Hour Detroit | September 2024

GORMAN’S INTERIORS

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Experience fall colors like never before in St. Pete-Clearwater. Dive into the emerald-green waters of the Gulf from islands ringed in white-sand beaches. Encounter the kaleidoscopic colors of the Chihuly Collection and the genius of The Dalí Museum. And enjoy fiery red sunsets, night after night. Let’s shine.

The talk of the town

100 Best New Hotels of the Year - Travel + Leisure

The World’s 11 Most Beautiful Repurposed Buildings - Architectural Digest

In Detroit, A French Brasserie that Feels Like a Portal to Paris - New York Times T List

How a Vacant Office Tower Became A Symbol of Rebirth in Detroit - Fast Company

38 Stories of Stunning - DetroitIsIT

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.

ISSUE THREE HUNDRED THIRTY

CONTENTS

34 Desert Desire

The“it” hue of the season is khaki. And it’s anything but dull. Let our Fall Fashion feature inspire you on ways to dress monochrome this season.

44 Building and Rebuilding a City

Here are the stories of the architects behind Detroit’s one-of-a-kind concrete marvels.

50 Wright Here in Detroit

The Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy is holding its annual conference in Detroit for the first time nearly 20 years. Here’s a look inside some of his metro Detroit homes — which in 2024 still feel just as fresh and

Skyscrapers like the art deco Guardian Building (left) and the neo-Gothic Buhl Building (right) reflect Detroit’s rich architectural history.

WISH YOU WERE HERE.

Up Front

MADE IN MICHIGAN

Before Tim Robinson donned the hot dog suit, he honed his comedy chops in Detroit.

BOOKS

Is lying in politics new? Barbara McQuade examines the history of disinformation.

SPORTS

The Lions are back with a beefed-up defense and are hungry for the Super Bowl.

MEDIA

WDIV’s Fantastic Four hung up their capes early. Here’s what’s next.

24/Seven

TRENDS

You’ve never seen preppy like this — our favorite fall runway looks.

PROFILE

When it comes to runway experience, this kindergartener from Inkster is steps ahead of most of us.

COMMUNITY

Detroit’s fashion designers find strength through their interwoven fabric of support.

ISSUE THREE HUNDRED THIRTY

Agenda

CULTURE CONVO

After a summer of sequels, Ryan Patrick Hooper wonders: Is it still worth going to the movies?

FALL ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT PREVIEW

Your definitive local guide to all things art, music, theater, dance, and comedy this fall.

ANNUAL EVENTS

What’s happening during Design Core Detroit’s 14th annual Month of Design.

Metro Detroit food and drink news. Plus, a chat with Tabitha Mason of Cornman Farms.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

For our critic, a visit to Detroit’s Adelina is like Sunday dinner with Nonna.

DRINKS

Art and music — easier on the eyes and ears than keno screens and loud bar chatter.

RESTAURANT

RECIPES

Behind the Scenes

WORKING OUT OF A SMALL CANOPY at the bottom of a quarry, Hour Detroit’s associate art director Steven Prokuda led a talented team in the production of our Fall Fashion photo shoot. “With khaki being one of the biggest fashion trends this season, I wanted to choose a location that complemented those neutral colors,” Prokuda says. “So I looked for a place with a lot of dirt and rocks.” Sylvania Minerals Quarry ended up being the perfect location, providing endless options for unique backdrops. “At first glance, everything kind of looked the same: a pile of rocks there, a dirt mound there, more rocks over there. But once we got in the car and started scouting, our photographer Michelle Cuppy and I would turn a corner and find a little pocket that looked like another world inside this giant hole.” Turn to page 34 to see the stunning photography and looks — featuring model Sarah Ocul from DMM — in a location you never would have guessed is only 30 minutes outside of downtown Detroit.

CONTRIBUTORS

Will Reaume

WROTE LIONS PREVIEW, PAGE 25

“The Guardian Building. I love art deco, and there’s no better representation than Detroit’s own homage to the decadence of the 1920s.” Will Reaume is a freelance journalist (and former Hour Detroit intern) who writes about food and dining, sports, and more. When he’s not writing, Reaume enjoys golfing, playing hockey, and hiking in the Upper Peninsula. Find him on the social platform X (@willreaume).

Giuseppa Nadrowski

WROTE RUNWAY FASHION, PAGE 30

“There are so many gems across the city, but I would have to say Michigan Central Station. What the architectural teams were able to accomplish in the renovations and restorations is truly remarkable and further proof of what this city can do!” Based in metro Detroit, Giuseppa Nadrowski is a writer, stylist, and editor who covers everything from fashion and style to interior design, weddings, art, culture, architecture, and travel. She is the editor of Hour Detroit’s sister magazine Detroit Design, and her work can also be found in Hour Media’s Metro Detroit Weddings and Michigan Blue.

Megan Anderluh

WROTE DETROIT MONTH OF DESIGN, PAGE 69

“When I finally saw the interior of the restored Michigan Central Station, I was actually speechless. The scale of the project is monumental. … It’s such a gift to Detroit!” Megan Anderluh is a writer, editor, and author coach. Her first book, Throwbacks Home Interiors, was co-written with the Detroit business owners Bo Shepherd and Kyle Dubay and was published in March 2024. In her free time, she loves antiquing, reading, and biking around the Motor City. To learn more about working with Anderluh, visit megananderluh.com

VOLUME TWENTY NINE ISSUE NINE

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, Megan Anderluh, Bill Dow, Natalia Holtzman, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Michelle Kobernick, Mickey Lyons, Jim McFarlin, Jenn McKee, Giuseppa Nadrowski, Danny Palumbo, Will Reaume, Rebecca Simonov, Lauren Wethington, Dana White

INTERNS: Alaina Orow, Jack Turpen

DESIGN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lindsay Richards

SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTIST: Stephanie Daniel

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Steven Prokuda

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Keagan Coop, Kevin Martin

CONTRIBUTORS: Shannon Bishop, Michelle Cuppy, Rachel Idzerda, Giuseppa Nadrowski, Sal Rodriguez, Rebecca Simonov, Jessica VanAssche, Gabrielle Yanke

SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Cynthia Barnhart, Hannah Brown, Karli Brown, Cathleen Francois, Aubrey Kapala, Donna Kassab, Lisa LaBelle, Carol Lawrence, Mary Pantely & Associates

PUBLISHING & SALES INTERN: Eden Amcheslavsky

PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION MANAGER: Crystal Nelson

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Amanda Kozlowski

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Elizabeth Kowalik

IT

IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland

DIGITAL

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY: Travis Cleveland

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Matt Cappo

SR. DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST: Luanne Lim

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST: Connor McDonald

CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION MANAGER: Riley Meyers

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

MARKETING & EVENTS

MARKETING & EVENTS MANAG ER: Lyndsay Zelenak

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR: Jaime Presnail

COMMUNICATIONS & PR LEAD: Regan Wright

WEDDINGS ACCOUNT MANAGER: Karen Wilkie

MARKETING & EVENTS INTERNS: Samantha Boeskool, Anna Forberg, Erin Timmis, Paige Tushman

EVENT DESIGN INTERN: Paige Tushman

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: Grace Grandelius, Sarah Helling, Natasha Samsonov BUSINESS

CEO: Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT: John Balardo

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS: Kathie Gorecki

SENIOR ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE: Andrew Kotzian

ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATES: Kate Manley, Dian Mauro, Austin Schmelzle

PUBLISHING AND SALES INTERN: Morgan West

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

WHAT MAKES OUR AS AMAZING AS YOUR KID? HEART CARE

When your child is diagnosed with a heart condition, big questions fill 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 find 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 MichMed.org/PedsCV

EDITOR’S LETTER

Like Best of Detroit and Restaurant of the Year,

Hour Detroit’s Fall Fashion is one of the signature Hour Detroit features. It’s what we are known for. And even though the runway news gets to our readers much earlier than our September issue, there’s nothing like seeing the photos in a big, glossy format. I was reminded of this earlier in the year when WDIV’s Priya Mann introduced me at a panel discussion as “the editor of Hour; it’s Detroit’s version of Vogue.” I took that as a huge compliment to our brand..

To live up to this reputation and standard, each year we try to top ourselves with the feature’s theme and location. This year’s is going to be an especially hard act to follow. So instead of thinking ahead, I decided to look back at every Fall Fashion cover we have done in our 28 years, beginning with the second issue in September 1996. Below are some of our favorites. I decided to show the covers rather than the layouts because they are like time capsules, containing a glimpse of what was happening in metro Detroit at the time. Do you have a favorite? Let me know at the email address below. And for this year’s Fall Fashion feature turn to page 34.

KATE WALSH, EDITOR KWALSH@HOUR-MEDIA.COM

From Our Readers

“Bless You Boys” (July issue)

“Beautiful memories!!!! Best Tiger team ever. [I] remember being locked in my dorm room watching the game, my door locked, with non-Detroiters banging on my door heckling me. Until Kirk [Gibson] mashed that home run. Then I ran outta my room to their locked doors screaming. Absolutely the best.”

—@coach.buffalo, Instagram

“Biking Gone International” (July issue)

“Heck yeah! Maybe I can meet my second cousin over in Windsor for a beer.”

—@rypoglow, responding to @realgreenworld, Instagram

“The Way It Was — Michigan Central Station” (July issue)

“So interesting. What a photo! Have been four times now. I learn something new every time.” @joannerobertalucia, Instagram

“Matty Matheson Brings New Menu to Detroit’s Standby” (online)

“Absolutely stoked my favorite chef is contributing to my hometown Detroit’s cooking scene.”

—@chef_kaido, Instagram

Need a treat to close out your busy workday? Plenty of metro Detroit restaurants have you covered with budgetfriendly happy hours that will lift your spirits or help you wind down. Check out some of our favorites at hourdetroit.com/happyhourspots.

Follow us online at

As home to 98 of the top 100 automotive suppliers, Michigan is the ideal location for mobility businesses. Join the state CNBC says will dominate electric vehicle and battery manufacturing by 2030 and make your mark on the future of transportation. Seize your opportunity at MICHIGANBUSINESS.ORG

EVENT CO-CHAIRS:

INSPIRING EXPLORATION. RECOGNIZING ACHIEVEMENT.

HONORARY CO-CHAIRS:

OUTSTANDING LEADER AWARD

Helen Taylor

State Director, Michigan

The Nature Conservancy

As a lifelong environmental advocate, Helen Taylor has spent more than 35 years working on Great Lakes protection, policy and conservation.

In 1996, she joined The Nature Conservancy to lead the Great Lakes Program and became the Michigan state director in 1999. Under her leadership, the team has protected 374,000 acres of diverse ecosystems and miles of rivers and Great Lakes coastline.

OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AWARD

Kisha McKee, Ed.S.

6th/8th Grade Science/STEM Teacher and Science Curriculum Coordinator

Thompson K-8 International Academy, Southfield Public Schools

As a recognized leader in education for the past 28 years, Kisha McKee believes science is everywhere and that we should encourage children at a young age to explore it. By applying this mindset in her classroom and curriculum, her goal is to create out-of-the-box thinkers and engineers in the communities she grew up in.

ROCK STAR AWARD

Dr. Jingmai O’Connor, Ph.D.

Associate Curator of Fossil Reptiles Field Museum of Natural History

You’re invited to the biggest Women Rock Science event yet! Join us for the 7th annual women-led fundraising gala to ignite curiosity in children and celebrate women in STEAM. Proceeds help bring more STEAM programming to Pre-K-12 students in under-resourced communities in Michigan. BECOME A SPONSOR OR PURCHASE TICKETS NOW and help inspire the next generation of STEAM leaders! WOMEN ROCK SCIENCE HONORS

Dr. Jingmai O’Connor, otherwise known as the punk-rock paleontologist, is a prolific scientist and researcher, awardwinning author, and a recipient of the Schuchert Award from the Paleontological Society, which honors a paleontologist under the age of 40 who demonstrates excellence and promise. She is passionate about sharing her research, which includes the evolution of flight in Dinosauria, the dinosaur-bird transition, and more, along with her love of fossils, with people from all backgrounds.

gala science.cranbrook.edu/women-rock-science

Working

to make tomorrow safer.

Tomorrow is on.

The Great Lakes are a vital source of water, life and play for all of Michigan. That’s why we’re committed to their safety and environmental protection. With the Great Lakes Tunnel Project we're taking extra precautions in the Straits, making a safe pipeline even safer. Placing Line 5 within the Great Lakes Tunnel will eliminate any risk of an anchor strike.

While the tunnel is being built, we’ve added additional safety measures—including hi-def cameras and a marine monitoring/alert system— at our 24/7 Maritimes Operation Center. Safety in the Straits is our top priority. We’re committed to keeping the Great Lakes safe for generations to come.

Learn more at enbridge.com/line5tunnel.

Up Front

EYE ON THE PRIZE

Lions coach Dan Campbell says, “I don’t see bust; I see Super Bowl.” With the moves made in the offseason and the energy during the preseason, we have to agree. p. 25

MADE IN MICHIGAN

TIM ROBINSON

The Emmywinning comedian behind Netflix’s I Think You Should Leave and Comedy Central’s Detroiters still finds himself missing Michigan “constantly”

BY JACK THOMAS | ILLUSTRATION BY RACHEL IDZERDA

LONG BEFORE the hot dog costume, before he introduced us to sloppy steaks, the Eggman game, burger-housing professors, and $1,000 Dan Flashes T-shirts, Tim Robinson was a kid who liked skateboarding and punk rock.

A favorite was Detroit ska punk band The Suicide Machines, whom he used to go see at Saint Andrew’s Hall. He also attended the Warped Tour (once at Pine Knob Music Theatre, once in the Comerica Park parking lot) and trekked out to Westland to catch heavier acts at the since-closed venues Mosquito Club and Pharaoh’s Golden Cup. He even started a band of his own with friends at Clarkston High, in which he played bass.

While he would go on to write and perform on Saturday Night Live and create Comedy Central’s Detroiters and the three-time Emmy-winning I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson, he didn’t always show an outward interest in acting.

His dad worked in construction, while his mom worked at the Chrysler training center. They were a no-cable family, but their antenna picked up CBC, which introduced young Tim to The Kids in the Hall, his first taste of sketch comedy. Later, in high school, his mom took him to see a show at Chicago’s famed The Second City. Inspired, he began taking classes at Detroit’s now-defunct Second City arm in 1999, the year before he graduated from high school. It’s where he would meet Keegan-Michael Key (before he made Key and Peele) and Sam Richardson — his now longtime bud and comedy counterpart.

He fondly recalls the early days, performing with The Second City and Hamtramck’s Planet Ant Theatre before moving to Chicago, where he debuted on The Second City Mainstage in 2010, about a year before he was

discovered by SNL, thanks to a tip from thenstaff writer John Mulaney, who had seen him perform at Montreal’s Just for Laughs festival.

Today, Robinson lives in California with his wife, Heather (an electrical engineer for Chrysler), and two children. When Hour Detroit spoke with Robinson over Zoom in May, he had returned from his I Think You Should Leave comedy tour. We discussed his early years, rise to fame, and future plans.

At the time of publication, I Think You Should Leave had not been renewed for a fourth season on Netflix. Robinson told Hour Detroit he was working on a new show called The Chair Company with longtime co-writer Zach Kanin, which HBO ordered a pilot for in April.

The Second City Detroit is where you met Keegan-Michael Key. What was your first memory of him?

When I first saw him, he was on the Mainstage. I saw him perform, and he was unbelievable. So then, when he was my teacher, it felt so cool. He felt famous then. It just felt like you’re getting taught by a famous person.

And then you ended up teaching Sam [Richardson] improv [at The Second City]. How quick did you guys become friends after that?

Really quick. I think we hit it off right away. It was a very fast friendship. We’ve been extremely tight since the beginning.

You used to sneak Sam into bars — is that right? Well, don’t get me in trouble [grins]. We’d go to Town Pump Tavern [a bar near the Fox Theatre in downtown Detroit that’s since closed]. We’d just pop in there after shows and stuff. And we would go to 7 Brothers in Hamtramck. It’s gone now. But everybody in the Detroit theater scene would hang out at this bar. It was such a great place. It was owned by this Macedonian guy named George who was just the greatest and loved having us in there.

During those days, did you have any idea that you were surrounded by people who were going to “make it” in the entertainment industry? Definitely not. It’s actually what was really great about coming up where we did. … People come to Chicago to look for talent for bigger projects. And at that time in Detroit, that didn’t happen. [Talent scouts] weren’t coming through to look for people for TV and movies; SNL didn’t come through Detroit. We were just doing it to get better. I never had a backup plan, and I have no clue what it would have been. I was just like, “This is what I’m doing right now, and this is fun, and I love this.”

Do you have any memories that stand out from your time in Chicago? It was all pretty memorable — I was there for about five years. It was great to have Sam there. And both my kids were born there.

What was it like when you first got the call from SNL?

It was so surreal. I had some friends who had auditioned, so I had some point of reference, but that doesn’t prepare you for getting there and walking into that building and going on that stage. You walk in, you see something you’ve seen on TV since you were a kid, and then you stand on that stage and you perform for those people.

It must have been crazy to come up with something every week that’s going to be the show on Saturday. It’s cool. Sometimes I miss that. I was in the cast for one season as a writer. I really loved that. That pressure from that schedule was awesome. By Sunday, you either had a good week or a bad week. In retrospect, I think at the time I was probably a wreck.

You’ve said before that your time at SNL gave you confidence. How so?

The first year was really hard. And it shook my confidence, the most anything’s ever shaken my confidence in comedy. I felt lost. And then when they took me out of the cast and made me a writer, I just worked really hard. There was less pressure, because I was like, “Well, if my stuff doesn’t get on TV, nobody knows.” When you’re writing, nobody knows who writes what. So that freedom kind of let me just write whatever I wanted. By the time I walked away from SNL, I think I left at the right time. I came out the other side feeling great.

And that’s where you met Zach Kanin [Robinson’s writing partner on I Think You Should Leave and Detroiters]. What do you think has kept you and Zach strong as writing partners after all these years? We just have a very similar sensibility. And we’re completely aligned on what we think is funny. When we’re working on something and we find something we both like, there is definitely a giddiness and a lot of laughing.

When you were at SNL, [cast member] Jason Sudeikis asked if you and Sam [Richardson] wanted to do a show together [which ended up being Detroiters]. Had you and Sam talked about doing a show about Detroit before this opportunity came about?

Definitely. Starting out in Detroit — it’s pipe dream stuff at that point, but we were like, “If we ever do anything, it’s got to be in Detroit.” And when we had the opportunity, we were lucky enough to do it.

When you were shooting Detroiters, the Michigan film tax incentives wouldn’t have been available — is that right?

I think on the pilot, we got them. And then I think when we went to series, they were already gone. It was an obstacle. But luckily, we had already shot the pilot, and the show wasn’t possible anywhere else. There are so many great people in the industry who live in metro Detroit. Our whole crew on Detroiters was so good. I think after the incentives went away, a lot of them had to move to Atlanta and stuff like that so they could work. But the whole crew was fantastic. And I think a lot of those crew members, if the incentive came back, might consider moving back.

Why has it been so important to you to continue to represent Michigan/ Detroit in your career when you didn’t necessarily have to?

It’s truly just because I love it. I’m grateful to have started doing comedy in Detroit. I constantly miss Michigan so much. My family is all still there, and my wife’s family is all still there, so we come back as much as we can.

