Hour Detroit // December 2022

Van Gogh in America is organized by the Detroit Institute of Arts and is part of the Bonnie Ann

Lead support is generously provided by the Founders Junior Council, The J. Addison

and Nancy and Sean Cotton.

Major support is provided by the William H. and Patricia M. Smith Family, Kenwal Steel,

James and Sally Scapa Foundation, Marjorie and Maxwell Jospey

Danto

Additional support is provided by the Community Foundation for Southeast

Backstrom, and Aaron and Carolynn Frankel.

This exhibition is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, as part of the Dutch Culture USA

in New York, and the European Paintings Council.

Funding is also provided by Mrs. William Clay Ford, Mr. and Mrs. John W. Ingle, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. John W. Ingle

The exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.

Major funding for the exhibition catalogue is generously provided by Jo Elyn and George M. Nyman.

Mr. and

M.

and Frederick Ford, and Kathleen and Robert Rosowski.

Vincent van Gogh (Dutch, 1853–1890). The Bedroom (detail), 1889. Oil on canvas; 29 x 36 5/8 in. (73.6 x 92.3 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Helen Birch Bartlett Memorial Collection, 1926.417.

Larson Modern European Artists Series.

and Marion M. Bartush Family Foundation, Bank of America, Cadillac,

Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg, Nicole and Stephen Eisenberg, Alex Erdeljan,

Foundation, Spencer & Myrna Partrich, Friends of Art & Flowers, Joanne Danto, Arnold Weingarden & Jennifer

Shore, Huntington, Ford Motor Company Fund, DTE Energy Foundation, Jennifer Adderley, and The Family of Christopher R.W.D. Stroh.

Michigan, Wells Fargo, Gilbert Family Foundation, Nancy S. Williams Trust and executor, Sharon

program by the Consulate General of the Netherlands

III,

Mrs. John

Sullivan, Jr., Eleanor

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VOLUME TWENTY SEVEN | ISSUE TWELVE

PUBLISHER: Jason Hosko

EDITORIAL

EDITOR: Kate Walsh

DEPUTY EDITOR: Scott Atkinson

DIGITAL EDITOR: Christina Clark

ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Rachael Thomas, Ashley Winn

COPY EDITOR: Olivia Sedlacek

DINING EDITOR: Dorothy Hernandez

CONTRIBUTORS: George Bulanda, Aaron Foley, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Kiki Louya, Mickey Lyons, Jenn McKee, Megan Swoyer, Kate Townley, Jenifer Veloso, Lauren Wethington

DESIGN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lindsay Richards

SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTIST: Stephanie Daniel

JUNIOR DESIGNER: Steven Prokuda

CONTRIBUTORS: Shannon Bishop, Stacy Feyer-Salo, Gerard + Belevender, Kailey Howell, Robbin Kujus, Giuseppa Nadrowski, Jennifer Pickering, Sal Rodriguez, Josh Scott, Rebecca Simonov, Hayden Stinebaugh, Joe Tiano, Jenifer Veloso, Rebecca Voigt

SALES

PUBLISHING AND SALES COORDINATOR: Mikala Bart

SENIOR SALES & MARKETING CONTENT CREATOR: Cortney Woody

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Cynthia Barnhart, Regan Blissett, Karli Brown, Maya Gossett, Donna Kassab, Lisa LaBelle, Mary Pantely & Associates, Jessica VanDerMaas

PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Jenine Knox

SENIOR PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Jill Berry

PRODUCTION ARTIST: Jonathan Boedecker

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Amanda Kozlowski

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Jim Bibart, Colin McKinney

IT

IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland WEB

DIGITAL DIRECTOR: Nick Britsky

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Matthew Cappo

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALISTS: Jim Bowser, Marissa Jacklyn, Luanne Lim, Kevin Pell

DIGITAL STRATEGY MANAGER: Travis Fletcher

VIDEO EDITOR: Taylor Lutz

VIDEO PRODUCER: Nicole Toporowski

DIGITAL MEDIA ASSISTANT: Robyn Banks

CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION MANAGER: Riley Meyers

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

MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER: Jodie Svagr

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR: Jaime Presnail

COMMUNICATIONS & EVENTS LEAD: Cathleen Francois

MARKETING & EVENTS INTERN: Crystal Baker

MARKETING RESEARCH

MARKETING RESEARCH DIRECTOR: Sofia Shevin

MARKETING RESEARCH COORDINATORS: Georgia Iden, Kristin Mingo

MARKETING RESEARCH SALES COORDINATOR: Alexandra Thompson

MARKETING RESEARCH ASSISTANT: Alyssa Fueri

PRS GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Alexa Dyer

BUSINESS

CEO: Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT: John Balardo

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS: Kathie Gorecki

ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER: Natasha Bajju

SENIOR ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE: Andrew Kotzian

ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE: Samantha Dick, Austin Schmelzle

DISTRIBUTION: Target Distribution, Troy

5750 NEW KING DRIVE, TROY, MI 48098

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

EMAIL: EDITORIAL@HOURDETROIT.COM

ON THE WEB: HOURDETROIT.COM

To sell Hour Detroit magazine

or for subscription inquiries: 248-588-1851

CONTENTS

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5042 Where There’s Smoke, There’s Fire

Over 50 years ago, John Sinclair was arrested and sentenced to 10 years in prison for marijuana possession. Today, he and others like Najanava Harvey-Quinn — are still fighting for both legalization and justice.

50 2022 Gift Guide

From fancy home goods and tech gear to the season’s trendiest clothes and accessories, here are more than 200 gifts for everyone on your list. (And in case you didn’t guess, we sought inspiration from the most iconic doll of all time to present them.)

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CONTENTS

Up Front

TAKING UP T HE TORCH

Inspired by landmark civil rights cases, Stephanie Dawkins Davis climbs the ranks of the court system.

BLUE BIRD RISING Detroit Sound Conservancy is hoisting a piece of Detroit history from the ashes.

OBJECT LESSON: PARALLEL REALITY ‘Futuristic’ technology at DTW gives passengers a unique airport experience.

A MICHIGAN CHRISTMAS STORY

Mitten State transplant Wade Rouse assumed his grandmother’s name to pen a holiday-themed novel.

24/Seven

BEST OF BO TH WORLDS

Zahra Assar-Nossoni is an expert in the science of chemistry — and the science of sophisticated dressing.

DASHING & DAPPER

Our men’s holiday lookbook features items from local shops and outfit inspiration for all this season’s occasions.

MORE THAN HAIR

The husband and wife behind Detroit barbershop The Social Club are building a national enterprise rooted in quality cuts, community, and culture.

DECKING THE TABLE

For one Grosse Pointe Farms family, the holiday traditions always include a beautiful dining scene.

Agenda

CULTURE C ALENDAR

Miss Grit drops new music, Midtown’s Noel Night finally returns, and the DSO hosts local holiday traditions.

LET THERE BE LIGHTS

Discover the season’s jolliest events in this month’s arts and entertainment listings.

MANY THANKS

It’s been 40 years, but in certain circles, Alicia Myers’ Detroit-born song ‘I Want to Thank You’ lives on.

Food&Drink

WHAT’S COOKING?

This month’s metro Detroit dining headlines. Plus, where to eat in Frankenmuth — sans the fried chicken.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

We asked some of metro Detroit’s finest chefs to share their favorite familyinspired recipes.

DIARY OF A FOOD BLOGGER

After losing her job, Angela Davis started blogging. Now, she’s one of the internet’s most sought-after chefs.

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Behind the Scenes

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THE IDEA FOR OUR GIFT GUIDE photoshoot was thrown out during a brainstorming meeting as a “what if.” “The moment someone mentioned Barbie, I could see the giddy reaction of my team, and I knew the concept was a hit,” says creative director Lindsay Richards. “There was no going back!” Our Barbie-inspired gift guide took months of planning, two days of shooting, and a dozen crew members to pull off. (Sadly, Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, the stars of the upcoming Barbie film, were not part of the team.) Turn to page 50 for our colorful collection of more than 200 gift ideas across eight categories.

CONTRIBUTORS

JENIFER VELOSO

WROTE “WHERE THERE’S SMOKE ...,” PAGE 42

“I love walking around the winter market in Cadillac Square when the holidays arrive. The way the mini shops are laid out next to the ice rink makes it feel like walking onto a Christmas movie set. It really is a magical time downtown.” Jenifer Veloso is a first-generation Brazilian American and Flint-based photojournalist covering community, sports, and social activism. She developed her passion for storytelling while working as a trauma nurse in a level 1 emergency department. Her work covering topics like emergency responders, front-line workers, intersectionality, and her one true love — basketball — has appeared in Bloomberg News Click magazine, MLive, The Flint Journal, Flintside, and Flint Beat

GIUSEPPA NADROWSKI

PRODUCT STYLIST FOR “2022 GIFT GUIDE,” PAGE 50

“Christmas is my absolute favorite time of year. I love baking my grandmother’s Italian knot cookies, watching all the holiday classic movies, and best of all, spending time with my family. But there are two traditions that I look forward to most: picking out a Christmas tree from the farm my grandfather started in South Boardman and taking in a holiday show (or two!) at the Fox Theatre.” Based in metro Detroit, Giuseppa Nadrowski is a writer, stylist, and editor who covers everything from fashion and style to interior design, art, culture, architecture, and travel. Her work can be found locally in publications like Detroit Design Metro Detroit Weddings, and Michigan Blue

AARON FOLEY

WROTE “MANY THANKS,” PAGE 74

“For years, my family would get together for at least one dinner, during the colder months, at Giovanni’s in Southwest Detroit. My grandparents were good friends with the owners and their family. It’s always a treat, because no one ever dresses down for Giovanni’s — during this season, everyone is always dressed to impress. Since my grandfather passed away, I’ve tried to maintain this tradition by taking my mother and brother to dinner around the holidays, and the staff is always just as nice. (And I haven’t even mentioned the food yet …)” Aaron Foley is a Detroit native and senior digital editor at PBS News Hour. He is also an author of both fiction and nonfiction works and was previously editor of BLAC Detroit

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE METRO DETROIT HOLIDAY TRADITIONS?

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EDITOR’S LETTER

magazine aficionado

Before I could even read, I loved leafing through Highlights at the doctor’s office, trying to find the Hidden Pictures page and the hidden pictures within it. I moved into a comic book phase during elementary school and even had a letter to the editor published in Richie Rich, making me appreciate the written word even more. It could make me a celebrity. (Seriously, my best friend Kathleen Antosh’s brother came running into their kitchen one day shouting, “Katie’s name is in this comic book!”) I became much more sophisticated in junior high when I started reading Seventeen and Vogue and then segued into celebrity and news magazines in high school. No matter the genre, my favorite time of year to purchase a magazine was in December, when many publications (especially People) came out with their “year in review” issues. There was something very comforting about looking back at the year during the holiday season.

While this issue isn’t a review of 2022, I will devote this page to looking back at the first 10 months of Hour Detroit’s year, from January through October — just days before we went to press. The following is a list of the top 10 stories that resonated with readers (based on the web versions’ analytics) and the issue in which they appeared:

1) A Look Inside the Recently Sold Fisher Mansion (April)

2) The Grand Reopening of Michigan Central Station (October)

3) Hour Detroiters: The Gilberts on Making an Impact With a $500 Pledge to Detroit (January)

4) Beloved Fox 2 News Anchor Huel Perkins Is Ready to Embrace Retirement in Style (July)

5) Top Doctors List (October)

6) The Detroit-Based Stars of HGTV’s ‘Bargain Block’ Look to the Future (March)

7) Remembering 50 Years of Magical Music Memories at Pine Knob (May)

8) The 10 Best New Restaurants in Metro Detroit (August)

9) Best of Detroit (June)

10) City Guide: Must-Visit Food Spots (April)

This list does not include online-only content. The top three articles in that category were the Best of Detroit ballot, a story about new shops at The Village of Rochester Hills, and Hour Detroit’s Food & Wine Show’s event page.

This year also saw many new arrivals at our Troy and Madison Heights offices. Our new team members (in order of appearance, as they say in show business) are: Colin McKinney, David Benvenuto, Alexandra Thompson, Kevin Pell, Taylor Lutz, Justin Stenson, Jodie Svagr, Amanda Kozlowski, Jessica VanDerMaas, Cindy Fish, James Bowser, Mark Dryer, Cortney Woody, Scott Atkinson, Lisa Sawyer, Haylee Mozug, Steven Prokuda, Michele Wold, Geralyn Wilson, Jaime Presnail, Cathleen Francois, Alyssa Fueri, Robyn Banks, Sofia Shevin, Marissa Jacklyn, Jonathan Boedecker, Nicole Toporowski, Christina Clark, Jordan Jewell, Marji McLaughlin, Austin Schmelzle, Rachel Beltowski, and Mikala Bart.

I hope you enjoy our December issue, which brings you our biggest holiday package in quite some time, including a gift guide, holiday events listings, and family recipes from chefs to try out at your own celebrations.

Happy holidays!

KATE WALSH, EDITOR K WALSH@HOUR-MEDIA.COM

“I was on I-75 going south at night and I saw the train station lit up; it’s going to be wonderful upon completion (‘The Grand Reopening of Michigan Central Station,’ October). I don’t remember the building at all in its functional days; I was just a child. I am definitely going to visit when [the renovation is] completed.”

—Katrina Fortune, hourdetroit.com

“Fabulous woman; excellent article (‘Acts of Service: How Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence Is Giving Back to the Community,’ October).”

—@themis_is_my_homegirl, Instagram

“Miss Marsha is essential to the Detroit fashion community (‘Worn Stories: Marsha Music Celebrates Detroit History in Style,’ October). Insightful, inspiring, individualistic, influential, and innovative. Ms. Music is everything that’s good about Detroit.”

—Benson Roberts III, hourdetroit.com

“I loved Irish Hills as a kid. It’s nice to see the area getting a new lease on life (‘Horror Filmmaker Builds “Horrortown” at Abandoned Irish Hills Stagecoach Shop,’ October)!”

—Sherene Jones, Facebook

Hourdetroit.com

Digital Extra

The weather outside may be frightful, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Embrace the snow and cold this winter and take a spin on one of the best ice skating rinks in metro Detroit. Head to hourdetroit.com/iceskating to find one near you.

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

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Judge Stephanie Dawkins Davis is the first Black woman to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit p. 24

Taking Up the Torch

Inspired by landmark civil rights cases, Stephanie Dawkins Davis climbs the ranks of the court system

BY SCOTT ATKINSON | PHOTO BY JENIFER VELOSO

SITTING IN HER FORMER chambers in Flint, Judge Stephanie Dawkins Davis recalls growing up and learning about Thurgood Marshall winning the Brown v. Board of Education lawsuit before he became a Supreme Court justice — witnessing what the law could do.

