isolation in the form of a two-top near the window. You’re here with everyone, nudged along to meet your neighbors and leave your comfort zone.

A live DJ in the back of the room begins to play Beyoncé’s “6 Inch.” The haunting, twangy bridge reverberates through the room, setting

up everyone’s anticipation for the meal.

Before the dinner begins, both chefs take microphones and lay out the menu dish by dish, detailing how they received inspiration from each song. Beckem and Booze each separately chose three of Beyoncé’s most popular tracks and interpreted them into a culinary work of art.

Booze explains their contrasting styles. “I say it every time. Beckem is an elevated, elegant, five-star chef,” he says, before taking a beat. “I like ribs.”

I have heard a lot of verbose, selfserving speeches in my time covering restaurants. Monologues detailing the chef’s inspiration for a particular dish can often read like a long-winded exposition given by a character in a bad movie. However, the Vinyl Tasting dinner is one of the only times I’ve actually enjoyed somebody explaining the food. It felt like getting the rules for a game; you’re immediately dropped into a world the chefs have created, and it’s up to you to get up to speed.

First up is “Break My Soul,” from Beyoncé’s Renaissance album, which Booze describes as having a clear New Orleans vibe. It should be noted that Beyoncé’s mother is Louisiana Creole, and Beyoncé herself was raised in Houston, so much of the food reads Southern. Though Booze initially thought about serving a classic po’boy, he instead leans into shrimp toast.

As the DJ starts the hypnotic drum machine pattern in “Break My Soul,” the shrimp toast hits the table, served on a vintage record, which acts as the meal’s place mat. This course features tangy sweet-and-sour tomatoes, shredded iceberg lettuce for freshness, and a luxurious rémoulade.

From there, the night is a sensational flurry. Mustard-marinated fried catfish rests on a stack of thinly fried potatoes, slathered with caramelized onion tartar sauce and sprinkled with cowboy caviar — a dish inspired by “Church Girl” and the quintessential Southern church fish fry. Sweet and tangy cherry chipotle barbecue chicken thighs transport me directly into the energetic, fiery tempo of Beyoncé’s “Thique.”

“Cozy,” a song all about self-love and Black pride, inspired a simple black-eyed pea and smoked collard soup that is tangy, bright, and nourishing, with a corn bread dumpling acting as a metaphorical pillow.

After that, the wine starts to take effect. There’s a steady buzz of lively conversation, dancing, singing, trivia, and impassioned commentary in between dishes. The room exudes joy.

I don’t usually leave dinner talking about dessert, but Beckem’s burnt-honey snack cake leaves me floored. Inspired by the beautiful synth and bass pop beat of Beyoncé’s “Pure/Honey,” a petite pastry comes spread with sugary vanilla crème and surrounded by fruity dried pineapple and candied pecans, effectively enhancing the bun’s delicately sweet nature. A play on both Jamaican hummingbird cake and Russian honey cake, it’s a sublime end to a raucous evening.

“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child begins to blast through the speakers, and the nostalgia waves on. People dance and mingle, and chefs from the kitchen start to

“It’s about connecting to community, feeding them, and providing a safe space to enjoy life and music.”

join the fray. What if dining was more like this? What if it wasn’t so serious? What if it was just a party?

“We look forward to these dinners,” says Beckem, who works as a private chef and uses the events as a creative exercise. “It’s about connecting to community, feeding them, and providing a safe space to enjoy life and music.”

Beckem and Booze won’t be doing another Beyoncé-themed dinner anytime soon, and that’s the point. There are no repeats, and the hits keep coming.

Neighb h d SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS

Neighborhood Spotlight features the top cities to move to in Metro Detroit and is hosted by the best realtors in the region. Each of these realtors will draw upon their years of experience to showcase all the reasons to move to these cities such as the restaurants, schools, city amenities, and so much more. Check back often to see the new featured cities.

Restaurant Guide

Wayne

Adelina $$$$

ITALIAN • Brought downtown by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani, Adelina features traditional Italian eats in a modern atmosphere, with made-in-house pasta and starters like focaccia, seared tuna crudo, sausage and peppers, and a roasted Wagyu meatball. Entrées include lamb chops with house made Tzatziki, veal milanese, and salmon with romesco sauce. Stick around for desserts like the zeppole Italian ricotta doughnuts. 1040 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-246-8811. D Tue.-Sun.

Al Ameer $$

LEBANESE • This halal restaurant is a recipient of the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award. The Al Ameer platter is perfect for sharing: chicken shawarma, meat shawarma, tawook kabob, and two kafta served with hummus and salad. 12710 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn; 313-582-8185. 27346 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-565-9600. 6505 N. Canton Center Road, Canton; 734-627-7707. L,D daily.

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, while keeping the character of the old-school restaurant, known for its steaks and pastas. 3401 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313831-5940. L,D Tue.-Sat.

Alpino $$

ALPINE •This Alps-inspired Corktown eatery quickly became beloved after opening in 2023. The cozy interior evokes cabins and farmhouses from the European countryside. Order beers and wines from all over Europe, plus cocktails like the kaffeepause, their riff on an espresso martini made with brandy, house coffee liqueur, and demerara. Choice bites include the fondue, wiener schnitzel, or the chestnut gnocchetti, made with chestnut dumplings, wild boar sausage, apple, kale, morber, and fried sage. There are tasty vegetarian and vegan options, as well. 1426 Bagley St., Detroit; 313524-0888. D daily, BR Sun.

Andiamo $$

ITALIAN • Over the past three decades, Joe Vicari has established several Andiamo restaurants in metro Detroit, all inspired by the late master chef Aldo Ottaviani’s philosophy of seasonal, from-scratch cooking. The menus differ slightly at the different locations, but the constant is the fresh, housemade pastas — handcrafted by the trinity of “pasta ladies,” Anna, Tanya, and Angelina, who have carried on the tradition. The downtown

Detroit location offers a breathtaking view of the Detroit River, while the Livonia location offers a comfortable and casual vibe. 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit; 313-5676700. D Mon.-Fri., L,D Sat.-Sun. 38703 Seven Mile Road, Livonia; 734-953-3200. D daily.

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 daily. (Farmington Hills location temporarily closed Mondays)

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 the Atwater Brat and other sausages teamed with sauerkraut, plus Bavarian soft pretzels. 1175 Lakepointe St., Grosse Pointe Park; 313-344-5104. L,D daily.

Apparatus Room

$$$$

NEW AMERICAN • The Foundation Hotel’s restaurant, the Apparatus Room, once housed the Detroit Fire Department headquarters. Chef Rece Hogerheide’s cooking is refined and highly skilled — he was executive chef of the Daxton Hotel’s restaurant Madam, named 2023 Restaurant of the Year by Hour Detroit. 250 W. Larned St., Detroit; 313-8005600. B,L,D Mon.-Fri., BR,D Sat.-Sun.

Ash—Bar

$$$

EUROPEAN • Located on The Siren Hotel’s second floor, this eatery is meant to capture the “spirit of the quintessential European cafe seen through an Americana lens,” along with serving specialty cocktails and good coffee. Chef Scott Martinelli’s menu changes seasonally and features a bread of the day and entrées like pasta, moules (the national dish of Belgium), and seafood. Or try the pork belly rillons, made with sweet-and-sour blackberry sauce, fennel, cipollini, and cilantro. 1509 Broadway St., Detroit; 313-277-4736. B,L,D daily.

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 grilled veggie sandwich with portobello mushrooms, zucchini, and goat cheese. Meatier highlights include a turkey and gouda sandwich, and BLTA with cider house bacon. 1049 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-285-8006. B,L daily.

Babo

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE RESOURCE FOR DINING OUT IN METRO DETROIT

NEW AMERICAN • This café settled into the Midtown Park Shelton building in July 2019, serving elevated comfort food made from local, small-batch producers. The self-described gourmet diner offers espresso drinks and such dishes as avocado toast, kimchi patatas bravas, and the Babo Burger. 15 E. Kirby St., Ste. 115, Detroit; 313-3121493. B,L,D Tue.-Sat. B,L Sun.

Baker’s Keyboard Lounge

SOUL FOOD • This iconic lounge features live music, along with beef short ribs with gravy, creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet cornbread muffins. 20510 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-345-6300. D Mon.-Fri.

Baobab Fare

EAST AFRICAN • With their New Center restaurant, Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere urge diners to venture into culinary territories they’d otherwise miss, like the Mbuzi starring a goat shank that is slow-roasted until the meat is so tender that it slides off the bone. 6568 Woodward Ave., Ste. 100, Detroit; 313-265-3093. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Barda

$$$$

ARGENTINIAN • Barda brings a new cuisine to metro Detroit. True to Argentinian culture, the restaurant celebrates traditional meat dishes. For starters, Carne y Hueso, meaning Flesh and Bone, features a mold of finely chopped beef tartare topped with spicy horseradish alongside a dense bone filled to the brim with buttery marrow. Tira de Asado, a classic Argentinian short rib dish, arrives on a plate in a coriander-pepper crust. And inch-thick slices of rare Bife, or strip loin steak, lie on a bed of melted butter infused with chimichurri. 4842 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313- 9525182; barda-detroit.com. D Thu.-Sun.

Bar Pigalle

$$$ FRENCH • Nestled inside The Carlton Lofts in Brush Park, this restaurant beautifully complements the neighborhood’s former nickname, the Little Paris of the Midwest, by serving French-inspired cuisine, such as the duck confit with agrodolce, grapes, and frisée. 2915 John R Road, Detroit; 313-497-9200. D daily BR Sat.-Sun.

Basan

$$$$ ASIAN-INSPIRED • Named for the Japanese folkloric bird, Basan features a fluid rotation of zestful, bold, and edgy dishes that are novel and creative, with a nightly tasting menu and optional wine pairing. Standouts from the menu include the assortment of buns (such as Brussels sprouts, firecracker shrimp, and twice-fried chicken), beef dandan, and octopus skewers. 2703 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-481-2703. D daily.

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 such as roasted olives, fried calamari, and double-cut lamb chops. 600 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-315-3000. D Mon.-Sat.

Bobcat Bonnie’s $

GASTROPUB • The menu is eclectic, featuring fried goat cheese, fish tacos, Buddha bowls, and a barbecue bacon meatloaf — plus, plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The weekend brunch, complete with a Bloody Mary bar and all the classics, is a big hit. See bobcatbonnies.com for locations and hours.

Bohemia

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • The former member’s-only lounge in this restored Romanesque Revival in downtown Detroit is now a posh restaurant open to the public (the downstairs bar is also open to the public). The stunning dining room reflects the club’s history while staying fresh and modern with local art on the walls and an Instagrammable seating area in the middle of the dining room with plush couches and trees lined with lights. The food is upscale but approachable such as the Nashville Fried Chicken and the lobster fettucini, which is worth every indulgent bite. 712 Cass Ave., Detroit, 313-338-3222. D Wed.-Sat..

Brome Modern Eatery $$ BURGERS • This healthy spin on a classic serves never-frozen, 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 cold-pressed juice bar. 22062 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-996-5050. L,D daily.