How About Those Lions?

Tim Robinson on his home team

What was your experience as a Lions fan watching last season?

I know you and Sam [Richardson] watch a lot of the games together — is that right?

Yeah, we watch as many as we can together. It was such a fun season. When they’re down in a game, it was hard to rewire your brain to have the confidence that they’re going to come back. It was interesting not to have that feeling anymore of like “We’re gonna lose this.”

Did you ever buy into the whole “same old Lions” trope?

[That] has always annoyed me. I remember watching the Jon Kitna years and just being so excited. I’ve always had optimism. But like with the “Calvin [Johnson] rule” and all that, there’s been a lot of stuff where it just kind of seems like the cards were stacked against us or whatever. And it’s just great to see it change.

Where were you when they lost to the 49ers, when it looked like they were about to go to the Super Bowl? Do you remember your reaction at that time?

I was actually in Manhattan, and I was working on a movie. I have a friend out there; he’s from Garden City. His name’s Travis Grand, and he’s a comedian. We met up and we went to the bar to watch the game. We were so optimistic, and then that first half, I couldn’t believe it. I was like, “We’re going to the Super Bowl.” And it was upsetting. It was upsetting and sad, but I’m still happy with the season.

Any predictions for this upcoming season?

I’m not gonna jinx anything — I’m just gonna go in with the same optimism as I’ve had. But I feel great about this team and where we’re headed.

 Robinson watches Lions games with longtime friend and Detroit native Sam Richardson (left) as often as possible. Here, they pose at the Lions home opener at Ford Field last September.

BOOKS

Identifying Disinformation

As the election draws near, we delve into Barbara McQuade’s bestselling early 2024 book that takes a nonpartisan look at the history of disinformation in politics and offers steps to stop the spreading of lies

BY JENN MCKEE

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN Law School professor and TV legal analyst (NBC News and MSNBC) Barbara McQuade cites an unusual combination of influences for her career path: the Detroit Tigers and Watergate.

Her lifelong dream, as a Sterling Heights kid born in Detroit, was to play shortstop for the Tigers, but as a young girl, she was warned that this would be impossible due to her gender.

“That caused me to feel a sense of betrayal, and seemed very anti-American,” writes McQuade in her book, Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America. “You want to do something to level the playing field.”

At around the same time, when McQuade was 9 or 10, the Watergate scandal broke.

“I had always thought of the president as this exalted leader, someone we should look up to, so I was deeply offended that he would do something so awful that he’d be forced to resign,” McQuade says. “I was also intrigued by the idea that reporters had exposed the misconduct that led to his resignation. So I think all of those things motivated my interest in news media … and my interest in law, especially in public corruption cases — protecting the public, and serving that watchdog role, from people who abused their authority.”

McQuade’s already impressive résumé — Barack Obama appointed her U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan (2010-17), the first woman ever in that role — recently got another entry: bestselling author, courtesy of Attack from Within, which debuted at No. 3 on The New York Times bestseller list earlier this year.

“I wanted to reach people of intelligence and good faith, but a [lay] audience, not lawyers or national security specialists,” says McQuade, who teaches courses in criminal law, criminal procedure, national security, and data privacy at U-M. “I thought that if people can identify [disinformation] and recognize it, then they are less likely to be susceptible to it.”

The idea for the book was born in part from discussions with her students about the 2019 Mueller report, which focused on the ways Russia planted disinformation online not only to influence the 2016 election in America but to ramp up conflict within our borders. Sadly, this foreign strategy was, in some ways, in sync with the way our own political system had begun to operate.

“It used to be that parties in the primary elections would seek to curry favor with the more either conservative for Republicans, liberal for Democrats, members of their base,” McQuade says. “Then, in the general election, they’d tack back toward the middle and try to persuade swing voters, moderates, and independents to vote for them.”

In the past 25 years, however, with more and better data at their fingertips, “political strategists instead determined that it’s a better strategy to double down on your base, because if you can motivate your base to show up, that is a vote that will reliably be in your column,” McQuade says. “If you excited the moderates, the independents, you don’t know how they might vote, … so a better strategy … is firing up the base by stoking the culture wars and portraying the opponent as a demon and an existential threat to life as we know it.”

Moderates, meanwhile, have only grown more cynical about elections because the options seem so extreme, so they are more likely to vote for a thirdparty candidate or not at all.

“Although this may be good for political candidates, it’s terrible for America, because we can’t accomplish anything when we’re so divided,” McQuade says. “Political purity never achieved anything. … We’ve got big problems to solve in this country, and instead, we spin our wheels because we want to accuse the other side of all kinds of misconduct, or we want the other side to be unsuccessful. And that is the way disinformation is really harming our democracy.”

Diving deep into a project about how quickly and broadly disinformation spreads online is sobering, to say the least. But McQuade thinks efforts to combat disinformation during this election cycle are helping, and she also places hopes on the young people sitting in her classrooms.

While promoting Attack at events across the country, McQuade got the sense that to some extent, her book is preaching to the choir, “but it’s also given me an opportunity to have good discussions with people who might not share my politics but who share a love for the country and our institutions of government,” she says.

“These are smart, idealistic, hardworking, driven young people who want to make the world a better, more equitable place,” McQuade says. “They’re much more media literate than those of us who are not digital natives. The group that’s coming up next is going to be well equipped to help solve some of these problems.”

‘THE WHOLE ENCHILADA’ SPORTS

With their eyes on the Super Bowl, here’s what the Lions were up to during the offseason and where we predict they’ll be in January

BY WILL REAUME

AFTER A REMARKABLE season of biting kneecaps and making history, the Detroit Lions are out for blood following a heartbreaking NFC championship loss to the San Francisco 49ers. A productive offseason allowed coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes to shore up key contracts and adapt to a new wave of draft talent for this upcoming season.

If there was any doubt about how the Lions’ firstround pick from the University of Alabama, Terrion Arnold, would fit into the team’s hard-nosed ethos, this quote from him should clear things up: “If my mom … lined up across from me as a receiver, I would jam her into the dirt.”

Arnold could fill the spot of veteran cornerback Cameron Sutton, who was released after one season with the Lions following his arrest on a charge of domestic violence. Considered by some to be the “steal of the draft,” Arnold is expected to hit the ground running and have an immediate impact for the Lions’ defense this season. “They’re going to develop me into the man that I want to become and the player that everyone wants me to become,” Arnold said during minicamp when asked what excites him about being drafted by the Lions.

As the Lions tried to restructure a defense that struggled with pass coverage, they further beefed up their cornerback depth with second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr. out of the University of Missouri. He joins a newly revamped secondary of Carlton Davis III, Amik Robertson, and Arnold. Chemistry between rookie cornerbacks Arnold and Rakestraw already seems strong. After Arnold crashed Rakestraw’s postpractice press conference, Rakestraw had this to say about his new teammate: “Got the blood going a little bit. Got to be out there with Terrion. He’s a clown type of player, but he works extremely hard.”

Rounding out the Lions’ defensive picks is interior defender Mekhi Wingo from Louisiana State University, selected in the sixth round. His athletic 284-pound frame makes him a dangerous weapon against run offenses.

On the offensive side, two-way player Sione Vaki out of the University of Utah was a late-fourthround pick and could be slotted at either running back or safety. Sixth-rounder Christian Mahogany

is a powerful guard who allowed zero sacks during his final of three seasons at Boston College.

What do the veterans think? When Hour Detroit chatted with center Frank Ragnow in May, at an event for his Rags Remembered Foundation, he was a man of few words: “I trust Brad and Dan and just hope they come ready to work.”

One of the most important aspects of a successful season, according to Campbell, is the ability to maintain a sense of team identity.

That’s a key role for returning players like left tackle Taylor Decker, an eightyear veteran. When asked by Hour Detroit how the team has accomplished this, Decker says, “There’s no substitute for hard work. There’s no substitute for football. You can do all the speed drills you want, you can lift all the weights you want, but you still have to go out there to maintain it.”

Coming into his fourth year with the Lions, wide receiver Kalif Raymond will likely get the chance to expand his duties after Josh Reynolds’s departure. In a June 5 press conference, Campbell spoke highly of the often-overlooked utility player.

“He’s our Swiss Army knife. His versatility to play all the positions. He’s got real return ability, and he’s got speed,” Campbell said. “He’s a guy that will always have a place in our offense.”

After battling back injuries since his 2021 rookie season, defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike could have a breakout year. Campbell was pleased with his performance this spring, and following a healthy 2023 season and strong minicamp performance, Onwuzurike seems poised to take on a larger role this year.

With the sting of last year’s playoff loss still fresh, the Lions are going to come out swinging, especially with their first game against the Los Angeles Rams at home. “I want the whole enchilada!” Campbell said during minicamp when asked what he expects from this season.

The Lions have the 11th hardest schedule in the NFL (roughly the top third of all NFL teams), and five of those games will be on prime time. We predict that a solid veteran presence and productive offseason will propel the Lions to a 13-4 record and their first Super Bowl appearance.

Preseason Talk

“I don’t see bust; I see Super Bowl.”

—coach Dan Campbell on his goal for this season

“He [Campbell] knows that what could possibly hurt us is thinking we can show up week one and do it again. He’s been on us, and we’ve been on ourselves. We’re holding ourselves to a higher standard.”

—quarterback Jared Goff on managing expectations

“When we got a chance to meet the kid [Giovanni Manu], he’s a Lion. He’s built the way we want.”

—assistant general manager Ray Agnew when asked about the Lions’ decision to sign the offensive tackle from the CFL

“I don’t consider myself a cornerback; I just consider myself a defensive player. I can play anywhere on the field.”

—Terrion Arnold when asked what strengths he brings to the table

“I still don’t even feel like I got drafted. I just take it day by day and feel like a regular person. But when you put on the uniform, … I’m actually a Lion. That’s when you really feel it.”

—cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. on what it feels like to be in the NFL

“Wherever they put me on the field, I’ll be successful because at the end of the day, I’m a football player.”

—cornerback Amik Robertson about his ability to be flexible for the betterment of the team

“If you want to see as a rookie what to do, do what Kalif [Raymond] does and you’ll be just fine.”

—Jared Goff when asked what rookies can do to improve their chances of making the team

Coach Campbell (with Alex Anzalone at training camp) has a positive outlook

to her lungs, cut off her oxygen. She died in my arms. It’s one of the most horrific things that can happen to any human.”

In that moment, consumed by grief, Smilovitz seriously considered leaving Channel 4. However, “our two sons were going back to their jobs in New York, and we felt that creativity was going to help get us through this,” he says. “So I went back to my other family, and they were just spectacular.

“It’s brought me to tears many times. Channel 4 will always have a special place in my heart. Not just because of the work, but because when you have that life-altering experience and there are people there to pick you up and help you through, it’s something you can never thank anyone for enough.”

And now his work family is going through a lifealtering transition of its own … and Bernie has left the building. In one of the most talked-about Detroit media stories of the year, Smilovitz and three other on-air mainstays — reporters Paula Tutman and Mara MacDonald and Business Editor Rod Meloni — representing more than 100 years of combined service on Detroit’s NBC affiliate, accepted voluntary retirement buyouts this past spring offered by station owner Graham Media Group, along with 16 behind-the-camera employees.

Such an unprecedented mass exodus stunned viewers and our media market. Yet each of the “Fantastic (Channel) Four” seems to understand that such transition is both inevitable and unavoidable.

Signing Off, Looking Forward

WDIV’s recently retired sports anchor Bernie Smilovitz, Business Editor Rod Meloni, and reporters Paula Tutman and Mara MacDonald talk about their buyouts and future plans

BY JIM MCFARLIN

SOMETIMES IT’S BENEFICIAL — even necessary — to rely on your “second family” at work. Bernie Smilovitz knows.

WDIV’s nighttime sports anchor for nearly 40 years, the undisputed king of comedy on Detroit TV news with his “Bernie’s Bloopers” and “Weekend at Bernie’s” segments, Smilovitz needed to lean on his Local 4 News family more than ever just a year ago after what he describes as “the single worst day of my family’s life.” He’s got lowlights.

“My wife [prominent local clinical psychologist Dr. Donna Rockwell] woke me in the middle of the night,” he recalls. “She had surgery two days before and said her heart was beating 100 miles an hour. A blood clot had moved up

“The TV landscape is changing in that broadcast is eroding all over the place,” observes MacDonald, a metro Detroit native who has worked for her hometown station since 2004.

“Not just local TV, but everywhere, because everybody under 40 is using their phone to get their news in mini-increments. I could see the business model changing. But did I think I’d ever leave WDIV? I thought I would die in this newsroom with my boots on. I truly did.”

In fact, when the buyout was offered, “my immediate reaction was, ‘I’m not taking this,’” she says. “And they offered me a new three-year contract. They made it clear it was completely my choice. But my financial adviser and my accountant both said, ‘Are you kidding? Take the money!’ The final straw was my mother, who’s in her 90s. She said, ‘You can have a life beyond television. Could this be the universe’s way of telling you to consider something different for yourself?’”

For Meloni, who has covered every major bankruptcy in Detroit for the past quartercentury, the universe’s timing could not have been finer. “I’m 65, and I’ve been doing this for



Left: Retired WDIV sports anchor Bernie Smilovitz reporting at Comerica Park.

Right: Former WDIV reporters Tim Pamplin (now at WWJ) and Paula Tutman.

“I thought I would die in this newsroom with my boots on. I truly did.”

—MARA MACDONALD

43 years,” he explains. “I genuinely like what I do, but it gets to be a heavy lift after a while, you know? So my wife and I decided this contract would be the end. When they came to me with the buyout, I said, ‘You’re going to pay me to leave six months early?’ How long do you think it took me to make that call?”

Tutman, who has covered breaking news on the mean streets of Detroit for 32 years, has written numerous screenplays and invented something called the Bra-Less Bra. She has more than enough pursuits to occupy her time. “That’s what my friends tell me when they’re trying to talk me off the ledge,” she responds, laughing. Her primary concern now is how she’ll continue to interact with others.

“My husband [Southfield Fire Chief Johnny Menifee] and I have a cottage, and I was recently there by myself,” she relates. “I love people, but I do like my own company, and that concerns me. Because every single day I’ve created relationships with strangers, gotten to know them, had conversations with them. That’s not going to happen now unless I find a way to make it happen. And there are still a lot of important stories out here in Michigan.”

It’s almost unfair to ask broadcasters who’ve covered tens of thousands of stories if they have a standout, but upon reflection, some memories returned. MacDonald vividly recalls the daily anxiety of covering Detroit’s municipal bankruptcy in 2013: “Every day for months on end, people were wondering if they were going to have a pension, or even a job.”

Meloni, who grew up fascinated by the Apollo space missions, says his “pinch-me

moment” was interviewing former astronauts Chuck Yeager, Buzz Aldrin, and Jim Lovell while on assignment in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. And Smilovitz can’t forget one memorable exchange with Red Wings captain (now Executive Vice President and general manager) Steve Yzerman after the Wings clinched the Stanley Cup in 1997.

“I was interviewing him in the locker room, and he had played even though he had been hurt,” Smilovitz relates. “I asked him, ‘How can someone like you play this well at this point in your career?’ He looked at me and said, ‘Viagra.’ It was one of the great comeback lines I’ve ever heard.”

What does the future hold for these local legends? MacDonald plans to stay in Detroit. “I’m a local girl. I’m an only child. These are my people,” she says. Tutman is even more demonstrative: “You can’t crowbar my butt out of this market. I love Detroit.”

Meloni, who passed the exam to become a certified financial planner while working as a TV journalist, may transition into that profession full time … but not here. “That’s no shame on Detroit,” he explains. “This city has embraced me in ways I never dreamed possible. But my wife and I purchased a home Up North about seven years ago. That is our happy place.”

And although his sons, Zach, a successful comedy writer, and Jake, a private equity executive, both live in New York, Smilovitz has no intention of moving. “I’ve loved it here,” he says. “I mean, the people are just phenomenal. And New York, I’m an hour and 10 minutes away by plane. So to me, New York is like a suburb of Detroit city.”

Bernie Smilovitz joined WDIV in 1986. 

Paula Tutman joined the WDIV team in 1992.



Mara MacDonald joined WDIV in 2004.



Rod Meloni joined the WDIV team in 1995.

 Bernie Smilovitz and other WDIV employees at his retirement party.

Find Your Calling as

Modern prep is smoking hot; here’s where to get the look in metro Detroit p. 30 MAKING

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL

Fluffy Bucket Hat, $665, at Saint Laurent at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 947-237-3088; saintlaurent.com

Vagabond Shoemakers Dorah Tall Boot, $250, Eugenie, 1400 Van Dyke St., Detroit; 313-556-2110;

eugeniedetroit.com

TRENDS

Prada presented its fall/winter 2024-25 collection, featuring Ivy League-inspired designs, at Milan Fashion Week.

MM6 Maison Margiela Long Sleeved Shirt in White, $530, at Coup D’état, Detroit; 313-782-4480; shopcoupdetat.com

Sunglasses, $195, Eugenie, 1400 Van Dyke St., Detroit; 313-556-2110; eugeniedetroit.com

MODERN PREP

There’s nothing old-school about this traditional look BY GIUSEPPA NADROWSKI

Graphic Stripes Knit Top, $1,470, at Louis Vuitton at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-643-8930, louisvuitton.com

INSPIRED BY TIMELESS Ivy League style, this season the classic prep school look is anything but, thanks to design houses like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Dries Van Noten. This time-honored trend gets a high-fashion update for fall with cutting-edge cuts, bold colorways, and unexpected pattern play — think reimagined checks and stripes, streamlined letterman jackets, and exaggerated button-ups. Here, we’ve selected a few that make the grade.

Leather Accent Check Tweed Skirt, $3,200, at Louis Vuitton at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-643-8930, louisvuitton.com

Backpack, Price Upon Request, Prada (coming soon to Somerset Collection); prada.com

Justine Clenquet Rose Hair Clip Set, $65, at Coup D’état, Detroit; 313-782-4480; shopcoupdetat.com

Troy; 248-458-1307;

Piercing iPhone Case in Natural Smooth Leather, $625, at Balenciaga at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 947-225-2727; balenciaga.com

Multi Buckle Monk Strap Shoe, $498, at Tory Burch at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, toryburch.com

Velvet Canyon The Stranger

“The biggest goal was to get her there, and we got her there”

—LASONYA ALEXANDER

TINY PRODIGY

This kindergartener from Inkster is steps ahead of most of us

BY JULIANA LUMAJ

WHEN YOU GOT IT, you got it. And at 5 months old, Brooklyn Anderson “was just different,” recalls her mom, Lasonya Alexander.

Alexander says her 5-year-old daughter’s sassy spunk, confidence in front of the camera, and love of accessories have led to her walking down runways in Detroit and New York City and several other exciting opportunities.

It began in 2020 when Alexander created a company for the 1-year-old, the youngest of four, called Brooklyn’s Fun Accessories. Alexander started off selling hair bows before expanding the company’s offerings to products like sunglasses, lip gloss, and purses. In 2021, while she and her daughter were sitting at their vendor table at a fashion show in Detroit held by Kold Kreationz, founder Kenya Powell approached Alexander and asked if Brooklyn could model her own products down the runway in front of about 50 people.

“She loved it,” Alexander says. “She was shy for a minute, but once she got on the runway, that was that.”