“That kind of opened my eyes to all of these possibilities. You know, he was doing things that folks before him hadn’t done,” she says. “He became the solicitor general. He was an appellate judge. He went on to the Supreme Court. And there, of course, have been many more since him who have done similar types of things.”

She probably doesn’t realize it, as she is hesitant to talk too much about herself, but she is among those people. In May, the U.S. Senate confirmed her nomination to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit with a bipartisan vote. She is the second Black woman to hold the post, and the first from Michigan.

“It was exciting, thrilling — daunting, frankly but humbling. If I could capture it all, that’s what I would say. It’s humbling,” she says, sitting near the end of a long conference table. She’d sat in the same place years before, for an interview to become a magistrate judge, intimidated by all the seasoned legal professionals that surrounded her.

She started her career in Detroit at the Dickinson Wright law firm. She worked in civil litigation there for five years but knew she wanted to “move into the public sphere.” In 1997, she earned a position at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the civil division. She was there for three years before she moved into the criminal division, wanting to try cases. In 2015, she applied for that position as a magistrate judge.

“My thought process was, ‘I’ve been an advocate for many years. This is an opportunity to still be very involved in the resolution of disputes, but not as an advocate anymore — as someone who is evaluating the arguments, applying the law, weighing the arguments of the parties based upon what the law says.’ And that was exciting to me,” Davis says.

That was one of many steps in an accomplished career in Michigan. Davis grew up in Missouri and attended law school at Washington University in St. Louis. She and her husband moved to Detroit after graduation. “And we’ve been here ever since. We made our home here,” she says. She and her husband raised three children, now all in their 20s.

She later became a federal district judge, before being appointed to her current position as a circuit court judge. In her new position, she and other circuit judges hear the appeals of cases in the 6th Circuit, which covers Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Her new chambers are back in the city where she started out, Detroit, at the Theodore Levin U.S. Courthouse.

Some of the civil rights cases that inspired Davis as a younger woman are more tied to her own story than she realized at the time. She grew up 45 minutes from Topeka, Kansas, (the board

of education in the landmark case was Topeka’s) and it turned out she had family members who were involved in similar trials that served as “precursors” to Brown v. Board going to the Supreme Court.

Despite being unaware of that personal connection at the time, she says Brown v. Board of Education stuck out in particular for her, because she had attended school in the 1970s, when the integration of schools was still in the process of being implemented. Having lived through the effects of that case makes her think of all that needed to happen for her to be in the position she now holds — and the role she is now playing for young people of color.

“There were all these people who came before me. The door was open and ready for someone to step through. And the fact that it’s me — it’s just very, very humbling,” she says.

Her appointment came at an interesting time — about the same time that Ketanji Brown Jackson was named the first Black female justice of the Supreme Court.

“Any time you’re seeing history happen, just as a fellow American, it’s exciting,” Davis says. “I think it is meaningful to have different people who are reflective of our society in these positions, so those coming up behind them have someone to look to and say, ‘Oh, this is doable.’”

“It

—STEPHANIE DAWKINS DAVIS

Judge Stephanie Dawkins Davis is back in Detroit, where her career began — now as Michigan’s first Black woman to serve on the 6th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals.

DEVELOPMENT

BLUE BIRD RISING

Detroit Sound Conservancy is hoisting a piece of Detroit history from the ashes

BY ASHLEY WINN

THE MODEST ONE-STORY building at 5021 Tireman Ave. was prime real estate when Alabama migrant William Dubois purchased it in 1937 with wages he’d saved up working on the line at Ford Motor Co. Situated in a vibrant Black neighborhood known as Detroit’s Old Westside, it was the perfect place to open his humble neighborhood bar — the Blue Bird Inn.

Dubois died just three months later, but his establishment would endure as a touch point of music history. Under his family’s management, the Blue Bird became one of the city’s go-to jazz joints. Throughout the 1950s, it hosted some of the genre’s most influential musicians — John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and Charlie Parker among them — and was a showcase for local talent like Tommy Flanagan, Barry Harris, and Curtis Fuller. It would come to be known as a birthplace of the bebop style and an epicenter of the Detroit sound.

But the business began to decline alongside the popularity of jazz music in the 1970s.

These days, an uninitiated passerby might never guess the dilapidated structure’s legacy. Abandoned in the early 2000s, the building’s art deco brickwork has since discolored from years of water damage, and one of its large front windows has given way to a sheet of plywood. A gray tarp meant to insulate the crumbling roof has been pulled down over the edges of its facade. The words “The Blue Bird Inn,” painted in pink across a bright blue marquee, are the sole reminder of its glory days.

But as far as the Blue Bird has fallen, the folks at the Detroit Sound Conservancy believe it can rise again.

The nonprofit, which aims to preserve the city’s musical heritage, is developing the building into a multiuse space. Among its primary functions will be housing DSC’s archive, which extends across all genres and aspects of the music industry. In addition to roughly 1,000 books, the collection encompasses audio recordings, photographs, flyers, and other physical and digital artifacts.

In 2019, after the Blue Bird had fallen into tax foreclosure, DSC resolved to save it once and for all. It purchased the 1920s structure with an $8,500 grant from The Kresge Foundation and successfully lobbied the city to designate the property a Historic District.

From there, the nonprofit recruited Quinn Evans, a Detroit design firm with a penchant for historic restoration, and swiftly replaced the aging roof. By the time this story reaches readers, DSC expects the front windows and doors will be fully restored to their 1950s appearance. The group estimates the Blue Bird Inn will reopen by the end of next year.

The site will also serve as a music venue, gathering space, and cultural education center, offering an array of community programs, such as the Youth Griot Society, which will train local youths as apprentice archivists.

DSC’s connection to the spot dates back to its inaugural meeting in 2012, which was held just outside the Blue Bird’s doors. Ever since, the organization has worked, through various salvage and rehabilitation projects, to recover this tangible vestige of history. “Our work at the Blue Bird is inextricably linked with our mission of preserving Detroit music history,” says DSC Director of

Operations Silverstein. “They go hand in hand.”

The Blue Bird Inn holds a special place in the heart of DSC Executive Director Michelle McKinney, who lived in the Old Westside through the ’80s and frequented the club with her late husband, Harold McKinney — a pianist and longtime mainstay of Detroit’s jazz scene. “I’ve always known the Blue Bird as a community hearth,” she says. “It was the place people would go to for birthday parties and Sunday dinners with their families. I almost can’t express how deeply this building is rooted in the community.”

Her words echo a prevailing theme in the Blue Bird’s story. Beyond its musical significance, the establishment served as a crucial haven for the Black community in a racist and heavily segregated post-World War II Detroit.

“We hope this benefits not just our organization, but also, more importantly, the city,” says RadunsSilverstein, who feels Detroit deserves more recognition as a major hub of musical innovation. “We hope this draws attention to Detroit music and generates support and resources for local music artists, producers, engineers, and other industry professionals.”

Patrons dance to the sounds of a live jazz band one typical evening at the Blue Bird Inn in 1959.



Locals and Detroit Sound Conservancy community partners gather outside the Blue Bird Inn to celebrate Labor Day 2019.

OBJECT LESSON

DELTA’S PARALLEL REALITY DISPLAY BOARD

BY KATE TOWNLEY

DELTA AIR LINES passengers departing from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport have the chance to experience technology that seems like it was taken from the future.

The technological innovation, called Parallel Reality, is used in a new display board, more than 20 feet wide, that allows passengers to see their personalized flight information — and only their information. Even the person right beside them will, at the same time, see their own completely different flight information — and no one else’s.

“Delta’s innovation team is always looking for new technologies that can enhance the passenger’s experience,” says Greg Forbes, the managing director of airport experience for Delta.

Through Parallel Reality, Delta is capturing futuristic technology — and bringing it to life in the present.

What is it?

Like other airport display boards, this digital screen shows flight information for passengers. However, it is unique in that passengers have to scan their boarding pass or digital ID in order to see anything on the board. Once they do, their flight information (departure time, gate number, directions, and walking distance to the gate) shows up on the screen, but they are the only one who can see it. The person right next to them, or a dozen feet away, would see only a blank screen.

How does it work?

This innovative display board employs a technology called Parallel Reality. Albert Ng, CEO of Misapplied Sciences, says regular pixels are only capable of displaying one image at a time, but Parallel Reality pixels, created by Misapplied Sciences, angle differently. Because of this, multiple people can look at the same object and see entirely different things. In the case of Delta’s new display board at DTW, this works for up to 100 people at a time.

A common misconception regarding the display is that it uses facial recognition. In actuality, there is a motion sensor that follows the passenger once they scan their boarding pass, tracking their movement in order to angle the right message to the correct person. No biometric data is stored; in other words, Delta isn’t keeping any data associated with your physical appearance.

surroundings, which can be dangerous. The information shown on the new display board can be also found in the app but is displayed in a safer way that allows for an easier airport experience.

Why DTW?

According to Forbes, DTW is a great facility and has a central area perfect for implementing this new technology. Since the board is located in a central hub of the airport, outgoing passengers can’t miss it. Throughout the process, Forbes says, the airport has been “fantastic,” seizing this project and moving it forward. He estimates that an average of 1,400-1,500 passengers interact with the display every day.

The areas near flight information boards in airports can easily get crowded. Even once passengers make it up to the board, they must sift through a sea of information. Seeing your own personalized information not only saves time but also allows you to receive more details specific to your flight and gate. Ng says the board isn’t meant to be just a fancy gadget but instead can solve real problems that all airline passengers are familiar with.

Can’t I just use the Delta app?

Of course! Passengers are still encouraged to use the app, though Forbes says it’s intended more for stationary use. When looking down at the app on their phones, passengers aren’t as aware of their

Is it only for Delta passengers?

Yes, this new display board experience is specific to passengers flying with Delta. At the same time, this encompasses all Delta flyers, not just rewards members. Any passenger on an outgoing Delta flight has the opportunity to engage with the display.

Say I’m still skeptical: Is it optional?

Yes, it is absolutely optional. No passenger has to participate if they are uncomfortable with it or don’t understand it yet. Since no facial recognition scanning takes place, you will not be tracked unless you scan your boarding pass or digital ID. Even then, you are only tracked via a motion detector in order to give you a personalized experience.

‘Futuristic’ technology at DTW gives passengers a unique airport experience

OK, but how does it know who’s in front of it?

This is cool and all, but what difference does it make?

Arrows guide guests through a slick portal-esque arch to the boarding pass scanners. When they look up at the display board, their flight information appears.

An Hour Detroit staff member experienced Delta’s Parallel Reality on a recent trip out of DTW and found it easy and helpful.

4The number of Michigan cities among the top 100 best small college towns in the U.S., according to a report by educational technology company Preply. The list was compiled through a comparison of 200 locales based on factors of affordability, economic opportunity, and social environment. One Michigan town — Ann Arbor — even clinched the No. 1 spot, followed at a distance by East Lansing (51), Dearborn (88), and Kalamazoo (94).

BOOKS

A MICHIGAN CHRISTMAS STORY

8Michigan’s rank among the most athletic states in the country. A study by online sports betting platform Offers.Bet considered the origins of more than 2,600 current professional athletes to determine which states produce the greatest amount of athletic talent per capita. The 78 current professional athletes who call Michigan home landed the state in the top 10. In true Midwest fashion, the state proved a particular hotbed for hockey players, churning out the fourth most NHL competitors nationwide. But it is fellow heartland state Minnesota that commands the top spot in both categories.

$55K

The true median home price in Detroit, according to an analysis by the Detroit Free Press. It’s a far cry from the landmark $100,000 that made headlines over the summer — a figure that was based on listing service data from fewer than 400 monthly sales. In calculating its own estimate, the Free Press consulted 1,000 deed recordings for singlefamily Detroit residences obtained from the Wayne County Register of Deeds. Many of these sales, it found, were never reported to mainstream real estate listing services.

Mitten State transplant Wade Rouse assumed his grandmother’s name to pen a holidaythemed novel

BY JENN MCKEE

LOOKING FOR a literary stocking stuffer?

You’re in luck. Michigan-based author Wade Rouse — who writes fiction intended for women readers under his maternal grandmother’s name, Viola Shipman, as well as memoirs under his own name — has just released (as Shipman) his most recent Christmas-themed novel, A Wish for Winter. Wish (published by HarperCollins) tells the story of Susan, a 40-year-old bookstore owner who lives in a tight-knit Michigan lakeside community. Having been raised by loving grandparents after her parents were killed in an accident, Susan is also heir to a unique family history, which causes the townspeople around her to believe she’s destined to meet and marry a man dressed as Santa.

“It’s the funniest novel I’ve written,” says Rouse, whose work has been translated into 20 languages. “It’s also the most diverse novel I’ve written, because it has this incredibly quirky cast of characters from all walks of life. But it also talks a lot about loss in our lives and how we’re too often unable to forgive ourselves and move on. … [That’s] inspired by my own life and having lost my brother when I was young. It’s about what grief and loss do to us.”

Though Wish is Rouse’s ninth Shipman novel, it’s only his second holiday-themed one (following last year’s The Secret of Snow).

This fact might surprise you if you were to drive by the home Rouse shares with his husband outside of Saugatuck.

“We’re the Griswolds,” says Rouse, referencing the over-the-top family featured in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. “We put up seven themed trees. We’re those people who put inflatables out, and neighbors are like, ‘Stop.’”

Yes, Rouse and spouse now flee to Palm Springs, California, for a couple of months after the holidays

each year — they initially stayed in Michigan yearround when they moved from St. Louis in 2006 — but Rouse nonetheless loves enjoying a white Christmas in Michigan.

“I have to say that my first winters here, despite the darkness, I loved,” Rouse says. “I loved all of the goofy things I got to do that I’d never done as a kid, like build snowmen and make snow angels and snow forts and all the stupid things that you love as a kid and forget or don’t allow yourself to do as an adult. That reignited my joy for the holiday season.”

Another recent Rouse release with great gifting potential is Magic Season: A Son’s Story. This moving memoir centers around Rouse’s complicated relationship with his flinty, Ozarksbred father, who desperately needed, in his last years, the help of his surviving son.

But this came after Rouse’s father had said and done a number of hurtful things, such as secretly circumventing Rouse’s acceptance into Northwestern University’s graduate journalism program.

“There were years after that — and once I came out to my father — when I didn’t speak to him, and I thought that might be the end chapter,” Rouse says. “I always saw in my father a man who had no idea how to deal with me and swept everything under the rug. That’s how he was raised, and that’s what he knew.”

One of the only easy points of connection between the two men involved watching and rooting for the St. Louis Cardinals, and the last baseball game the pair watched together provides the memoir’s narrative scaffolding.