Bronze Door

$$$$

NEW AMERICAN • One of the newest restaurants under the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group brand (in partnership with Tony Soave of Soave Enterprises) revives the wellknown name of a Grosse Pointe staple from the mid1900s. In the 1960s and 1970s, 123 Kercheval Ave. was home to the Bronze Door, which closed to make way for The Hill Seafood and Chop House. In 2021, it was born again as the Bronze Door, offering classic bistro fare like steak frites and house specialties such as Short Rib Alla Bolognese (braised beef short ribs, pancetta, roasted battuto, imported Mafaldine pasta, ricotta salata, and black truffle). 123 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-886-8101. BR Sun. L Tue.-Fri. D daily.

Bucharest Grill $

MEDITERRANEAN-AMERICAN • This bustling casual sandwich shop, now with six 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.

Cadieux Café $$

BELGIAN • This institution was like a slice of home for early Belgian immigrants. The former speakeasy serves 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, more than a dozen pasta dishes, and 16 main plates, notable among which are Involtini di Pollo “Da Edoardo,” prosciutto, spinach, and Parmigiano Reggiano-filled chicken breast, sautéed in a sherry wine sauce, topped with fresh mushrooms. The wine list is impressive as well. 98 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-308-3120. D Tue.-Sun.

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 featuring ground veal, beef, sausage, and pancetta. It makes for a delicious Italian feast you can conveniently pick up on your way home. 15550 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth; 734-420-1100. L,D Tues.-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 40 years. There’s a massive a la carte menu, with items such as barbecue babyback ribs and potato skins, but the main draw is steak by the ounce, at market price. 14726 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313-527-2100. L,D Wed.-Sun.

Caucus Club $$$ TRADITIONAL AMERICAN • The reborn spot emphasizes service and a traditional steak and seafood theme, with such tasty signature dishes as wood-grilled ribs, seared scallops, and steaks. 150 W. Congress, Detroit; 313-965-4970. D daily.

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, filet and frites, burgers, and salads. 660 Woodward Ave., Ste. 4A, Detroit; 313-963-9000. D Thu.-Sat., BR Sat.-Sun.

Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails

$$$ NEW AMERICAN • While the menu rotates based on the season, its offerings always highlight the freshest local ingredients. Creatively prepared dishes range from cold starters to hearty entrees. But the Twice Cooked Egg is not to be missed. 15 E. Kirby St., Detroit; 313-818-3915. D Tue.-Sat.

Cibo

$$$

MEDITERRANEAN FUSION • This palm-lined fine-dining destination offers everything from shareable pizzas, salads, lamb, and steaks to dishes like the pancetta Bolognese rotolo. It’s located inside the Cambria Detroit Downtown hotel, an Albert Kahn-designed building that used to house the original WWJ radio station. 600 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-338-3529. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Cliff Bell’s

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This restored Art Deco hotspot offers small plates such as oysters with cava granita and potato croquettes. Entrees range from savory seared diver scallops to their 16-ounce grilled pork chop. Jazz prevails on the bandstand. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-961-2543. D Wed.-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 fat-fried chicken and a burger. 5440 Cass Ave, Detroit; 313-285-8849. L, D Tue.-Fri. D Sat. BR Sun.

Coriander Kitchen and Farm $$ GASTROPUB • At this Jefferson Chalmers eatery, guests can rent firepits and roast house-made marshmallows to make s’mores, or sip mugs of hot buttered rum. By day, grab a picnic table and enjoy creamy smoked lake trout whitefish dip, seasoned with herbs and paired with pickles and crackers. 14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit; 313 338-9466. D Tue.-Fri. D Sat. BR Sun.

Cork & Gabel

$$$

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This Corktown eatery takes the form of a 4,450-square-foot renovated beer hall and is an ode to filling European staples. Try the chicken marsala, featuring a pan-seared 7-ounce chicken breast, sauteed wild mushroom blend, wild rice, and seasonal grilled vegetables, cooked in a Lombardo Ambra Sweet Marsala wine sauce. Simply delicious! 2415 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-638-2261. D Wed.-Sat. BR Sat. B,L Sun.

Cuisine

$$$

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • Cuisine offers a romantic, white-linen experience with the level of food, service, and ambience one might describe as timeless rather than trendy. Examples of the expertly prepared fare include the Alaskan halibut, as well as the sea scallops, featuring lemon risotto, corn, almonds, citrus butter, and beet dust. 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit; 313-872-5110. D Wed.-Sat. (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 knackwurst, served with hot German potato salad and sauerkraut. And yes, sing along with the schnitzelbank song. 17324 John R St., Detroit; 313-867-9722. D Thu.-Sat.

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 Thai fare from Bangkok 96 and more. 474 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-462-4973. L Sat.-Sun., D Tue.-Sun.

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. 14300 E Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-926-6305. L,D Tue.-Sun.

PHOTO BY REBECCA SIMONOV

Ingredients

2 ounces Ezra Brooks bourbon

1 1/2 ounces espresso

3/4 ounce Borghetti Caffè Espresso coffee liqueur

3/4 ounce simple syrup

2 dashes chocolate bitters

Orange peel, for garnish

Chocolate-covered coffee beans, for garnish

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker with ice, shake all ingredients vigorously until foamy.

2. Strain into a rocks glass and garnish with an orange peel and chocolate-covered coffee beans.

Detroit Vegan Soul

VEGAN • The popular spot offers your classic soul food favorites but with plant-based twists — mac and cheese, collard greens, and interpretations of catfish and pepper steak. 19614 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-766-5728. L,D Wed.-Fri. (Takeout only; no phone orders).

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 Thu.-Tue.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2010

Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe

$$$

GASTROPUB • A jazz club with top guest musicians and an American bistro menu in a traditional interior. Starters include oysters by the half- or full-dozen, and lump crab cakes. Main entries include a beef short rib. 97 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-882-5299. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sat.

Eatori Market $$

SPECIALTY GROCERY • This stylish spot overlooks downtown’s Capitol Park. The menu has steamed mussels with leeks, garlic, and toasted crostini. 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; 313-297-2360. 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 enchiladas with a homemade green sauce made with tomatillo, jalapeños, and roasted poblano pepper, while the Italian influence takes the form of spaghetti carbonara and zuppa di pesce (seafood soup). 3710 Junction Ave., Detroit; 313-894-2070. D Tue.-Sun.

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 Mon.-Sat.

Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café $$

NEW ORLEANIAN • Enjoy classic New Orleans dishes, such as jambalaya and fried catfish beignets. Come for 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. L,D daily.

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 Vietnamese food, with a very personal twist. 4440 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-554-2085. D Thu.-Sun.

Folk

NEW AMERICAN • 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 globally inspired dishes like salads, quiche, and sandwiches — all beautifully plated and nutritious. Infused milks and frothy lattes are well sought after, too. 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-742-2672. B,L daily.

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 barbecue sauce. Other appealing dishes include shrimp mac and cheese, and chicken wings. 21367 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-752-3673. L,D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 

Freya

2024

$$$$

NEW AMERICAN • Freya provides elegant, elevated dining served inside a warm and inviting space in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction district. Chef de Cuisine Phoebe Zimmerman’s fixed-price dinners — which change daily and are available in five or nine courses — invite guests to tap into a world of flavors and sensations. There are also cocktail pairings as well as dishes that accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian diets. Co-run by 2023 James Beard semifinalist Sandy Levine, it made The New York Times’s list of the 50 best restaurants in 2022. 2929 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-351-5544. D Tue.-Sat.

Fusion Flare Kitchen & Cocktails

NEW AMERICAN/SOUL • Burgers and wings share the menu with classic Southern staples like catfish, yams, and greens on Detroit’s west side. Try the delectable shrimp plate starter — it can be ordered deep-fried, New Orleans-style (with Cajun seasoning), or sautéed in a scampi sauce with garlic butter and wine. 16801 Plymouth Road, Detroit; 313-653-3700. L,D Wed.-Sun.

Giovanni’s Ristorante

$$$

ITALIAN • This old-school Italian restaurant offers housemade pastas, including an outstanding lasagna. Elaborate veal and seafood dishes and desserts like key lime cheesecake tira misu round out the delicious menu. 330 Oakwood Blvd., Detroit; 313-841-0122. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.

Golden Fleece

$$ GREEK • Spend a night dining in Greektown’s longest-standing restaurant, starting with a flaming saganaki and a joyous “Opa!” Then, peruse the menu

containing various Balkan comfort foods like chicken gyros, spinach pie, and french fries sprinkled with feta and oregano. 525 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-962-7093. L,D daily.

Grandma Bob’s

$ PIZZA • If you’re wondering what that psychedelic building on Corktown’s Michigan Avenue is, it’s a pizzeria known as Grandma Bob’s. Chef Dan De Wall, previously of Wright and Co., offers a small, delicious menu of pies, including sausage and pistachio with ricotta cheese and thyme. Or try the Big Mack — the vegan pizza version of the popular burger. 2135 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-3153177. L,D daily.

Grand Trunk Pub

NEW AMERICAN • Meats from Eastern Market and delicious breads 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, Tue.-Sun. 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, 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 alongside Chicken Paprikas soup, a nod to the neighborhood’s Hungarian origins. 2200 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-962-5588. 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, pork tenderloin with romanesco, peri peri, and wild rice or yellowfin tuna with kimchi, edamame, and sweet soy. 47 Watson St., Detroit; 313-262-6534. D daily.

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 (currently closed but reopening soon) 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; 313-877-9090; D Mon.-Sat.

Hiroki-San

$$$$ JAPANESE • Venture to the basement of the historic Book Tower building to enter Hiroki-San’s shoji-lined, mood-lit dining room. The menu includes an optional sake pairing and cocktails like the Genmaicha-Hai, a green tea-infused highball with lemon juice, honey,

apricot, and seltzer. On the food side, enjoy small plates like the sweet and savory tako-age (deep-fried octopus), robatayaki and yakitori offerings, Wagyu steaks, and noodles. Sushi and sashimi can be ordered à la carte or as a “chef’s choice” platter. The wasabi is real. 1265 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313- 597-8344. D Tue.-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, red velvet pancakes, and apple-walnut stuffed French toast, as well as lunchtime sandwiches and salads. 1241 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-237-1000. 17101 Haggerty Rd, Northville 248-308-3793. 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.

Iggy’s Eggies $ AMERICAN • Jammy-yolk egg sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and more are on the menu at Iggy’s Eggies’ walk-up window. You can also get Lovers Only’s famous Classic Smash burgers and fresh-cut fries at Iggy’s. Take your breakfast or lunch to a table at nearby Capitol Park for a true downtown experience. 34 West Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-986-1174. B,L daily.

Ima

JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This ramen hotspot has three locations and a Midwest emphasis. Ima tacos trade the traditional shell for a slice of jicama, stuffed with spicy shrimp, roasted tofu, or garlic chicken. Appetizers include edamame, dumplings, and clams. 4870 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-883-9788. 32203 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248781-0131. L,D daily.