Since then, Brooklyn has participated in over 15 fashion shows, including Indie Fashion’s kids show and The Personality Show. “She amazes me each time; she does something different every time,” Alexander says, adding that Brooklyn is always trying to improve her walk. “She likes to watch fashion shows of people walking on YouTube. … She would look at someone walk and just practice.”

When Brooklyn walks down the runway, she often likes to put both hands on her hips because “that’s how you do it,” she says.

However, of all the shows Brooklyn has done, strutting down the runway at New York Fashion Week in September 2023 was “a dream come true.” After submitting Brooklyn’s portfolio to Bella Bebe, a clothing company for toddlers, kids, and teens, she was chosen as one of the models and was flown out to NYC with her mother to show the Big Apple what she was made of.

“The biggest goal was to get her there, and we got her there,” Alexander says, adding it was their first time visiting the city. “I’m still on cloud nine about that right now.”

Brooklyn’s favorite part about New York Fashion Week? “The hotel,” Alexander says, laughing as Brooklyn nods in agreement. A few months later, a photo of Brooklyn on the runway at NYFW, wearing a Victorianesque red dress with sparkly tights and holding a lace umbrella, appeared on a billboard in NYC’s Times Square. Thanks to Bella Bebe, they were able to see the billboard live via Zoom. “She was screaming,” Alexander says. “She started running around the living room.”

On the business end of things, they took their purse game to the next level and officially trademarked “Hey Pretty Girl” in May 2023. The slogan, which Brooklyn came up with, appears on purses of different sizes, colors, and

styles, including a round cross-body and a tote bag. The purses are available on the company’s website, brooklynsfunaccessories.com, and at the Pink Diamond Beauty Mall in Detroit.

And coming this month is a documentary, filmed by Forever Exposure Studios, about Brooklyn’s fashion career so far called Dreams Do Come True Filming began in November 2023, and the plan is to have it premiere in a local theater.

Working full time at Pandora as a supervisor, Alexander still finds time to seek out fashionrelated opportunities for her daughter, and in May, she launched the Mini Modeling Mentor Program for children who can’t afford expensive modeling classes. Her classes are free, and in June, Brooklyn and Alexander held a personality photo shoot with about 11 kids, with the help of Forever Exposure Studios. Alexander hopes to eventually start a nonprofit organization.

“I understand the struggle when it comes to financing and trying to get your child started into fashion,” Alexander says. “It takes a lot of patience. It takes a lot of money.”

However, Brooklyn’s and Alexander’s lives aren’t all business, and her mother stresses that she’s still a kid at heart who enjoys being outside and riding her bike. And if there’s a fashion show or an outfit that Brooklyn doesn’t like, “we don’t do it.”

As Brooklyn continues her fashion journey, Alexander hopes she will one day work with the likes of Naomi Campbell and succeed in the highfashion industry. Next month, Brooklyn will attend Los Angeles Fashion Week, and they’re both “super excited.”

Five-year-old Brooklyn Anderson walks the runway at last year’s New York Fashion Week.

Anderson walked down the runway at Indie Fashion’s kids show at Little Caesars Arena.

DETROIT’S FASHION FAMILY

While the fashion industry doesn’t always have the best reputation when it comes to inclusivity and encouragement, local trendsetters are all about it

BY JULIANA LUMAJ

MONTHS HAD PASSED since the Detroit Fashion Choice Awards in February at the Garden Theater, and Kierra K. Wilson, who won Fashion Forecaster of the Year, still could not watch her acceptance speech video. “I’ve been trying,” says Wilson, a fashion designer and founder of OMG Key Da Brand. “Periodically, I’ll go back and say, ‘I’m gonna go and listen,’ and I can’t get past the first part yet.”

At the award show, Wilson, who wore a stunning orange gown designed with her signature crocodile print, gave an inspiring and emotional speech as the crowd cheered her on. In the speech, she said she could feel the presence of members of her family who are no longer with her, including an older brother whom she lost to domestic violence and a younger brother whom she lost to suicide.

In her acceptance speech, she said, “My parents aren’t here, I have siblings who aren’t here, and all these people nominated me. They didn’t have to; there’s no family obligation. … You guys were there for me, and I really appreciate that.”

Audience members proceeded to cut her off and yell, “We’re your family,” bringing a huge smile to Wilson’s face.

Fashion is one of the most competitive, exclusive, cutthroat industries in the world, with reports indicating that those who participate in the industry are 25% more likely to experience mental illness. However, in that room, full of hardworking designers hoping to win an award, the feelings of respect and happiness for one another were overwhelming, revealing a nurturing fashion community in Detroit that leaves no one behind.

In 2017, after losing several family members, Wilson craved a creative outlet and entered the fashion world as a makeup artist and model, soon meeting Tamika Walker, founder of Stan’d Funk’y Boutique, who hired her to work at her fashion shows. Once Wilson shared her story, Walker took on a protective, big sister/mentor role. “I was with her for years,” Wilson says. “I was doing the makeup for her models, being a model, and she wouldn’t let me out of her sight. … She’s very pivotal in where I am … because I could’ve gone down another path.”

In 2022, Wilson obtained her Master of Business Administration degree from Siena Heights University and took sewing classes at Sew Modest in Dearborn in January, and five months later, she debuted as a designer and owner of OMG Key Da Brand at Michigan Fashion Week in June with 23 garments. This year, Wilson missed the MFW application deadline in February due to caring for a family member. However, a few weeks prior to the event in June, MFW founder Loren Hicks reached out and said if Wilson believed her family situation was stable, she could present her collection. “They were very generous and very accommodating to me,” Wilson says. “I was very thankful to be there.”

For Hicks, her display of kindness and understanding stems from her belief that “we’re all human” and her drive to highlight local designers through MFW, which she founded in 2012. “I saw her [Wilson] as a very talented designer, and she briefly told me some things about her family, and I was like, ‘Don’t let that stop you,’” Hicks says. “My passion is to really make sure that these designers are not just doing fashion design as a hobby but really making a trajectory in their business.”

And although Detroiters have been known for their unique style for years, Hicks believes local designers are now creating a new foundation for fashion in the city that can compete against the likes of New York City and Los Angeles.



Kierra K. Wilson of OMG Key Da Brand presented her collection at this year’s Michigan Fashion Week at The Godfrey Hotel.

Michigan Fashion Week, founded by Loren Hicks in 2012, highlights local fashion designers by holding an annual showcase.

“We have the landscape for it,” Hicks says. “We don’t have too many fashion companies in Detroit, so I think this is a great time to build from the ground up.”

One of the many people helping to do so is Gretchen R. Valade, the great-great-granddaughter of Carhartt’s founder, Hamilton Carhartt, who established the Detroit-based clothing company in 1889. She remains in the family business as the director of sustainability but also has her own boutique, Eugenie, located in Detroit’s West Village. There, not only do locals have an opportunity to shop through a sustainability-focused boutique, similar to what you may find in a larger city like Chicago, but free pop-up space is also available for local and out-of-state designers to sell their products.

“Although Detroit and the fashion designers living and from here may not have all of the support from the city, state, or ‘big brands’ that other cities may have, the Detroit community has style and a unique perspective on design and what is possible,” Valade says.

Last year, the boutique held its first annual Eugenie Designer Grant competition, which will launch again this month. It awarded a designer living in Detroit $10,000 to be used toward their business. After the winner was announced, all applicants met together to celebrate.

“That evening, I noticed how supportive of each other this group was,” Valade says. “Everyone was happy to be together and to meet new people and hear about what others were doing in this space.

“There are many grassroots things happening in the city to support fashion designers, including multiple groups/brands/designers coming together to form markets or larger pop-ups.”

One of the few entities available to help locals start their fashion journey and thrive is the Detroit Fashion Community nonprofit organization. Founded in 2019 by Latrice Delgado-Macon, who has been a wardrobe stylist for Eminem and has worked in cities like Paris,



DFC provides resources to individuals including scholarships and networking opportunities through its monthly event called DFC Connects.

“They can share stories and provide wisdom of how to get in the door,” DFC co-Director Evan Hazlett says, adding that designers have been able to find photographers at these events to hire for fashion shows. “We provide opportunities and a platform for folks to kind of work hand in hand in the fashion industry.”

Through DFC, designer Kara Chaney of Lavish the Lifestyle was connected to Fox 2 Detroit, where she was able to share her designs. “It was just extraordinary to see the excitement for her to be able to be on the news, share some of her creations. It was absolutely wonderful,” Hazlett says.

“I love the fact that people come utilize us and make those connections and make their careers more than what it is and just branch off,” Delgado-Macon says. And branch off they have. When Shawna McGee, 63, was growing up on Detroit’s northwest side, she experienced a form of mentorship that led to her attending Parsons School of Design in New York City — ranked No. 1 among design schools in the country by QS World University Rankings — and working as a designer with influential companies like Anne Klein and Ralph Lauren.

When McGee was a student at Cass Technical High School, she took a class with Cledie Taylor, who ran the fashion design department. “She introduced us to the world of Europe,” McGee says. “We basically learned this from Vogue magazine, Bizarre magazine, W magazine. I learned it from that room and that class with her.”

McGee says that thanks to Taylor, her 1978 graduating class had the largest number of students to receive full-ride scholarships to Parsons. “We went to New York as a group,” McGee says. “Some of us went into fashion design, and some of us went into the commercial art department. But I had a little family from Detroit.”

McGee returned to Detroit in 2021, and in 2024, she began working on her clothing line called the S. McGee Collection again after taking a break during the pandemic. She uses her original paintings to create luxurious kimonos, scarves, and more. She also teaches fashion illustration classes at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan and at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, shaping the next generation of aspiring fashionistas.

“New York is the capital of fashion; Detroit — there’s always been talent here,” McGee says. “But now, I think there’s more and more community that is coming together to really make a statement about what Detroit fashion is and what it stands for.”

Designer and illustrator Shawna McGee, owner of the S. McGee Collection, returned to Detroit from NYC and is teaching aspiring fashionistas.

The Detroit Fashion Community nonprofit organization holds a monthly networking event called DFC Connects.

BISHOP

JESSICA VANASSCHE

PHOTOGRAPHY

MICHELLE CUPPY

DESERT

FALL/WINTER 2024 FASHION TRENDS ARE KEEPING US GROUNDED WITH SANDY TAUPES AND EARTHY

TONES

Rabanne Tank Sweater, $640; Plan C Skirt, $915; and Rabanne Ring, $390, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com ; NÜ Denmark Silver Chain Belt worn as necklace, $165, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com ; Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump, $150, at Sam Edelman, samedelman.com

Dries Van Noten Khaki Cotton Skirt, $715, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com; NÜ Denmark Tracy Buckle Cotton Top, $198, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com

Henry Beguelin Calf Hair Handbag, $755; Vintage Gold and Pearl Necklace, $595; and Rabanne Ring, $390, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com ; Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump, $150, at Sam Edelman, samedelman.com

NÜ Denmark Lyocell Belted Camel Trousers, $168, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com ; Knit Cardigan, inquire for price;

NÜ Denmark Cream Knit V Neck Top, $128; NÜ Denmark Embellished Clutch Bag, $189; NÜ Denmark Layered Chain Choker, $115; and Ted Baker Suede Camel A-Line Mini Skirt, $298, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com;

Valentino Garavani Calf Leather Knee High Boots, $1,890, at Neiman Marcus, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, thesomersetcollection.com; Rabanne Ring, $390, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com

Jimmy Choo “Avenue 50” Lizard-Embossed Leather Mule Sandals, $825, and Burberry Classic Trench Coat, $3,250, at Neiman Marcus, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, thesomersetcollection.com; Satin Gold Wrap Gown by Elliot, $249; Layered Beaded Necklace, $89; and Beaded Choker, $129, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com; Brown Suede Handbag, inquire for price, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com

Beige Crinkle Vest, $775; Waxed Crinkle Jacket, $620; Erdem Charm Necklace, $995; and Corduroy Flare Pants, inquire for details and price; and Rabanne Ring, $390, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com

Rabanne Chain Necklace, $650, and Rabanne Bell Earrings, $590, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-2580212, tenderbirmingham.com

Ecru Ribbed Knit Dress, $208, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-3996200, dolcemoda.com ; Suede Rabanne Bag, $1,750; Rabbane Ring, $390, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com

BUILD ING AND REBUILD ING

Detroit’s status as an architectural hot spot is erected atop 20th-century genius, wealth, and resolve. Here’s a look at some of the architects and artisans who laid the foundation for today’s resurgence.

BY DANA WHITE

At Kamper’s Rooftop Lounge on the 14th floor of the gloriously restored Book Tower, you can raise a glass to Louis Kamper, the Bavarian-born architect who, along with the ultrarich Book brothers, made this stretch of Washington Boulevard the “Fifth Avenue of the Midwest.” Be sure to take in the spectacular view of downtown Detroit, a tasting menu of architectural eras and styles, with skyscrapers old and new on full display. There’s the glass-sided Hudson’s site building, the city’s largest built-from-scratch development in 50 years; it tops out at just over 681 feet, second only to the central tower of the Renaissance Center. That’s a Bedrock project, and so is the Book Tower, examples of the old, the new, and the good-as-new (if not better).

Many of Detroit’s architectural gems date from 1890 to 1930, the height of Detroit’s industrial growth, when the booming real estate and auto industries created vast fortunes. Add big egos and a top architect, and you’ve got the Great Skyscraper Race of the roaring ’20s, when Detroit, Chicago, and New

York City vied for the tallest and the grandest. There were hundreds of architectural firms, big and small, ready to give their clients the grand mansions of their dreams or commercial buildings that would advertise their business prowess.

The stock market crash of 1929 put the brakes on all that, but World War II, when Detroit converted its factories to war production to become the “Arsenal of Democracy,” pulled the economy into midcentury prosperity — with whole neighborhoods leveled and lives altered along the way.

You can’t see Michigan Central from Kamper’s Rooftop Lounge, but the newly restored and reimagined station triumphs as the perfect amalgam of future and past: a 1913 Beaux-Arts stunner, designed and opened when train travel was how people got from here to there, left to rot in changing times, and then reborn by Ford Motor Co. as part of an innovation hub dedicated to inventing new ways for people to get from here to there. Indeed, this era may go down as the golden age of architectural restoration in Detroit. Cities are layers of time, after all, collections of structures we build and tear down and save and adapt according to changing trends, economies, ambitions, and dreams. Here’s a look at some of the dreamers.

From left: The Book Tower’s meticulously re-created glass skylight; its freshly scrubbed limestone exterior; Michigan Central’s BeauxArts beauty reborn; the art deco splendor of the Guardian Building.

A CITY

THAT KAHN-DO SPIRIT

What’s left of the massive Packard Plant No. 10 still stands on East Grand Boulevard. It has endured decades of neglect, graffiti, raves, demolition, and an indecisive foreign owner who bought it at a foreclosure auction in 2013. But the reinforcedconcrete skeleton still stands, a testament to the sturdy design that revolutionized industrial architecture in 1903 and catapulted architect Albert Kahn to wealth and greatness. It is only one of 20,000 buildings his firm designed around the world during his lifetime, a portfolio ranging from skyscrapers and synagogues to lighthouses and libraries — not to mention a good deal of the old University of Michigan.

As Detroit architects go, there is Albert Kahn, and there is everyone else.

Kahn’s genius was his versatility, as his graceful commercial buildings demonstrate, particularly his ethereal New Center masterpiece, the Fisher Building (though his chief architect, Joseph Nathaniel French, deserves major credit). But industrial design was his calling card.

One of eight children who emigrated from Germany to Detroit in 1881, Kahn — who was colorblind — did not attend architecture school but learned on sketching tours of Europe, studying the styles that American architecture relied on. He apprenticed in the firm of George D. Mason, an early mentor who designed the Masonic Temple. (They collaborated on the Belle Isle Conservatory and Aquarium.) Kahn paid for his brother Julius to study engineering at the University of Michigan. In 1895, they joined forces (brothers Louis and Moritz also played roles over the years). Together, they changed

history. Old factories of brick and wood were claustrophobic and prone to burning. While reinforced concrete was fireproof, it could collapse; Julius solved the problem by adding metal reinforcing bars at an angle to offset stress fractures.

Julius used the new “Kahn system” in a new Cadillac factory in Midtown, designed by Mason (and still standing), and then Packard’s 10th factory building when he joined Albert’s firm. The system allowed for larger windows, creating an airy, loftlike interior that made assembly-line work much more humane. Kahn and Kahn repeated this approach at Ford’s 1913 Highland Park factory — also a ruin now — where Ford first implemented his gravity-fed assembly line, and Ford’s sprawling River Rouge plant. The unadorned, glass-clad structures predict modern architecture (though Kahn himself despised modernism) and influenced factory design around the world. After 125 years, Albert Kahn Associates is still active, headquartered — where else? — in the Fisher Building.

SKYSCRAPER SUPERSTAR

Three of Detroit’s iconic skyscrapers — the Buhl, Penobscot, and Guardian buildings — were erected a few blocks from one another in the financial district within the space of four years. One supremely gifted architect designed them all.

Born in 1878, Wirt Rowland worked for Albert Kahn and George Mason (both of whom urged him to study architecture at Harvard University) before moving to Smith, Hinchman & Grylls in 1922. (Detroit’s oldest firm, it now does business as SmithGroup.) Rowland was known for his stately homes and graceful neoclassical commercial buildings — the Shinola Hotel is housed in one — but in the 1920s, he adopted the trendy art deco style. According to architectural historian Michael Smith, author of a book on Rowland, the Guardian Building’s unusual orange-brick exterior reflects rock formations of the Southwest, and its zigzag Pewabic and Rookwood tile patterns inside borrow from Native American rugs, which were popular at the time.

Rowland felt architecture should evoke an emotional response, and you’ll feel many things as you behold the dazzling, multihued lobby, beautifully restored and maintained through the years.

The architect himself was rather eccentric. Never married, he lived in a boardinghouse, was chauffeured around in his collection of expensive cars, and gained some renown as a singer. He wore a flowing black cape to two continents to pick out the marble for the Guardian. One of his best friends and collaborators was Italian-born sculptor Corrado Parducci, whose work adorns buildings all around Detroit. Rowland’s last project was Kirk in the Hills, a stone church in Bloomfield Hills built in the 1940s; he died before it was completed, but Parducci honored his friend by sculpting his image for the exterior.

BROTHERS ALBERT AND JULIUS KAHN

WIRT ROWLAND

BY THE BOOKS

Lucky architects will find steady, enthusiastic, and well-heeled clients. Louis Kamper found the Book brothers, and Detroit has the Washington Boulevard Historic District to show for it.

Like Albert Kahn, Kamper emigrated from Germany in the late 19th century. He worked at the legendary firm of McKim, Mead & White in New York City before coming to Detroit in 1888 and joining the firm of Scott & Scott. His first commission was the chateaulike Hecker House on Woodward Avenue (now owned by Wayne State University); commissions for fine residential homes began to pour in for Grosse Pointe and Indian Village.

In 1911, he completed a Renaissance revival home for J. Burgess Book Jr., one of three brothers who had inherited a real estate empire from their grandfather while still in their 20s. This empire included a good deal of Washington Boulevard. Thus began a fruitful collaboration that resulted in a half dozen gleaming Italian Renaissance commercial buildings, including the Book-Cadillac Hotel (now the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit), the Industrial Bank Building (now senior housing), and the Book Tower. At 38 stories, the Book Tower was the tallest building in Michigan until the Penobscot opened with 47 stories. It was in shambles when Bedrock bought and restored the structure, sparing no expense.