“I try to write books that seek to understand and not blame,” Rouse says. “I think sometimes writing helps us. It’s how I make sense of my life.”

Meanwhile, Rouse’s adopted home state consistently plays a starring role in his fiction. “A few years ago, we went to Italy, and I was like, ‘Michigan is as gorgeous as the Amalfi Coast,’” Rouse says. “I mean, every town that I feature in my books is not only stunningly beautiful but also has this quirky kind of resort history that just makes for a perfect setting. And I’ve been heavily influenced by a lot of writers … who make the environments and settings in their books as much a character as the people. And that’s what I try to do with Michigan.”

This past year, there’s been talk of possible film adaptations of Rouse’s work (“We’re nudging very, very close to having something happen,” Rouse says). It might make you wonder what Rouse’s grandmother — a poor, hardworking seamstress who didn’t get the chance to finish high school — would think of seeing her name on so many books and, perhaps one day, on a big screen.

“Oh, that’ll make me cry,” Rouse says. “I’m sure she’d be embarrassed in one way. Her face would flush. … But I think she would be incredibly proud, especially because she used to push books into my hands. … And those are the same kinds of books that I write now.”

DETROIT DIGITS

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A monthly feature highlighting events, promotions, and opportunities of interest to Hour Detroit readers.

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TimothyMasterswasonlyfifteenwhenhestumbledacrossthemutilatedcorpse ofPeggyHettrickinafieldonhiswaytoschool.Almostassoonasthepoliceset eyesonhim,theyweresurehewasthekiller—evenwithnothingbutacollection ofgorydrawingshe’dcreatedasateenagehorrorfanasevidence.

Fortenyearstheyhoundedhim,until—withthehelpofanastoundingamount ofmisconduct—theyfinallysucceededinputtinghimbehindbars.

In DrawntoInjustice,Timrecountshisjourneytoexoneratehimselfforacrime hedidn’tcommitand,intheprocess,laysbarethecorruptionthatenabledthe criminaljusticesystemtorailroadaninnocentman.

DRAWN TO INJUSTICE

Timothy Masters was only fifteen when he stumbled across a mutilated corpse lying in a field. For ten years, the police hounded him until –with the help of an astounding amount of misconduct – they finally succeeded in putting him behind bars. Drawn to Injustice recounts his journey to exonerate himself for a crime he didn’t commit.

available at momentumbooks.com

TIMOTHY MASTERS STEVE LEHTO

STEVELEHTO

TIMOTHYMASTERS

MI STYLE

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Chemist Zahra Assar-Nossoni is an expert in the sciences and sophisticated dressing

BY RACHAEL THOMAS | PHOTOS BY SAL RODRIGUEZ

ZAHRA ASSAR-NOSSONI does it all. She’s a chemist, a lifestyle content creator, a wife, and a mother — balancing everything while maintaining effortless style. Born in Iran, Assar-Nossoni came to the U.S. in 2012 (by way of Switzerland) to obtain her doctorate in structural biology at Michigan State University. Today, the 33-year-old Northville resident is the manager of structural biology and biophysical core at Cayman Chemical Co. in Ann Arbor, where she and her team assist with the drug design for various cancers, infectious diseases, and more.

Like the sciences, fashion has also been a longtime interest of Assar-Nossoni’s, ever since she was a young girl in Iran. As she became more successful in her career as a chemist, she was encouraged to share her passion for fashion with others via social media, aiming to change the narrative that women in STEM could not possibly be interested in keeping up with the latest trends and cultivating their personal style — or be taken seriously for doing so.

While Assar-Nossoni created content here and there during her doctoral program, it wasn’t until a few years ago that she decided to invest more time in it. Now, as a self-proclaimed “scientist with style,” Assar-Nossoni shares glimpses of



Assar-Nossoni shares a handwritten note in Persian on her hand, which translates to “Woman, Life, and Freedom,” in support of the protests in Iran over Mahsa Amini’s death. Amini was a 22-year-old Iranian woman who was arrested in early September for allegedly violating the country’s law on headscarves. Days after her arrest, Amini died under mysterious circumstances. “I chose to share this note because it aims to recognize the importance of the women, their freedom to present themselves as they wish, and to live a normal life!” AssarNossoni says.

her life with her nearly 40,000 Instagram followers, from her favorite apparel and beauty brands to her travels and family time with her husband, local plastic surgeon Farid Nossoni, and their 2-year-old son, Leo.

Here, Assar-Nossoni shares more.

My personal style is Chic. Simple. Kind of Persian style. As Persians, culturally, we always have been taught to look nice, to save time during the day and think about, “OK, what to do with my hair, what to wear.” Just setting some time aside during the day and thinking about yourself. It has helped me to choose myself and not copy anybody else.

My favorite shops and brands: Locally, I always go to Good Neighbor in Detroit. My favorite jewelry [brand] is Vajzë, and I also go to [local jeweler George Khalife, aka] George the Jeweler. If I want to look for more [everyday] clothes that are not too expensive, I should definitely mention ASOS, and there are a couple international [retailers], Missguided and Revolve. But let’s say I’m going to an event and I want a unique look: Nadine Merabi, a U.K. designer; I love her.

My go-to skin care and makeup products: As a chemist, I always care about what I use on my body I use Tatcha, a Japanese brand, and I also use Neutrogena — their light moisturizer and light serum. As far as makeup, I use Dior; I love Dior’s foundation. For a glam look, I use Huda Beauty eyeshadow palettes; they’re very fun to work with. I also use Dior lip gloss. And always Charlotte Tilbury for lipstick, always

A fun day out with the family: If we don’t want to drive too far, we walk [through] downtown Northville. There’s a kids park there; Leo can play there, and we grab a bite at the restaurants. If we want to drive, we like to go to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, and Ann Arbor has very great restaurants.

Assar-Nossoni wears a Nadine Merabi jumpsuit, a Max Mara coat, Amina Muaddi heels, a bracelet, necklace and earrings from local jeweler George the Jeweler, and rings from Cartier and local jewelry brand Vajzë.

The ideal date night: My husband and I love a good date night, sitting at a nice restaurant. We have our own lists of our top three restaurants in Detroit; mine are San Morello, SheWolf [Pastificio & Bar], and Oak & Reel.

My most memorable travels: Any family vacation I take is an amazing trip because you get to do a lot and learn a lot about each other. As for myself, the best trip that I [took was] to New York City for [this year’s] New York Fashion Week. It was my first time, but that was something that I always wanted to do, even when I was in Iran.

What 2022 has meant for me: It was all about learning more about myself — how to be a great mom, how to be a great scientist — spending time with my family, and caring more about myself.

Keep up with Assar-Nossoni on her Instagram page, @thezahracoco.

Dress to the nines in Tayion Collection

Whether you’re attending a formal dinner or charity gala or going to the theater, suits and accessories from Taylor-based brand Tayion Collection — created by designer and Marine Corps veteran Montee Tayion Holland are sure to turn heads. 

Slim-Fit Wool Suit Jacket in Burgundy Pinstripe, $400, Wool Suit Vest in Burgundy, $120, Classic-Fit Wool Suit Pants in Burgundy, $175, Galaxy Tie and Pocket Square in Black/ White/Burgundy/Gold, $65, and Cuff Links, $45, at Tayion Collection, available at tayion.com, macys.com and menswearhouse.com; Salvatore Ferragamo Rolo Bit Loafer in Nero, $995, at Nordstrom at Somerset Collection, 2850 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, nordstrom.com

Dashing & Dapper

Presenting our men’s holiday lookbook — featuring items from local shops and outfit inspiration for all this season’s occasions

STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING | TEXT BY RACHAEL THOMAS | PHOTOS BY GERARD & BELEVENDER

FASHION

Run the town in Youngbloods

’Tis the season for gift shopping, yuletide decorating, and visiting with friends. Head to Youngbloods, a Hazel Parkbased barbershop and clothing store, to craft an elevated everyday look for all your errands and activities.

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Fundamental Coast Henley in Brewery, $68, Braxton

Denim Cord Shirt, $79, Schott Cardigan Sweater in Navy, $160, Levi’s 511 Slim, $70, and Ward Leather Belt in Black, $100, at Youngbloods, 24918

John R Road, Hazel Park, youngbloodsshop.com; Magnanni Nesto Sneaker in White, $365, at Nordstrom at Somerset Collection, 2850 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, nordstrom.com

Get away for the holidays in Greyson Clothiers

Wherever your travels might take you this season, Greyson Clothiers has got you covered. Stop by the shop in Detroit’s Campus Martius for sporty pieces that are equal parts sophisticated and functional. 

Yukon Hybrid Jacket in Aubergine, $285, Omaha Long Sleeve Polo in Wolf Blue, $118, Tomahawk Cashmere Crewneck in Aubergine, $350, and Appaloosa Corduroy Pant in Dark Matterhorn, $195, at Greyson Clothiers, 1500 Woodward Ave., Detroit, greysonclothiers.com; Magnanni Kameron Boot in Cognac, $425, at Nordstrom at Somerset Collection

MORE THAN HAIR

For a decade, the husband-and-wife duo behind Detroit-based barbershop The Social Club have been building a national enterprise rooted in quality cuts, community, and culture

BY RACHAEL THOMAS | PHOTOS BY JOSH SCOTT

2022 MARKS 10 YEARS of business for The Social Club Grooming Co., a barbershop with two locations in Midtown and downtown Detroit. Throughout that time, founders Sebastian and Gabrielle Jackson have created a business that takes the traditional barbershop experience to the next level — an experience that has attracted the likes of Big Sean and Mike Posner, Forbes, the NFL and NBA, and even a U.S. senator.

The Social Club offers haircuts, shape-ups, and beard treatments for adults and children. Aimed at catering to all hair types, the barbershop services people with straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. The Jacksons opened The Social Club’s first location in 2012 on Wayne State University’s campus, followed by a downtown location in 2018.

Barbering has been a part of Sebastian’s life since long before his six-figure business came to fruition. In 2002, he was just a 15-year-old cutting hair in his parents’ garage (he’d charge $5 for folks who came to his house and $8 if he had to come to them). A decade later, Sebastian had mastered the clippers and was known for giving cuts from his dorm room at Wayne State. He’d long seen the need for a barbershop on campus, so when a salon at the university shut down, he was determined to take over that space.

“I convinced Wayne State — after four business plans being declined — that I was the right entrepreneur to operate in this space,” he says of opening The Social Club’s first location, which serves as the business’s flagship. Sebastian and Gabrielle, who met while attending the university and wedded in 2010, used $27,000 of their savings to get The Social Club up and running. The couple sourced their own tradespeople and acted as general contractors. (“I wouldn’t recommend this approach to any aspiring entrepreneur needing to build out physical space,” Sebastian says.) During that first year, The Social Club planted roots in its community — literally. Through

a yearlong partnership with Palmer Park in Detroit and students under the then School of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Michigan, the barbershop donated its hair clippings, which were then used to make compost to plant 200 new trees around the city. In 2013, a year after opening, Sebastian and Gabrielle collaborated with Ponyride co-founder Phillip Cooley to deconstruct a blighted home in Corktown, using materials from that space to renovate The Social Club.

Gabrielle, who has a background in quality control engineering and operations, joined The Social Club full time in 2014 as its president. She streamlined the business by narrowing its services to strictly haircuts and beard treatments (The Social Club originally offered braiding, nail, tanning, and massage services, too), raised their prices to match the quality of their services, and created a better experience through the physical design and functionality of the shop.

Since then, The Social Club has only grown, and so have the Jacksons as entrepreneurs. The



SPOTLIGHT

Sebastian and Gabrielle Jackson, co-founders of The Social Club Grooming Co.

Ten years, three renovations, and countless clients later, The Social Club’s flagship location in Midtown is still going strong.

barbershop’s Midtown location has undergone three renovations — one of which was funded by retired professional basketball player Jon Robert Holden, a client of theirs. In 2019, Sebastian participated in a yearlong entrepreneur-in-residence program through Rock Ventures, and he and Gabrielle are finishing up two accelerators (these programs provide funding, mentorship, and training for startups) this month: Visible Hands’ Visionaries Accelerator and the inaugural Techstars Detroit Powered by J.P. Morgan Accelerator. The couple have raised nearly $1 million in pre-seed capital to fund their national expansion goals. And to add on to their philanthropic work and sustainability efforts, The Social Club also sent hair clippings to the Gulf of Mexico to help mop up the BP oil spill. (Sebastian says they are also researching ways hair can be used as a carbon source to create lab-grown diamonds.)

“I think one thing that is true about entrepreneurship is that it’s incredibly difficult. And being a Black entrepreneur is even more difficult. And being a Black woman entrepreneur is even more difficult than that,” Sebastian says. “There’s no reason why there shouldn’t be a Blackowned barbershop chain as big as Supercuts or Sport Clips or any other discount chain. We’re not a discount chain, but you have all these other brands that have built massive enterprises, helping create a lot of wealth for their partners. And so, I think the vision of creating a brand that can empower barbers and communities alike is [The Social Club’s] main differentiator.”

The Jacksons also want The Social Club to be viewed as a cultural hub for the city. Historically, barbershops and salons have been a safe space for

Black people to connect and collaborate. Sebastian and Gabrielle aim to continue that legacy while also providing an inclusive atmosphere for everybody coming to The Social Club, which they both say they do through the folks they hire.

“When somebody walks in our barbershop, I never want to tell them, ‘We can’t cut your hair,’” Sebastian says. “So I think that’s how we’ve been able to be inclusive as a brand, a Black-owned brand, in a very Black city, operating a very Black business, but also having a diverse community of staff. That’s really allowed the communal aspect of the historical barbershop to work across cultures.”

Another way the Jacksons are fostering community at The Social Club is through its Shop Talk. Aimed at “transforming the age-old barbershop conversation,” Sebastian engages in candid conversations with guests about their professions, current events, and other topics in front of a live audience, while Gabrielle handles production behind the scenes. Some notable Shop Talk guests include Sen. Gary Peters; actress and comedian Amanda Seales; Sadelle Moore, a founding member of StockX; and Chris Elliott, aka DJ Mo Beatz, who is Big Sean’s official DJ. The Social Club has presented nearly 100 Shop Talk events in Detroit and around the country to

date, and the Jacksons have even taken the event overseas to Salzburg, Austria.

As The Social Club grows, Sebastian and Gabrielle say they’re focused on achieving three goals: growing their digital community via Shop Talk and social media; creating a line of hair and skin care products; and building the largest national barbershop chain servicing folks with curly and coily hair.