Ima Izakaya $$

JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Chef Michael Ransom has slowly and steadily built up his local chain of noodle shops over the past few years, and his latest one takes it up a notch with the izakaya concept, the Japanese equivalent to a pub. In addition to the staple noodles and soups that put Ransom on the map, the menu also includes grilled skewers from the robata grill such as Kawahagi Trigger Fish Jerky and Mini Kurobuta Pork Sausages. There’s also a tantalizing selection of cocktails and mocktails, sake, beer, and wine to make it a true izakaya experience. 2100 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 313-306-9485. 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 Creamy Cajun Pasta contribute New Orleans flavors. 9215 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313332-0607; L Fri.-Sun., D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  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: smoked fish spread, creamed spinach, and stewed tomatoes. A true Detroit classic. 400 Renaissance Center, Ste. 1404, Detroit; 313-567-6837. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. L,D daily.

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 also several fusion bowls like the Southwest Verde, a green chili chicken broth topped with chicken thigh confit, cilantro, corn, and hot peppers. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-309-7946. L,D daily.

Jolly Pumpkin $$ BREWERY • Jolly Pumpkin’s brews rule the offerings, along with other Northern United Brewing Co. beverages, such as North Peak and Jolly Pumpkin artisan ales. Pizzas with creative toppings abound. 441 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-262-6115. 419 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248544-6250. 311 S Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-913-2730. L,D daily (Detroit, Ann Arbor); L Fri.-Mon, D daily (Royal Oak).

Karl’s Cabin

$$ AMERICAN • Dishes from their currently rotating drivethrough menu such as pan-seared walleye and pierogi & sausage surpass typical roadhouse food. 6005 Gotfredson Road, 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; 313462-4184. L, D Fri.-Sun. Private events only Mon.-Thur.

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.- Sun.

Ladder 4 Wine Bar

$$$ WINE BAR • This southwest Detroit wine bar occupies a former 1910 firehouse, offering a daily wine list and seasonal European-inspired bites made with local ingredients — some grown in its backyard garden. Though its owners prefer not to call it a restaurant, it made Bon Appétit’s “24 Best New Restaurants” and The New York Times’s “50 Places in the United States That We’re Most Excited About Right Now” — both in 2023. 3396 Vinewood St., Detroit; 313-638-1601. D Wed.-Sun.

Lady of the House

$$$$

NEW AMERICAN • Chef Kate Williams’s nationally renowned restaurant known for its modern take on Irish, French, and Midwestern influences reopened in 2024 after closing amid the pandemic. The new location features many of the same staple dishes, prepared with local, seasonal ingredients in Williams’s no-waste kitchen: steak tartare with Dijonnaise, crispy potato, caviar, and charred leek top gremolata, and whole roasted chicken with challah migas and roasted shiitake and maitake mushrooms, topped with a frisée salad and a lemon-rosemary gravy. Standout desserts include the potato donut, made with sugared thyme and chamomile cream sauce. The restaurant even has its own Detroit City Distillery gin — mixed into cocktails like the Lady Martini and Lady Gin and Tonic. 4884 Grand River Ave., Unit 1C; 313-230-4678. D Wed.-Sun.

La Dolce Vita

$$$

ITALIAN • Traditional Italian cuisine is key at this Palmer Park hideaway. Recommended is the bronzino in lemon caper cream sauce, the veal scaloppine with artichokes, and the lasagna. 17546 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-865-0331. D Tue.-Sun., BR 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 Da Edorado — dominate, there’s more, including a number of elegant pastas like the Lasagna Alla Bolognese. 1224 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-962-8821. L,D Tue.-Sun.

London Chop House $$

STEAKHOUSE • The kitchen turns out classics like oysters Rockefeller, French onion soup, and sauteed loup de mer with scallops. 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. D Mon.-Sat.

The Ledger

$$$$ NEW AMERICAN • Located in the former United Savings Bank building, this fine-dining restaurant features a seasonal, from-scratch menu and festive cocktails. For starters, try roasted Brussels sprout chips tossed in katsu or, for a real spectacle, the focaccia served with a candle made from tallow. Lobster rolls, Wagyu steaks, and Alaskan halibut round out the menu — plus photogenic desserts like The Ledger Cake with hazelnut mousse, salted caramel, and honey peanut praline. 306 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-984-0020. D Tue.-Sun. BR Sat.-Sun.

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 Mixed Grill that offers a little bit of everything with shish kebab, tawook, and kafta. Other menu items include Kibbeh Niyee — fresh lamb, cracked wheat, and spice — 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; 313-816-8100. D daily.

Leña $$$$

SPANISH-INSPIRED • At this restaurant located in Brush Park, just about every dish on the menu touches the kitchen’s central hearth at some point during its preparation. Mike Conrad’s menu ranges from succulent skewers of octopus or swordfish to saffron rice in an aromatic sofrito. You’ll find riffs on Basque pinchos and Catalan tapas, plus a fine selection of Spanish wines and gin and tonics. James Beard-honored pastry chef Lena Sareini’s desserts are divine. 2720 Brush St., Detroit; 313262-6082. D Wed.-Mon.

Le Suprême $$$ FRENCH • This Paris-inspired brasserie pays homage to the City of Light with its 1920s-inspired décor on the historic Book Tower’s ground floor. There is pastis, absinthe, France-themed cocktails, and over 300 wines. Standout dishes include the escargots, honey-roasted duck breast, and trout amandine. 1265 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313597-7734. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Lucy & the Wolf $$

SPANISH • This Anglo-sounding restaurant offers very good Spanish-inspired tapas dining. Standouts include spicy beer cheese dip, harissa rubbed half-chicken, and roasted sablefish. 102 E. Main St., Northville; 248-308-3057. D Tue.-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 like the maple dijon salmon. 1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-626-5005. L Fri.-Sun., D. Wed.-Sun.

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 from a sample tasting menu include Roasted Bone Marrow and Local Lamb ragu. 8044 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313-513-0361. L,D Thu.-Sun.

Maty’s African Cuisine

WEST AFRICAN • A small storefront in the Detroit Old Redford neighborhood is decidedly Senegalese. Fataya, deep-fried pastries 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 Tue.-Sun.

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,

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, and avocado. 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-964-5000. L,D daily. 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. L,D daily.

Metropolitan Bar and Kitchen

$$ LATIN • The business brings a bodega-style market along with a neighborhood restaurant and bar to West Village. The menu highlights local and seasonal ingredients in dishes like beet salad or the Metro “Mac” Burger. 8047 Agnes St., Detroit; 313-447-5418. B Sat.-Sun. D Tue.-Sat.

Michigan & Trumbull

ITALIAN-AMERICAN • After a successful four-month run at Fort Street Galley, Michigan and Trumbull became one of 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 Detroit-inspired names, such as Packard Pepperoni and Woodward White. 1331 Holden St., Detroit; 313637-4992; L,D Wed-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 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. L Sun. 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; 313-243-1230. L Fri.-Sun., L, D daily.

Motor City Brewing Works

$ BREWERY • Just 15 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; 19350 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-832-2700. L,D daily

Mudgie’s Deli

DELI • Sandwich-lovers fill the seats for the House Smoked Pastrami Reuben or the Brooklyn (beef brisket, bacon, and beer cheese). The dinner menu features meat and cheese boards, as well as build-yourown sandwich options. It’s a delicious place for a meal any time. 1413 Brooklyn St., Detroit; 313-961-2000. B Tue.-Sat. L Tue.-Wed., L,D Thu.-Sat.

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 the Whitefish Filet. It’s a classic Italian spot with an update that’s worth a visit. 744 Wing St., Plymouth; 734-207-7880. L Thu.-Sat., D Tue.-Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 

2022

Oak & Reel $$

SEAFOOD • Despite a global pandemic threatening to derail his longtime dream, chef Jared Gadbaw brought his vision of a seafood-focused Italian restaurant to life in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction neighborhood in fall 2020. Oak & Reel’s resilience in the face of extreme adversity and its commitment to the vision of bringing diners impeccable dishes showcasing the freshest seafood, all presented with welcoming and knowledgeable service, is the reason we named Oak & Reel Hour Detroit’s Restaurant of the Year. The menu is seasonal and changes frequently. But in general, the crudos are pristine, the pastas are impeccable, and the seafood dishes are all well balanced and expertly prepared to accentuate the freshness and quality of the fish and shellfish. 2921 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-270-9600. D Thu.-Mon.

Olin

$$$

MEDITERRANEAN • Starters like the potatoes and artichokes “bravas” with harissa and black garlic aioli and paellas are inspired by Spain, but showcase Olin’s unique spin on these iconic dishes. 25 E. Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-774-1190. D Tues.-Sat. BR Sun.

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.

Pao Detroit

$$$

FUSION • Visit this upscale Pan-Asian fusion restaurant for Asian-themed cocktails and dishes, such as creamy rock shrimp, charred octopus, and filet mignon. Based in the former Michigan Oriental Theater, the interior combines new and old. 114 W. Adams Ave., Ste. 200, Detroit; 313-816-0000. L Sun., D Tue.-Sun.

RESTAURANT

OF THE YEAR 

2018

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 tartar and charred burrata. Main courses include an interesting blend of Italian food, wood-grilled steaks, and a red chile short rib. There’s also a large selection of dryaged gourmet steaks. 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313922-7272. L,D daily. BR Sat.-Sun.

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.

Pegasus Taverna $$ GREEK • The cry of “opa!” resounds in St. Clair Shores at the second edition of the longstanding Greektown restaurant. It 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 Tue-Sun (Detroit); L Sun., D Tue.-Sun. (St. Clair Shores)

The Peterboro $$ ASIAN-FUSION • A contemporary take on American-Chinese 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 Mon.-Sat.

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 Wed.-Mon.

Puma $$ SOUTH AMERICAN •Walk on in (as no reservations can be made) to the casual cousin of chef Javier Bardauil’s Barda. Puma features traditional, approachable Argentine and South American eats prepared on the open-fire grill. Standouts include the hearty choripán (chorizo and chimichurri on a baguette), a selection of ceviches, and the empanadas, plus refreshing cocktails. Live DJs are a regular source of entertainment. 4725 16th St., Detroit; 313-819-6804. D Thu.-Sun.

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 Detroit staple, where this cuisine getting harder to find. 2990 Yemans St., Hamtramck; 313-874-5726. L,D daily. Not wheelchair accessible.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  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 dryaged butcher’s blend — oysters, king crab, and caviar aren’t far behind. An elegant white and gold setting backgrounds it all. 1145 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-6363100. 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 Wed.-Sun.

Rocky’s of Northville

NEW AMERICAN • Menu includes shrimp cocktail, smoked whitefish pate, and broiled Great Lakes whitefish. Also try chipotle honey-glazed salmon. 41122 W. Seven Mile Road, Northville; 248-349-4434. L Tue.-Fri. D Tue.-Sun.

Red Smoke Barbeque

BARBEQUE • At Red Smoke, hickory and applewood-smoked ribs, pulled pork, all-natural 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.

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; 313-8422100. L,D daily.

San Morello

$$$

ITALIAN • This gem in the Shinola Hotel serves pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired dishes that draw inspiration from the coastal towns of Southern Italy and Sicily. The menu is handcrafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. 1400 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-209-4700. B,L,D daily.