Kamper’s son, Paul, worked alongside him. They weren’t very good at skyscrapers; the Book Tower

was called overdesigned, a top-heavy wedding cake, complete with 12 caryatids (seminude female forms) holding up the cornice, much to the annoyance of the Catholic church across the street. But that was then. Now, the Book Tower’s multilevel atrium is a dazzling triumph. ODA, the New York-based architectural firm that performed the restoration, reconstructed the glass skylight with little but an old sketch to go by.

The Great Depression scuttled the Book brothers’ dream of constructing the tallest building in the world. The timing wasn’t good for Paul Kamper’s new hotel venture, either; he lost the property and his entire $500,000 investment. Only 33, with a new wife and baby, Paul shot himself in the chest and died. Louis Kamper passed at 91 and was buried with his family in the Rose Chapel mausoleum in Roseland Park Cemetery, which he designed in 1913. His longtime patron J. Burgess Book is interred next to him.

JIM SCOTT’S FOLLY

James Scott was no one’s idea of an upstanding citizen. This 19th-century man-about-town squandered his inherited wealth on women and gambling. He feuded freely, sued frequently, and was universally disliked by the city of Detroit. One local writer described him as a “vindictive scurrilous misanthrope.” Even the Romanesque mansion he commissioned in Midtown was designed to block the light of a neighboring property, payback for the

owner’s refusal to sell the lot to him.

Scott loved a practical joke, even from the grave. After his death in 1910, his will revealed he’d donated $500,000 to the city of Detroit to build a spectacular “James Scott Memorial Fountain” on Belle Isle, topped, of course, with a life-size statue of himself. The bequest sparked a raging debate over whether a person of such low character should be memorialized. (Then his stepson challenged the will, to no avail.) The city accepted the money and doubled it to boot.

In 1914, the commission went to Cass Gilbert of New York City, arguably the nation’s leading architect. His 60-story Woolworth Building was a Gothic Beaux-Arts skyscraper and the world’s tallest building in 1913, and he was already contracted to design the second Detroit Public Library building. He tapped East Coast sculptor Herbert Adams to carve the noble lions, waterspouting cherubs, and sweeping staircases, all out of Vermont white marble. The fountain was unveiled in 1925, but Scott did not get his life-size sculpture on top; instead, he sits a few feet away, looking glum he didn’t get his way. The fountain has had its ons and offs over the years, but today it’s back to its old burbling, geysering self, thanks to the efforts of the Belle Isle Conservancy.

As for Scott’s spiteful mansion, it was a massive, burnt-out ruin until preservationist developer Joel Landy bought it in the early 2000s and spared no expense restoring it. It is now a luxury apartment building at 81 Peterboro St., and Scott’s namesake fountain is Belle Isle’s most popular attraction.

LOUIS KAMPER

From left: Kahn’s iconic Fisher Building; Rowland’s Buhl, Penobscot, and Guardian buildings define the downtown’s art deco skyline; tile details from the Guardian’s interior; a Vermont marble lion on Cass Gilbert’s Scott Memorial Fountain on Belle Isle.

DESIGNING WOMEN

Before women in the U.S. could vote or divorce their husbands, they could cut their own path in the worlds of architecture and design.

In 1907, Emily Butterfield became the first woman licensed as an architect in Michigan. Born in Algonac in 1884 and a gifted artist, she moved to Detroit with her family as a child and attended Detroit public schools.

When she said she wanted to be an architect like her father, Wells Butterfield, her parents sent her to Syracuse University in New York, home to the first architectural school in the country to accept women. She flourished there, helping to start the sorority movement in addition to earning her degree.

Upon returning to Detroit, Butterfield entered practice with her father, first as an apprentice, then as a partner. Butterfield & Butterfield specialized in schools, homes, and churches, as both were devout Methodists: “Before we can build stately buildings, we must have stately souls,” she liked to say. The Butterfields designed two dozen churches, including Trinity United Methodist in Highland Park and First United Methodist in Farmington, innovative in that they were more like community centers than just places to pray.

Architecture was a man’s game, and Butterfield found herself walking downtown alone, seeing the men lunching in saloons and restaurants. “I was lonesome for speaking acquaintances with business women while pattering up and down the avenue at the noon hour looking for a place where a lone woman might eat,” she said. So she and other like-minded professional

women created the Detroit Woman’s Business Club in 1912, the first of its kind in the nation.

Emily took over the firm when her father ran for mayor of Farmington. Her best-known residential project is a charming storybook Tudor cottage in the Oaklands subdivision of Farmington Hills (luckily owned today by devoted preservationists).

“I am a person who makes my own path,” she wrote to a friend. “At an early age, I decided to build entirely after my own ideals of happiness and service. To some this may sound selfish, yet I am truly content with my life. … I did things my way!” She lived her later years as postmaster of Neebish Island near Sault Ste. Marie.

Butterfield no doubt crossed paths with Mary Chase Perry Stratton, co-founder of Detroit’s own Pewabic Pottery, one of the longest-running potteries in the nation. You can’t wander Detroit without coming across Pewabic tile, including at the People Mover and QLine stations, Cranbrook House & Gardens, Detroit Institute of Arts, and Detroit Public Library.

In 1906, Perry commissioned architect William Stratton to design a Tudor revival headquarters for Pewabic on East Jefferson Avenue. They later married.

Helen Eugenia Parker was arguably the first Black woman to work as an architect in Detroit. She was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and may have attended Howard University. She taught math in Little Rock before coming to Detroit in the 1930s and found work teaching young people drafting through the Works Progress Administration. On the side, she drew plans for Donald White, Michigan’s first licensed Black architect, and in the late ’30s she was associate architect for Trinity Hospital, a facility for Black patients on East Vernor Highway (it closed in 1962).

In 1903, Perry was living in Brush Park next door to Horace Caulkins, a dental supplier who developed a portable kiln for firing porcelain teeth and dentures. It worked like a charm for ceramics as well, and the two set up shop in a garage. Pewabic Pottery turned out vases and vessels in Perry’s custom iridescent glazes, and her architectural tiles became popular for adorning new buildings in the Detroit area. For the Guardian Building, she worked with Wirt Rowland, making tiles from his pencil sketches.

Today, there are many more women of color in architecture, though the percentage remains tiny. Kimberly Dowdell is a Detroit-born, Chicago-based architect who became the first Black woman to lead the American Institute of Architects last December, its 100th president. She decided to study architecture as a young girl upon seeing the old, boarded-up J.L. Hudson department store — and the equally sad people living around it. As she told the Detroit Free Press, she recalls thinking, “‘I would like to fix this building.’… I felt if I could do that, I could heal the people around it.”

THE URBAN OASIS

If Mad Men is your favorite TV show, chances are Lafayette Park is your favorite Detroit neighborhood. German modernist Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed this enclave in his spare International Style, marked by steel boxes and lots of glass. It still epitomizes midcentury design — he coined the phrase “less is more,” after all.

After World War II, the Housing Act of 1949 paid cities to pull down “slums” and replace them with middle-class housing. Lafayette Park, built in 1959, was the first development to come out of “urban renewal.”

The Detroit Free Press called the community “an urban oasis … designed to offset the magnetic attraction of the suburbs,” but along with a freeway, it came at the cost of Black Bottom, a predominantly Black neighborhood on downtown Detroit’s eastern fringes. In the 1930s, Mies van der Rohe (a name he made up) headed the Bauhaus, the legendary Berlin

EMILY BUTTERFIELD

MARY CHASE PERRY STRATTON

WILLIAM STRATTON

design school that championed simple geometric shapes and functional designs. Out went Italianate frills and classical motifs; in came steel beams and sheets of light-filled glass. In 1929, he unveiled the Barcelona Chair, one of the 20th century’s most iconic objects. Mies immigrated to Chicago to head the Illinois Institute of Technology’s architecture school and quickly began to put his “skin and bones” imprint on the Windy City’s skyline. (Even Frank Lloyd Wright, who didn’t like other architects, adored his talents.)

Using a master plan by urban planner Ludwig Hilberseimer, Mies designed The Pavilion, a stark, glass-skinned 22-story high-rise apartment building in Lafayette Park, along with two-story townhouses and one-story court houses, all air-conditioned and verdantly landscaped by Alfred Caldwell. In the 1960s, the neighborhood grew, and two more apartment buildings (Lafayette Towers East and West), a shopping center, and Chrysler Elementary School were added by Mies and other architects. Today, Lafayette Park boasts the largest collection of Mies van der Rohe structures in the world.

THE BLACK MODERNISTS

church for the Chrysler Freeway, and the congregation — 4,000 strong — moved into two old theaters.

In 1963, C.L. Franklin hired a young architect named Nathan Johnson to remodel the Oriole Theater into a gleaming new church in his signature futuristic style. New Bethel was one of 40 churches that Johnson designed for Black congregations, which now had the means to leave their storefront churches behind. The churches rose majestically from their sidewalk frontages, a testament to economical and original design.

“At one time, Black architects had only one major client: churches and maybe funeral homes,” architect Howard Sims said in 1982. “It wasn’t until the mid- to late ’60s that Black people entered the decision-making process so far as what might be built and where, and how it should look.” For example, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, designed by Sims and his partner Harold Varner and opened in 1997, takes its design cues from African culture.

MICHIGAN CENTRAL’S TIME IS NOW

It used to be that buildings were unveiled with ribbon cuttings and fancy speeches. Michigan Central Station’s grand opening this past June featured a rock concert with Detroit’s greatest musical artists, including Diana Ross and Eminem. It was a fitting Motor City tribute to the 1913 station’s 21st-century rebirth, thanks to Ford’s epic billion-dollar restoration of the 640,000-square-foot Beaux-Arts structure, performed by 3,000 dedicated craftspeople.

Johnson’s churches were a massive departure for Detroit. They evoked not medieval Europe but midcentury Jetsons, with saucerlike bodies and floating roofs as well as swooping towers that resembled the bow of a Viking ship. Inspired by the space-age coffee shops of Los Angeles, this so-called Googie style became Johnson’s trademark, and he applied it to his commercial jobs as well, most notably Stanley’s Mannia Café in Milwaukee Junction, a restaurant owned by Chinese immigrant Stanley Hong, and the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Berry Gordy’s church.

The legendary Aretha Franklin grew up in Detroit, singing in the gospel choir at the New Bethel Baptist Church, where her father, Clarence LaVaughn Franklin, was minister from 1946 to 1979. In 1961, the city knocked down the congregation’s 10-year-old

Born in Kansas, Johnson was artistically gifted, and a teacher steered him toward architecture. Unable to secure work in white firms, he moved to Detroit after meeting Donald White at a fraternity convention. He started his own firm in the mid-1950s as the civil rights era gained steam. He got some commissions from white clients, such as the Eastland Center mall, but for Johnson and other Black architects, municipal jobs were hard to come by.

It took the city’s first Black mayor to change that. Coleman Young made sure that Black firms received their fair share of jobs, and when he awarded Johnson the contract for 14 People Mover stations in the early 1980s, Johnson then engaged other Black architects in the project, including Roger Margerum, Aubrey Agee, and Sims-Varner & Associates (currently SDG Associates). When Johnson passed away in 2021 at the age of 96, Mayor Mike Duggan tweeted a tribute: “Nathan Johnson broke down barriers to establish himself as one of the nation’s leading Black architects. When discrimination left him struggling to find opportunity, he created his own.”

The biggest challenges were water damage and replacing materials and ornamentation scavenged over the decades, says Angela Wyrembelski, the preservation architect with Quinn Evans who oversaw the restoration. The firm went to heroic lengths for historical accuracy, reproducing light fixtures from photographs, re-creating plaster ornaments in polymer resin through 3D printing, and even reopening a quarry in Indiana to secure the same limestone used for carved features more than a century ago. The 18-story office tower will house tech offices as well as restaurants, public spaces, and potentially a luxury hotel. (Two rail lines were maintained, just in case light rail becomes a reality someday.)

The firm left remnants of the ruined station, including graffitied walls, “just to pause and think and reflect,” Wyrembelski says. “It was important to tell the full story — not only celebrate how grand it was in 1913 … but that also it had a really rough history.” Wyrembelski sees this restoration as part of a larger trend of repurposing ruined manufacturing buildings into elegant downtown hotels, including Marriott’s Element Detroit at the Metropolitan and The Siren Hotel in the old Wurlitzer Building. And it bodes well for other magnificent structures awaiting their next act, like the Old Wayne County Building on Randolph Street.

Besides, she adds, bringing historic buildings back to life is environmentally friendly: “Our firm mantra has always been ‘The greenest building is the one that’s already built.’”

From left: Mary Chase Perry hired architect William Stratton to design Pewabic Pottery’s new headquarters and later married him; Emily Butterfield’s charming fairy-tale cottage in Farmington Hills; Trinity Hospital, designed with the assistance of Helen Eugenia Parker; Nathan Johnson’s Bethel AME Church; the restored lobby at Michigan Central, originally designed by architects Whitney Warren and Charles D. Wetmore of New York City.

NATHAN JOHNSON

Turkel House, 1955-58

Detroit

Owners: Norman Silk and Dale Morgan

“Turkel is one of what Wright called his ‘Usonian Automatics,’” says John H. Waters, the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy’s preservation programs manager. “These were concrete-block houses. The blocks would be made custom for the building. Theoretically, the owner could build the building himself or herself. There is one house, the Pappas House outside of St. Louis, where the owners actually did construction — but Dr. Turkel, I’m quite certain, did not. It’s a particularly large house with a two-story living room that’s great for music and entertaining. The current owners have done a fantastic job of bringing this house back to life. Norm and Dale are wonderful supporters of ours. The garden they have is fantastic.”

Silk and Morgan are florists, and they like to remind people that Wright once declared the garden to be the most important “room” of any house. “We have a big Pewabic vase that’s filled with leafy branches all summer long,” Morgan says. “They’re like 8 feet tall, so they end up towering over the space. And when you look out the windows, you’re seeing big trees with big leaves. It successfully blends exterior and interior so that it becomes a cohesive experience.”

WRIGHT HERE IN METRO DETROIT

The Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy is holding its annual conference in Detroit for the first time in 18 years. Here’s why it’s back and what home tour attendees will get to see.

BY RONALD AHRENS

If Norman Silk is right, the skies and sidewalks will fill with socks Sept. 25-29 when the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy comes to Detroit for its national conference. As many as 250 people are expected for tours, talks, walks, and special sessions — and Silk forecasts a “knock-your-socks-off” event.

“We wanted our attendees to experience not only the refreshed Detroit but also to embrace the history,” says Silk, a local sponsor of the event along with his partner, Dale Morgan. In addition to being business owners — of Blossoms in Royal Oak — the men are also owners of a Frank Lloyd Wright home. They received a Wright Spirit Award at a previous conference for the five-year restoration of their 4,300-square-foot Dorothy G. Turkel House, located in Palmer Woods on an acre and a quarter of garden beds and naturalized plots.

It is one of the six homes in southeastern Michigan that conference attendees and lucky ticketed members of the public can see pre- and post-conference. (The tours filled up soon after registration opened in May, but you can still get on the wait list and also register for other conference events at savewright.org/events/annual-conference.) Tour attendees will also see works by Eliel and Eero Saarinen, Paul Rudolph, and William Kessler.

The conference is returning to metro Detroit for the first time since 2006, when it took place in Southfield. John H. Waters, the Chicagobased conservancy’s preservation programs manager, likes to remind people that Michigan is an important state in Wright’s oeuvre, ranking third nationally in quantity after Illinois and Wisconsin with more than 30 of his buildings. Last year’s conference was in Minneapolis.

“We have a sort of rotation, and it was definitely time to get back to Detroit,” Waters says. This time, though, because of changes in the city, coming here “seemed like a no-brainer.” For him, as well as many other conferees who reserved rooms at the Westin Book Cadillac hotel, it will be the first time staying downtown. Fittingly for the urban setting, conference speakers will examine topics relating to Wright’s concept of “Broadacre City,” which fundamentally concerns land use and urban planning in the age of the automobile.

“Part of the goal was to decentralize cities in what Wright saw as a positive way,” Waters says. Chicago, the home of Wright’s practice in his early professional years, was “not a particularly pleasant city.” But Wright wasn’t the only one pondering the subject. Le Corbusier would conceive his “Radiant City,” too, as part of “a larger movement to figure out how to create a livable environment for people.”

For the conferees, Wright’s Broadacre concept could prove an interesting point of comparison with the new-and-improved host city. As Morgan puts it, “Visiting the multitude of houses that we’re going to be visiting, I think they will have a keen appreciation of the sophistication of the city of Detroit.”

They’ll just have to go home without their socks.

TURKEL HOUSE PHOTO BY JAMES HAEFNER

Affleck House, 1941

Bloomfield Hills

Owner: Lawrence Technological University

The Affleck House “is one of a group of late-1930s to 1940 houses that were derived from an unbuilt design for Malcolm and Nancy Willey in Minneapolis,” says the conservancy’s Waters. “It relates to several other houses of the period — the Pew House in Madison [Wisconsin], the Sturges House in Los Angeles, Kathryn and Lloyd Lewis outside of Chicago. These are all houses that are on unusual landscapes, unusual topography, and Wright raises the living area up over a sloped topography. An important feature of this is a cantilevered balcony, and the railing of this balcony has a series of lapped boards that create the parapet. That cantilevered balcony effect is not unlike Fallingwater, which is of course built out of concrete. But it’s doing something really similar in terms of cantilevering out over a natural landscape. Gregor Affleck was a good friend of Wright’s from his youth.”

Smith House, 1949-50

Bloomfield Township

Owner: Cranbrook Educational Community

Smith House is “the last of these tighter-budget Usonians that are mostly wood with only masonry cores,” Waters says. “It’s an L-shaped Usonian, which derives very directly from Wright’s first Usonian, the Jacobs House in Madison. The Smiths had Taliesin Associated Architects, Wright’s successor firm, do a small addition on the house. But it also has quite an extensive art collection, and now it’s under the stewardship of Cranbrook.”

Palmer House, 1950

Ann Arbor

Private owner

“A triangular grid creates a lot of 60- and 100-degree angles in the walls, so the walls don’t come together at 90 degrees, and it creates very interesting transitions in space,” Waters says. He adds that Wright thought 120-degree angles — “where the wall almost curves” — were easier to maneuver around than sharper 90-degree angles. “So he used the triangle or the hexagon in a number of his later Usonians, and the Palmer House is a great example of that. When you walk around in these houses, I kind of think he’s right! The Palmers were also [personally] very close clients to Wright. [The house] was underwritten by Mary Palmer’s parents and had a decent budget, so it’s very nicely detailed with some striking cantilevers on the rear of the house, what they refer to as ‘prow,’ where I think it’s probably 60 degrees in plan and juts out at a corner to create a covered terrace.”