“I think this 10th year is really transformative,” Gabrielle says, reflecting on what 2022 has meant for The Social Club. The Jacksons are also brainstorming membership opportunities, whether that includes discounts to services and merchandise at The Social Club or with partnering businesses. “I think the first 10 years was a lot of foundation-building, a lot of learning, a lot of vision-setting. And now this 10th year is executing that vision and really transforming The Social Club into the vision that we had set from the beginning. We’ve raised capital this year, we’re in accelerators, we’re working on all the things that we’ve had the vision for but weren’t able to execute because of lack of capital and resources and time. So yeah, I think this year is very transformative.”

Learn more about The Social Club at atthesocialclub.com

Browse and buy a selection of men’s care products near the reception area at The Social Club’s Midtown location.

Customers can charge up their electronics and get work done at the phone booths near the shampoo stations.

The community space at the Midtown shop serves as a waiting area for clients by day and a sitting area for Shop Talk events by night.

Once upon a sconce: The sconces, which Elley likes to dim at dinnertime, provide mood lighting. They’re the Aerin style from City Lights Detroit at the Michigan Design Center in Troy. 

Window shopping: In Cape Town, Elley says, one sees a lot of rattan and organic furnishings. “We like that look, so I selected light rattan wooden window shades. It’s a clean look against the darker trim.” 

DECKING THE TABLE

BY MEGAN SWOYER | PHOTO BY JOSEPH TIANO

WHEN THE HOLIDAYS ROLL around, interior designer Alexis Elley sets a dining table that’s a veritable feast for the eyes. “Every year, it is decked, perhaps with small Christmas trees, eucalyptus, acorns; it’s a production,” says Elley, who runs Textures Interior Design in Grosse Pointe Farms. A typical Christmas finds Elley; her husband, Jed; their children, Isabelle and Finn; and Elley’s parents seated at the table enjoying a holiday meal.

Her dining room didn’t always look the way it does now. A few years ago, while the Elleys were out of town, their master bathroom sprung a leak, and the water “ran for days.” A total overhaul was necessary. Today, an updated open floor plan features Elley’s design stamp, including influences from the other places she and her husband have lived: California and Cape Town, South Africa, where Jed grew up.

“We also added new millwork on the ceiling, and we took down a wall that separated the kitchen and dining room. It feels so much bigger now, and it’s a reflection of how people live these days,” Elley says.

Here, Elley shares some festive tablescape ideas.

Basket case: “We go to Africa every year after the holidays, and I always see beautiful baskets, which inspired the purchase of the one I have hanging in the dining room. I love its authentic look.”

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Charged up: Elley prefers for the table’s beauty to shine through her holiday vignette, so she places moss-green iron chargers — handforged by designer Jan Barboglio — beneath the plates. “They’re cool and different.”

Pattern play: The family’s Tiffany & Co. Christmas china brightens the table with a pattern that features greenery, pears, pinecones, and ribbons all awash in greens, golds, and reds.

Cheers!: Moser crystal glassware affords additional sparkle.

Choice chandelier: The Ralph Lauren chandelier exudes warmth with its leather and brass. 

Cozy and comfy: “I add sheepskin throws to the host and hostess armchairs [from RH] for texture and coziness.” She chose a “performance fabric for those chairs, because life happens and I love white furniture.”



Table talk: The dark wood color of the RH table echoes the dark window trim, reminiscent of the decor the Elleys had in their home in South Africa. Light-colored bamboo chairs from Villa & House offer a refreshing contrast.

Cutlery couture: Elley brings out her Tiffany & Co. Audubon sterling silver flatware for special occasions. It’s inspired by 19th-century Japanese bird paintings, she says.

This Grosse Pointe Farms family’s holiday traditions always include a beautiful dining scene

John Sinclair smokes a joint inside his downtown Detroit apartment while discussing his historic role in the world of jazz and blues music.

Where There’s Smoke,

There’s Fire

BY JENIFER VELOSO

FIFTY-FIVE YEARS AGO, JOHN SINCLAIR WAS ARRESTED FOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION; TWO YEARS LATER, HE WAS SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON. TODAY, HE AND OTHERS, LIKE NAJANAVA HARVEYQUINN, ARE STILL FIGHTING FOR LEGALIZATION AND JUSTICE.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY

JOHN SINCLAIR

HE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE FIGHT TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA. NOW, THE LIFETIME ACTIVIST IS MAKING SURE HIS LEGACY LIVES ON.

John Sinclair talks on the phone while lounging on his deck in late summer.

TThe afternoon light peeks into John Sinclair’s room and dances in and out of the smoke swirling up from his recently lit joint. He’s sitting at his desk, on a Zoom call, discussing jazz, blues, and rock music with people in the United Kingdom interested in his layered and historic roles in the world of music.

His apartment is tucked away on the top floor of a remodeled multilevel Victorian home in downtown Detroit. Paintings, photographs, and books fill the nooks, shelves, and fireplace mantle in his home.

Sinclair, now 81 and a Flint native, is best known for his activism, writing, and love for music and has been referred to as the “father of marijuana legalization.”

In 1967, Sinclair was nearing a decade of prolific activism in the hippies’ counterculture revolution. That same year, he was arrested for marijuana possession (for selling joints to undercover FBI agents). In 1969, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

More than a half a century later, Sinclair is no longer holding rallies or fighting in the streets. Now, his focus has shifted to cataloging his works, his life, and his legacy.

To be a real revolutionary, Sinclair says, going to prison is what you do: “It’s part of the job.”

LOCKED UP

In protest of his imprisonment, on Dec. 10, 1971, photographer Leni Sinclair (his former wife) and fellow activists held the John Sinclair Freedom Rally, a sold-out event at Crisler Arena (now Crisler Center) in Ann Arbor. Black Panther Party co-founder Bobby Seale, Allen Ginsberg, and Rennie Davis spoke at the rally, which also featured performances by Bob Seger, Stevie Wonder, and John Lennon.

Three days later, Sinclair was released from prison. He continued to appeal his case, and on March 9, 1972, the Supreme Court ruled that the 1952 law that classified marijuana as a narcotic and was used to imprison Sinclair was unconstitutional. The state legislature passed a new, less strict law on marijuana that didn’t go into effect until April 1 of that year — due to Sinclair’s battle with the courts, weed was technically legal in Michigan for 22 days.

Sinclair finishes his online meeting, and he

turns and smiles at me. “Let’s go sit outside on my little piece of heaven.” He reaches for his walker, taking a moment to stand, and I follow him to his back deck.

The wooden deck floor sits level with the surrounding Victorian brick homes’ rooftops. His chair has a direct view of the Renaissance Center towering over alleyways, each filled with pockets of light and shadows — literally a slice of heaven.

Sinclair rests in the shade of an umbrella and unravels more of his backstory.

He co-founded the White Panther Party alongside Leni Sinclair and Pun Plamondon, in support of the Black Panthers. His activism drove his pen to paper, and he became a journalist. He founded the Ann Arbor Sun with

legendary rock ’n’ roll artist Gary Grimshaw and Leni. The underground newspaper helped spread information about ongoing civil rights issues, as well as musicians and artists from underrepresented communities.

“Oh, I loved it [living in Ann Arbor]. We turned it all around,” Sinclair says. “We organized all the hippies. We had free concerts in the parks everywhere, we had the food co-op, and we had the [Free People’s Clinic].”

FROM MUSIC TO ACTIVISM

Sinclair’s activism and admiration of Black and brown people and culture started long before he ever smoked weed. His life’s journey really started the first time he heard blues music on the radio. “I grew up in the ’40s, before television,” Sinclair says. “The radio was the entertainment media. All the programs were on the radio: the dramas, soap operas, comedy reviews.

“At the time, I was like 10 years old, and I was used to listening to the radio in the morning when I woke up. I came across this Black station, and it was playing rhythm and blues. I thought, ‘Jesus Christ, this shit sounds good.’ The high point of culture in my house was watching Ed Sullivan at night. So, hearing that on the radio just blew me away. I started listening to it every day, and it just became a way of life for me.”

Sinclair spent his life surrounding himself with artists and musicians, whether he was living in Detroit, Ann Arbor, New Orleans, or Amsterdam. And he always maintained a personal conviction that, to truly appreciate the cultural works of minority groups, he had to be an advocate for civil rights. He had to be part of the revolution.

“We wanted free, legal backyard marijuana — that was our slogan,” Sinclair says. “It was rough.

—JOHN SINCLAIR

“IT WAS R OUGH. IT T OOK US 60 YEARS. IT STARTED IN 1962. … IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME.”

It started in 1962, and it took us 60 years. It’s been a long time.”

His way of life has slowed down a little in the past few years, because of ongoing health issues, but his heart and mind continue to grow and shed light on issues so easily forgotten.

He has promoted the work of artists of color his entire career. He has written hundreds of poems and cataloged the works of other artists and musicians as well. The roster of jazz and blues artists he’s met and worked with is legendary. Sinclair shook hands with R.L. Burnside inside Burnside’s home trailer. He met and watched Junior Kimbrough, Muddy Waters, and the likes play their music in person. And he continues to associate with living blues artists like Kenny Brown.

The sun starts to set, and his daughters arrive to check on their father and spend the evening with him. His daughter Celia sits next to us on the deck and proudly smiles as she watches her father talk about his legacy and his love for life.

Sinclair’s focus shifts the conversation to life in

the present. He is cataloging his works, finishing his books, and running his radio station, Radio Free Amsterdam. “I’m trying to prepare my legacy, because I don’t have much time left.”

Celia brings me a warm cup of pour-over coffee and a heavy hardcover book. On the matte leaflet, the title reads, Motor City Underground: Leni Sinclair Photographs 1963-1978 In it is a small note written to John Sinclair from Leni: “For John: This will take you down the memory lane that we traveled together. It could not have happened without you — I know. So thanks for all the good memories. Leni. April 19, 2021.”

Every page is lined with stunning black-andwhite photographs. Each page unfolds moments in history, with images of the Black Panthers feeding the community, Marvin Gaye performing live in Detroit, John Coltrane playing the sax, and Sinclair with big curly dark hair holding Celia, then a baby girl.

Sinclair’s low and raspy voice fills the evening air as he relays memories attached to each image, as I turn the pages. His face, framed with gray

and silver, still holds his warm and welcoming smile. His laugh, an almost identical Seth Rogen stoner chuckle, ripples around us as Celia and I listen to each photograph’s backstory.

Sinclair’s activism and willingness to fight in the ’60s counterculture revolution paved the way for the legalized marijuana of today. His words and his work have helped to create the freedom to enjoy small moments like the ones we shared on his patio. He envisioned a world where change is possible.

In the poem “Spiritual” by Sinclair, he reflects on the raw humanness of blues and jazz music. His love for the rich soul and sounds of both genres changed the trajectory of his life. It is in his works that we will forever be able to understand the power of his legacy.

“What is blues,” Sinclair asks in the poem, but a “prayer / to the gods of daily life / to ask the blessing / that the body of another / may lay warm in the bed / beside you at night, & the rent / be paid, & a meal / on the table, with the sheriff / far away / from the scene of the crime.”

John Sinclair smiles as he gazes out his apartment window.

HARVEY-QUINN

TThe hourlong cold and rainy car ride from Detroit to Jackson State Prison felt longer than usual this time, for 4-year-old Najanava Harvey-Quinn. This trip wasn’t just about seeing her father, Blair Anderson. This trip was going to be the one where she set him free from prison.

At the time, Harvey-Quinn’s family was living on Joy Road, in one of the many areas of Detroit that had been devastated by the crack epidemic. In her short life, during the peak of the war on drugs, she’d quietly and painfully observed dozens of fathers getting arrested, imprisoned, and ripped away from their families. She was adamant she wasn’t going to be another Detroit kid growing up without her dad.

“When a family member is imprisoned, you also get that prison sentence,” she says.

She refused to live a life missing out on moments hugging, laughing with, and playing with her father.

The answer was simple: sneak a screwdriver into her visitation with her father that he could use to break his way out to freedom — and back into her arms forever.

The towering brick walls surrounding the prison made it, at the time, the largest enclosed prison in the world, with approximately 6,000 inmates. Harvey-Quinn felt the hidden screwdriver tucked near her belt, under her yellow rain jacket, as the car neared the first security gate. She made sure it was still in place. Her mother had no idea.

Harvey-Quinn trembled with fear as she passed each corrections officer while making her way through the prison’s security checkpoints. The plastic screwdriver went completely unnoticed

INSPIRED BY HER PARENTS, THE D AUGHTER OF TWO ACTIVISTS CARRIES ON THE LEGACY OF FIGHTING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

NAJANAVA

Najanava Harvey-Quinn poses for a portrait inside Rosa, a small cafe in Detroit.

by the metal detectors, and she hoped the guards wouldn’t suspect anything. They didn’t. After all, wasn’t she just another kid from Detroit coming to see her imprisoned father?

Once Harvey-Quinn finally saw Anderson, her fear subsided. At last, she would finally be able to be with her dad, set him free, and escape to a faraway place where no one could ever pull them apart again.

Once alone with him, Harvey-Quinn revealed the screwdriver to her father. He looked at the small toy in his daughter’s hands and immediately broke down and started to cry.

Anderson pulled himself together and muttered to her that the only thing bringing the screwdriver into the jail would do was lead to her own incarceration.

Harvey-Quinn was confused, surprised. It was the first time she’d seen her father cry. She told him she knew what it was like for kids who grew up without fathers, so jail was probably in her future anyway. Anderson’s reply to her on that day changed her forever.

“The only way you can get me out of here is to become a judge, to change the system — to be part of the system and break it,” Anderson said.

THE POWER OF ADVOCACY

On a busy afternoon, Najanava Harvey-Quinn, now 35, makes her way inside Rosa, a coffee shop in the historic Rosedale Park community of Detroit. She chose this meeting spot for her interview to honor the legacy of the person it was named after, Rosa Malone, who became one of the first Black women to move into the northwest Detroit neighborhood in 1973.

It’s been 31 years since her attempted prison break, and Harvey-Quinn is now the founder and managing director of Clean Smoke Community Investment Project, a nonprofit that works to reduce the economic impact of the war on drugs by providing entrepreneurial and employment assistance to recently released prisoners.

Entering the shop feels like walking into a Southern grandmother’s French orangery. Harvey-Quinn’s smile is just as warm and welcoming as the space. As she sits on the soft pink tufted-velvet sofa, she orders a warm chai latte. She leans into every question with a focus directly reflective of the activism to which she has dedicated her life since she was a young girl.

“At 3:30, I have to take a quick Zoom call, if that’s OK? It’s a meeting with some of [Gov. Gretchen] Whitmer’s staff and other leaders in the cannabis industry. We’re discussing social equity in the selection for the replacement of Andrew Brisbo,” she says as she clears a small space on a coffee table to place her iPad.

Three years after helping to launch the state’s marijuana industry, Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency Director Andrew Brisbo has

A BE AUTIFUL TIME FOR FIERY WOMEN.”