The Sardine Room

$$$

SEAFOOD • A seafood restaurant and raw bar, The Sardine Room is fresh, fun, and energetic, with clean-line décor and a menu full of surprises. Worthwhile is a grouper sandwich that’s available seared or blackened. 340 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-416-0261. D daily, BR Sat-Sun.

Savannah Blue $$

SOUL FOOD • Dine on upscale soul food like the red snapper and the shrimp and grits. Shareables include catfish fritters, and a Georgian Hummus that substitutes black-eyed peas for chickpeas. There’s also a great bar. 1431 Times Square, Detroit; 313-926-0783. D Tue.-Sat.

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. Cash only. 22200 Fenkell St., Detroit; 313-533-0950. L,D Tue.-Sat.

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 lighter menu includes a fried green tomato BLT and fried chicken sandwiches that accompany drinks that were popular more than a few years back. 42 Watson St., Detroit; 313-315-3077. L Sat.-Sun., D daily.

Sexy Steak

$$$$ ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE • This extravagantly decorated eatery occupies downtown Detroit’s castlelike Grand Army of the Republic Building. Its steaks, which you can choose from the Himalayan salt-lined display case, are cooked to order and finished with clarified butter, Zip-style sauce, rosemary, and a garlic bulb. Other offerings include sausage, house-made pastas, and dishes with a spicy kick like the shrimp diavolo. Start with a premium Italian wine or a playful cocktail like the refreshingly minty Margarita Italia, which substitutes orangecello for the typical Cointreau. Reservations are required. 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-403-1000. D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 

Selden Standard

2016

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • What sets Selden Standard apart is that it is moving Detroit into a new era in which upperend dining with starched linen and tuxedoed waiters doesn’t hold much interest anymore. Chef Andy Hollyday, a multiple 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; 313-438-5055. D daily.

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 and a juice bar. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. 66 E. Forest Ave., Detroit; 313974-6661. L,D Mon.-Sat.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  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

Sindbad’s Restaurant and Marina $$ SEAFOOD • Sitting by the Detroit River, this long-last-

ing establishment prides itself on serving some of the best perch, pickerel, shrimp, and scallops in Detroit, along with its signature clam chowder. 100 St. Clair St., Detroit; 313-822-8000. L,D Tue.-Sun.

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. This is a true Detroit classic in every sense of the term. Corktown location: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-9828. L,D daily. Slows To Go in Midtown: 4107 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-309-7560. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Standby $$

NEW AMERICAN • In a place where cocktails are king, there’s no shortage of food options. The fare — overseen by celebrity chef partner Matty Matheson — ranges from small plates of marinated olives and fried deviled eggs to entrees such as Thai pork skewers and the house cheeseburger. 225 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313241-5719. D Wed.-Sun. Not wheelchair accessible.

The Statler

$$$$ FRENCH • A taste of Paris in downtown Detroit. This French-American bistro from the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group takes its name from the former historic Statler Hotel, which is now home to not only the bistro, but also City Club Apartments. Classic French fare (with some modern twists) such as seared foie gras mousse; Henri Maire escargots (wild Burgundy snails, garlic butter fondue, parsley, Pernod, and profiteroles); and bouillabaisse provence (seafood stew with shrimp, scallops, lobster, mussels, saffron broth, croustade, and rouille) typify the menu. The large, yearround open-air outdoor patio offers stunning panoramic views of the Detroit skyline and Grand Circus Park. There’s also a neighborhood market where customers can grab groceries and gourmet packaged meals on the go. 313 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-463-7111. D daily, BR Sun.

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 La Rondinella (the previous longtime tenant at its Russell Street location) made the list as well — small plates such as polpette, and three delicious salads. Beer, wine, and cocktails add to the appeal. 2457 Russell St., Detroit; 313-567-7879 L, D Wed.-Sun. 6519 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-314-7400. L,D Mon.-Sat.

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.

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 Tue.-Sat.

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 house nachos. 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.

Townhouse $$$

NEW AMERICAN • The downtown hotspot in 2021 underwent an aesthetic overhaul of the space and menu designed to elevate the spot’s signature comfort food fare. Staples, like the burger and fries, remain on the menu, but there are also fine-dining-inspired additions, like the caviar-topped crispy potato dish and the A5 wagyu served with brioche, nori, capers, and truffle. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-723-1000. L, D daily.

Vecino $$$$

MEXICAN • The Midtown eatery offers a luxurious way to experience the regional foods served in Oaxaca and Mexico City. It is the first restaurant in the state to feature in-house nixtamalization — a 3,000-yearold process used to turn corn into workable masa, which is used to create tortillas. Its unique offerings include mezcal cocktails, the tuna tostada, the half red snapper, and broccolini in green mole. 4100 Third Ave., Detroit; 313-500-1615. D Tue.-Sun.

Vertical Detroit $$$

NEW AMERICAN • This wine-centric restaurant puts the focus on pairing chef Matt Barnes’ innovative cuisine with owners James and Rémy Lutfy’s nationally recognized wine program. The menu emphasizes locally sourced protein, seafood, and produce. A must-try for any wine enthusiast. 1538 Centre St., Detroit; 313-7329463. D Tue.-Sat. 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 garlic lemon sauce; 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. 3601 Twelve Mile Road, Warren; 586-576-0495. L,D daily.

Whatcha Wanna Eat Food Hall

$ FOOD COURT • Whatcha Wanna Eat is said to be the first Black-owned food hall in Detroit and aims to provide a platform to first-time restaurateurs in the city (producing tasty results for diners). Its seven restaurants feature a range of cuisines, including burgers, wings, tacos, hibachi bowls, and pit-style barbecue. 10635 W. McNichols Road, Detroit. L,D Tue.-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 a seared Verlasso salmon fillet. 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. D Tue.-Sun. and high tea Sat.

Wright & Co.

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • The collaboration between Marc Djozlija and executive chef Kyle Schutte gives life to the second-floor space in the Wright Kay building. Small plates such as wild caught walu, Michigan mushroom pate, and grilled sea scallops are the focus. The menu highlights seasonal dishes around a composed shared plates concept. 1500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-9627711. D Tue.-Sat.

Yemen Café $

YEMENI • A nearly all-hours destination and a Hamtramck essential, Yemen Café offers traditional Yemeni dishes like saltah, a comforting soup with ground beef, rice, eggs, and vegetables. Popular items include the fahsah (lamb stew) and a range of ghallaba entrées, plus Middle Eastern/Mediterranean staples like shawarma, kebab, fattoush, and tabbouleh. 8740 Joseph Campau Ave., Hamtramck. B,L,D daily.

Yum Village $

AFRO-CARIBBEAN • The former food truck opened a full-service restaurant in the North End in 2019. 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; 313-334-6099. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Oakland

168 Crab & Karaoke $$

PAN-ASIAN • Don’t judge by 168 Crab & Karaoke’s unassuming strip mall location. It’s a unique experience that meshes food, karaoke, and pop party culture into a one-stop destination. As the name suggests, seafood is the main attraction here, specifically the seafood boils, which come with your choice of seafood (crab, clams, lobster, etc.), with sauce, corn and potatoes. 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 pan roasted salmon, tuna tartar, and oysters on the half shell. There are heartier entrees as well, like the braised beef short ribs. 220 Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-646-2220. L, D daily.

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, short rib bao buns are served with

pickled cucumber and fresh scallions and miniature tacos are filled with lobster. 325 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-540-5900. L,D daily.

Andiamo

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

Bella Piatti

with jalapeno hush-puppies and filet mignon with Parmesan truffle fries and zip sauce. There are also TVs at the bar so you won’t miss a minute of the game. 555 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-885-8108. L Tue. - Fri., BR Sat. - Sun.

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,” P.E.I. Pesto Mussels, and tasty flatbread pizzas. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-5940984. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR



Café Cortina

Coeur $

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • With a world-class wine program and delectable desserts, Coeur offers seasonal plates like squash tempura, potato and Comté croquettes, and grilled hamachi collar glossed with a sticky sweet kumquat glaze. Larger entrées include chicken roulade and short ribs. Order à la carte or leave it up to the chef with the five-course tasting menu and optional wine pairing. 330 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-466-3020. D Wed.-Sun.

Como’s

2003

$$$

ITALIAN • Selections include prosciutto di Parma stuffed with greens and mozzarella; and gnocchi with wild oyster mushrooms. For dessert, try the crepes. 30715 W. 10 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-474-3033. L Sun., D Tue.-Sun.

Café ML

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 favorites in the area in terms of Italian restaurants. 167 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248494-7110. D Tue.-Sat.

Beppé

NEW AMERICAN • Café ML is contemporary 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; 248-642-4000. D daily.

Capital Grille

$$$

NEW AMERICAN/ITALIAN • This neighborhood eatery has a little something for everyone — from bar staples like burgers to refined dishes like lamb belly; steak tartare; or the caponata made with roasted eggplant, olives, trumpet mushrooms, Calabrian chiles, thyme vinaigrette, Manchego cheese, and bread. The drinks program features refreshing spritzes and a rotating selection of über-drinkable Italian wines. 703 N. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-607-7030. L,D Sat.-Sun, D Tue.-Fri.

Beverly Hills Grill

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • This Beverly Hills institution has built a loyal following over the years with its California vibe and dawn-to-dark schedule. They’re still serving crowd favorites like their BHG Burger and classic eggs benedict. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills; 248642-2355. B, L, D Tue.-Sat. B, L Sun.

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

Birmingham Pub

$$$

GASTROPUB • This stylish yet casual gastropub from the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group took over the former Triple Nickel space. True to its name, the restaurant’s bill of fare features pub classics taken up a notch, such as fish and chips served

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 Sklar’s square, deep-dish, Detroitstyle pizza that’s leavened from a sourdough starter as opposed to commercial yeast. 22812 Woodward Ave., Unit 100., Ferndale; 248-677-4439. L,D daily.

Cornbread Restaurant & Bar

SOUL • In 1997, Patrick Coleman melded his experience in fine dining with his grandma’s southern roots to create Beans & Cornbread Soulful Bistro. It racked up accolades and fans over the years, including Stevie Wonder and Thomas (Hitman) Hearns. Cornbread is the sequel to Beans and Cornbread, continuing the tradition of soul food with an upscale twist. Classics like catfish and a gravy-smothered pork chop endure. 29852 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-208-1680. L,D Thu.-Tue.

$$$

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 daily.

Casa Pernoi

$$$$

ITALIAN • Three months after its grand opening, what once was a multi-hyphenate concept, blending French, Asian, and Italian cuisine, soon defaulted simply to a cuisine most familiar to chef Luciano DelSignore: Italian. Housemade pastas rolled by hand, and a meaty branzino typify the menu. 310 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-940-0000. D Tue.-Sat.

Churchill’s Bistro & Cigar Bar

$$$

TRADITIONAL • You can buy your cigar and smoke it too. Plus, enjoy dry-aged steaks, pan-roasted sea bass, 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,D daily.