Goetsch-Winckler House, 1939  Okemos

Private owner

The Goetsch-Winckler House is “a part of what was planned to be a development for a number of Michigan State faculty, including Alma Goetsch and Kathrine Winckler. This was the only one that was actually built,” Waters says, noting that a site was chosen for the development, which was intended to include approximately seven houses, but things didn’t pan out. “Goetsch and Winckler had this house built on [1.7 acres]. It’s one of the early Usonian houses, as is Affleck. Despite the small size of the house, the large living room has a very spacious feeling, so he’s manipulating a small space to its full effect. For the conservancy, Goetsch-Winckler is an important house because we did briefly own it in order to save it. We purchased it and eventually put a protective preservation easement on the house. The last couple of owners have done quite a bit to try to restore it, including an extensive exterior restoration, which our group has not seen before.”

Schaberg House,1950 (design), 1958 (completed)

Okemos

Private owner

“Schaberg is a later Usonian house,” Waters says. “Wright’s Usonian houses before the war, before 1941, 1942, were definitely focused on clients with a limited budget. The postwar ones tend to be larger. Schaberg is a good example of that: It’s a larger house. For instance, the living room — most of the early Usonians are flatroofed. Schaberg has a dramatic, sloped living room roof/ceiling. It’s just a little more highend. And it also has a sensitive addition by an architect named John Howe, who was Wright’s right-hand person from the 1930s on — often called ‘the pencil in his hand.’”

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Grow Your Cannabis Knowledge

With cannabis becoming more mainstream in Michigan — and across the U.S. — more and more people are getting into the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned professional wondering how the potential rescheduling of cannabis might impact your business, an expanding operation looking for an experienced team of trimmers, or a layperson questioning whether cannabis retailers are beneficial for your community — knowledge is everything. In this issue of Hour Detroit , we have assembled knowledgeable, experienced, and highly reliable sources who are local experts in the cannabis industry. The experts in this section provide their tips and advice for navigating all things cannabis, so you can be more successful, wherever you are on your cannabis journey.

Q: What sets Lovely Ladies Who Trim apart as the premier choice for cannabis trimming and grooming?

A: Lovely Ladies Who Trim is distinguished by our expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and commitment to quality in cannabis trimming. Our team of nearly 50 skilled professionals services a clientele of over 500 in metro Detroit, Ann Arbor, Lansing, and Flint. We provide a variety of postharvest services, including dry and wet trimming, packaging, and de-leafing. We prioritize quality, sustainability, and responsible cultivating methods, ensuring that every cannabis product maintains optimal potency, flavor, and visual appeal. Our dedication and e iciency are well known, as our crew is 40% to 100% faster than typical processes, leading to higher production rates. Clients find us through referrals and our strong internet presence. Since 2018, we’ve built a reputation for being a fierce, fast, and knowledgeable team, making us the top choice for cannabis trimming. We were inspired to start this business after witnessing a family member’s battle with cancer and recognizing the potential benefits of cannabis.

Q: What are the benefits of cannabis retail businesses in a community, and how well regulated is the cannabis industry?

A: The economic benefits are the most apparent. In addition to the cannabis stores’ direct community investment and job creation, for each licensed cannabis store, the municipality receives approximately $59,000 annually from the state. This funding comes from the state’s Marihuana Regulation Fund, which is financed by the tax revenues generated from cannabis sales. This year, the Michigan Department of Treasury announced that $87 million would be going to 269 municipalities and counties from cannabis sales during the 2023 fiscal year.

The cannabis industry is one of the most highly regulated in the world. In Michigan, all owners must pass a stringent background check before being approved for licensure. All stores are required to have security cameras at all points of entry with 24-hour surveillance, an alarm system monitored by a licensed security company, and restricted access for any room where cannabis products are stored. And all products are tested for contaminants and THC potency and are put in clearly labeled, child-resistant packaging.

Canna Zoned MLS

Amanda Kilroe, general counsel cannazonedmls.com

Lovely Ladies Who Trim

Brittany Brewer, CEO 248-622-2564

lovelyladieswhotrim@gmail.com lovelyladieswhotrim.com

Q: How will the proposed federal rescheduling of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III impact Section 280E?

A: The proposed rescheduling of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III is a significant development, but it’s crucial to understand that this hasn’t been implemented yet. Even if rescheduling occurs, the IRS has not provided clear guidance on how it will a ect Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code. As a cannabis-specialized CPA, I advise clients to continue operating under the assumption that 280E still applies. The IRS commissioner has committed to clarifying tax obligations, but until then, we must adhere to current regulations. It’s important to maintain meticulous records distinguishing between medical and recreational sales, as future guidance may di erentiate between these. Remember, rescheduling alone doesn’t make cannabis federally legal, and the IRS may still enforce 280E or similar restrictions. For personalized guidance, reach out to Yeo & Yeo — we’re here to help you stay compliant and optimize your financial strategy in this evolving landscape.

Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors

Alex Wilson, Principal 989-463-6108

Mark your calendar for a season full of can’t-miss exhibitions, performances, and shows p. 65

CULTURE CONVO

Back to the Movies, or What’s Left of Them

Are lazy days at the local theater a thing of the past?

BY RYAN PATRICK HOOPER

I LOVE SKIPPING work to go to the movies — ditching responsibility, grabbing some brunch on a weekday when the crowds are slim at my favorite spot, and disappearing into the recliner of a dark matinee. I love it so much that I don’t even care if my boss reads this.

I’d argue this feeling is as good as sex, or hearing your name called from the McDonald’s counter because your Egg McMuffin is ready when you’re criminally hungover.

But that’s getting harder to do.

Not to skip work (although my daily radio show does make this difficult), but to find something actually worth my time to watch for two hours.

And even right there, another problem — why is every movie at least two hours? I feel a rush of exhilaration when I see a 90-minute run time, and I haven’t felt that rush in a long time.

And the number of solid places to watch has

been on the decline for a long time. Blame the streaming services, blame the plethora of bad content shoved down our throats … but I still place a premium on the experience of the big screen.

Maybe it’s because of where I’m from.

Detroit used to be the land of movie palaces: old performing arts theaters converted into gorgeous places to see movies that, like a lot of Detroit’s architectural lore, only exist in old black-and-white photos.

What’s left is grim. Around 1994, there were close to 8,000 movie theaters around the country. I’d brag here about how good the movies were in 1994, but it was actually a radically weak year for major releases.

Today, we’ve got about 3,000 theaters around the country. Good luck finding how many of those are in metro Detroit, but what is here feels stuck in the early 1990s.

And no spoilers here — major releases sucked this year, too!

Sure, we got Despicable Me 4, Kung Fu Panda 4, the fourth installment of the Bad Boys series with Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, and Twisters (which was admittedly fun but a nostalgic cash grab).

But if you wanted to see anything out of the mainstream, good luck.

The big-time theaters that do play independent films keep the length of runs on their screens so short that I doubt you’ll find the time to make it or even realize they landed at a theater near you, because anything that’s not coming from a major distributor doesn’t have the cash flow for that kind of promotion.

This all means that the reward of ditching life responsibilities to catch a flick just isn’t worth the risk anymore.

But there is still hope around here.

And I think it’s a hope that we really need to support if we want it to stick around.

For one, we’ve still got one of the best theaters in the country in terms of size, design, and offerings — and that’s the Detroit Film Theatre. I was so pumped to see Hour Detroit highlight its 50th anniversary and its longtime curator, Elliot Wilhelm, over the summer.

Sure, the theater tucked inside the Detroit Institute of Arts has short engagements, but it’s bringing movies here that don’t get played anywhere else in the area. Much love to the dedicated volunteers who make that place flourish.

Speaking of Twisters, I watched it at the FordWyoming drive-in movie theater in Dearborn, just outside of Detroit’s borders.

There are only about 300 drive-ins left in the country, and Ford-Wyoming is an absolute gem. You can’t rival the experience here, and yes, it’s an option even in the cooler months.

In terms of traditional fare, I’ve got to show love to a duo of Michigan-based chains in the movie business, starting with Emagine for keeping the Birmingham 8 afloat. I feel like I grew up in this theater, and I’d hate to see something of this size and feel disappear from the landscape. And then there’s MJR Theatres, which has added things like $5 movie nights on Tuesdays and heated recliners in private booths to its theaters to lure people back to the big screen.

And there’s more to look forward to: We’re so close to chilly temperatures bringing us Oscarnominated titles, which means theaters will add a more varied selection to their screens. It won’t be just Despicable Me 5

Some of it will be amazing. Some of it will be the worst thing you’ve ever seen.

Regardless, there are still some joints around here that are making the moviegoing experience worth your time.

Or, if you’re like me … your boss’s time. Which is really the best way to spend your day.



The Birmingham 8 in the heart of downtown Birmingham holds special memories for Hooper. Thanks, Emagine!



Dearborn’s Ford-Wyoming drive-in is one of about 300 still operating nationwide.

FALL ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Fill your calendar with the season's can't-miss events

BY LAUREN WETHINGTON WITH NATALIA HOLTZMAN AND JACK TURPEN

12-13

Usher: Hot on the heels of an electrifying two-year Las Vegas residency, the Grammy Awardwinning R&B superstar will perform two consecutive shows at Little Caesars Arena during his Past Present Future tour. It’s been a busy year for the 45-year-old singer and dancer, who released his ninth studio album, Coming Home, just two days before his halftime performance at the Super Bowl in February. $205+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Sept. 14

Charli XCX and Troye Sivan: English pop singer and songwriter Charli XCX will share the stage with Australian singer-songwriter and longtime collaborator Troye Sivan on Sweat, the duo’s upcoming double-headline tour. XCX’s sixth album, Brat, debuted to glowing reviews earlier this year, spawning infectious hit singles “Von Dutch” and “360.” Sivan will continue promoting his 2023 album Something to Give Each Other, which received widespread acclaim for its lead single, “Rush.” $59.50+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 10

Air: The enigmatic French electro-pop duo will celebrate the 25th anniversary of their influential 1998 debut album, Moon Safari, by performing it in its entirety for the first time ever on this extensive North American tour. The genrebending album’s inventive, minimalist sound went on to influence a new generation of electronic pop music, landing on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 best albums of the 1990s. The band will also perform a selection of standout tracks from its other albums. $54+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 19, 25, 27

La Traviata: Verdi’s beloved opera receives an upgrade in this production by director Francesca Zambello and Detroit Opera Music Director Roberto Kalb, which relocates the action to the 20th century. When Violetta (a courtesan in the original) falls head over heels for nobleman Alfredo, what kinds of obstacles will the world place in their way? $30+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org

Oct. 20

Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert: This live orchestral rendition of the Nickelodeon animated series’ iconic score is paired with a special recap of the show’s three seasons, displayed on a full-size cinema screen. The orchestra will combine Eastern and Western musical traditions to reflect the signature sound of the Avatar saga. Jeremy Zuckerman, the mastermind behind the show’s original music, has taken his time to perfectly reimagine and expand on the show’s soundtrack. This is the first opportunity an audience will have to fully immerse themselves in the world of Avatar through a live experience. $125+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Nov. 16

An Evening of Love, Laughter, and Soul: The 1970s and ’80s soul/R&B legend Jeffrey Osborne (once a member of the group L.T.D.), Grammynominated singer Lenny Williams, and Detroit-based American soul music vocal group Dramatics featuring L.J. Reynolds will perform their top hits at the Detroit Opera House, with comedian Michael Colyar as the host. $79+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org

Troye Sivan, 9/14

Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert, 10/20

Charli XCX 9/14

ART

What’s showing at our museums this season

DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS

Sept. 22, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025: The Art of Dining: Food Culture in the Islamic World

ranging from antiquity to the present day.

Sept. 28-Nov. 3: Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos 2024

The Art of Dining offers an exploration of food culture in the Islamic world that features a wide variety of materials — dishware and cookbooks in addition to paintings from the Middle East and South and Central Asia —

In Mexico (and elsewhere in Latin America), the Day of the Dead (or Día de Muertos) is a time to celebrate those who have passed away. Objects associated with those who have died are placed alongside sugar skulls, flowers, and candles on ofrenda altars, which will form the focus of this new exhibit.

CRANBROOK ART MUSEUM

Oct. 9, 2024 – Jan. 12, 2025: Toshiko Takaezu: Worlds Within

Long considered one of the finest artists of the 20th and 21st centuries to work in clay, Toshiko Takaezu, who taught at the Cranbrook Academy of Art from 1951 to 1956, is the subject of a career retrospective that will span her early years in Hawaii, where she was born, all the way to Cleveland and Princeton University, where she later taught. The exhibit will include a selection of Takaezu’s acrylics and weavings in addition to her renowned ceramics.

Oct. 26, 2024 – March 2, 2025: Subtleism: Neha Vedpathak with Agnes Martin

FILM

Sept. 14

Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse Live in Concert: The Oscarnominated Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse will be shown in concert venues around the world, accompanied by live musicians and instrumentalists. The movie features the return of Miles Morales as he reunites with Gwen Stacy to embark on a journey across the multiverse, encountering a SpiderSociety charged with safeguarding the fabric of reality. $39+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Sept. 25

William Shatner: The original Capt. James T. Kirk and awardwinning actor William Shatner is coming to Detroit for the screening of the classic Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Shatner will be onstage following the screening to share exciting behind-the-scenes stories from throughout his career. There is a VIP package available that includes a postshow photo opportunity with Shatner. $59.75+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Oct. 17

The Rocky Horror Picture Show: The longest-running theatrical release in film history is celebrating its 49th anniversary by embarking on two national tours in over 40 cities. The show will offer a meet and greet with Patricia Quinn, who starred as Magenta in the original film. The show will also include a costume contest, a performance by the local shadow cast, and a display of memorabilia and costumes from the movie. $68+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Works by the revered American minimalist painter Agnes Martin (who considered herself an abstract expressionist) will appear alongside brand-new work from the Indian-born, Detroit-based artist Neha Vedpathak, who has developed a unique technique, which Vedpathak refers to as “plucking,” for cutting an apparently endless number of incisions in painted handmade paper.

Oct. 26, 2024 – March 2, 2025: How We Make the Planet Move

The inaugural exhibition of Cranbrook’s Detroit Collection represents the initial out-

 Ilana Savdie's “Crocodile Tears” artwork will be featured at the Library Street Collective’s In an Effort to Be Held exhibit at the Shepherd.

THEATER

Sept. 17-Oct. 6

Moulin Rouge: Based on the sensational 2001 film, this 10-time Tony Award-winning musical transports audiences to 1890s Paris, where young Bohemian performers clash with wealthy, powerful aristocrats over the future of their beloved nightclub. Full of dazzling choreography, gorgeous costumes, and infectious music arranged by Tony Award winner Justin Levine, the production promises to be a glamorous, glitzy showstopper. $50+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Sept. 28

A Bronx Tale: Chazz Palminteri wrote A Bronx Tale in 1988, a powerful one-man show depicting his bruising childhood, in which he witnessed a gangland killing when he was 9 years old. The autobiographical play portrays a very harrowing time in his life and was so captivating that Palminteri received a movie offer. Palminteri starred alongside Robert De Niro in the 1993 film of the same name. $67+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Oct. 1-13

Some Like It Hot: The classic 1959 film comes to life in this Tony and Grammy Awardwinning musical. Follow two Prohibition-era jazz musicians as they evade mobster goons on a boisterous crosscountry trip that ends up being a journey of love and self-discovery. After witnessing a murder, Joe and Jerry flee Chicago and disguise themselves as female musicians, joining an all-girl band as part of the ruse. The band sets out on tour, eventually landing in Mexico, where hilarity — and love — ensues. $45+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Nov. 19-24

Mean Girls: When teenager Cady Heron relocates to a suburban Illinois town from the African wilderness, she learns high school can be even more brutal than the untamed savanna wildlife. Featuring music and choreography by an award-winning creative team, along with all the wit and heart that made the 2004 film an instant classic, Mean Girls will charm longtime fans of the movie and new audiences alike. $50+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

put of the museum’s selfadministered 2016 call to acquire art by more artists of color, women, and artists who identify as LGBTQ+ and is “designed to acknowledge the long-standing history of artists who have called Detroit home.”

LIBRARY STREET COLLECTIVE

Aug. 3-Oct. 12:

In an Effort to Be Held (venue: the Shepherd)

A group exhibition of more than 20 artists “considers the aesthetics of surface, and the processes of engaging the surface through transfer, collage, [and]

wrapping.” This is Artistic

Director Allison Glenn’s first exhibit since being appointed to her role; work by artists such as Kevin Beasley, Celeste, Bethany Collins, Ed Clark, and Shane Darwent will be featured.

Sept. 14-Oct. 16: James Benjamin Franklin solo exhibition

James Benjamin Franklin’s first solo LSC exhibition uses a collage of rugs and blankets — an emblem of domesticity — as its jumping-off point. His “organically constructed shapes and eclectic textures combine to form a practice that is untethered

by limits of the traditional canvas” and pushes “the boundaries between painting and sculpture.”

Oct. 24, 2024 – Jan. 4, 2025: A Wing and a Prayer (venue: the Shepherd)

A Wing and a Prayer, a group exhibition from the collection of Beth DeWoody curated by Laura Dvorkin, Maynard Monrow, and Kyle Doute, opens Oct. 24 at the Shepherd, the Romanesque-style church in Detroit’s Little Village recently transformed into a cultural arts center by the Library Street Collective.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY

ART DETROIT

Nov. 8, 2024 – Feb. 9, 2025: Chris Schanck solo exhibition

In collaboration with the Library Street Collective, MOCAD will present the first major Detroit exhibition for local designer Chris Schanck, whose work deviates from and resists a culture of mass production by reviving mundane materials and transforming them into objects of uncommon luxury. The local community plays a key role in Schanck’s studio, which is based in a former factory in Bangla-

town, a Detroit neighborhood with a vibrant immigrant population.

Nov. 8, 2024 – Feb. 9, 2025: Clare Gatto and Kara Güt exhibition Cranbook Academy of Art graduates Gatto and Güt will be featured in a two-person presentation this fall. Gatto uses 3D-rendering software to create and explore simulated bodies, egg sacs, and interstitial space to reconsider ideas about the body as we know it and envision the physical self beyond labels and binaries. Güt’s work investigates the way human intimacy has been

shaped by the internet, our constructed detachment from reality, and the power dynamics of the virtual.

Nov. 8, 2024 – Feb. 9, 2025: Levon Kafafian solo exhibition

The Detroit-based Armenian American artist Levon Kafafian, who works primarily with textiles, demonstrates a vested interest in both artifact and ritual, on the one hand, and, on the other, possible worlds and potential futures. Kafafian’s woven fabrics serve as portals to these other worlds infused with future ancestral practice, hybridity, magic, and collective visions.