—NAJANAVA HARVEY-QUINN

been moved from his current position.

The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association’s executive director, Robin Schneider, partnered with Harvey-Quinn to organize a Zoom call to discuss Brisbo’s replacement. Schneider played a pivotal role in giving Harvey-Quinn and other minority advocates a seat at the table and has been one of Clean Smoke’s biggest supporters.

The Zoom meeting called for several cannabis industry stakeholders to offer suggestions to Whitmer’s office as to who should replace Brisbo. The overwhelming recommendation was for Democratic state Rep. Yousef Rabhi.

In 2021, Michigan housed over 1,000 cannabis prisoners. Black and Latino people make up more than half those prisoners but comprise less than 20 percent of the commercial marijuana industry. Cannabis remains a Schedule I substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act. HarveyQuinn believes equitable changes to the legal system must start with a person of color in order to have a resounding impact.

Therefore, Harvey-Quinn says in her strong cadence, to all the Zoom call attendants, that to embrace the necessary kind of inclusivity, social equity, and leadership, Brisbo’s replacement must have special understanding of the issues and not be “just another white male.”

This is the kind of work Harvey-Quinn does on a daily basis as Clean Smoke’s managing director. Working alongside Whitmer’s administration, Harvey-Quinn has partnered with several other local organizations to compile a list of prisoners charged with nonviolent drug crimes. With the help of “Clean Slate” legislation, more than 30 people were brought home and given clemency.

In September 2021, Harvey-Quinn organized and led Clean Smoke’s first expungement fair in Detroit. Legal professionals met with attendees, providing free legal advice, discussing options, and assisting with expungement filings. Two months later, Harvey-Quinn partnered with The Cochran Firm and hosted another expungement fair.

This past June, Clean Smoke hosted a large community investment project, Adopt-a-Block,

a citywide volunteer cleanup and beautification program. Participants were able to register their block club, nonprofit, church, or small business. Clean Smoke provided lawn cleanup supplies, and a total of four adopted blocks received up to $25,000 for beautification.

Harvey-Quinn’s father is one of the original Black Panthers from the Chicago chapter; he was with Fred Hampton the night Hampton was assassinated on Dec. 4, 1969, at 4:30 a.m.

As Black Panthers, Harvey-Quinn’s parents and other civil rights leaders pioneered some of the first sickle cell testing sites, improved food and nutrition access for families, and provided educational resources for kids.

Harvey-Quinn’s fight for social justice is through weed. There is still a lot of work to do.

‘A BEAUTIFUL TIME FOR FIERY WOMEN’

Harvey-Quinn, a graduate of Bishop Borgess High School and Eastern Michigan University, says she “basically grew up thinking, ‘I am going to be a legislator. I am going to be a judge. I am going to change the laws and the way Black men are represented in court.’” Her sister suggested a different path from law school: run for office.

Harvey-Quinn met with Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a public interest lawyer and the first Muslim woman elected to the Michigan Legislature, where she served as a state representative for six years before she was elected to Congress. Tlaib would also become the first Palestinian American woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and simultaneously one of the first two Muslim women in Congress.

Harvey-Quinn remembers her first meeting with Tlaib with bittersweet emotion.

“We talked and literally cried because it’s hard when you finally see a lot of the games involved in politics when you have the kind of passion that she and I have. You wonder, How do you continue to fight?” Harvey-Quinn says.

Tlaib encouraged Harvey-Quinn to run in the Democratic primary to represent District 7 in the Michigan House of Representatives. Harvey-Quinn was nervous to run against an incumbent and had little name recognition, but Tlaib pushed her to fight for a seat at the table regardless. All Harvey-Quinn had at the time was the heart and the desire to make an impact representing approximately 91,000 Detroit residents.

“It’s a beautiful time for fiery women,” Harvey-Quinn says with a smile.

During her 2018 campaign for state representative, Harvey-Quinn’s core platform issue was the legalization of marijuana.

“Cannabis was on the ballot, and I immediately thought, This is huge. It has the potential to change the game for so many families, as far as generational wealth. But

“IT’S

marijuana has spent the last 40 years plagued by this horrible PR stunt claiming it’s this ‘gateway drug,’” she says.

While campaigning, Harvey-Quinn attended local block club meetings and met with city residents to hear their concerns regarding the legalization of recreational pot within city limits.

“The truth is adult-use legalization is coming,” she said in 2018. “So instead of thinking about how to fight it, we need to think about how we want it to impact our neighborhoods.”

On Aug. 7, 2018, Harvey-Quinn was defeated by incumbent LaTanya Garrett in the Democratic primary. Harvey-Quinn wasn’t able to start a career as a politician, but she found her own way to give back — empowering Detroit residents in the growing cannabis industry.

FIGHTING FOR MORE

In July 2021, Michigan reached a $2 billion-peryear pace with combined record recreational and medical marijuana sales. The Cannabis Regulatory Agency’s August report showed that, between July 2021 and July 2022, the average retail price for an ounce had declined 48 percent in the medical market and 44 percent in the recreational market. In that same time frame,

however, the number of active grower licenses increased 65 percent, and the number of active retail licenses increased 34 percent.

These numbers provided by the CRA reflect the growing concern that the supply of marijuana produced by licensed growers exceeds, or may soon exceed, consumer demands. The CRA is considering the placement of a temporary prohibition on grower licenses in an effort to stabilize the market.

Although these record sales and market concerns have impacted the state at large, Detroit has largely been left behind from the “weed rush.”

The statewide market for recreational marijuana opened in December 2019 but was banned within Detroit’s city limits. The ban was instituted by the Detroit City Council in an effort to gain additional time to develop rules and social equity guidelines.

In March of this year, $42 million in Michigan tax dollars from the recreational marijuana industry was distributed to 163 municipalities throughout the state. This meant eligible municipalities received more than $56,400 for every licensed retailer within their borders. The funds came from the 10 percent excise tax placed on all sales of recreational marijuana during the last fiscal year.

Detroit’s city council, mayor, and activists — such as Harvey-Quinn — immediately recognized the potential for inequality in allowing the immediate licensing of recreational marijuana in a community like Detroit, a city that historically has been dramatically impacted by the war on drugs.

In 2018, when recreational use was legalized, if the city had followed suit with the rest of the state, Detroit would have grandfathered in the 70 medical marijuana licenses. Approximately 15 of the preexisting licenses within city limits were Black-owned. Harvey-Quinn shrugs and says that is more than any other city in the country but she wanted more.

She, and others involved in the fight, got it.

In Detroit, on Sept. 1, 2022, a revised ordinance went into effect that allows the city to issue 160 licenses for selling recreational-use marijuana in Detroit, with half of the licenses reserved specifically for social equity applicants.

“We’re the Blackest city in America; we can do better,” Harvey-Quinn says. “So we fought for more, and now there will be 50 social equity [recreational] licenses, which is hopefully more reflective of African Americans and Latinos, the people who are still impacted by the war on drugs. That’s exciting.”

Harvey-Quinn is the founder and managing director of Clean Smoke Community Investment Project, a nonprofit that works to reduce the economic impact of the war on drugs by providing entrepreneurial and employment assistance to recently released prisoners.

photography

From fancy home goods and tech gear to the season’s trendiest clothes and accessories, here are more than 200 gifts for everyone on your list. (And in case you didn’t guess, we sought inspiration fromthe most iconic doll of all time to present them.)

Balmain Mock-Neck Button

Strong-Shoulder Knit Mini Dress in Fuchsia, $2,195, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248643-3300, neimanmarcus. com; Simone Rocha

Trapped Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings, $550, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com

by Gerard + Belevender product styling by Giuseppa Nadrowski wardrobe styling by Rebecca Voigt set design by Rebecca Simonov hair by Shannon Bishop makeup by Robbin Kujus edited by Rachael Thomas

Stocking stuffers

yourBrightenup loved ones’ season with thesethoughtful goodies!

From top left: 2023 12-Month Runwell Planner in Dark Teal, $30, at Shinola, shinola.com for locations; Gemma Poolside Ring in 14K Yellow Gold and Sky Blue Topaz, $1,700, at Elaine B. Jewelry, 22961 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-565-8758, elainebjewelry.com; Moglea Painted Mini Swirl Book, $12, at City Bird, 460 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 313-831-9146, citybirddetroit.com; Holiday Travel Candle Collection, $15 for set of 4, at Simply Curated, simplycurated.com; Tom Ford Men’s Fausto T-Logo Tonal Square Sunglasses in Transparent Pink, $465, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, neimanmarcus.com; Detroit Magnet, $5, at City Bird; Sun Buddies Pyle sunglasses in Aviation, $165, and Rachel Comey Dew Rings in Bone and Watermelon, $95 each, at Eugenie, 1400 Van Dyke St., Detroit, 313-556-2110, eugeniedetroit.com; Detroit Streets Candle in Jefferson, $25, at City Bird; Mechanic Platform SpecialEdition Gift Set Watch, $1,450, at Shinola; Jytte + Harp Cross Body Chain Wallet in Lime, $185, at Coup D’état, 3044 W. Grand Blvd., Ste. L-460, Detroit, 313-782-4480, shopcoupdetat.com; Bolide on Wheels Chamkila Goatskin Bag Accessory, $3,250, at Hermès at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Space C-133, Troy, 947-218-0740, hermes.com; Bear Pouch Charm in Faux Fur Visetos Pink, $410, at MCM at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. E148, Troy, mcmworldwide.com; Throw Some Shapes Large Purse, $16.50, at City Bird; Givenchy Men’s Logo Outline Leather Card Holder, $370, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection; Pen, $5, at Found Objects, 168 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248-220-4999, shopfoundobjects.com

Gifts for him

On him: Mackage Men’s Victor Lustrous Quilted Down Jacket in Lotus, $890, Versace Jeans Couture Men’s Iridescent Logo TShirt in White, $225, Marni Men’s Multi-Stripe Knit Sweater, $980, Versace Jeans Couture 5-Pocket Pants in Black, $275, and Balenciaga Men’s Track

Tonal Clear-Sole Sneakers in Pink, $1,090, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, neimanmarcus.com; Haut A Courroies 40 Rock Evergrain Calfskin Bag, $36,600, at Hermès at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C-133, Troy, 947-218-0740, hermes.com; Cat Sunglasses in Pink, $25, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248399-6200, dolcemoda.com Accessories: Givenchy Men’s Reversible 4G Leather Belt in Black/Dark Blue, $445, and Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker in Black/Pop Yellow, $750, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection; Hydro Flask 32oz. Wide Mouth bottle in Snapper, $48, and Stance The Konsburgh Sock in Black, $25, at Boyne Country Sports; 42881 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 248338-0803, boynecountrysports.com; Primecut Waist Bag in Checkered, $200, at Coup D’état, 3044 W. Grand Blvd., Ste. L-460, Detroit, 313-782-4480, shopcoupdetat.com; Outerknown Alta Beanie in Mineral Yellow, $68, at Good Neighbor, 1435 Farmer St., Ste. 115, Detroit, 313-788-7800, shopgoodneighbor.com

cameras,Colorfulafunky turntable,andother gadgetsout-of-thisworldtogettheminthegroove!

From top left: Yoto Mini, $70, at Modern Natural Baby, 200 W. Nine Mile Road, Ste. B, Ferndale, 248-629-6306, modernnaturalbaby.com; x Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator #33, $99, at Third Man Records, 441 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 313-209-5205, thirdmanrecords.com; Polaroid P3 Bluetooth Speaker, $190, at Urban Outfitters at Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. #Y-315, Troy, 248-458-1990, urbanoutfitters.com; Hot Pics Floppy Disk, $10, and Sugar Chai Honey Crunch Cassette, $12, at Bon Bon Bon, 441 W. Canfield St., Ste. 12, Detroit, 313-316-1430, bonbonbon.com; Gen 6 Wellness Edition Smartwatch in Black Silicone, $299, at Fossil at Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. V350, Troy, 248-822-6140, fossil.com; Kodak M35 35 mm Camera in Yellow, $48, at Urban Outfitters at Somerset Collection; Kodak M38 Camera, $28, at CameraMall, 2275 W. Stadium Blvd., Ste. 2, Ann Arbor, 734-997-5031, cameramall.com; Dubble Film Show Reusable 35 mm Film Camera in Pink, $59, at Woodward Camera, 33501 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248-642-1985, woodwardcamera.com; Pro-Ject Primary Turntable, $329, at Third Man Records; Xbox Series XS Wireless Controller – Forza Horizon 5, $70, at Target, target.com for locations; Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Film Camera in Sky Blue, $77, at Woodward Camera; The Paranoyds Talk, Talk, Talk 12” Vinyl, $18, at Third Man Records; Speaker Trunk GM, $17,700, at Louis Vuitton at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C105, Troy, 248-643-8930, louisvuitton.com

From top left: Ilera Body Butter in Bloom, $19 for 4 oz., at City Bird, 460 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 313-831-9146, citybirddetroit.com; Black Cat Pomade, $13, at Ace High Co., 22016 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-238-8027, acehighco.com; Nonstop Liquid Matte in Rich Auntie and Bawse Lady, $13 each, at The Lip Bar, 1435 Farmer St., Ste. 122, Detroit, 313-952-5198, thelipbar.com; Les 4 Ombres Multi-Effect Quadra Eyeshadow in Copper, Golden Amber, Satiny Bronze, and Matte Brown, $65, at Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique at Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, P131, Troy, 947-237-3564, chanel.com; Essence of Dreams Electric Sky Eau de Parfum, $125 for 90 ml., at Tory Burch at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C153, Troy, 248458-1307, toryburch.com; Classic Hair Comb, $30, at City Bird; Noto Deep Serum, $52, at Coup D’état, 3044 W. Grand Blvd., Ste. L-460, Detroit, 313-782-4480, shopcoupdetat.com; Kiwa Studio Gentle Detox Mask, $21, at Eugenie, 1400 Van Dyke St., Detroit, 313-556-2110, eugeniedetroit.com; Maison Louis Marie No. 04 Eau de Parfum, $89 for 50 ml., at Nora, 4240 Cass Ave., Ste. 109, Detroit, 313-831-4845, noramodern.com; Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Golden Khaki, $30, at Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique at Somerset Collection; Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane, $34 for 50 ml., at Kiehl’s at Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-4704, kiehls.com; No. 5 The Gold Oil, $100 for 8.4 fl. oz., at Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique at Somerset Collection

Help your friends and family put their best self forward with fragrances, serums, makeup, and more!