Clarkston Union $

NEW AMERICAN • Perhaps known best for its iconic Union Mac and Cheese (Vermont sharp cheddar and mild Pinconning cheeses with layers of penne rigate and a crispy breadcrumb crust), the downtown Clarkston staple lauded by Guy Fieri has been a longtime purveyor of American comfort foods such as pot pie and meat loaf, plus burgers and handhelds like the Union Reuben and Cubano sandwiches. Located in an 1840s-era church, the restaurant provides much of the seating on pews. 54 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-620-6100. L,D daily, B Sun.

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. The Berkley location’s patio adds 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 traditional Peruvian cooking. An especially notable dish is the Pollo a la Brasa, marinated chicken served with French fries, rice, and a variety of dipping sauces. 22939 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-632-1055. L,D daily

Diamond’s Steak & Seafood $$$

STEAKHOUSE • This Howell restaurant is the perfect location for ribeye, fresh gulf shrimp, or a classic cheeseburger. Plus, weekends boast a buffet-style brunch. 101 W. Grand River Ave., Howell; 517-548-5500. L,D Tue.-Sat.

D’Marcos Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar $$$

ITALIAN • Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, this family-owned establishment is known for its extensive wine list, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and house-made pasta dishes like the beef tenderloin linguine with beef tenderloin tips, spinach, mushroom cream sauce, and parmesan. It’s also connected to The Backdoor, a speakeasy-style taco and tequila bar. 401 S Main St, Rochester; 248-759-4951. L,D Tue.-Sat

Eddie’s Gourmet $$ NEW AMERICAN • Chef Eddie Hanna’s gourmet diner is a simple concept that works to perfection. The menu offers a 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 Tue.-Sat.

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; 248-647-2420. L,D Mon.-Sat.

The Fed $$ GASTROPUB • An attractive restaurant with great food and a delightfully refreshing atmosphere. The menu crosses boundaries, from shareables, like Spanish Octopus and Wild Mushroom Flatbread. Plus, the bright and airy bohemian-chic interior is highly Instagrammable. 15 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-297-5833. D Tue.-Sat., B,L,D Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2009 Forest $$$

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The menu is brief but designed to let the kitchen assemble sharp flavors from various farm and market ingredients. Try the delightful pastas, like the Bolognese and the agnolotti, as well as the understated Farm Egg. 735 Forest Ave., Birmingham; 248-258-9400. D Tue.-Sat.

The Fly Trap $ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This “finer diner” typifies trendy Ferndale with its tin ceiling, red-topped tables, and counter with swivel stools. It offers sandwiches, salads, pastas, and omelets. 22950 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-399-5150. B,L Tue.-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. D Wed.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.

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 245-seat 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; 248-278-7777. D daily.

Hazel’s $$

SEAFOOD • What was once multiple concepts under one roof named after the three neighborhoods that converged right where the restaurant stands (Hazel, Ravine and Downtown) is now simply Hazel’s. The casual and comfortable restaurant specializes in authentic dishes, drinks, and vibes from some of the country’s top seafood destinations. Here you’ll find dishes like Maine-caught lobster, Maryland Blue Crab, and more. 1 Peabody St., Birmingham; 248-671-1714. D Tue.-Sun., B,L Sat.-Sun.

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.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2002

Hong Hua $

CHINESE • One of the best area restaurants dedicated to Asian food offers some rare delicacies as well as more customary items. One signature dish is King of the Sea: lobster chunks, scallops, and grouper with greens in a garlic sauce. 27925 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; 248-489-2280. L,D Tue.-Sun.

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.-Sun.

Imperial

MEXICAN-INSPIRED • The menu offers California-style 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.

It’s A Matter of Taste

meat-lovers mecca. Other popular dishes include the Three Meat Sampler and JBird Gumbo, as well as St. Louis Ribs and old-fashioned JBurgers. 1978 Cass Lake Road, Keego Harbor; 248-681-2124. L,D Mon.-Sun.

Joe Muer

$$$$ SEAFOOD • The Bloomfield Hills location of the iconic restaurant continues the tradition of excellent food, service, and ambiance. The menu emphasizes classic fresh fish and “Muer Traditions” such as Dover sole and Great Lakes Yellow Belly Perch. There’s also a raw and sushi bar as well as premium steaks. And make sure to save room for dessert, because the coconut cake is not to be missed. A piano bar adds to the vibe. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. D daily.

KouZina Greek Street Food $ GREEK • The Greek “street food” at this Royal Oak spot comes in lamb and beef, and chicken. Try the lentil soup for a delicious lunch or go for something more filling like the gyro bowl. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this excellent eatery. 121 N Main Street, Royal Oak; 248-629-6500. L,D daily Mon.-Sun.

Lao Pot

$$$

CHINESE • In 2019, 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; 248-689-9888. L,D daily.

La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar $$$

ITALIAN • A slice of European elegance offers an impeccable menu of Italian dishes and wines. Delicious fresh pastas, pizzas, antipastis and more are proudly served and very tasty. 243 E. Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-480-0492. D Tue.-Sat..

Lellis Inn

$$$

ITALIAN • With a patio that overlooks Union Lake and a new banquet facility for private events, this Commerce eatery has a menu with offerings inspired by northern and southern Italy. CIA Hyde Park-trained chef-owner Tom Traynor’s signature dish is crisped walleye, sitting atop jasmine rice, steamed mussels, Thai vegetables, and cilantro with coconut milk and red sauce. You also can’t go wrong with the fresh pasta, and classic cuts like the lamb osso bucco, filet mingon, or New York strip. 2323 Union Lake Rd., Commerce Charter Twp.; 248-360-6650. D Wed.-Sun.

J-Bird Smoked Meats $$ BARBEQUE • Wood-smoked meats served with the traditional sides of cornbread, buttermilk slaw, and mac and cheese, are what’s on the menu at this

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,D daily.

Lincoln Yard/Little Yard

NEW AMERICAN • From Union Joints, the oven-centric restaurant features a rotisserie, a smoker, and a woodfired oven used to bake pizzas. The menu’s centerpiece is the Main Builds option, which includes your choice of protein (rotisserie chicken, rotisserie cauliflower, smoked beef short ribs, or smoked pork tenderloin) with a sauce and two sides, such as roasted carrots, smashed potatoes, or mac and cheese. There are also salads and handhelds — and, of course, the classic Union Mac. 2159 E. Lincoln St., Birmingham; 248-653-5353. B,L,D daily.

Loccino Italian Grill

ITALIAN • Loccino is a “family-friendly” yet upscale Italian restaurant. Choose from fresh seafood, steak, and chicken dishes, plus traditional pastas, pizzas, salads, and more. They also offer happy hour specials

Benefits

Enhance your relaxation with a hydrotub session and massage; paired with a fresh salad and your choice of protein. Complimentary champagne to enjoy with your loved one!

Decreases

Improves cardiovascular health

Increases growth hormone

Improves

Improves collagen production

Decreases inflammation

from 3-7 p.m. weekdays. A great special occasion place or delicious workday lunch spot for whenever you need a break from the office. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-813-0700. 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; 248-584-4227. 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, faintly charred around the edges. Hailed by food critics and Detroiters alike as one of the city’s most classic Detroit style pizzas, it’s well worth a trip. 23141 Dequindre Road, Hazel Park; 248-547-1711. L,D Thu.-Sun.

Luisa’s Artisanal Street Food $ ITALIAN STREET FOOD • The small restaurant offers a unique mishmash of influences — all with the graband-go convenience of “street food.” Its sandwiches are stuffed in piadina, a rustic Italian flatbread. Standouts include the smoky mole chili, made with roasted chile peppers, green bell peppers, black beans, braised steak, and mozzarella. Plus, the slushies are to die for. 22851 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-677-3331. L Tue., 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; 248-792-6051. 115 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-924-5459. L,D daily.

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 multi-course 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.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2023

Madam

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • Since opening in 2021, Madam has carved its niche with its global take on farm-to-table cuisine, taking diners on a tour from Michigan to Asia to Europe. Staples from chef de cuisine Clifton Booth include mushroom dumplings, Spanish octopus, steak frites, and pasta dishes. 298 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-283-4200. B,D daily, L Mon.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun.

Market North End

$$ AMERICAN • Joe and Kristin Bongiovanni opened this eatery just across the street from the family’s existing restaurants, Salvatore Scallopini and Luxe Bar & Grill. It represents a younger, more casual alternative to the cult-favorite classics, with a serious kitchen that offers traditional American dishes as well as hints of global influences. 474 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-712-4953. L,D daily.

The Meeting House

$$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This eclectic American menu includes steak frites remarkably close to those at Paris bistros, and a house made soft pretzel with roasted jalapeno-goat cheese dip. Or, try the sesame miso beef short rib, served with rice. 301 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-759-4825. 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 guacamole, nachos, 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 

Mon Jin Lau

2008

ASIAN-FUSION • Explore such dishes as Singapore noodles, combining chicken, shrimp, chilies, and curry with angel-hair pasta; Mongolian beef; or seared scallops with lemongrass-basil Thai curry sauce. The patio opens up and the dining room transforms into a dance floor for weekly events. 1515 E. Maple Road, Troy; 248689-2332. 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 and Detroit style pizza appeal to a wide demographic. The rock ’n’ roll-themed eatery also brought its muchloved American dishes and cocktails to Birmingham in 2019. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-216-1112. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 260 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-940-3260. D Fri.-Sat.

Noble Fish

JAPANESE • For over 40 years, this laid-back sushi spot has been serving traditional rolls, nigiri, and entrées like the chirashi bowl inside a downtown Clawson Japanese market. Grab a tray and enjoy reasonably priced bites like its signature Noble Roll, made with grilled salmon skin, smelt roe, oshinko, egg, cucumber, and mayo. 45 E. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-585-2314. B,L,D daily

Noori Pocha

KOREAN • This retro Korean gastropub in Clawson will transport you to ’80s Seoul with its unmatchable aesthetic. The meal begins with complimentary tteokbokki, a rice cake cooked in a spicy red broth. From there, you can choose from a fine selection of import beers and bang-for-your-buck entrées like the shareable buldak:

spicy chicken and cheese served with jumeok-bap (rice balls with seaweed). 1 S. Main St., Clawson; 248-8507512. D Tue.-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 Tue.-Sun.

Oak Parker

NEW AMERICAN • This lively neighborhood bar features thoughtful cocktails with a forward-looking food menu to match. Simplicity and a great bun (potato, brioche, or onion roll) make its smash burgers the perfect answer to a cold pint. You can also kick it up a notch with Hungarian sausage, schnitzels, or pastrami — the latter stuffed in deli-style sandwiches and deepfried chimichangas, or mixed in pastrami hash for weekend brunch. 13621 W. 11 Mile Road; oakparkerbar. com; B Sat.-Sun, L,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 the chocolate peanut butter pie or the carrot cake. A triedand-true metro Detroit spot. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy; 248-458-0500. L Mon.-Fri., 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 Chicken Tchoupitoulas with tasso ham and bearnaise sauce, as well as a mouth-watering bacon burger. Weekend brunch features delicious housemade doughnuts. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale; 248-808-6633. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

O.W.L.

MEXICAN-AMERICAN • This Royal Oak spot offers sustenance for the early birds to the night owls. 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; 248808-6244. B, L,D daily.