Moulin Rouge, 9/17-10/6

Mean Girls, 11/19-24

DANCE

Nov. 2-3

Mark Morris Dance Group: The Look of Love: Acclaimed choreographer and director Mark Morris collaborates with pianist and composer Ethan Iverson to present this heartfelt tribute to prolific songwriter Burt Bacharach, whose works were performed by pop legends like Dionne Warwick, Perry Como, and Dusty Springfield. In addition to stunning original choreography, the show features a live music ensemble and vocals by star Broadway singer Marcy Harriell. $30+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org

Sept. 22

Kurtis Conner: Named one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch” in 2023, Kurtis Conner is taking his comedy on the road. Conner first gained popularity mainly through his comedic videos on the since-discontinued social media app Vine, attention he maintained by starting his YouTube channel and creating more social media content. His humor has evolved into live comedy, and he has embarked on several tours like this one. He is coming to Detroit for the Goodfellow world tour. $67+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Sept. 27

Jim Jefferies: Sydney native Jim Jefferies brings his Give ’Em What They Want tour to Detroit. His humor has been described as provocative, belief-challenging, and thought-provoking. Jefferies was honored as Stand-Up Comedian of the Year at the Just for Laughs festival in 2019. His comedy special High & Dry premiered on Netflix last year. Jefferies also hosts his own podcast, I Don’t Know About That with Jim Jefferies. $68.25+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Oct. 5

Tom Segura: The Cincinnatiborn comedian, writer, actor, and podcaster currently cohosts the Your Mom’s House podcast with his wife, Christina Pazsitzky, where the pair interview celebrity guests and discuss a revolving door of popculture topics. Segura also cohosts 2 Bears, 1 Cave, a podcast he shares with friend and fellow comic Bert Kreischer. $32.50+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Nov. 22-23

Jim Gaffigan: The comedian, actor, writer, and producer has humble roots in comedy clubs and Blockbuster Video commercials, but today he’s one of the best-known “clean” comics on the scene. Boasting three Emmy Awards and seven Grammy Award nominations, Gaffigan is best known for his monotone, deadpan observations about everyday products and experiences, including Hot Pockets, bacon, and the pitfalls of parenting. Most recently, he portrayed Edsel Kellogg III in the Jerry Seinfeld-helmed feature comedy Unfrosted. $59.75+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

A Gender-Bending Good Time

Detroit is one stop on the 50th anniversary tour of Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

BY NATALIA HOLTZMAN

“There’s nothing more tedious than watching the same thing all night long,” says Tory Dobrin, artistic director of Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, the all-male drag ballet company making its triumphant return to Detroit this fall. It will be the first U.S. stop on a 20-city international tour.

The company, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, will perform at the Detroit Opera House on Nov. 23 and 24, alongside the Detroit Opera Orchestra led by conductor Beatrice Jona Affron.

In Trockadero performances, male dancers perform roles traditionally danced by women — en pointe and in tutus, a nearly unheard-of rarity (if not a downright impossibility) in the classical ballet world.

But for half a century now, the Trocks, as they’re familiarly known, have maintained a seemingly unattainable balance between parody and humor, on the one hand, and highly skilled, precisely delineated classical technique, on the other.

“We try to have lots of different kinds of comedy; lots of different types of ballets; lots of different types of music, costuming, and personalities onstage,” Dobrin says. “We just throw the whole gamut at the audience.”

In Detroit, the Trocks will perform selections from Swan Lake, The Dying Swan, and Balanchine’s Tarantella, among others, toying with gender roles and stereotypes as they go.

In the Trocks’ version, for instance, Odette, from Swan Lake, whose role is traditionally performed by a female dancer, is depicted as a “Margaret Thatcher-like character — there’ll be no fooling with her,” Dobrin says.

Of the dancers who make up the company, Dobrin says, “Some are very short, some are huge, and some are skinny.”

That’s in stark opposition to both classical ballet and modern dance companies, which tend to hire dancers of an exclusively thin or slight build; in addition, dancers of color frequently face difficulty in finding contracts.

As a whole, Dobrin says, the Trocks represent “a very wide segment of the human race, which you don’t find so often in a ballet company.”

But the Trocks have been upending convention since the early 1970s, when the troupe was first begun.

“Believe me,” Dobrin says, “they never thought it was going to last 50 years.”

In their early years, while the Trocks found a faithful, dedicated audience, critics and staunch ballet traditionalists remained unimpressed. In the decades since, Trock dancers have only gained in technical proficiency, taking on selections from more and more difficult ballets.

But for Dobrin, the focus has always been on the audience.

“We want the audience to come expecting to have a good time, and we want them to leave having had a good time,” he says. “And also being really impressed with how incredibly good the dancing is.”

Detroit Month of Design

How it began and what to do this month

BY MEGAN ANDERLUH

LIKE THE AUTOMOBILES that made it famous, Detroit hums with ceaseless creative energy. And there’s no better month to tune in to this energy than September, when more than 100 events and experiences enliven venues across the city for the Detroit Month of Design. The festival is orchestrated by Design Core Detroit, an organization founded in 2010 by Business Leaders for Michigan in partnership with the College for Creative Studies. Kiana Wenzell, Design Core’s co-executive director, says the goal was to provide resources and a unified platform for the city’s design community.

“We know that Detroit is a global creative capital,” she says, citing specifically the region’s many contributions to the design world — in the areas of industry, advertising, fine craft, technology, engineering, the arts, and more. “But there was no organization that was unifying that activity into one platform or singular, unifying message.”

In terms of solidifying Detroit’s global design reputation, Design Core knew it was on the right track in 2015, when the organization secured the United States’ first (and still only) UNESCO City of Design designation after a yearlong application process. UNESCO — known for its World Heritage Site designation — launched the Creative Cities Network in 2004 not only to protect but also to strengthen cities whose identities center on

creativity. There are seven Creative City categories: crafts and folk art, design, film, gastronomy, literature, media arts, and music.

The annual Month of Design is another important way Design Core organizes and unifies what Wenzell calls Detroit’s “creative economy.” She adds, “The mission of the Detroit Month of Design is to connect designers with each other, with audiences, and with opportunities. Our hope is that attendees come to the festival and go away knowing something new, … and we want Detroit designers to be on the top of [buyers’] minds … for the next opportunity.”

The festival has an even broader impact on the city; Wenzell notes visitors might come to Detroit for an exhibition and “have dinner beforehand, or go have some drinks after, and then stop at this retail store and pick up a spontaneous gift.”

This year’s Month of Design theme is “Creative Currents,” paying tribute to the city’s legacy of artistry and innovation. On their website you can navigate the calendar by topic, like architecture or fashion, or by category, such as exhibitions, workshops, or open studios. Events include open studios at the Cranbrook Academy of Art and Pewabic Pottery, celebrations such as What Up Doe Fest and Art Clvb’s Detroit Art Fair, programming at Newlab at Michigan Central highlighting design innovation, a behind-the-scenes look at Carhartt, and an open house at Rossetti.

The Detroit Month of Design calendar was still being finalized as we went to press, but some event dates were posted (see below). Almost all of the programing is free. For updated listings, go to detroitmonthofdesign.org

The Albert Kahn Sonata (Sept. 6, 8 p.m.; Fisher Building, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit): A short film and piano performance celebrating the work of legendary architect Albert Kahn, composed by Michael Kropf and performed by Forrest Howell.

For the Love Of (Sept. 7, 7-8 p.m.; Cadieux Stage, 4925 Cadieux Road, Detroit): This runway show highlights three local fashion designers, each meditating on the theme of Detroit’s passion for craftmanship in their work.

The ISAIC and Carhartt Fashion Experience (Sept. 11, 4:30-6:30 p.m.; Carhartt Workshop, 5800 Cass Ave., Detroit): Get a behind-the-scenes tour and demos from the beloved workwear brand, along with shopping, food, and live music.

Eastern Market After Dark (Sept. 19, 6-11 p.m.; Eastern Market, Detroit): This Month of Design favorite brings live music, open studios, a night market, and lots of energy to the beloved Eastern Market neighborhood.

ANNUAL EVENTS

 Quinn Faylor’s gallery exhibition Super Bloom will be on display during the Detroit Month of Design at Playground Detroit on Sept. 7.

Food&Drink

HOUSE MUSIC

There’s nothing like a little local music and art to make you feel at home in your nearby watering hole p. 76

Q&A

In Conversation With

Tabitha Mason of Cornman Farms

BY MICHELLE KOBERNICK

INSTEAD OF FRANCHISING their famous Zingerman’s Deli, co-founders Ari Weinzweig and Paul Saginaw opened a “pathway to partnership” for aspiring entrepreneurs. They dreamed of a collection of unique businesses, run by passionate managing partners, under the Zingerman’s umbrella. Among their 10 unique enterprises is Cornman Farms, an events venue in Dexter run by Tabitha Mason and Kieron Hales.

Mason was previously the service steward for the Zingerman’s organization, then manager of Zingerman’s Roadhouse in Ann Arbor. Hales is a U.K.-born, world-renowned culinarian who’s cooked in 27 countries, in Michelin-starred restaurants, and for the British royal family and three U.S. presidents. Mason and Hales became managing partners of Cornman Farms in 2014, now celebrating its 10th anniversary.

The property is an expansive, 27-acre working farm on rolling green countryside. Events are housed in the historic farmhouse, in the big red barn, or on the grounds. This serene, idyllic space feels off-thegrid, yet it’s only minutes from downtown Dexter and about 10 miles from Ann Arbor.

In July, I met with Mason at Cornman Farms, where she explained the farm’s evolution, its big accomplishments, and the lessons learned. With the team’s clear vision for the future, the next decade is looking even brighter than the last.

Your celebration began in May. Will there be other events throughout the year?

Yes, we started on May 16, the anniversary of our first event, but plan to have events all year. We’ll do something next in the fall.

What is one of your greatest accomplishments?

It strikes me that in 2014, same-sex marriage wasn’t legal in Michigan. We still get calls with long pauses before asking if we perform same-sex marriages, which is heartbreaking. We work hard to inform people that anyone is welcome to get married here and that you’re important to us. It’s incredibly humbling to be part of that story, which we never take for granted.

Did any challenges come with unexpected upsides?

The pandemic hit the year we expected to be profitable, which was devastating. But our staff all chose to stay and work, which got items into our online retail store. I also worked on securing privatelabel wines, and now we feature sparkling white and rosé made in California’s Lodi region.

How do you combine your strengths to meet the needs of guests?

Our differences make us good partners. Kieron is the idea generator, with a million ideas. I’m about operations, systems, and structure. We’re both important, because without me, it could quickly become chaos. Without him, we’d still be doing the same things because I prefer to stay in my comfort zone.

Tell me about your weddings?

We do intimate elopements for two to larger parties of 75. Our packages include the venue, planning, food, service staff, photographer, officiant, flowers, and a Zingerman’s wedding cake.

What else is going on here?

There’s private dining, corporate events, fundraisers, off-site catering, and an online gift shop. We also have pop-up food events, craft cocktail classes, wine dinners, and a summer camp.

Will you do anything differently in the next 10 years?

We want to focus on smaller weddings, 40 people or less, and really get to know the couple. We know limited budgets aren’t why couples choose a smaller wedding — it’s for the unique experience. The smaller events are less weather-dependent, offer more control over the elements, and help us better serve every guest.

DINING NEWS

WHAT’S COOKING?

Metro Detroit food and beverage headlines

BY JACK THOMAS

Matty Matheson Introduces New Menu at Standby

The celebrity chef and star of FX’s The Bear joined downtown Detroit’s Standby as a partner in early July. In conjunction, he created a new menu. Hour Detroit had the chance to preview some of the new dishes at an event on July 18, at which Matheson was present. We sampled the spicy and refreshing bluefin tuna ($18), prepared in a mezcal-rhubarb aguachile, made to be scooped up in tostadas (toasted tortillas); the brick chicken ($26), served with buttery mash and pan jus; and a hefty, classily assembled bistro burger ($25).

Detroit Institute of Bagels Closes

A popular bagel shop in Detroit’s Core City closed abruptly in July after owner Ben Newman sold the business to Prince Concepts developer Philip Kafka. The news was first broken by BridgeDetroit’s Jena Brooker. As her report details, many longtime employees quit shortly after the sale, citing an unannounced and chaotic “takeover” coupled with staff members’ negative feelings about Kafka. He then fired the remaining staff members after more than half quit. At the time of publication, plans for the space following the closure of DIB had not been announced.

Coeur Named One of Wine Enthusiast’s 50 Best Wine Restaurants in the U.S.

The Ferndale fine-dining destination — which last month we named one of our 17 best new restaurants — has a lot to toast to. It’s been recognized as one of the 50 best wine restaurants in the U.S. by Wine Enthusiast in its August/September issue. The restaurant also received an Award of Excellence earlier this year from Wine Spectator, another national wine outlet.



Kieron Hales (left) and Tabitha Mason run Cornman Farms in Dexter.

DANNY PALUMBO

A RESTAURANT CAN be a lot of different things at once.

Adelina is a new downtown destination under the capacious umbrella of celebrity chef Fabio Viviani. It’s sleek and trendy — its words — and often attracts the ensuing fashionable, want-tobe-seen clientele.

Adelina can function like a classic steakhouse if diners choose — the option to simply order a filet mignon, martini, and Caesar salad stares you right in the face. It’s a place to celebrate a raucous birthday or grab a showy craft cocktail on a date. And although it positions itself as Italian-Mediterranean fusion, Adelina is at its best when it celebrates humble Italian fare.

That’s why you should order like a nonna. When I left Adelina, I couldn’t help but think of my late grandmother — the Greek one who married into an Italian family and learned how to cook like her mother-in-law. When I was a kid, our family would gather around a clothed picnic table on her porch each Sunday, the lot of us eating meatballs, sausage and peppers,

pasta, and salad from a big wooden bowl while hummingbirds frantically buzzed around plastic bird feeders. Italian polka played from an old radio that sat on the windowsill.

No, the ambiance doesn’t exactly fit (although I love the idea of my grandma ordering a drink with a smoking skull on top), but if I could take her to Adelina, I know what we’d eat, and it would be that same Sunday meal.

Surprisingly, there’s a lot to sort through in Adelina’s concise menu, but the move is to order as if it’s Sunday. Order from the heart. Order with feeling, with sensitivity.

Order the meatball.

Who among us doesn’t want to be comforted by the tenderness of a giant, softball-size mince made from Michigan Wagyu beef?

In addition to being enormous, the meatball at Adelina is wonderfully delicate. Slicing it with the edge of a fork yields a clean, soft, cakelike sliver that’s intensely savory and tender, a texture achieved through the use of ricotta cheese and only a scarce amount of breadcrumbs. It needs to be said that the red sauce at Adelina is excellent — a bright and mouth-smacking concoction that, frankly, I wish reared its head more throughout the menu. Yes, good marinara is about choice ingredients, but it’s also about proper alchemy, and the chefs at Adelina are red sauce scientists. Adelina again hits its stride with its ode to sausage and peppers. Chunks of house-made Italian sausage bloom from their casing and are carefully laid in a dish with blistered tomatoes, charred peppers, small dots of potato, red onions, balsamic vinegar, and Gorgonzola cheese sauce. The balsamic reduction adds a necessary amount of piquancy; the cheese deep funkiness. It’s much more chefly than the Sunday-style peppers and onions of my youth, but the thoughtful and updated composition resonates warmly just the same. I wish my grandmother were alive to see how far sausage and peppers has come.

Then there are some things that might not agree with her palate.

I have eaten a few hundred orders of linguine and clams in my lifetime, and Adelina’s take is the boldest yet. While a proper linguine alle vongole usually features dried red pepper flakes, Adelina’s tagliolini and clams also includes a generous spike of freshly ground black pepper. I found myself wondering if this was just a chef’s heavy hand on this particular night or if the clam dish was meant to pack so many layers of heat.

The tagliolini itself is a deviation from traditional, wider pastas like linguine or tagliatelle. The thin pasta swells and absorbs the buttery, peppery sauce. My only gripe here (and perhaps a personal one) is that I would have preferred it without the blistered tomatoes, which seemed to distract from an otherwise spicy and sumptuous dish. (They’ve since been removed from the tagliolini).

Top: The Dream of Chocolate chocolate cake with salted caramel, whipped Valrhona namelaka, and Valrhona gourmet glaze. Bottom: The zeppola Italian ricotta doughnuts with orange, sugar, chocolate sauce, and raspberry reduction.



The octopus is served with garbanzo puree, citrus, smoked paprika, and tomato concasse.

The half chicken is served with seasonal vegetables and limoncello dressing.

The casarecce with Wagyu ragù is satisfying but perhaps overly rich and creamy. The ravioli — stuffed with a creamy pea filling and coated with guanciale fat and butter — anchors the pasta menu nicely, but the gnocchetti with veal and mushrooms did little to impress. Thankfully, the gnocchetti has been revamped with homemade sausage and wild mushroom and porcini ragù.

And there lies the problem with reviewing a new restaurant — it is often a work in progress.

The chefs at Adelina continue to experiment and find their footing in the midst of rapid success. With upwards of 350 customers being turned over on a Saturday night, I get the sense that it’s a restaurant catching its breath. Adelina has room to grow, but after meeting the team, I believe they’ll find their groove sooner rather than later.

Chefs Gabriel Botezan and Marco Dalla Fontana helm Adelina’s menu, with pastry chef Gabriela Botezan overseeing the desserts. The restaurant is a reunion of sorts for the three chefs. Gabriel Botezan and Dalla Fontana worked together at the now-closed Bacco Ristorante, where they clicked instantly, becoming great friends and colleagues.

Gabriela Botezan is married to Gabriel and was, as the story goes, reluctantly pulled into Bacco’s kitchen by her husband.

Though she doesn’t receive billing on Adelina’s website in the form of a headshot and bio, Gabriela deserves high praise for her work. Everything she touches oozes with a delicate touch and personal sensibility. Her tiramisu is persuasive in texture alone — ladyfinger cookies soaked in espresso are layered with mascarpone mousse and coffee ganache, with no liquor or egg whites in her recipe. The result is something unexpectedly creamy and condensed, the type of dessert that has you hanging on to your spoon like a gleeful toddler.

A sextuplet of ricotta zeppole are perfectly light and doughy, and though they’re dusted with granulated sugar, the fine-drawn hint of orange makes a more lasting impression. A delightfully bitter chocolate sauce and a tangy raspberry reduction are proper companions to the small Italian donuts.

Gabriela craves the less saccharine European desserts. Born in Transylvania, she also spent four years in Italy working as a server, where she developed an affinity for Italy’s wide catalog of sweets. Adelina is a chance for her to re-create the desserts from her four-year stint in Venice, but also those of Romania, where subtle flavors are celebrated more than loud, sugary ones. Adelina’s pastry whiz is also responsible for its stellar focaccia. Though not as thin as a Genovesestyle focaccia, it’s still got that same crispy, crunchy outer crust you’ll find at cafés across Liguria. The bread’s accompaniments — whipped ricotta, crispy garlic, rosemary, and green olives — add a wonderful spectrum of flavor. It should

be said that Adelina also serves fresh espresso drinks, so it’s completely possible to experience a traditional Genovese breakfast — focaccia dipped directly into cappuccino — albeit in the evening.

No, Adelina won’t be open for breakfast, but there’s a lot to dream about.

There’s not a doubt in my mind that, if it chose, Adelina could serve the best chicken Parmesan in the city. I similarly yearn for Gabriela’s focaccia to bookend ribbons of mortadella and burrata cheese for a sandwich. Dalla Fontana says that lunch is simply not a possibility at the moment, as the restaurant continues to serve customers at a breakneck speed for dinner.

With the seasons, sections of the menu will rotate, giving the chefs unique opportunities to find what works. Veal limone has been replaced with a veal Milanese — a crispy, breaded cutlet served simply with lemon wedges. Sausage has stayed on the menu but is instead a summer iteration utilizing pan-seared banana peppers. Adelina intends to capitalize on each season, and its produce, to strike a balance between consistency and creativity.

In the process, perhaps a clearer identity will take shape. Admittedly, Adelina can be hard to pin down.

I have spent the better part of a week pondering the restaurant’s many personalities. Sometimes, it feels traditionally Italian. On occasion, it seems to imitate a fancy steakhouse or cocktail bar. But at its best, I have decided that Adelina is a modern redsauce joint in disguise.