Stylin’

On her: Batsheva Long Sleeve Ashlyn Blouse in Denim, $250, and Welle Skirt in Denim, $300, at Coup D’état, 3044 W. Grand Blvd., Ste. L-460, Detroit, 313-782-4480, shopcoupdetat.com; Strawberry-Shaped Mini Bag with Chain Shoulder Strap in White and Black, $2,500, at Gucci, gucci. com for locations; Capucines BB, $6,900, at Louis Vuitton at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C105, Troy, 248-643-8930, louisvuitton.com; Amal Metallic Snake Embossed Leather Sandal in Silver, $185, at Michael Kors, michaelkors.com

Accessories: Ted Baker Gliters Crystal Mini Crossbody, $195, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-3996200, dolcemoda.com;

Saint Laurent Baby YSL Quilted Round Belt Bag, $1,100, Versace Decollete Shoe in Deep Fuchsia, $1,575, and Ray-Ban Classic Wayfarer Sunglasses in Transparent Green, $171, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, neimanmarcus.com

Gifts for her

Gifts for the athlete

On him: Head Men’s Neo Jacket in Lime, $490, Obermeyer The Bells Sweater in Coal, $189, Bur-ton RCY Trope Beanie in Black, $30, Smith I/O Mag Chroma Pop Goggle in Black/Sun Red Mirror, $250, and Smith Altus Helmet in Matte Sangria, $190, at Boyne Country Sports, 42881 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 248-338-0803, boynecountrysports.com; Paige Premium Denim Men’s Lennox Jeans in Julius, $209, Happy Socks Men’s Run for It Sock in Dark Green, $14, and Sorel Men’s Madison II Moc Toe Boot in Velvet Tan, $200 at Bivouac, 336 S. State St., Ann Arbor, 734-761-6207, bivouacannarbor.com

Accessories: Dakine Boot Bag 30L in Woodland Floral, $50, at Boyne Country Sports; The North Face Recycled Ridge Fleece Trapper Hat in Military Olive/Thyme Brushwood Camo, $55, On Running Men’s Cloudwander Waterproof shoes in Midnight/Olive, $180, Hestra Deerskin Primaloft Ribbed Gloves in Cork, $135, and The North Face Men’s Thermoball Traction Mule V in Thyme Brushwood Camo Print/ Thyme, $59, at Bivouac

On her: Leopard Sequined

Cropped Puffer Jacket, $795, Leopard Sequined One-Shoulder Dress, $295, Parker Leather Pump in Black/Silver, $155, Parker

Medium Metallic Snake Embossed

Leather Shoulder Bag in Silver, $558, and Large Jet Set Charm

Crossbody Bag in Silver, $198, at Michael Kors, michaelkors.com; No. 21 Crystal-Embellished Necklace, $375, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com; Cat Sunglasses in Black, $25, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com

Products: Lance Havana Classic, $2,299+, at Detroit Moped Works, 5407 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 313502-8198, detroitmopedworks.

com; Haut A Courroies 40 Rock Evergrain Calfskin Bag, $36,600, at Hermès at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C-133, Troy, 947-218-0740, hermes.com

Kiddos everywhere will enjoy these fun toys, books, and accessories!

com; Le Toy Van Cafe Machine, $40, at Petite Cabane; Taco Van, $20, at Rail & Anchor, 502 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 248-397-8985, railandanchor.com; Chunkies Paint Sticks, $30, at Nest; Bari Lynn Bag, $57.50, at The Friendship Factory, thefriendshipfactory.com for locations; Safari Jumble Wooden Puzzle & Play, $30, at Modern Natural Baby; Areaware Cubebot, $20, at Nest

From top right: Balenciaga Kid’s Triple S Tonal Chunky Sneakers in Purple/Black, $595, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, neimanmarcus.com; Brainstorm! by Rebecca Gardyn Levington, $18 for hardcover, at Cherry Lake Publishing Group, cherrylakepublishing.com; Mary Poppins Up Up and Away by Hélène Druvert, $25, at Petite Cabane, 205 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-792-7979, petitecabaneshop.com; Triceratops Planter, $23, at Nest, 460 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 313-831-9776, citybirddetroit.com Vilac Extra Large Racing Car in Blue and Orange, $64, at Petite Cabane; Kidmento Koto The Panda Instant Camera, $80, at Modern Natural Baby, 200 W. Nine Mile Road, Ste. B, Ferndale, 248-629-6306, modernnaturalbaby.com; Large Bashful Bunny, $25, and Small Bashful Bunny, $17, at Found Objects, 168 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248-220-4999, shopfoundobjects.

On her: Cinq à Sept Khloe Ditsy Embellished Denim Blazer, $595, Alice + Olivia Willa Scrunched Puff-Sleeve Top in Queen of Hearts, $350, and Alice + Olivia Conry Vegan Leather Pleated Cuff Shorts in Perfect Ruby, $285, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-6433300, neimanmarcus.com; Rita Row Maple Beret in Red, $84, at Eugenie, 1400 Van Dyke St., Detroit, 313-556-2110, eugeniedetroit.com; Chimi Eyewear 09 Sunglasses in Ecru, $140, at Coup D’état, 3044 W. Grand Blvd., Ste. L-460, Detroit, 313782-4480, shopcoupdetat.com; Simone Rocha Trapped Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings, $550, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com; Robinson Spazzolato Convertible Shoulder Bag, $398, and Ella Printed Tote in Rayure Fleurie, $278, at Tory Burch at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C153, Troy, 248-458-1307, toryburch.com; Coussin BB in Pearl Rouge, $4,850, at Louis Vuitton at Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Ste. C105, Troy, 248-643-8930, louisvuitton.com; High Heel Open Toe Pump with Golden GG Button in White, $980, at Gucci, gucci.com for locations

Accessories: Ella Printed Mini Tote in Rayure Fleurie, $198, and Kira Chevron Bi-Fold Wallet in Black, $198, at Tory Burch at Somerset Collection; Simone Rocha Chunky Twisted Silvertone, Glass Crystal & Resin Pearl Necklace, $375, at Tender; Balmain B Army Logo Canvas Shoulder Bag in Blanc Rose, $1,050, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection; Emmett Two-Tone Logo Embellished Sneaker, $175, at Michael Kors, michaelkors.com

Gifts for the adventurer

On her: Carolina Herrera Floral

Exaggerated Puff-Sleeve Gathered Mini Dress in Iris Multi, $2,690, and Givenchy G Chain Feather Slingback Sandals in Light Pink, $1,075, at Neiman Marcus at Somerset Collection, 2705 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, 248-643-3300, neimanmarcus. com; Ramona Ring, $165, at Good Neighbor, 1435 Farmer St., Ste. 115, Detroit, 313-788-7800, shopgoodneighbor.com; Gemini Ring in Diamond, Peridot, and Pink Tourmaline, $870, at Elaine B. Jewelry, 22961 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-5658758, elainebjewelry.com; Simone Rocha Trapped Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings, $550, at Tender, 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-258-0212, tenderbirmingham.com; Rogue 12 in Signature Textile Jacquard, $195, at Coach, coach.com for locations

On him: Ron Tomson Single-Breasted Peak Merino Suit jacket in Lilac, $850 for full suit, Ted Baker Tonal Micro Dot Long Sleeve Shirt in White, $175, Sartoria Corrado Kissed Pleats Trousers in Brown, $195, Dibi Floral Tie in Purple, $65, and Ted Baker Udamo Leather Sneakers in Light Brown, $170, at Dolce Moda, 323 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248-399-6200, dolcemoda.com

Products: Poliform Mad Swivel Armchair in Velvet, $2,980, and B&B Italia Frank Side Table in Black Chromed Frame, $2,100, at Arkitektura, 2131 Cole St., Birmingham, 248-6460097, arksf.com; Veuve Clicquot Champagne Flutes, $30 each, at Found Objects, 168 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248-220-4999, shopfoundobjects.com

$55, for set of 2, at Nora; Plant Magic Mocktails Variety Pack, $28 for 4-pack, at Little Saints, littlesaints.com for locations; Splatter Platter in Desert/Green, $60+, at Debbie Carlos Studio, store.debbiecarlos.com; Winged Corkscrew in Gold, $23, at Rail & Anchor, 502 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 248-397-8985, railandanchor.com; Hawkins New York Essentials Glassware in Green, $32 for set of 4, and Essentials Glassware

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

The following physicians are current or past Hour Detroit Top Docs in the Dermatologist or Plastic & & Reconstructive Surgery categories. Hour Detroit Top Docs are chosen through a a rigorous peer review only. That is, and always has been, the sole criterion for inclusion in Top Docs. Inclusion cannot be bought, and advertising has no impact on the review process. The full list of current Top Docs can be found in the October issue, and on HourDetroit.com .

Physician Name Practice City Specialty

A.

David

Mariana

David S. Balle, M.D. Grosse Pointe Dermatology & Cosmetic

Katherine

Dermatology

Brittany Carter-Snell, D.O. Carter Snell Skin Center Detroit Dermatology

Aaron S. Cetner, M.D.

Leonard M. Cetner, M.D.

Associated Dermatologists Novi

Associated Dermatologists Commerce

Dermatology

Dermatology

Steven D. Daveluy, M.D. Wayne Health Dearborn Dermatology

Snehal R. Desai, M.D.

Shauna Diggs, M.D.

Affiliated Troy Dermatologist Troy Dermatology

Cosmedic Dermatology

Grosse Pointe Dermatology

Edward Abrou, M.D. Dermatology Associates of Macomb-OaklandNovi Dermatology

Altman, M.D. Midwest Center For Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Warren Dermatology

Atanasovski, M.D. Modern Dermatology PLLC Romeo Dermatology

CenterGrosse Pointe

L. Caretti, M.D. Ferrara Dermatology Clinic Grosse Pointe WoodsDermatology

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Mune Gowda, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Mune Gowda, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a best-in-class, board-certified plastic surgeon who believes in patience, precision, and perfection, and says each patient is unique and requires individualized treatment.

Dr. Mune Gowda and Associates is one of southeast Michigan’s most well-known plastic surgery practices. Dr. Gowda and his staff have studied the art and science of plastic surgery extensively, and regularly complete continuing education courses and training to keep up with the latest advances in the field.

“I pride myself on providing the latest techniques to my patients,” says Dr. Gowda, who specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery of the face and body, and is on staff at Providence and Beaumont hospitals. “Piezo technology and preservation rhinoplasty techniques are two advances that we’re thrilled to offer. Less invasive and requiring less downtime, they can greatly improve the experience for patients.”

Dr. Gowda says the preservation rhinoplasty technique is an evolution of the procedure. “It’s very popular in Europe and on the rise in the U.S.,” he says. “This technique is suitable for most but not all patients; a consultation can determine the best course for each individual.”

The practice offers an array of body, breast, and facial rejuvenation procedures. It also provides a state-of-the-art Med Spa that offers many nonsurgical treatments including cosmetic injectables, medical facials, and laser devices.

“Rhinoplasty, face, and neck-lifts are among the most impactful procedures and can make a subtle, long-lasting change and enhance the beauty of the face,” Dr. Gowda says. “I’ve always favored the two-layer face-lift and now, adding the deep plane face-lift, which provides longer-lasting results, my patients are seeing even better outcomes. This is especially true when paired with the deep plane contour of the neck.”

Dr. Gowda has won numerous awards and honors, including Newsweek America’s Best Plastic Surgeons, 2021 Facelift; Top 10 Plastic Surgeons (National Academy of Plastic Surgeons); America’s Top Surgeons (Consumer’s Research Council of America); and Hour Detroit’s Top Docs.

He primarily performs surgical procedures in his certified, state-of-the-art surgical center located inside his Novi office in the Ascension Providence Hospital Medical Building. ■

Mune Gowda, M.D., F.A.C.S. Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon 26850 P rovidence Pkwy., Ste. 125 Novi, MI 48374 248-305-8400 3270 W. Big Beaver Rd., Ste. 415 Troy, MI 48084 248-530-0000 gowdamd.com

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Physician Name Practice City Specialty

Michael A. Dorman, M.D. Associated Dermatologists West Bloomfield Dermatology

Alexander Ernst, M.D. MHP Dermatology Madison Heights Dermatology

David Fivenson, M.D. Fivenson Dermatology Ann Arbor Dermatology

Chethana Gottam, M.D. Art of Dermatology Berkley Dermatology

Iltefat Hamzavi, M.D. Hamzavi Dermatology Fort Gratiot Dermatology

Jessica Kado, M.D. Caudill, Kado & Co Clarkston Dermatology

Rohit Kakar, M.D. Rahit Kakar, MD, FAAD Clinton Township Dermatology

Darius J. Karimipour, M.D. Karimipour Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery Bloomfield Hills Dermatology

Holly A. Kerr, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit Dermatology

Leonard Y. Kerwin, M.D. Associated Dermatologists West Bloomfield Dermatology

Laurie L. Kohen, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit Dermatology

Jungho L. Kwon, M.D. Henry Ford Health West Bloomfield Dermatology

Henry W. Lim, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit Dermatology

Wendy McFalda, D.O. Clarkston Dermatology Clarkston Dermatology

Suzanne R. Merkle, M.D. Associated Dermatologists West Bloomfield Dermatology

Tara Mohammadi, M.D. West Bloomfield Dermatology and Mohs Surgery West Bloomfield Dermatology

David M. Ozog, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit Dermatology

Craig Singer, M.D. Craig Singer MD Dermatology, PLLC Bingham Farms Dermatology

Robert Singer, M.D. Singer Dermatology Southfield Dermatology

Lindsay R. Sklar, M.D. West Bloomfield Dermatology and Mohs Surgery West Bloomfield Dermatology

Bryan D. Sofen, M.D. Hamzavi Dermatology Fort Gratiot Dermatology

Kay Watnick, M.D. West Bloomfield Dermatology and Mohs Surgery West Bloomfield Dermatology

Marla N. Jahnke, M.D. Henry Ford Health Troy Dermatology - Pediatric

Tor A. Shwayder, M.D. Henry Ford Health Troy Dermatology - Pediatric

Allison Zarbo, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit Dermatology - Pediatric

M. Azhar Ali, M.D.

Amae Plastic Surgery Center Birmingham

Faisal Almufarrej, M.D. Wayne Health Detroit

Dunya M. Atisha, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit

Evan H. Black, M.D. Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery, PC Southfield

Christina Busuito, M.D. Somerset Plastic Surgery Troy

Michael J. Busuito, M.D. Somerset Plastic Surgery Troy

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Dr. Ellen Janetzke

Dr. Ellen Janetzke, founder of Dr. Ellen Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Bloomfield Hills, is celebrating 21 years in business in 2022. Her successful and highly respected practice was built around her ability to understand, anticipate, and fulfill patient expectations, honestly and realistically.

Not only has she created a thriving business, but she’s established a reputation as both a gifted surgeon and a caring doctor. And she changes lives.

“It’s always a special feeling when I hear that from my patients, and it’s why I do what I do,” she says. “I have a patient I saw recently who I’ve worked on before, and we just did a face-lift. When I showed her the pre-op pictures compared to what she looked like just a few weeks after surgery, she started to cry. And, of course, it made me cry those same tears of joy.”