Phoenicia

$$$

LEBANESE • This long-standing upscale eatery has clean, contemporary lines that complement the French door-style windows. Don’t miss the portabella 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.

Pinky’s Rooftop $$

ECLECTIC AMERICAN • With its second-floor view of downtown Royal Oak, Pinky’s Rooftop is a go-to spot for a night on the town. The name hearkens back to a Detroit restaurant and speakeasy on the east side that was called Pinky’s Boulevard Club (and the fact that everything is pink). The playful and eclectic menu offers a taste of a little bit of everything, from Kasseri Saganaki to Red Chile Beef Taco. It’s part of the Adam Merkel Restaurants group, which includes Howell hot spots The Silver Pig, Cello Italian, and Diamond’s Steak & Seafood. 100 S. Main St. Rear, Royal Oak, 248-268-2885. D Tues.-Sun. Br. Sat.-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. 280 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-268-4806. D Tue.-Sun. BR Sat.-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 and black pearl salmon. The service is notable, as is the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. 6545 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield; 248- 737-7463. D Tue.-Sun.

Public House $$

NEW AMERICAN/VEGAN • This Ferndale spot reopened under new ownership and with a refreshed look in late 2021. Standout selections include its burgers, shareable plates, plus craft cocktails and mocktails. It also features a special vegan menu and carries plenty of gluten-free options. 241 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; (248) 654-6355. L,D Tue.-Sun. BR Sat.-Sun.

Quán Ngon Vietnamese Bistro $ VIETNAMESE • This gem of a bistro in a handsome space adds to the local Vietnamese offerings. Dishes such as cha gio (elegant little eggrolls), bun bo noug cha gio (grilled beef with eggroll, vermicelli, mixed greens, plus sweet and sour sauce), 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, high-flavor 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; 248865-0500. L,D Mon.-Sat.

The Rind

$$$ WINE BAR • Attached to Mongers’ Provisions in Berkley, The Rind serves signature cocktails from its full bar and offers wines by the glass and a selection of more than 150 bottles to choose from. In addition to snacks that pair well with wine, like marcona almonds, tinned razor clams, and (naturally) cheese and charcuterie, there’s heartier fare like a flat-iron steak and littleneck clams. 3125 12 Mile Road, Berkley; 248-468-4487. L,D Tue.-Sun.

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

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.

Sambong

KOREAN • Known for its signature naengmyeon (a Korean cold noodle dish), Sambong is a fully self-service restaurant with unique offerings like complementary broth. Besides the naengmyeon (which features house-made noodles), additional standouts include japchae, bulgogi, bibimbap, and donkatsu. 5389 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-731-7859. L,D Wed.-Mon.

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 Mon.-Sat.

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 fried chicken sandwiches, crispy Brussels sprouts, and salmon with braised lentils, crispy kale, and a mustard vinaigrette. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-594-4200. L Mon.-Fri., D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Sozai $$ JAPANESE • To truly experience Sozai, you have to reserve a seat at the custom-built sushi bar where chef Hajime Sato will curate a unique sustainable sushi dining experience called omakase. There’s also a menu offering crowd pleasers like chicken karaage and rolls featuring familiar ingredients with tuna, jalapeno and avocado. 449 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-677-3232. D Tue.-Sat.

Streetside Seafood $$

SEAFOOD • Small and cozy yet sophisticated, the restaurant has a pared-down seasonal menu of fresh fish and seafood. There are always two soups: a bisque and a chowder. Favorites include the oysters and bouillabaisse. A delicious restaurant for all palates to enjoy and feel comfortable in. 273 Pierce St.Birmingham; 248-645-9123. L Thu.-Fri., D daily.

Sylvan Table $$$ NEW AMERICAN • With a working farm on the 5-acre property, Sylvan Table isn’t just talking the farm-totable talk. The restored 300-year-old barn feels grand and vast when you step into the stunning space, but it is homey, welcoming, and inviting. The menu changes often to reflect what’s growing but some of the staples include the trout — seasoned with herb oil, salt, and pepper, cooked over a wood-fired grill, and served whole — and Chicken Under a Brick, which is cooked to charred perfection. 1819 Inverness St., Sylvan Lake, 248369-3360. D Mon.-Sun.

Take Sushi

JAPANESE • Crisp salads, sashimi, sushi, oversize bowls of soba or udon noodles, and all the familiar — and some not-so-familiar — entrees combine to make this spot special. The exceptionally warm service is unforgettable. 1366 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248652-7800. L,D Tue.-Sat., D Sun.

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 whole branzino with charred zucchini and romesco. 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, as most of the furniture at Three Cats Restaurant is available for purchase. 116 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-288-4858. L,D Tue.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun.

TigerLily

$$ JAPANESE • With an eclectic ambiance and extensive Japanese menu, TigerLily satisfies taste buds with sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and hot dishes like the Yaki Udon or Japanese Street Corn. 231 W. Nine Mile Road, Ste. A, Ferndale; 248-733-4905. D daily.

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. Try the 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. 203 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-258-6278. B,L daily.

Toasted Oak

BRASSERIE • The menu revolves around the charcuterie sold in the market next door and a list of hot

$$$

grill items. 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 Mon.-Fri., L,D Tue.-Sat. BR Sat.-Sun.

Townhouse $$$

NEW AMERICAN • This popular Birmingham spot for comforting New American dishes 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; 313-7231000. L,D daily.

Union Woodshop $$

BARBEQUE • Part of the ever-growing Union Joints restaurant group, this is a self-described wood-fired joint, where pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and beef brisket come from the smoker, and Neapolitan-style crisp-crusted 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.-Sun.

Vinsetta Garage

NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant, which is housed in a vintage car-repair shop, offers well-prepared comfort food classics such as burgers, macaroni and cheese, pizzas, and brown sugar-glazed salmon. A restaurant that pays true homage to the city of Detroit. 27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley; 248-548-7711. L,D daily

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, yellowfin tuna tartare, and halibut fish and chips. 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.

Waves $$

SEAFOOD • Seafood covers most of the menu at this Nautical Mile favorite. It’s a tough task choosing between such popular appetizers as coconut shrimp, crispy grouper nuggets, and plump steamed mussels. Entrees include al dente pastas 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; 586773-3279. L,D daily.

Macomb

Andiamo $$

the trinity of “pasta ladies,” Anna, Tanya, and Angelina, who have carried on the tradition. The Warren location is the flagship that started it all. 7096 14 Mile Road, Warren; 586-268-3200. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun.

Bar Verona

ITALIAN • Modernized, made-from-scratch Italian favorites curated by Chef Salvatore Borgia as well as fresh craft cocktails fill the menu at this stylish eatery. Homemade pastas, such as Giuseppe’s, as well as a selection of steaks and seafood dishes typify the contemporary approach to fresh and uncomplicated Italian cuisine. 59145 Van Dyke Ave., Washington; 586473-0700. D daily.

Blake’s Tasting Room

$$ NEW AMERICAN • Enjoy a variety of house-made hard ciders to sip on from one of the U.S.’s top-producing hard cider brands. The menu offers bar-food staples with a twist, like the eye-catching Apple Burger, stacked with melted Swiss, onions, apple, and apple cider ketchup on a brioche bun. Plus, it’s steps away from family-friendly seasonal activities at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill. 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada; 586-784-5343. L,D daily.

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 — over a thousand at last count. 27626 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-675-2115. B, 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 by offering traditional Italian dining with an upbeat modern twist. 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, thanks to an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood that ranges from salmon to Lake Superior whitefish — all served in a well-designed setting. 51195 Schoenherr Road, Shelby Charter Township; 586-739-5400. L Mon.Fri., D daily.

Gaudino’s

$$ ITALIAN • The trending market-restaurant combo 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 Bistecca di Gancio, a sliced hanger steak with crispy Brussels sprouts and house bistro sauce. 27919 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-879-6764. L,D Tue.-Sat

Host Utica

VARIOUS • With a rotating cast of chefs that shifts about once every few months, Host Utica is a great place to constantly try something new — and to get a first taste of concepts from up-and-coming chefs. The Instagram-friendly dining room has a full-service cocktail bar as well as brunch and dinner service, plus coffee and

pastries. The building regularly holds culinary events and is home to a coworking office space. 7759 Auburn Road, Utica; 586-488-0134. D Tue.-Sat., BR daily.

Isla $$

FILIPINO • Dishes at this Filipino restaurant, formerly sheltered at Fort Street Galley, are reflective of the culinary traditions of the founders’ Iloilo City hometown. Annatto is used to punch up the color of Chicken Adobo, the unofficial dish of the Philippines, and juicy mangoes complement sweet and savory dishes. 2496 Metro Pkwy, Sterling Heights; 586-8837526. L,D Tue.-Sat., BR Sun.

J. Baldwin’s Restaurant

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • The menu showcases chef Jeff Baldwin’s contemporary American food: award-winning stone fired pizza, Boom-Boom Shrimp, burgers, and salads. The desserts include chocolate bumpy cake and spiced carrot cake. 16981 18 Mile Road, Clinton Township; 586-416-3500. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.

Khom Fai

THAI • At this Macomb staple, owners and brothers chef Isaiah and Chris Sonjeow serve a modernized take on Thai food, seasoned with what they call “a dash of good ol’ Southern hospitality.” Sip a specialty cocktail and start with small plates like satay skewers, Rangoon, or sesame yellowfin tuna and enjoy entrées like drunken noodles, red curry, or Khom Fai’s signature fried chicken. 48856 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb; 586-247-7773. L Tues., Sun., D Tues.-Sat.

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; 586-777-7770. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.

Sherwood Brewing Co.

GASTROPUB • Quality local ingredients raise Sherwood’s fare to well above “elevated pub grub.” Some notable choices include the hand-stretched pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and spicy Buffalo Mac. 45689 Hayes Road, Shelby Township; 586-532-9669. L,D Tue.-Sat.

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; 586731-3900. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Testa Barra

ITALIAN • Owned and run by chefs Mike and Gabriella Baldwin (of Food Network fame), Testa Barra is notable for its freshly made pasta dishes and favorites like Con-

nie’s Lamb Shank, a fall-off-the-bone chop topped with red wine braise, stewed vegetables, polenta, and Asiago cheese. Its wine program is renowned, and the restaurant features 14 on-staff sommeliers to guide you through the list. 48824 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb; 586-434-0100. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.

Twisted Rooster $$

SPORTS BAR • This “Michigan-centric” chain (Chesterfield Township and Belleville) has takes on classics, with mac & cheese variations, steaks, and chicken with zip sauce. 45225 Marketplace Blvd., Chesterfield; 586949-1470. L,D daily.

Washtenaw

Bellflower $$

NEW AMERICAN • A restaurant housed in a former exchange of the Michigan Bell Telephone Company, Bellflower answers Ypsilanti’s call for fine dining with an adventurous flair. Boudin sausage with roasted okra, baked oysters, and ginger ale or Coca-Cola-roasted beets showed up on early menus as chef Dan Klenotic’s way of straddling the line of creole tradition and an imaginative style that is entirely his own. He was recognized as a James Beard semifinalist in 2024. 209 Pearl St., Ypsilanti. D Mon. L, D Tue-Sat. L Sun.