The meatball, sausage and peppers, fresh bread, ravioli, and tiramisu — it could all be served alfresco in the park and I wouldn’t bat an eye. Instead, however, it’s on the ground floor of the One Campus Martius building, a 16-story, 1.3 million-square-foot facility downtown. But amid all that steel and concrete, there’s a soul in there.

I won’t go back to Adelina to enjoy the theatrics of a tableside flavor blaster or to order hamachi crudo served in the shape of a Christmas wreath. No, you can find me alone at the bar, eating a giant meatball with a glass of red wine or having a classic gin martini at 5 p.m. on a Wednesday (hint: the bartenders at Adelina make a great one).

Or maybe I’ll stumble in for a late-night tiramisu or find some comfort in the lovely focaccia on a rainy day. Adelina can meet you in many different moods.

 Adelina offers a modern and stylish setting for intimate dinners and private events.

The tiramisu is made with mascarpone mousse, espresso, soaked ladyfingers, and Valrhona coffee ganache.



Bartenders serve a variety of drinks, including dessert cocktails and a list of signature spritzes.

Arts, Beats, and Drinks

These Detroit bars are amping up the fun and culture in their spaces with music and/or art

BY MICKEY LYONS | PHOTO BY REBECCA SIMONOV

“DETROIT’S LIVING ROOM.” That’s what Roula David hopes people will find when they check out her combination bar, art gallery, coffee shop, music space, record store, and dance floor called Spot Lite. This Villages neighborhood location is one of several spaces in Detroit that seamlessly blend entertainment, arts, and drinking. More than just bars that happen to have music, places like Spot Lite and The Upright, in Milwaukee Junction, serve as a showcase for some of Detroit’s top talent in music, art, and cocktail creation.

For David, a background in both art exhibition and craft bartending finally culminated in the May 2021 opening of her east-side bar. As the founding director of Red Bull House of Art and the executive festival director of Murals in the Market, David brought multimedia experiences to Eastern Market. Visual art isn’t the only kind David cares passionately about: She and her husband, Jesse Cory, “fell in love over house music,” she says.

Spot Lite’s record shop evolved from the private collection of David and Cory and has amassed a sizable selection of vinyl representing many genres of music but focusing especially on Detroit artists. During the day, the manager of the record shop chooses favorites to play. Customers can sip wine made specially for Spot Lite in Oregon, with labels designed by Detroit artists; any of a number of craft cocktails; or a coffee from building tenant Cairo Coffee. The cocktail program is helmed by beverage director Julian Spradlin.

The walls of the industrial-style space are hung with a rotating exhibit that lasts a few months at a time, rather than the single month that many galleries dedicate to solo artists’ shows. “I like to let the pieces breathe,” David says. “These artists had [spent] so much time working on it, it shouldn’t just be up for a month.”

In building Spot Lite from the ground up, David “really wanted to have a space that combined all of the elements of the things that we love: great cock-

 Spot Lite in the Villages neighborhood serves up a variety of cocktails in an environment surrounded by music and art.

tails, great music, great sound system, a proper art gallery with the rotating show of art,” and a place to gather people together in celebration, she says. “I want … to have a conversation with art and music” in the 5,000-square-foot space, she says.

David spends a great deal of time and effort planning out her musical and visual arts collaborations. In the truest sense of the word, “it really has so much to do with curation,” she says. “If you’re very intentional about the music and art in your space, and you make it a focus of your space, everything else kind of falls in line behind it.”

Not far away, the same sentiment applies to Rebecah Hunter and Jamie Metz, co-managers of The Upright. All three women use the same word — intentionality — to describe how they approach creating an unforgettable bar environment. An intimate, moody cocktail bar downstairs from Oak & Reel restaurant, The Upright gets its name and inspiration from a piano that was initially intended to adorn the space. It was only after the space was built, according to Hunter, that they “realized it is really, really, really difficult to get a full-sized upright piano into that space and down the elevators.”

Instead of adding a piano, Hunter and Metz concentrated on building out a series of events centered on the musical heritage of Detroit. “You kind of think of [it] like a record collection,” Hunter says, “and our series represents pulling out a record from that collection, whether that’s jazz or R&B” — or disco, as in their spring/summer series. Their first series of pop-up events explored the inextricable connections between disco and the origins of Detroit’s DJs and electronic music, timed to coincide with Movement music festival. Cocktails like Le Freak, Disco Inferno, and Pan Am 757 combined modern ingredients with an ode to classic ’70s-era drinks like the martini and bubbly, brightly colored beverages.

The Upright’s current VINYL series entry is all about jazz, just in time for the Detroit Jazz Festival across town. Hunter and Metz have designed a cocktail menu that highlights Detroit’s Prohibitionera jazz roots. “We like to say ‘inspired by’ rather than ‘themed,’” Hunter says. Metz agrees. The Upright’s space “looks like a tiny little recording studio. It’s just very old-school in there, so [we’re] paying homage to the era with the space that we have. [We’re] grouping all those things together, tying in stories of the time, the era, to create an overall vibe.”

Spot Lite’s massive space hung with contemporary art and industrial, record shop-meets-dance floor scene may seem to contrast with the jewellike setting of The Upright at first glance. But bringing them together is a commitment to honoring both Detroit’s cocktail legacy and its deep musical roots, as played on vinyl. As David says, “This is so specifically made for Detroit.”

Restaurant Guide

Wayne

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; 313-831-5940. 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; 313-524-0888. 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; 313-567-6700. 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.

FEATURED

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.

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; 313-800-5600. 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-andsour 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

$

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; 313-312-1493. B,L,D Tue.-Sat. B,L Sun.

Baobab Fare

$$ EAST AFRICAN • With his New Center restaurant, Hamissi Mamba urges 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- 952-5182; 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.

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 neverfrozen, grass-fed, antibiotic-free, organic burgers. There’s beef, chicken, haddock, and vegetarian dishes — but no pork, as the restaurant is halal. There’s also a 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 well-known name of a Grosse Pointe staple from the mid-1900s. 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 woodgrilled 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.

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.

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; 313766-5728. 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.

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

FEATURED

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.

$

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, applewoodsmoked 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.

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; 313-8410122. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.

Golden Fleece

$$ GREEK • Spend a night dining in Greektown’s longeststanding 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; 313-315-3177. 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.

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.

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; 248-781-0131. 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

FEATURED

The Greek GREEK

This Greektown restaurant was formerly known as Plaka Café and was a presence on Monroe Avenue for years. 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.

$$$ 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; 313-332-0607; L Fri.-Sun., D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 

Joe Muer Seafood

ads, and sandwiches. Broden also often offers live cooking demonstrations. 6529 Woodward Ave., Ste. A, Detroit; 313-462-4184. 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.

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

2012

$$$$

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

$$

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.

Leila

$

$$ 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; 248-544-6250. 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 drive-through 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, sal-

$$$

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.

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; 313-597-7734. 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 halfchicken, and roasted sablefish. 102 E. Main St., Northville; 248-308-3057. D Tue.-Sat.

RESTAURANT LISTINGS 09.24

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

Monarch Club

Pao Detroit

$$$

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 • 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

$$

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-theslice counter next door. 1230 Library St., Detroit; 313-243-1230. L Fri.-Sun., L, D daily.

Mudgie’s Deli

$$

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; 313-637-4992; L,D Wed-Sun.

Mi Lindo San Blas

$$$

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 

Parc

$

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; 313-9612000. B Tue.-Sat. L Tue.-Wed., L,D Thu.-Sat.

Nico & Vali

FEATURED

Motor City Brewing Works

BREWERY Since 1994, this Cultural Centerbased brewery and taproom has been making handcrafted beer. It also serves mostly nontraditional pizzas on excellent, chewy crust and salads made with locally grown greens. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-8322700, ext. 1. L,D daily.

$$

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.

Norma G’s

$ CARIBBEAN • Lester Gouvia, the Trinidadian chef who brought us the famed food truck, opened a fullservice restaurant under the same name. Stop in for a plate of Chicken Pelau: a tasty blend of rice, diced chicken, squash, peppers, and golden-brown baked chicken. 14628 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-2902938. D Tue.-Sat.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 

Oak & Reel

2022

$$

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

$$$

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.

2018

$$$

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 chilé short rib. There’s also a large selection of dry-aged gourmet steaks. 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-922-7272. 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; 313-264-1997. 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; 586-7723200. 558 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-964-6800. L,D TueSun (Detroit); L Sun., D Tue.-Sun. (St. Clair Shores)

The Peterboro

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

$

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; 313-8745726. L,D daily. Not wheelchair accessible.

Portofino

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

$

$$

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.

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

RESTAURANT LISTINGS 09.24

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; 313-636-3100. 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 applewoodsmoked 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.

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; 734-4160261. 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; 313315-3077. L Sat.-Sun., D daily.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2016

Selden Standard $$$ NEW AMERICAN • What sets Selden Standard apart is that it is moving Detroit into a new era in which upperend dining with starched linen and tuxedoed waiters doesn’t hold much interest anymore. Chef Andy Hollyday, a multiple James Beard semifinalist, does farm-totable 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

FEATURED

Roman Village ITALIAN

The Rugiero family has been serving authentic Italian cuisine at this Dearborn favorite since 1964. Over the years, they’ve launched four additional restaurants: Antonio’s Cucina Italiana in Canton, Dearborn Heights, and Farmington Hills and Antonio’s Piccolo Ristorante in Livonia. 9924 Dix Ave., Dearborn; 313-842-2100. L,D daily.

$$

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; 313-974-6661. 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 longlasting 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; 313962-9828. 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 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; 313-241-5719. 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, year-round 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 thincrust 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.

Symposia

$$$$ MEDITERRANEAN • Located in the heart of downtown Detroit inside the Atheneum Suite Hotel, Symposia serves Mediterranean cuisine inspired by Greece, Italy, Spain, and more. A signature can’t-miss dish is the Spanish octopus with romesco, Yukon potato, and chorizo Ibérico. 1000 Brush St., Detroit; 313-962-9366. D Wed.-Sun.

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-dininginspired 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.

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; 313732-9463. 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.

Vigilante Kitchen + Bar

$$$ MIDWESTERN-ASIAN FUSION • Housed in the former Smith & Co. space, the menu offers a variety of baos, bowls, salads, and desserts, with designated vegetarian and halal menus, and a zero-proof cocktail selection. A unique concept from executive chef Aaron Cozadd, Vigilante Kitchen + Bar employs industry workers dealing with addiction, providing them with recovery resources while still allowing them to advance their culinary skills. 644 Selden St., Detroit; 313-638-1695. D Wed.-Sun.

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.

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; 313-962-7711. D Tue.-Sat.

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 $$

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, fromscratch 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. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield; 248-865-9300. D daily.

Anita’s Kitchen $

LEBANESE • With pita pizzas and lamb chops, the Lebanese food here is some of the best around. And there’s vegetarian and gluten-free fare, too. Healthy, nutritious, and delicious. See website for locations; anitaskitchen.com

Bella Piatti

$$ ITALIAN • The location right across from the Townsend Hotel has inspired a number of visiting celebrities, professional athletes, and film crews who stay there to check out the Italian fare at this restaurant. The menu of such dishes as Gemelli pasta with fresh tomato sauce; salmon baked with spinach, kalamata olives, white wine, and tomatoes; and tagliatelle Bolognese stands on its own. It’s one of our true favorites in the area in terms of Italian restaurants. 167 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248-494-7110. D Tue.-Sat.

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; 248-642-2355. 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 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; 248-594-0984. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2003

Café Cortina

$$$

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 $$

FEATURED

Diamond’s Steak & Seafood

STEAKHOUSE

This Howell restaurant is the perfect location for rib eye, fresh gulf shrimp, or a classic cheeseburger. Plus, weekends boast a buffetstyle brunch. 101 W. Grand River Ave., Howell; 517-548-5500. L,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.

Como’s $$ NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale favorite reopened in May 2019 under the ownership of Peas & Carrots Hospitality with a trendier, fresher look. The warm, homey feel is still intact, but it’s ditched the old menu for — among other things — chef Zack Sklar’s square, deep-dish, Detroit-style pizza that’s leavened from a sourdough starter as opposed to commercial yeast. 22812 Woodward Ave., Unit 100., Ferndale; 248-677-4439. 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.

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

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.

$$$

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

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.

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

Ingredients

Blueberry Infused Vodka

58 ounces vodka

58 ounces blueberries

Basil Syrup

7 ounces sugar

8 ounces water

10% blanched basil, by weight

Blueberry Basil Smash

2 ounces blueberry infused vodka

3/4 ounce basil syrup

3/4 ounce lime juice

Directions

Blueberry Infused Vodka

1. Cut blueberries in half.

2. Combine blueberries and vodka in an airtight container and cover. Let infuse for 48 hours at room temperature.

3. Strain and store in a sealed container at room temperature

Basil Syrup

1. Combine sugar and water in a pot. Heat on low to medium heat until the sugar is thoroughly dissolved. Remove the pot from the heat.

2. Take the weight of the finished simple syrup in grams. Multiply this number by 0.1 (10%) and measure that amount in basil. Using the leaves of the basil only, add basil into a pot of boiling water for 1-2 seconds, or until the color turns bright green.

3. Immediately remove the basil from the heat and put into an ice bath. Remove and squeeze out any excess water.

4. In a blender, combine the simple syrup with the blanched basil and blend on high until the basil and syrup are fully incorporated.

5. Strain through a chinois, then a milk bag.

Blueberry Basil Smash

1. Combine blueberry infused vodka, basil syrup, and lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously.

2. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice cubes and garnish with a basil leaf. Enjoy!

RECIPE

SECOND BEST’S

BLUEBERRY BASIL SMASH

PHOTO BY REBECCA SIMONOV

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

It’s A Matter of Taste

$

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 Californiastyle tacos on soft tortillas, including lime-grilled chicken, carnitas, and marinated pork, as well as slow-roasted pork tortas, and guacamole. 22828 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-850-8060. L,D daily.

$$$

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 Parktrained 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 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 Steet 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 • 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.

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 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.

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 multicourse tasting option, as well as a daily listing of changing items that never disappoint. It’s a fine dining experience that is certainly worth a visit. 23825 John R Road, Hazel Park; 248-398-4300. D Tue.-Sat.

Mad Hatter Bistro, Bar & Tea Room $$

ECLECTIC AMERICAN • The whimsical setting inspired by Alice in Wonderland welcomes far more than the tea sipping set with burgers and sandwiches. There are also pastries, of course. 185 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-540-0000. L Tue.Fri, D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Tea by reservation. Lower level not wheelchair accessible.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2023

Madam

$$$

NEW AMERICAN • Since opening in 2021, Madam has carved its niche with its global take on farm-totable 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.

FEATURED

Mare

Mediterranean SEAFOOD

Inspired by restaurants in Sicily where the catch of the day is the basis of dinner, this sophisticated restaurant from Nino Cutraro and his partner offers the freshest seafood flown in from the Mediterranean several times a week. You select the type of fish you want from the market in front of the open kitchen and how you want it prepared (acqua pazza, salt baked, grilled, or pan fried). Served tableside in glorious fashion, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. 115 Willits St., Birmingham; 248-940-5525. D Tue.-Sat., 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 popMexican 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; 248-689-2332. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

The Morrie

$$ NEW AMERICAN • Music and munchies can be a great combination when served in the right proportions. Such offerings as the smoked chicken wings and Detroit style pizza appeal to a wide demographic. The rock ’n’ roll-themed eatery also brought its much-loved American dishes and cocktails to Birmingham in 2019. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248216-1112. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 260 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-940-3260. D Fri.-Sat.

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.

Ocean Prime

$

Pinky’s Rooftop

$$$$

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 tried-and-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 beer-hall 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; 248-808-6244. 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; 248-644-3122. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

$$

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; 248-865-0500. L,D Mon.-Sat.

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; 248-6512266. 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.

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; 248594-4200. 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, 248-369-3360. D Mon.-Sun.

Take Sushi

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; 248-7925241. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-723-1000. 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 crispcrusted pizzas from the wood-burning oven. And definitely check out the mac and cheese. There’s also a delicious kid’s menu for any youngsters in your party. 18 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-625-5660. D Mon.-Sun.

Vinsetta Garage

$$

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; 248-652-7800. 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

$$

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

FEATURED

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.

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; 586268-3200. 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; 586-473-0700. 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; 586-7395400. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

$$

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.

$

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.

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; 586-773-3279. L,D daily.

Macomb

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, fromscratch cooking. Menus differ slightly between locations, but the constant is fresh, housemade pastas — handcrafted by the trinity of “pasta

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

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; 586-883-7526. L,D Tue.-Sat., BR Sun.

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; 586-5329669. 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; 586-731-3900. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Testa Barra

$$

ITALIAN • The newest spot from talented chef and restaurateur Jeffrey Baldwin and his wife, RoseMarie, offers modern Italian fare in a lively, upbeat setting. Pastas are made in-house. 48824 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb Township; 586-434-0100. D Tue.-Sat.

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; 586-949-1470. 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-Colaroasted 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; 734-9984746. D Tue.-Sun. 545 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-547-6699. D Thu.-Sun.

FEATURED

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.

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; 734-475-0470. 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.

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 plantbased counterpart the Korean fried tofu. 415 N. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor, 734-275-0099. L and D Wed.-Mon.

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, freshsqueezed juices, and craft mocktails. Choose from one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in the Detroit area. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-6621111. 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 duck-fat fried chicken. But the star at Slurping Turtle is the noodle (Yagihashi’s “soul food”), which is made inhouse daily on a machine imported from Japan. 608 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-887-6868. L,D daily.

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 highend mixed-use 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; 248737-8282. 2222 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor; 734-9715168. 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.