Dr. Ellen says there have been many improvements in the plastic surgery field, including better anesthesia and a better and faster recovery experience. “The whole patient experience has been continuing to improve,” she says.

One area that hasn’t changed is Dr. Ellen’s commitment to “shaping confidence” and her personalized approach, which is designed to ensure that her patients achieve the best possible outcome.

“When considering plastic surgery, it’s essential to be comfortable with your surgeon and staff, and to have your goals completely understood,” she says. “I’m a big believer in patient education, and there’s no such thing as too much information. I want them to know as much as possible about the procedure, recovery, and expectations.

“Our mission is to gain our patients’ trust and guide them through every step, starting with their very first phone call.”

Of course, there have been a few bumps in the road along her incredible journey. “We’ve had some challenges over those 20 years, including a recession in 2008 and, of course, Covid in 2020,” Dr. Ellen says. “I think we came out of those challenges better and stronger.”

And that’s why another 20 years is certainly in the forecast. ■

Dr. Ellen Janetzke

6 0 W Big Beaver Rd., Ste. 100 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248-220-6760

drellen.com info@drellen.com

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Physician Name Practice City Specialty

Paul S. Cederna, M.D. Michigan Medicine - Domino’s Farms Ann Arbor

Kongkrit Chaiyasate, M.D. Center of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Royal Oak

Andrew Compton, M.D. Andrew Compton, , M.D. Troy

Vigen Darian, M.D. Henry Ford Health Novi

Sarah M. Elswick, M.D. Revitalize Plastic Surgery Troy

Maristella S. Evangelista, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit

DeLorean Griffin, M.D. Griffin Plastic Surgery West Bloomfield

Ellen Janetzke, M.D

Daniel A. Lyons, M.D.

Dr. Ellen Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Bloomfield Hills

Trinity Health IHA Medical Group - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Ypsilanti

Michael S. Meininger, M.D. Meininger Plastic Surgery

Bloomfield Hills

Kenneth J. Moquin, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit

Guillermina Nava, M.D. Wayne Health Detroit

Lauren N. Oliver, D.O.

Beaumont Plastic & Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Oak Royal Oak

Pravin Puri, M.D. Somerset Plastic Surgery Troy

Elan Reisin, M.D. Star Plastic Surgery Novi

Neil S. Sachanandani, M.D. Beaumont Plastic & Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Oak Royal Oak

Ricky Sayal, D.O. ENT Specialists, P.C. Novi

Aamir Siddiqui, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit

Kristoffer B. Sugg, M.D.

Trinity Health IHA Medical Group - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Ypsilanti

Donna G. Tepper, M.D. Henry Ford Health Detroit

Jeffrey L. Williams, M.D. Spa Renaissance & Renaissance Plastic Surgery Troy

Kongkrit Chaiyasate, M.D. Center of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Royal Oak

Steven Kasten, M.D. Michigan Medicine C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital Ann Arbor

Arlene Rozzelle, M.D. DMC Children’s Hospital of Michigan Detroit

Christian J. Vercler, M.D. Michigan Medicine C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital Ann Arbor

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic)

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic) - Pediatric

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic) - Pediatric

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic) - Pediatric

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (Not Cosmetic) - Pediatric

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery, PC

Evan H. Black, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.C.S., is an award-winning, nationally recognized ophthalmic and facial plastic surgeon. He’s board-certified and has pioneered innovative procedures for treating the descent of the forehead, eyebrows, and eyelids using minimally invasive techniques.

Dr. Black specializes in all areas of reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid and brow surgery, and he applies the most advanced laser and endoscopic techniques available. He’s been voted one of the Best Doctors in America every year since 2005, and is a multiple winner of Hour Detroit’s Top Docs. He’s also a clinical professor of ophthalmology at the Oakland University/William Beaumont Hospital School of Medicine and the Wayne State University School of Medicine. In addition, Dr. Black is past president of the Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, and is a leader in the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

With his colleagues at Consultants in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery, PC, Dr. Black offers cosmetic eyelid and brow surgery; treats lower-eyelid “bags”; does Botox treatments around the eyes; surgically manages drooping eyelids, eyelid tumors, and reconstruction; and repairs lower-eyelid malposition.

A Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Black is a consummate researcher whose interests include advances in eyelid surgery, brow-lifting surgery, and botulinum toxin investigations. He has published numerous manuscripts, and lectures both in the U.S. and abroad.

Dr. Black, who received his medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of North Carolina, followed by an ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at William Beaumont Hospital and the Kresge Eye Institute.

Consultants in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery, PC, has eight locations: Southfield, Troy, Flint, St. Clair Shores, Rochester Hills, Novi, Southgate, and Livonia. In addition to Dr. Black, five other surgeons: Dr. Frank A. Nesi, Dr. Geoffrey J. Gladstone, Dr. Francesca Nesi-Eloff, Dr. Dianne M. Schlachter, and Dr. Robert A. Beaulieu comprise the practice. All of the physicians hold affiliations with only the top-accredited hospitals, and all are ASOPRS fellowship-trained experts in the field of oculoplastics. ■

Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery, PC 29201 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 324 Southfield, MI 48034 800-245-8075 eyelidpros.com

Top Dermatologists Surgeons

Top Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons

Andrew Compton, M.D.

Dr. Comp ton brings the Vertical Vector Facelift to Michigan. Dr. Compton is a facial plastic surgeon well known throughout Michigan for his artistic eye and attention to detail. With a quick review of his rhinoplasty results and his artwork on www.AndrewComptonMD.com, you can see why his catchphrase is “Hands of Surgeon, Eye of an Artist.”

Dr. Compton is thrilled to bring the facelift techniques pioneered and perfected by Dr. Andrew Jacono to the metro Detroit area. Dr. Jacono is arguably the most famous facelift surgeon in the world, and for good reason. His breath-taking results have drawn the world’s most elite clientele and celebrities. Dr. Compton has been trained by Dr. Jacono in all the details of these facial rejuvenation techniques and he can’t wait to share this experience with you.

The vertical vector facelift is a comprehensive rejuvenation surgery that treats aging changes in all levels of the jawline, mid-face, forehead, and neck. The key difference from a traditional facelift is that

this procedure repositions the tissues of the cheek, jowl, and nasolabial fold into a more vertical position to where they naturally sit in youth. To do this, the facial ligaments (supporting structures) are released so that the volume can be gently repositioned without tension. This creates a soft, natural outcome without that windblown, overfilled, or operated look.

The vertical vector facelift also includes jawline contouring, deep neck lift and temporal browlift to provide comprehensive facial rejuvenation. The deep neck lift is to remove fat, define the jawline and ensure that double chin is gone for good. A temporal browlift is a gentle elevation of the outer brow to open the eye without giving you that permanently surprised look. Other procedures can also be combined with the vertical vector facelift including the upper lip lift, buccal fat removal, chin implant, nanofat stem cell therapy, lasers, chemical peel, fat transfer and eyelid surgery. We are proud to offer our special ‘Chrysalis package’ to allow any combi-

nation of these facial surgeries to be combined into one comprehensive fee to allow a complete transformation at significant savings.

Come meet Dr. Compton and hear more about this technique and how it could benefit you. To celebrate this new advanced facelift, we are offering half off pricing through the end of the year.

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by to look the way you feel. ■

Andrew Compton, M.D.

1639 East Big Beaver Rd., Ste. 103 Troy MI, 48083 248-289-7300

Info@AndrewComptonMD.com www.AndrewComptonMD.com

DECEMBER 2022

Culture Calendar

Our carefully curated guide to the month in arts and entertainment

BY RYAN PATRICK HOOPER

AT THE SYMPHONY Home Alone and Charlie Brown traditionsholiday return to the DSO

It’s a perfect mix of pop culture and pops concert — the score of Home Alone performed live in sync with the movie by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. It’s a performance that starts with the thundering drumroll of the 20th Century Fox fanfare to the haunting main title theme, “Somewhere in My Memory.” The score for this holiday classic is a monumental and memorable one by the incomparable John Williams, one of the greatest living composers ever (at least if you’re into Star Wars, the Indiana Jones saga, or the Harry

Potter films, to name a select few). It’s been a blast watching this grow into a beloved holiday tradition at Orchestra Hall, and it’s a bit surprising this is a one-night-only affair considering its popularity. Get your tickets for this ideal family-friendly presentation before it sells out. And if it does happen to sell out, grab tickets to A Charlie Brown Christmas with pianist Cyrus Chestnut performing “Linus and Lucy,” “Christmas Time Is Here,” and more from Vince Guaraldi’s score of the same name — the only collection of Christmas music that people never get sick of.

A Charlie Brown Christmas concert with Cyrus Chestnut takes place on Friday, Dec. 9, at Orchestra Hall. Home

Alone in Concert occurs on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Orchestra Hall. Tickets for both are available via the DSO’s official website, dso.org.

FAMILY FRIENDLY Noel makesNight a major return to Midtown

It’s been a while since Midtown’s marquee event Noel Night has been part of the holiday scene, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but on Saturday, Dec. 3, that will all change. This event opens the doors of all the major cultural institutions in Midtown, plus the rich bounty of restaurants, bars, retailers, and art galleries that fill out one of the city’s best neighborhoods. Even if you’re a regular around Midtown or the Cass Corridor, the special

events at places like the Detroit Institute of Arts and Detroit Artists Market make this an evening you don’t want to miss. To boot, it’s a time when families come out in full force to stroll the streets, listening to carolers and soaking in the holiday cheer at the beginning of December.

Noel Night is free and open to the public. Visit noelnight.org for more information

FAMILY FRIENDLY Greenfield Village gets into the holiday spirit

There’s nothing as charming or as massive as Greenfield Village’s Holiday Nights, which turns the 80-acre historic outdoor museum into a winter wonderland. The scent of roasted

chestnuts fills the air. Bonfires are scattered across the property. And when you step into a preserved house or factory, it’s all about what would be happening in that time period during the holidays — from the traditions to the menu. Fireworks bring the whole thing together at the end of the night, capping off a tradition at The Henry Ford’s Greenfield Village that stretches more than two decades. Grab a hot cup of cocoa (you can spike it if you’d like, even though this is a very family-friendly event) and wander the grounds at Greenfield Village to your heart’s content. There are multiple weekends through December — but it will sell out, so don’t sleep on this one. Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village (part of The Henry Ford in Dearborn) happens on multiple dates in December. For tickets and full dates, visit its official website, thehenryford.org.

ON MY PLAYLIST Michigan’s

Miss Grit

returns with new music, new record deal

Miss Grit is the first artist to make their way into our Culture Calendar twice — and it’s with good reason. When I wrote about them over a year ago, it was about their second EP, Impostor, which touched on their experiences as a Korean American growing up in Michigan and showed off huge guitar sounds that will remind fans of St. Vincent or The Breeders. Now, Margaret Sohn (who records as Miss Grit) returns with a new record deal with Mute and an excellent new single, “Like You,” which is a wonderful tease of the bigger things that this homegrown artist has on the immediate horizon in 2023.

Miss Grit’s new single, “Like You,” is available for purchase and streaming. For more, go to mute.ffm.to/missgrit.

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

 Korean American musician Miss Grit is back with recently released single “Like You.”

HOLIDAY

DECK YOUR DAYS & NIGHTS

Save the dates for merry musicals, comedy shows, film screenings, and more coming to metro Detroit this holiday season COMPILED BY LAUREN WETHINGTON

Nov. 18-Dec. 24

THEATER

A Christmas Carol: No holiday tale has proved more enduring than Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella about a greedy, uncaring miser and the ghosts that help him change his ways. Enjoy this live stage adaptation by Charles Nolte, featuring gorgeously festive sets

and plenty of faux snow.

This annual production is in its 40th year as a Meadow Brook Theatre Christmas tradition. $37+. Meadow Brook Theatre, Rochester; mbtheatre.com

Nov. 18-Dec. 30

RECREATION

A Ford House Christmas: Each year, the historic for-

mer residence of Edsel and Eleanor Ford transforms into a holiday wonderland for this festive event. Visits begin with a lighted shuttle ride to the home, where holiday crafts and entertainment await at the property’s visitor center. Concessions will be available for purchase. $20+. Ford House, Grosse Pointe; fordhouse.org

Nov. 18-Dec. 31

RECREATION

Magic of Lights: Detroit’s newest Christmas tradition returns to Pine Knob this holiday season to dazzle visitors with the latest in LED technology. This drive-through experience features several different holiday scenes and characters, all aglow in thousands of glittering lights. The experience is designed to

be enjoyed entirely from inside a car, making it the ideal festive outing for those continuing to practice social distancing. $15+ per vehicle. Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston; 313presents.com

Nov. 19-Jan. 8, 2023

RECREATION

Wild Lights: Millions of LED lights illuminate trees, buildings, and hundreds of animalinspired sculptures at the Detroit Zoo’s annual holiday celebration. The majority of the event takes place outside, but for the first time this year, guests can warm up with s’mores, hot cocoa, and adult beverages inside the Wild Lights Lounge. Perfect for zoogoers of all ages, Wild Lights is known to sell out — so grab your tickets early. $17+. Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak; wildlights.detroitzoo.org

Nov. 21-Jan. 15, 2023

RECREATION

The Big, Bright Light Show: Rochester’s charming downtown district bursts with cheer during this annual display, which features more than 1 million dazzling lights. The show kicks off at 5 p.m. each day throughout the holiday season, providing a festive backdrop for the area's many holiday events, which include Caroling in the City and the Kris Kringle Market. No cost. Downtown Rochester; downtownrochestermi.com

Nov. 25-Dec. 23

RECREATION

Holiday Walk at Meadow Brook Hall: The whole family can discover Meadow Brook Hall estate in all its Christmas splendor during this selfguided indoor tour, which runs daily throughout the holiday season. The National Historic Landmark will be decked out with more than 50 glittering Christmas trees, including a 10-foot-tall poinsettia tree made of 150 live plants. The historic 110-room mansion will also feature cozy lit fireplaces, intricate holiday trimmings, and thousands of twinkling lights. On select Saturdays, visitors can even meet Santa Claus and his reindeer. $20+. Meadow Brook Hall, Rochester; meadowbrookhall.org

Dec. 2-3 RECREATION

Christmas in the Village: Mill Race Village, a living museum in Northville that features restored and replica buildings from the 19th century, will be adorned with lights and festive decor for this annual event hosted by the Northville Historical Society. Browse bespoke gifts at the Christmas Market or snap a selfie beside one of the village’s many decorative inflatables as you enjoy a soundtrack of cheerful holiday music. $12+.