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 Misoyaki Salmon dish. Non-seafood options include the eponymous burger and filet mignon. And make sure to order dessert. 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, featuring headliners such as the Grammy-nominated Ravi Coltrane Quartet, but stay for chef Louis Goral’s delicious food — steaks, seafood, and upscale Southern-style fare. 314 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-372-3200. D Wed.-Sat.

The Blue Nile $$ ETHIOPIAN • The real treat at this quaint restaurant is injera, a spongy bread used to scoop the meal, eaten with your hands in traditional style. The lentil dishes, often seasoned with an Ethiopian spice mixture called berbere, and the 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 Thu.-Sun.

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 when you’re craving the classics. 1739 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-662-2877. D Wed.-Sun.

The Common Grill $$

SEAFOOD • Founded by Chef Craig Common, whose skilled work drew the attention of the now shuttered Gourmet magazine and the James Beard House, this mainstay was acquired in 2022 by Peas & Carrots Hospitality. Chefs Zack Sklar and Josh Humphrey kept most of the beloved restaurant’s menu, such as the expertly prepared oysters and seafood dishes, as well as the coconut cream pie. 112 S. Main St., Chelsea; 734475-0470. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat-Sun.

Dixboro House

$$$$ NEW AMERICAN • Much like the restaurant’s ambience, the cuisine at Dixboro House is both refined and relaxed. Chef Garret Lipar’s menu hosts rotating seasonal from-scratch dishes that highlight local ingredients—pizzas, salads, seafood, and steaks served in a rustic barn that once housed The Lord Fox, an iconic restaurant in Ann Arbor’s historic Dixboro neighborhood. 5400 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-669-3310. L,D daily. BR Sat.-Sun.

Ma Lou’s

CHICKEN • This is Ypsi’s destination for all things fried chicken — try it as a plate, in the form of wings, or in the chicken and waffles, with classic Southern sides like collard greens, potato salad, and coleslaw. But Ma Lou’s shines especially in its ability to craft the perfect sandwich (made with your choice of chicken or tofu and spice levels from “Classic Southern” to “Spicy AF,” which may bring tears to your eyes). For instance, try The Hot Chick, stacked with a combination of the ultra-spicy Nashville hot baste, bacon, lettuce, tomato, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeño ranch. 15 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti; 734905-7994. L,D Tue.-Sat.

Mani Osteria & Bar

ITALIAN • This popular casual restaurant infuses freshness with lower prices than most osterias in the area. 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,D Tue.-Sun.

Miss Kim

KOREAN • This spinoff from the Zingerman’s mini empire comes courtesy of chef Ji Hye Kim, a James Beard semifinalist. Kim meticulously researches Korean culinary traditions and recipes to create her unique blend of modern Korean food highlighting Michigan vegetables, from housemade kimchi to the tteokbokki (rice cakes). Some of the restaurant’s standouts include a craveable Korean fried chicken and its plant-based counterpart the Korean fried tofu. 415 N. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor, 734-2750099. L and D Wed.-Mon.

Peridot

$$$$ VIETNAMESE-INSPIRED • Located two doors down from Executive Chef Duc Tang’s other acclaimed restaurant, Pacific Rim by Kana, this downtown Ann Arbor eatery offers both small plates and a drinks program inspired by Tang’s Vietnamese roots. The cocktails incorporate ingredients like tamarind, Thai basil, Vietnamese cinnamon, and cilantro — with delightfully refreshing results. On the ever-changing menu, standout small plates have included

ketchup fried rice and the savory kampachi and prosciutto (a twist on bacon and scallops): a combination of Italian dry-cured ham and amberjack sashimi. 118 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-773-3097. D Mon.-Sat.

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 creamy smoothies and dense shakes, fresh-squeezed juices, and craft mocktails. Choose from one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in the Detroit area. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Shalimar

$$ INDIAN • Offering North Indian, Tandoori, and Mughlai dishes, Shalimar is suitable for carnivores and herbivores alike. Standouts include the Lamb Tikka Masala, best eaten with the restaurant’s flavorful, chewy garlic naan served fresh and hot. 307 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-1500. 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 nachos and duckfat fried chicken. But the star at Slurping Turtle is the noodle (Yagihashi’s “soul food”), which is made in-house daily on a machine imported from Japan. 608 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-887-6868. L,D daily.

Tomukun

KOREAN • Featuring a Korean noodle bar and Korean barbecue side by side, the downtown Ann Arbor eatery is a destination for ramen, udon, and pho, plus traditional rice dishes like bibimbap. On the barbecue side of things, order shareable grill-it-yourself meals like short ribs, pork belly, and marinated chicken — plus stir-fries, hot pots, and more. 505 E. Liberty St., Suites 100-200, Ann Arbor; 734-995-8668 (Tomukun Noodle Bar); 734-369-2602 (Tomukun Korean BBQ). L,D daily.

Venue by 4M

$$$

High-quality coffee; a diverse selection of alcoholic beverages, including cocktails and sustainably sourced wine; and a wide variety of elevated cuisine, such as goat cheese ravioli can be found in this high-end mixeduse food hall. 1919 S. Industrial Highway, Ann Arbor; 734-800-0128; experience4m.com

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 Tue.-Sun.

Zingerman’s Roadhouse

$$$

CLASSIC COMFORT • This eatery celebrates food from around the U.S., from the New Mexico black bean and hominy burger to the delicacies of New Orleans. The buttermilk biscuits are out of this world. 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3663. B,L,D daily.

TRUSTED ADVISORS

Q: My upper eyelids appear to be drooping. What type of procedure can fix this problem?

A: Do your upper eyelids droop over your vision like a window shade? The levator muscle inside the eyelid lifts the eyelid up and back to open your eye. If the levator muscle is loose, detached, unhealthy, or damaged, you have ptosis, which is a true drooping of the upper eyelid. In this situation, the muscle can be repaired or tightened.

Between the eyelid and the eyebrow, you may have excess skin and/or fatty tissue that droops over your eyelids. The extra skin and tissue is removed with a blepharoplasty, a procedure that people often call “getting their eyelids lifted” — although nothing is actually lifted. If your eyebrow and forehead skin come down over the eyelids or over the bony rim of the eye sockets, that’s called brow and forehead ptosis (drooping). The treatment is a forehead/brow lift.

Q: What is the role of local restaurants in cities in 2025?

A: As people spend more time on their phones and America is more divided than ever, there are still fundamental things we have in common. We want successful Main Streets.

Local restaurants, independently owned, play a role in making their cities unique. Restaurant owners are here because we want to serve fantastic meals and make people happy. It’s not easy business, the hours are long and late, and turnover is high, but I know why I’m committed to restaurants.

In my previous role at a large consulting firm, I frequently traveled across the globe, primarily in large, metropolitan areas, and I grew to miss smaller-town communities — seeing neighbors, helping local school PTAs or sports teams, etc.

Fantastic downtowns require great restaurants. Your local restaurant is owned by your neighbor, like myself. We want to create havens where our neighbors come in and break bread, talk, eat, unwind — where all are equal and happy. It’s what makes downtowns special.

Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery, PC Evan H. Black, M.D., FACS, FAACS 248-357-5100

D’Marcos Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar

The Backdoor Taco & Tequila Bar

Mark Mendola, Owner 401 S. Main St. Rochester, MI 48307 248-759-4951

Q: With all the di erent eye care and glasses choices available, what should I be looking for to get the best care?

A: You want to find, like we have at OPTIK, an office that offers, as an option, an exam above the minimal standard. You want to find an office that has an amazing frame collection from which you can choose your glasses. And finally, you want to find an office where you can receive service from conscientious doctors and opticians who are under no stress to oversell you. If you find an office that checks all those boxes, then you have found the best for yourself and your family. There are still practices out there that do not offer such service. Some optical practices are more medically based, and some expect their opticians to upsell you on products. We care, sincerely. We advise accordingly. We are grateful that our practice continues to grow and that people appreciate OPTIK.

OPTIK Birmingham Joe Ales, O.D. 247 W. Maple Road Birmingham, MI 48009 248-646-6699

Q: What makes a broker an expert?

A: In real estate, the only constant is change. That’s why it’s important to have a broker who not only has expertise in your market area but who also understands the industry’s laws, regulations, and economic fluctuations. The deeper the level of industry knowledge and experience, the better a broker can help their clients navigate the market of the moment, which often di ers not just year to year but sometimes even week to week.

As an example, our understanding of design, architecture, and building is an asset to our clients when making decisions that impact the value of a home they are looking to buy or sell. Real estate should not feel transactional. It’s about strategy and consultation, and experts approach the business that way. An expert broker is focused on the clients’ best interest, ensuring the process and outcome achieve their goals.

Q: How do you help navigate new construction purchases?

A: There are similarities and di erences between purchasing an existing home versus new construction. I’ve been in real estate for more than 30 years, and I have a family background of new construction. Many people know our name because their parents bought a new home. Having that background of knowing the intricacies of new construction helps me navigate a buyer through the various contracts for purchase. Our boutique brokerage works with buyers and sellers in Oakland and Macomb counties — from multimillion-dollar properties to more modest homes. I strive to give every client the attention I would want. I expect so much when I am buying something, and I try to give my clients exactly that. Because we are part of a company that includes new construction and remodeling, I can o er buyers and sellers a crew ready to make their home just how they want it. The new construction background really changes my clients’ experience working with me.

TVA + RLA

Renee Lossia Acho

Tushar Vakhariya

210 S. Old Woodward Ave. Suite 200 Birmingham, MI 48009 248-786-7790

LoChirco Realty LLC

Lia LoChirco

Real Estate Sales Advisor

Team Leader/Mentor

202 Walnut, Suite B Rochester, MI 48307 586-321-9997

Q: How do you have rapid success early in your

career?

A: I’ve been in real estate for three years, and early on I learned not to be afraid of doing things differently. For example, cold-calling isn’t easy, but I met people who took their houses off the market because they didn’t sell, and people who were trying to sell by owner. I worked with them to get the results they wanted. Also, by cold-calling for a buyer who wanted a particular subdivision, I was able to find a seller three months before the house was coming on market. I found early on not to wait for what people say they can do for you but to take responsibility for your business. Instead of sitting in a meeting to learn about a certain aspect of the business, go out and actually practice it and make connections. I found a whole network of clients through being a soccer coach. I love what I do, and if your communication skills are good, you can conquer the world!

LoChirco Realty

Evan Bassy

Real Estate Agent

202 Walnut Blvd., Suite B Rochester, MI 48307 586-663-0473 bassysellsre@gmail.com

Heart to Heart

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE M.J. HATHAWAY

THIS ANNUAL benefit luncheon for Corewell Health was extra special this year with two-time Oscar-winning actress Jane Fonda as the keynote speaker. Held at Franklin Hills Country Club in September, this year’s event included food, drinks, and a raffle. Funds raised supported Corewell Health’s women’s heart and vascular service patient treatment scholarships and growth of the heart failure program. Learn more at corewellhealth.org.