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Robinson-Holmes, Channing

Sheena, Jenna

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Bourjaily, Ryan

Varlamos, Stavroula

SUPER LAWYERS

Lynwood, Katie

Hart, Erika

Haines, William Hairston, Pete

Kallabat, Mallory

King-Penner, Kelli

Leo, Cassandra Lucido, Nina

Massaro, Julia Maul, Morgan Rambus, Chris

Santamarina, Dawn

Rickard, Lori-Ann

Tucker, Rachel Velardo, Armand

DAWN M. SCHLUTER

www.schluterhugheslaw.com

RISING STARS

Babnik, Jr., Andrew Beer, Jonathan

Boroja, Daniel Burbar, Danial

Clough, Haley Colonna, Sean

Dakroub, Hameed Das, David

Zak, Robert FAMILY LAW

SUPER LAWYERS

Alter, Denise Bank, Mark

Brinkman, Monica

MONICA BRINKMAN

MONICA BRINKMAN, P.C.

www.elderbrinkmanlaw.com

Duffy, Jill

RANDALL J. CHIOINI CHIOINI GROUP, PLLC www.chioinigroup.com

Germain, Dennis

Goldner, Ruth

DENISE D. COULING

BanfieldCouling.com

Heath, Symantha

SYMANTHA HEATH ELKOURI HEATH, PLC www.elkouriheath.com

Middleditch Wigod, Keri

Miller, Delia

JORIN G. RUBIN RUBIN FRAMPTON www.rubinframpton.com

SHELLEY A. KESTER

WILSON KESTER THE EMPOWERED DIVORCE SOURCE www.wilsonkester.com Kitchen-Troop, Elizabeth

Raimi, Diana

ANTHEA E. PAPISTA www.papistalaw.com

MICHAEL A. ROBBINS LAW OFFICES OF MICHAEL A. ROBBINS, PLLC www.michaelarobbins.com

Stypula, Elaine

ELAINE STYPULA LAW OFFICES OF ELAINE STYPULA www.oaklandcountyfamilylawyer.com

D.A.W.N. – Divorce Attorneys For Women

Caplan & Associates, P.C., is focused on protecting women’s rights. Known as D.A.W.N. – Divorce Attorneys for Women, their expertise and passion lie in representing women in all family law matters. At D.A.W.N., customer service is top priority. Every case is handled with compassion and respect. The attorneys engage deeply with their clients to fully understand their concerns. They educate, inform and empower clients throughout to achieving their clients’ goals. D.A.W.N. provides the knowledge and skill expected from 87 combined years of experience and thousands of successfully completed cases. Matthew Caplan, David Caplan and their associates competently handle divorce, custody, parenting

Tooman, Rebecca Urbani, II, Anthony

Warshaw, Eileen

Weiner, Stewart

RISING STARS

Boutell, Kristiana

Curcio, James

Dakroub, Joe

Jacques, Derek Kijewski, Kathryn

KATHERINE A. KRYSAK FRAMPTON RUBIN FRAMPTON www.rubinframpton.com

Medley, Angela Mohiedeen, Neda Motley, Matthew

Nunley, Royce

Richards, Abigail

Rurka, Leah

Fowler, Ryan

Harb, John

Simon, Stephanie Van Den Heuvel, Justin

Zurawski, Casey

GENERAL LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Condit, Michael

Sevanthinathan, Pratheep

RISING STARS

Serra, Lisa Shimek, Kory

Jajou, Dani Kennison, Matthew McInnis, Andrew Opalewski, Jr., Lawrence

600 S. Adams Road, Suite 300 Birmingham, MI 48009 (248) 799-9100 rubinframpton.com

Rubin Frampton provides a personalized approach to client representation. Jorin G. Rubin and Katherine A. Krysak Frampton are experienced, proven fighters who aggressively champion the rights of their clients. Together, Jorin and Katherine collectively offer 33 years of experience in family and criminal law. Their practice offers experienced counsel in family law, including divorce, child custody, child support, parenting time, spousal support, change in domicile, postjudgment issues and personal protection orders. Jorin has extensive litigation experience as a former prosecutor, focusing her criminal defense practice on criminal forfeiture matters. The attorneys at Rubin Frampton have an understanding of when to litigate and when to settle an action. Their compassionate yet aggressive representation achieves the best result for clients.

Ratliff, Adam Swindlehurst, Cara Wilson, Ariel

IMMIGRATION

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Hobballah, Farah Morris Diaz, Tania

MILITARY/VETERANS LAW

RISING STARS Drop, Bridget

Jorin G. Rubin Super Lawyers Honoree

Katherine A. Krysak Frampton Rising Stars Honoree

Jorin G. Rubin

MICHIGAN TOP 50 WOMEN

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Ajrouch, Ali

Marko, Jon

Gursten, Steven Hamo, George

Harrington, Nate

Anthony, Jarrod

Bennett, Larry

Dedvukaj,

JOSEPH

Johnson, Ven

Neubauer, Clifford

Kyriakopoulos, Nicholas

MICHAEL T. RATTON RATTON LAW GROUP, PC www.rattonlaw.com

Tiedt, Jeremy

Rowady, Michael

Saperstein, Andrew Schefman, Bryan

BRYAN SCHEFMAN www.schefmanlaw.com

Shafer, David Sigal, Vadim

Sinas, Thomas Sisson, Mark

THOMAS J. WUORI

RINGSMUTHWUORI PLLC www.rwinjurylaw.com

RISING STARS

Abro, Christina

Alkhalidi, Ameer

Azakir, Hani

Bahri, Ronita Barkey, Jordan

Burnstein, Stephanie Ewald, Jordan Farhat, Abdullah Farhat, Bill Gilders, Ross Haidar, Kassem Hamo, Alex Haque, Fahd Hoff, Dustin Hougaboom, Leah Jones, Greg Jones, Jordan Kajy, Lawrence Khalil, Mohammed Laurila, Andrew

Mourad, Jamil Mukerji, Jay Post, Izak Rizzo, Ryanne Ruby, Drew Safir, Gary Sarti, Vincenzo Schlinker, Loryn

Sinkovich, Madeline Spiridon, Elizabeth

Waldman, Alexander

SUPER

Dragovic, Andy

Hoffer, Stephanie

EUEL W. KINSEY, JR. THURSWELL LAW

www.thurswell.com

Mafrice, Frank

Paskel, Clifford

Sheremet, Aubri

Thurswell, Gerald

GERALD THURSWELL THURSWELL LAW

www.thurswell.com

Weidenfeller, Scott

RISING STARS

Kosmowski, Daniel

McCullough, Michael

McKenna, Elyse

Yaldo Sandiha, Fallon

Zavier, Michael

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Tyler, B.A.

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

REAL ESTATE

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS Alexander, Evan

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Ficklin, Bobby

Mansour, Randall

Zelmanski, Claire TAX

SUPER LAWYERS

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS Bender, Jacob

SHERRI L. BONO

JAMES W. CHRYSSIKOS

LINDSAY N. DANGL

DANI

DETROIT MONTH OF DESIGN

Sept. 1-30

detroitmonthofdesign.org

Detroit Month of Design is a citywide collaboration of creativity that gathers designers, consumers, residents, and the greater community to celebrate Detroit’s role as a national and global design capital. Detroit Month of Design returns for its 14th annual edition Sept. 1-30, 2024!

Every September, partners across Detroit — from emerging studios to established companies and educational institutions — come together to show off their latest works and ideas. These crossdisciplinary events take place in all corners of the city, highlighting the talent and innovation that make Detroit a UNESCO City of Design.

THE GOLF SOCIAL AT TOPGOLF: BENEFITING WINNING FUTURES

Sept. 25, 2 to 6 p.m.

winningfutures.org/events/golf-classic Join Winning Futures on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Topgolf in Auburn Hills for The Golf Social, an exciting event designed for golfers of all skill levels, including those who have never picked up a club. Event co-chairs Frank Orsini, executive vice president at Lear and president of Lear’s seating business; Brandon Leslie, vice president of industrial for Barton Malow; and Tony Tomczak, vice president of electric sales and marketing for DTE Energy, will be in attendance. This fun-filled afternoon will feature a VIP reception, a tournament, free play, a silent auction, dinner, and numerous networking opportunities. All proceeds from the event will directly support metro Detroit students enrolled in Winning Futures’ 2024-25 Workforce Prep program. Tickets for The Golf Social are available through sponsorships. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a great day of golf while supporting a worthy cause.

Charity Calendar

CELEBRITY LIP SYNC BATTLE

Sept. 12, 5 to 11 p.m.

foundationforfamilies.org/events

New Day Foundation for Families is hosting its Celebrity Lip Sync Battle at MotorCity Casino Hotel on Thursday, Sept. 12, to benefit families facing cancer. Guests are invited to cheer for local sports, television, and radio personalities as they take the stage, showcasing their best moves to battle it out for a family facing cancer. Celebrity judges will critique the performances, and the audience will vote for the winners. This year’s new celebrities include Keith Famie, chef, Survivor contestant, and producer; Grant Long, former Piston; Lomas Brown, former Lion; Mike Morse, attorney; and Dannie Rogers, Lions sideline reporter. Join the show and help support local families facing cancer.

2024 GREENS ’N’ GRAPES GOLF AND WINE EVENT

Oct. 4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. migreengrape.com

The 2024 Greens ’n’ Grapes golf and wine event at Saint John’s Resort combines a competitive golf tournament environment throughout the day with world-class wine and craft brewing offerings during the evening. Start your day at the brand-new golf course The Cardinal (opened May 2024) with a fourperson golf scramble and 18 individual experiences centered on wineries, craft brewers, and some of the best local foods available.

In the evening, transition from the course to an exclusive “grand tasting” event featuring wine samples from local, national, and international wineries paired with chef-prepared hors d’oeuvres and small-plate offerings from Five Steakhouse. The evening event also features award-winning musical artists, including the Walter Blanding jazz trio and Northville Folk.

This year’s event proudly supports both the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Ann Arbor and the Northville Educational Foundation. Tickets are available for purchase at migreengrape. com

KIDSGALA GOLF INVITATIONAL 2024

Sept. 16, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

kidsgala.org

The 2024 KIDSgala Invitational will take place on Sept. 16 at Oakhurst Golf and Country Club. The annual golf invitational benefits the KIDSgala foundation. KIDSgala provides a gifted celebration to children who have experienced or are in the midst of a life-altering event. KIDSgala is dedicated to hosting celebrations that will individually celebrate each child’s life achievements.

Join the foundation for a great day of fun, food, and golf.

UCFS-CALC’S HAVANA NIGHTS TIMELESS HOPE GALA

Sept. 26, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.

As the charity’s largest fundraising event of the year, the Havana Nights Timeless Hope Gala raises proceeds to support United Community Family Services-Chaldean American Ladies of Charity’s programs and services that work to provide guidance and support to the underserved in the community to help them achieve selfsufficiency. Guests will enjoy dinner, a premium open bar, exclusive auction items, raffles, music, entertainment, and more!

Charity Calendar

AIHFS’S 3RD ANNUAL CHARITY GALA

Oct. 4, 6 to 10:30 p.m.

aihfs.org/charity-gala

AIHFS’s third annual Charity Gala is poised to be a catalyst for positive change in Michigan, improving the quality of life and health care access for diverse communities. Through this event, attendees will gain a heightened awareness of the unique challenges faced by Native American communities and underserved populations in urban areas while also drawing inspiration from the innovative solutions shared by the keynote panel about the urban Indian experience. The proceeds from the gala will provide vital financial support for AIHFS, facilitating the expansion of health care services, programs, and resources, directly benefiting AI/AN individuals and families as well as other underserved populations in metro Detroit.

2024 ART & APPLES FESTIVAL

Sept. 6-9, various times pccart.org/festival

Since 1965, the Art & Apples Festival has transformed the Rochester Municipal Park into one of the nation’s top fine art fairs. Patrons are invited to experience everything the festival has to offer, from the artwork of 200-plus talented artists and the sights and sounds of the main stage to fresh apple treats and mouthwatering food vendors found around the park, plus creative experiences in the Kids Art Zone and Creation Station.

The Art & Apples Festival is a program of Paint Creek Center for the Arts — a regional nonprofit art center located in downtown Rochester — and is the arts organization’s annual fundraiser.

PCCA works year-round to advance its mission to celebrate and support creativity in our community by providing opportunities for all to learn, create, experience, and appreciate the arts.

DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OPENING NIGHT GALA

Sept. 28, 5 p.m. to midnight dso.org

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is proud to kick off another remarkable season of performances and programming with the Sept. 28 Opening Night Gala, which will support the DSO’s mission to ensure young people have access to music education and a path to all that is possible. The unforgettable evening will feature a concert by your Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Grammy Award–winning artist Branford Marsalis, conducted by Music Director Jader Bignamini. There will be red-carpet arrivals and photos, and all levels of the William Davidson Atrium will be activated with a preconcert reception for concert attendees. In addition, for gala supporters, a formal dinner in The Peter D. and Julie F. Cummings Cube will follow this once-in-a-lifetime performance. Visit dso.org to find more information on sponsorship opportunities and to purchase tickets.

NATIONAL ARAB ORCHESTRA: EAST MEETS WEST

Sept. 27, 8 to 10 p.m.

thefim.org/event/nao

Experience an evening of musical traditions as the Flint Symphony Orchestra and the National Arab Orchestra come together to present East Meets West Under the artistic direction of NAO’s founder and music director, Michael Ibrahim, this collaboration will take place on Sept. 27 at the Capitol Theatre in Flint, Michigan. The performance will feature the blending of Arab and Western musical traditions, creating a symphonic experience that unites cultures through music. Audiences will embark on a journey of musical exploration and creative synergy in which the talents of these orchestras converge to deliver an evening of artistic brilliance and cultural harmony.

UNCORK FOR A CURE

Oct. 19, 6 to 10 p.m. dynamifoundation.org

Now in its ninth year, metro Detroit’s premier breast cancer fundraiser and soiree, Uncork for a Cure, will take place at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event will feature award-winning chefs, world-class wines, music, art installations, track rides, live and silent auctions, and more. Uncork for a Cure, hosted by The Dynami Foundation, raises funds for breast cancer research, education, and patient support.

DETROIT CHOICE AWARDS

Sept. 15, 7 p.m. to midnight daveschoicecdc.org

The Detroit Choice Awards will take place on Sept. 15 at the historic Garden Theater, bringing together talents from various industries in Detroit. The Garden Theater, known for its architecture and history, will provide the backdrop for the evening. Attendees will be greeted by a red carpet, where celebrities, influencers, and industry professionals will make their entrance. Inside, guests will enjoy performances by artists showcasing Detroit’s diverse artistic scene. The highlight of the evening will be the award ceremony, honoring individuals and organizations for their achievements in fields such as music, film, sports, and entrepreneurship. Attendees will also have opportunities to network and connect, fostering collaboration and innovation within the Detroit community. The event will feature food and beverages from local vendors.

The Detroit Choice Awards at the Garden Theater promises to celebrate and recognize the talent and creativity that Detroit offers, highlighting the city as a cultural hub for artists and innovators.

DETROIT WALK FOR PKD

Sept. 7, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. walkforpkd.org

The PKD Foundation is the only organization in the United States dedicated solely to finding treatments and a cure for polycystic kidney disease. The annual Walk for PKD, its signature fundraising and awareness event, is the largest gathering of PKD patients, families, friends, and supporters. The walk will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Boulan Park in Troy. Walkers can register at walkforpkd.org

20th Annual Polish the Jewel

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5.

6.

8.

9.

Penn

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PHOTOS BY ERIN MARIE MILLER

THE BELLE ISLE CONSERVANCY , which is dedicated to the protection, preservation, restoration, and enhancement of Belle Isle Park, held its 20th annual Polish the Jewel event at the Belle Isle Aquarium to raise money in support of its mission. The event brought approximately 400 business and civic leaders together to share their memories of Belle Isle and enjoy food, drinks, live entertainment, and more. Learn more at belleisleconservancy.org.

Tameka Darnell, Regine Beauboeuf

Anne Burke, John Burke, Anne Miller

Dave Coverdill, Kim Coverdill 4. Nancy Vella, Sean Moran

Isabella Dresen, Catherine Troy, Katelyn Mitchell, Emma Martell

Ashleigh Imerman, Sarah Grutza, Leslie Murphy 7. Cynthia Hempstead, Diane Platt

Anthony Andrzyczak, Esmeralda Zamarron, Tina Saad, Emma DuVe

Malika Penn, Todd

10. Whitney Drake, Ashleigh Apostolovski

Leon Saperstein, Debbe Saperstein

John Giorgio, Rick Johnson 13. Gary Marowske, Kathy Marowske, Douglas Dossin, Diane Dossin

The Glamorous Luncheon & Fashion Show

PHOTOS BY KEVIN BEAN

THIS ANNUAL fundraiser for the Glamorous Moms Foundation, which works to support the mental, physical, and spiritual health of women and expectant mothers through education, emotional programs, and monetary support, was held at The Townsend Hotel and offered a “pink party” that included bottomless “Glamosas,” “GLAM” swag, a luxurious three-course meal, a silent auction, keynote speakers, and a fashion show featuring unique designs by local fashion designers. Learn more at glamorousmoms.foundation.

1. Francoise Givens, Teia Johnson

2. Ashley Gold, Sandi Liang

3. Beth Campau, Nancy Chapman, Mary Stahl, Pamela Hall, Felicia Koski

4. Victoria Gojcaj, Susanne Forbes Dicker, Valentina Malaj 5. Gwen Roberts, Tina Roberts 6. Heidi Scheer, Starr Burke 7. Kaylee Gemmer, Corene Grillo, Elizabeth Abro 8. Kellie Adams, Lily Lathon, Rebecca Von Wormer 9. Helga Liedtke, Leslie Halliburton 10. Rosemarie Lewis, Shalandria McGlown-Allen

THANK YOU MICHIGAN!

Cameron

Jeff

Ken

& DARIO BERGAMO

2024 CARS AND CIGARS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Terry Bishop

Tom Grobbel

Tony Frabotta

Vincenzo Celani

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the 1,600 attendees from the Celani Family Foundation and The Cigar Family Charitable Foundation for your support of the 10th annual Cars and Cigars/Smoke Detroit event at the Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill. We raised over one million dollars this year! Because of your contributions we are able to continue our support of organizations that work to end food insecurity and promote education, health and future opportunities in our communities.

Tom and Vicki Celani

The Celani Family Foundation

The Way It Was

THE RENOWNED SCULPTOR Marshall Fredericks was commissioned to create numerous sculptures, reliefs, and memorials throughout metro Detroit, the United States, and the world. However, locally, he is best known for creating the iconic bronze statue “The Spirit of Detroit” depicting a human figure holding a family and golden orb in its hands. Dedicated in 1958 for the new City-County Building (later named the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center) at the foot of Woodward Avenue, the sculpture soon became the symbol of the city.

Fredericks studied under the famous Swedish sculptor Carl Milles, taught at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills for nine years, and earned his first commission in 1936 when he won the competition to create the Levi L. Barbour Memorial Fountain on Belle Isle.

The artist is pictured here in 1963 surrounded by models of his “Spirit of Detroit” figure, the “Boy and Bear” sculpture that was installed at the Northland Center shopping mall and is now in the lobby of the Southfield Public Library, and the “Christ on the Cross” sculpture, a 28-foot-tall bronze statue mounted on a 55-foot-tall redwood cross at the Cross in the Woods Catholic Shrine of Indian River.

His sculpture “Freedom of the Human Spirit” — a male and a female nude with arms outstretched and surrounded by three swans — was created for the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City and stood in what was known as the Court of States in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. It was moved in 1996 to the main entrance of the Arthur Ashe Stadium at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, which is also in the park. In 1983, Fredericks donated a casting of the work to his adopted home of Birmingham for the city’s 50th anniversary; it is located in the center of Shain Park.

From 1945 until his death in 1998 at age 90, Fredericks worked at his Royal Oak studio located at the northwest corner of Woodward Avenue and Normandy Road. (It has since been demolished.)

The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum at Saginaw Valley State University houses more than 200 of Fredericks’s plaster and bronze models and molds in addition to an archive for scholarly use of his tools, equipment, architectural site models, sculptures, and personal papers. —Bill Dow

Lobsterbake to benefit Cass Community Social Services Honeybee Dinner to Support Bees in the D

Garden Party

Finale

Detroit by Design

Paranormal Dinner

Cityfest 2024

Tickets now on sale

Tickets are available now for Detroit’s one-of-a-kind celebration: Cityfest 2024. e Whitney’s Cityfest 2023 boasted over 5200 visitors and donated more than $17,000 towards local charities. Cityfest spans over 10 days with a whopping 13 events to attend this year. From Lobsters & Champagne or an elegant Dinner with e Whitneys to Art & Apple Tea there’s something for every taste & interest. New for 2024 – “Detroit by Design” a tribute to 3-dimensional art energizing the city.

Cityfest – A Celebration of Spirited Dining