1. William and Susan Seklar 2. Wendy Abrams, Jessie Hodari 3. Max and Debra Ernst, Jane Fonda 4. Amy Gill, Danialle Karmanos, Janine Esshaki 5. Bluma Schechter, Eleanor Aronovitz 6. Melissa Coulier, Kate Milligan 7. Linda O’Brien, Harriet Fuller 8. Lacey Foon, Carol Ziecik 9. Jeff Gluck, Debra Ernst, Lisa Gluck Auerbach, Nate Auerbach

10. Francee Ford, Gwen Weiner

Charity Calendar

AUTOGLOW

Jan. 10, 4:30 p.m. to midnight thechildrenscenter.com/autoglow-2025

AutoGlow 2025, presented by Ford Motor Co., will be held on Friday, Jan. 10, to benefit the vulnerable children and families served by The Children’s Center. Hosted by Bill and Lisa Ford and Mark and Lia Farley, it will be one of the first large charity events held at the longawaited and newly restored Michigan Central in Detroit. AutoGlow runs from 4:30 p.m. to midnight with a pre-event reception from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and the main celebration from 8:30 p.m. to midnight. Included are complimentary valet parking and private transportation between AutoGlow and the DAS Charity Preview at Huntington Place. Charity Preview tickets must be purchased separately. Dress code is black tie. Tickets are $325 and can be purchased at thechildrenscenter.com/ autoglow-2025

VARIETY COCKTAILS & CUISINE

Feb. 6, 6 to 9 p.m.

variety-detroit.com

Variety is thrilled to announce the return of its winter favorite, Variety Cocktails & Cuisine, on Thursday, Feb. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. This signature event will support the innovative core programs that benefit children served by Variety. Attendees will enjoy an evening of socializing and sampling culinary delights crafted by some of metro Detroit’s finest chefs. Guests can indulge in cocktails and “chef’s choice” creations in the sophisticated ambiance of The Townsend Hotel.

ST. JUDE DETROIT GALA

Jan. 25, 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. stjude.org

The annual St. Jude Detroit Gala will be hosted at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation on Saturday, Jan. 25. The St. Jude Detroit Gala will showcase the stories of founding ALSAC members, donors, and patients and more. The team at St. Jude hopes you’ll join them for this can’t-miss event or make a donation to help ensure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food — so they can focus on helping their child live. To learn more about this event or volunteer opportunities, please contact Megan Phelps at megan.phelps@ alsac.stjude.org or 248-467- 2068.

INTERIOR DESIGN SOCIETY OF DETROIT’S SECOND ANNUAL WINTER GALA

Jan. 10, 6 to 11 p.m.

idsdetroit.com

The Interior Design Society of Detroit is thrilled to invite you to the IDS Detroit Winter Gala, an unforgettable evening of celebration and giving, hosted at the luxurious Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. This black-tie event will embrace the opulence and style of the roaring ’20s, transporting guests to an era of elegance, glamour, and excitement.

Alongside a night filled with exquisite dining, dancing, and captivating entertainment, a block of hotel rooms will be reserved for attendees who wish to extend their experience and stay overnight at the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. The Winter Gala offers a perfect opportunity to celebrate the past year with peers while making a meaningful contribution to the IDS Detroit chapter and Humble Design Detroit.

DETROIT AUTO SHOW CHARITY PREVIEW GALA

Jan. 10, 5 to 10 p.m.

detroitautoshow.com

SOUP CITY: THE MOTOWN EDITION

Jan. 23

cotsdetroit.org

COTS will host Soup City 2025 on Thursday, Jan. 23, at the historic Roostertail in Detroit. Titled Soup City: The Motown Edition, the event will honor Detroit’s rich musical legacy with an evening of soul, rhythm, and timeless Motown hits. Attendees will experience vibrant energy, Motown-inspired performances, and culinary delights from some of Detroit’s finest restaurants. The event supports COTS’s mission to assist families overcoming poverty and homelessness. More than just a celebration, the evening will combine impact and community at a venue steeped in Detroit’s history. Proceeds from Soup City will directly benefit families working to create brighter futures.

FAMILY YOUTH INTERVENTIONS’ 4TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GALA

Jan. 24, 6 to 10 p.m.

familyyouth.com

Family Youth Interventions will host its fourth annual fundraising gala on Friday, Jan. 24, at the Emerald Theatre in Mount Clemens. The event, exclusively for guests 21 and older, begins with doors opening at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:45 p.m. The evening will feature dinner, dancing, a raffle, and opportunities to support services for runaway and homeless youth. Tickets include access to an open bar, dinner, and all event activities. Family Youth Interventions is dedicated to helping young people who are homeless, runaways, and/or in crisis situations.

KIDSGALA ANNUAL CHARITY EVENT

Feb. 1, 6 p.m. to midnight

You’re invited to walk the red carpet at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview on Friday, Jan. 10, from 5 to 10 p.m. at Huntington Place in Detroit. For one magical night, this black-tie fundraiser benefits six amazing children’s charities and gives its guests an exclusive preview of stunning cars and a headline performance by multiplatinum artist Flo Rida. Beneficiaries of the Charity Preview include the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan; The Children’s Center; Children’s Foundation; Detroit Auto Dealers Association Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan; Detroit PAL; and University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Tickets are $400 each or $700 a pair and available at detroitautoshow.com.

kidsgala.org

KIDSgala was founded in 2013 by David C. McKnight, owner and founder of Emerald City Designs, with the goal of celebrating the lives of children with life-altering illnesses and disabilities. Join them for the 10th annual KIDSgala Charity Event on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 6 p.m. to midnight. There will be a plated dinner, spirits, live music from the Dan Rafferty Band, incredible auction and raffle items, and more!

Fashion, Art & Philanthropy

THE DYNAMI FOUNDATION, Grey Ghost, Mabel Gray, and Paragon Art Collective teamed up on the second installation of this fashion-forward fundraising event for breast cancer awareness and research. Held at Neiman Marcus at Troy’s Somerset Collection, the evening included a fall fashion show, raffles, art pieces curated by Paragon, and food and drinks by chefs James Rigato of Mabel Gray and John Vermiglio and Joe Giacomino of Grey Ghost. Learn more at dynamifoundation.org.

1. Annie Hohendorf, Tatiana Hogan 2. Jillian Curran, Victoria Zolkewsky, Cassandra Suder 3. Bridgette Valade, Kate Kojaian, Mary Wysocki, Nikki Kotas 4. Flora Migyanka 5. Denise Farida, Marilyn Kassa 6.Tylear, Lael, and Takeisha Jefferson 7. Dr. Jacqueline Jeruss, Flora Migyanka 8. Doris Gilles, Caroline Oberst, Kimberly Campanale 9. Chuck Bennett, Renee Godin 10. Jen Lee, Kendra Bissig, Maria Hayden 11. Paulette Apkarian, Lora Kazanjian 12. El Cappy (Eric Lowry) and Abimbola Fernandez

The Way It Was

PIONEERING DETROIT radio and TV broadcasting legend Robin Seymour (born Seymour Samuel Altman) is credited with introducing white audiences to Black R&B and rock ’n’ roll while helping to launch the careers of numerous performers, including Motown icons and Bob Seger.

After the Detroit Central High graduate earned a Bronze Star while serving in the U.S. Army during World War II and briefly worked for the Armed Forces Radio Service in Germany, Seymour resumed his studies at Wayne University in 1947 before dropping out that year to begin work for 90 cents an hour as a disc jockey for Dearborn-based WKMH, which became WKNR Keener 13 in 1963. Thanks to his wildly popular Bobbin’ with Robin show, he gained national recognition when he was named Disc Jockey of the Year by Billboard magazine in 1953 and then by Hit Parader in 1954.

Seymour was also famous for conducting countless sock hops at metro Detroit high schools and hosting Robin Seymour’s Original Rock ’n’ Roll Revue and Motown shows at the Fox Theatre.

In 1963, Seymour began hosting Teen Town on CKLW Channel 9 in Windsor, Ontario, later rebranded as Swingin’ Time, a popular TV show modeled after Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. Featuring live dancing by area teenagers to Top 40 hits, the show included appearances by local and national musical acts lip-synching to their latest records. Nearly every Motown act first appeared on the show before making national television appearances.

Seymour left WKNR in 1965 and hosted his last Swingin’ Time telecast in 1968. He later moved to California, where he ran Robin Seymour Enterprises, a video production company. In 2020, Seymour passed away in San Antonio, Texas, at age 94, a year after releasing his autobiography, The DJ That Launched 1,000 Hits. —Bill Dow

CHECK IN CHECK OUT

Whether you’re ready to play, relax or make it a night unlike any other, MGM Grand Detroit satisfies any desire.

Excludes Michigan Disassociated Persons I 21+

Hour Detroit | January 2025

DEFINED BY DETROIT, BUILT FOR THE WORLD.

32

24 Detroiters

32 Music Guide

WHAT MAKES OUR AS AMAZING AS YOUR KID? HEART CARE

Up Front

Cutting-Edge Care

CONTRIBUTORS

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DETROIT MUSIC MEMORY?

Jim McFarlin

Jenny Risher

Stephen McGee

VOLUME THIRTY | ISSUE ONE

EDITOR’S LETTER

While January is a time for many to establish new habits,

From Our Readers

Top 5 Most-Read Stories of November

Top 5 Most-Read Stories of 2024

Up Front

DEVELOPMENT

The 2025 Downtown Landscape

Hotels

Entertainment

What’s Going On with …

Affordable Housing

BOOKS

True Grit

Burning Questions for 2025

2024 Hindsight

MASS DEPORTATIONS

Refresh Your Look with Eyelid Surgery – A Youthful Transformation Awaits!

STYLE MENTOR

COMMUNITY

BUILDING PEACE and JOY

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

New Shops on the Block

Our six favorite 2024 store openings

Reformation

Savage X Fenty

Primark

Gorjana

DETROITERS

WILLIAM CLAY FORD JR.

KARMANOS

AMY GOOD

COURTNEY EBONIQUE

THE 2024 DETROIT TIGERS

AN GUIDE TO THE DETROIT

THE BEATLES

BIG SEAN

C. HOWARD CRANE

DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS

FUNKADELIC

EMINEM

GOSPEL

BILL HALEY

THE HIDEOUT

JOHN LEE HOOKER

DEADLINES AND CLUB-HOPPING, HANGING WITH SEGER AT THE LAKE, WHAT HE DID TO RILE ARETHA FRANKLIN — HOURCONTRIBUTOR JIM MCFARLIN SHARES IT ALL

CASEY KASEM

LOUDERTHANLOVE:THE GRANDEBALLROOMSTORY

MOTOWN MUSEUM

MADONNA

KID ROCK

LITTLE STEVIE WONDER

MC5

NIRVANA

ORION MUSIC AND MORE FESTIVAL

PARADISE VALLEY

THE DETROIT NATIVE HAS A MIND-BOGGLING DISCOGRAPHY

AN INSIDE LOOK AT LEGENDARY

hit “My Girl.”

RECORDING STUDIO

DIANA ROSS

RADIO STATIONS

BOB SEGER

SEARCHINGFORSUGARMAN

TECHNO

TEJANO