Mill Race Village, Northville; millracenorthville.org

Dec. 2-3 RECREATION

Kris Kringle Market: Browse a selection of fresh plants, wreaths, locally crafted gifts, and delicious specialty foods at this European-inspired outdoor market in downtown Rochester. Guests can enjoy a selection of seasonal snacks, such as roasted almonds and kettle corn, as they shop to the festive sounds of holiday music. Bring the kids along to play inside life-size gingerbread houses and

Cirque du Soleil

score a photo with Santa Claus. No cost. Downtown Rochester; downtownrochestermi.com

Dec. 2-4 THEATER

The Hard Nut: What if The Nutcracker took place at a raucous Christmas party in the 1970s? That’s the premise of The Hard Nut a retro-modern interpretation of the classic holiday ballet from the acclaimed, New York-based Mark Morris Dance Group. A live orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s original score as the story of Marie, her toy nutcracker, and her battle against the Rat King plays out onstage. Expect go-

go boots, dancing G.I. Joes, androgynous snowflakes, and lots of holiday spirit. $29+.

Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org

Dec. 2-19 • THEATER

Who’s Holiday: The Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQ community center in Ferndale will present this hilariously raunchy take on Dr. Seuss’s classic tale How the Grinch Stole Christmas

The irreverent one-woman show follows an alcoholic, trailer park-bound Cindy Lou Who as she recounts her fateful Christmas run-in with the

Grinch and the resulting turn of events. This adults-only comedy will show on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. $15+. The Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations, Ferndale; theringwald.com

Dec. 2-23 • RECREATION

Holiday Stroll at Canterbury Village: Lake Orion’s historic landmark is decked out in nearly 1 million twinkling lights for this memorable holiday event taking place every weekend until Christmas. Enjoy a light show, professional carolers, and recreations of classic Christmas scenes as you wind through the charming village. Expect to be greeted by live characters along the way, including Frosty the Snowman, Buddy the Elf, and even the Grinch himself. Cap off the festive experience with a cocktail or hard cider on the C-Pub’s outdoor patio, where blazing firepits keep things warm and cozy. Visit the village’s website for a host of other holiday happenings. $15+. Canterbury Village, Lake Orion; canterburyholidaystroll.com

Dec. 3 • FILM

The Polar Express: The whole family will enjoy this festive tale of friendship, bravery, and holiday spirit as it plays on the big screen at the Redford Theatre. Based on Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 children’s book

of the same name, the story centers on a young boy who hops aboard a North Polebound train on Christmas Eve.

Tom Hanks, who is one of the film’s executive producers, also voices several of its prominent characters — including the train’s conductor and Santa Claus. $5. Redford Theatre, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com

Dec. 3 • FILM

The Nightmare Before Christmas: This Academy Award-nominated Tim Burton classic will show for one evening at Detroit’s Redford Theatre.

Through ingenious stop-motion animation, the film relays the tale of Jack Skellington, the king of a fictional Halloween world, as he falls head over heels in love with all things Christmas. The movie features a catchy score written and performed by Danny Elfman, along with a star-studded cast of voice actors that includes Catherine O’Hara, Chris Sarandon, William Hickey, and Ken Page. $5. Redford Theatre, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com

Dec. 3-4 • ART

Delightfully Yours Ornament

Signing with Jacki Edwards:

Since 1983, prolific Wisconsinbased artist Jacki Edwards has been crafting unique keepsake ornaments for families. For this special event, Edwards will be

on-site at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth to display, sell, and sign her signature “Delightfully Yours” on her clay dough and resin pieces. Guests can also browse the sprawling store’s enormous selection of Christmas trees, lights, homeware, and decor. No cost. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, Frankenmuth; frankenmuth.org

Christmas Bread Pudding with warm caramel sauce. At 7 p.m., guests will be invited to attend a bonus screening of A Civil Christmas a musical film about a Union soldier and a young Confederate woman who find themselves weathering a storm together on Christmas Eve. Redford Theatre, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com

Dec. 4 • FILM

Christmas at the Holly Hotel: Catch the premiere of this new holiday movie, which was filmed at Michigan’s own Holly Hotel. The audience will follow Kathy, the daughter of the hotel’s owners, as she returns home for Christmas and reconnects with family. Tickets include a red-carpet reception with refreshments and appetizers, as well as a complimentary movie poster. A meet and greet with the film’s cast and crew awaits guests at the afterglow party, which will also feature coffee service and the Holly Hotel’s famous

Dec. 4 THEATER

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang for this liveaction version of the classic animated Christmas special. Actors will perform everyone’s favorite scenes from the original TV show, singing and dancing to Vince Guaraldi's classic score along the way. Stick around after the show for a sing-along concert featuring favorite holiday tunes. Three showtimes are available. $25+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Dec. 7 • MUSIC

Dave Koz and Friends 25th Anniversary Christmas Tour: Despite his Jewish heritage, California-based smooth jazz saxophonist Dave Koz enjoys Yuletide festivities so much that in 2014, he released a Christmas album, The 25th of December. Enjoy his contemporary interpretations of holiday carols like “The First Noel” and “Let It Snow” when he stops at Detroit’s Music Hall this month. Koz will be joined by special guests including keyboardist Keiko Matsui, horn player Rick Braun, guitarist and pianist Peter White, and jazz vocalist Rebecca Jade. $45+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

Dec. 8 MUSIC

Christmas with Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith: Multiplatinum-selling, Grammy Award-winning gospel vocalists Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith are joining forces for a nine-city Christmas tour, which includes a stop at Detroit’s very own Fox Theatre. Featuring

MAGIC OF LIGHTS, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 313 PRESENTS MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER MATT CHRISTINE

Magic of Lights

Mannheim Steamroller

selections from each artist’s award-winning Christmas albums, the show is a holiday tradition for music fans of all ages. Special guest Michael Tait, lead singer of the Christian rock group Newsboys, will open the show. $30+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Dec. 8 • COMEDY

The Jinkx and DeLa Holiday Show: RuPaul’s Drag Race alums Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme — also known as the “queens of Christmas” — unite for this hilarious holidaythemed comedy variety show. The internationally acclaimed production is a yearly tradition, and veteran audience members can expect to enjoy their favorite elements from previous years, along with all-new songs and plenty of surprises. $49+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com

Dec. 9 • MUSIC

Celtic Woman: A Christmas Symphony: Known for performing traditional Celtic music across the globe, this Grammy-nominated Irish music ensemble is returning to the road with a special holiday show. A live full orchestra will accompany the group for new arrangements of such classics as “Silent Night” and “Sleigh Ride” as well as ancient Gaelic carols like “Dia do Bheatha.” Audiences will also hear a selection of tracks from Celtic Woman’s 2019 The Magic of Christmas album. $64+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

Dec. 9-Jan. 1, 2023

THEATER

Sugar Plum Panto: In British culture, the term “panto” refers to a performance of a classic fairy tale that utilizes music, dance, jokes, and exaggerated pantomime-inspired movements. This unique spin on the Christmas classic The Nutcracker written by Carla Milarch and R. MacKenzie Lewis, has become a Theatre Nova tradition. Complete with hilarious parodies, original songs, and an outrageous cast of characters, the production is expected to sell out. $25.

Theatre Nova, Ann Arbor; theatrenova.org

Dec. 10 • MUSIC

Mannheim Steamroller

Christmas: Celebrating more than 35 years of Christmas shows, Mannheim Steamroller

founder Chip Davis will once again bring his sprawling neoclassical music collective to Detroit’s Fox Theatre for a night of holiday cheer. The ensemble, known for blending classical music with new-age and rock ’n’ roll sounds, has sold more than 41 million albums worldwide. Attendees can expect to hear renditions of beloved holiday hits like “Carol of the Bells,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Silent Night,” while colorful multimedia effects enhance the festive experience. $30+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Dec. 11 RECREATION

Caroling in the City: Downtown Rochester transforms into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss’s Whoville for this annual holiday celebration. Guests can compete in an ugly Christmas sweater contest, make a sweet treat at the cookie station, and enjoy choral music amid Rochester’s vibrant annual light display. The evening will conclude with a festive singalong around the Main Street Christmas tree. No cost. Downtown Rochester; downtownrochestermi.com

Dec. 11 THEATER

Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet: Witness the finest international dancers of the Moscow Ballet, along with 10-foot-tall puppets, colorful hand-painted backdrops, 3D effects, and dozens of exquisitely detailed costumes, at this performance of Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday ballet. As a show of solidarity with Ukraine, a portion of ticket proceeds from The Nutcracker will be donated to humanitarian relief causes in the embattled country. Three showtimes are available. $35+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Dec. 11 • MUSIC

Holiday Swingin’: A Kat Edmonson Christmas: Known for a throwback sound that hearkens to the golden ages of jazz and swing, singersongwriter Kat Edmonson will

perform an intimate holiday program at Ann Arbor’s The Ark this month. Auduences will hear swingin’ versions of classic Christmas favorites, including “Jingle Bell Rock,” “O Christmas Tree,” and “Let It Snow.” Edmonson has been featured on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts series and The Late Show with David Letterman $25. The Ark, Ann Arbor; theark.org

Dec. 15 • MUSIC

Ocean Quartet: A Celtic Christmas: Celebrate the holiday the Celtic way when this high-energy group brings its electrifying jigs to The Ark this month. Made up of vocalist Christine Noyes, percussionist Stephen Winick, fiddle player Seán Heely, and keyboardist Jennifer Cutting, the ensemble will perform a holiday program fit for all faiths and traditions. Audience members should arrive ready to participate — they’ll be invited to sing along throughout the night. $20. The Ark, Ann Arbor; theark.org

Dec. 15-26 THEATER

Cirque du Soleil: ’Twas the Night Before …: Performers fly dive, leap, hula-hoop, and roller-skate across the stage in

the first-ever Christmas production from the world-famous Cirque du Soleil entertainment company. With the help of jawdropping acrobatics, dazzling special effects, and a loveable cast of characters, it tells the story of the curious young Isabella, who finds herself transported into a topsy-turvy version of the classic Christmas poem. $26.50+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Dec. 16-17 FILM

It’s a Wonderful Life: Frank Capra’s 1946 tale about a man struggling with hopelessness on Christmas Eve is not just a holiday classic — it’s widely regarded as one of the best movies of all time. Nominated for five Academy Awards, It’s a Wonderful Life placed at No. 11 on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 best American films ever made. See Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, and the rest of the iconic cast on the Redford Theatre’s big screen during this two-day holiday feature. $5. Redford Theatre, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com

Dec. 16-18 • MUSIC

Home for the Holidays: A beloved local tradition known

for selling out year after year returns this month for six Yuletide performances. Conductor Michelle Merrill will lead the strings, horns, and drums of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra through a festive program of holiday classics and carols that will be sure to get the whole family into the holiday spirit. Each performance concludes with an appearance by Santa Claus himself. $19+. Orchestra Hall, Detroit; dso.org

Dec. 29 • MUSIC

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Experience the symphonic rock band’s unique spin on classic Christmas tunes in person when members hit the road for their annual holiday tour. Infused with elements of hard rock, progressive rock, and heavy metal, the band’s tripleplatinum 1996 debut album, Christmas Eve and Other Stories, is one of the bestselling Christmas albums of all time. Fans can look forward to hearing classic holiday tunes such as “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Carol of the Bells,” along with original holiday selections from the group. $43.50+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Ford House

IT’S A CLARION CALL across Brooklyn every summer, and always on schedule: a smash of a cymbal followed by a guitar strum and piano chords quickly descending the scales before settling into a groove swinging back and forth. Then, you hear that velvet voice coo, “I want to thank you.”

A Brooklyn block party usually involves four essentials: a blocked-off street, a DJ who knows what they’re doing, massive speakers, and the song that kicks off the party. More often than not, Alicia Myers’ “I Want to Thank You” is the partystarter, setting the mood and getting people on their feet. The song was released as a 45 RPM single in 1982, first arriving just as boogie — one of the many offshoots of disco that thrived in this decade — gripped R&B radio. It isn’t just a staple in the NYC boroughs these days; it continues to be a regular feature on old-school radio, a favorite at gay clubs and cookouts alike, and a fixture on playlists assembled by streaming services.

And yet, little has been written about the song itself. Sometimes erroneously credited as a “New York original” because of its popularity in the Big Apple, the song actually has roots in Motown — not the label, of course, but the still-booming musical city that pressed on after Berry Gordy pulled up stakes and moved to Los Angeles.

Alicia Myers was the first lead singer of the Detroit-based group One Way, formed by band leader Al Hudson. Eventually, she spun off her own career from the band, and both were signed by MCA Records. One Way charted with the roller-skating classic “Cutie Pie” and hits like “Mr. Groove,” “Push,” and the eventual quiet-storm classic “Something in the Past.”

MUSIC

MANY THANKS

It’s been 40 years, but in certain circles, Alicia Myers’ otherwise forgotten Detroitborn song ‘I Want to Thank You’ lives on

BY AARON FOLEY

While One Way kept a steady stream of hits on the radio throughout the ’80s, Myers’ run was a bit briefer. Maybe chalk it up to heady competition at the time, including Whitney Houston (who, according to Jet magazine, played “I Want to Thank You” at the reception of her wedding to Bobby Brown), Janet Jackson, and fellow Michiganders Anita Baker and Madonna. MCA Records itself focused its attention on its marquee acts like New Edition and The Jets. Through it all, Myers landed at least three musical gems still in rotation: the aforementioned “I Want to Thank You,” along with “If You Play Your Cards Right” (later interpolated by Aaliyah on her debut album) and her highest charter, “You Get the Best from Me (Say, Say, Say).”

“R&B is always rooted in gospel, and every now and then, a song comes out that just reminds you of the deep spiritual connection of the undergirding of all R&B,” says noted music writer and author

Craig Seymour. But he also notes that, at the time of the song’s release, “R&B in general was mad nasty; Prince’s 1999 album and Vanity 6’s ‘Nasty Girl’ were out at the same time. This was a funky song giving thanks to the Lord.”

The song, originally an album cut on Myers’ self-titled debut record in 1981, became so popular, according to Jet, that she rerecorded it for her third album, released in 1982. It was also remixed by legendary New York DJ Frankie Knuckles, and the version became a hit in gay clubs along the East Coast. “Gay Black and brown people found community in the club because they were forced out of the church,” Seymour says. “So, with those lyrics, the song hit that nerve exactly.”

Forty years later, why does the song still endure? For all its staying power, it’s worth noting that the song only charted as high as No. 37 on Billboard’s R&B chart, did not stay there long, and never crossed to any other — not even the dance chart. In 2020, DJ Cassidy briefly brought Myers back to the spotlight with his “Pass the Mic” medley — a video compilation of old-school artists singing snippets of their most popular hits, usually played during award shows — to perform “I Want to Thank You.” It was a rare performance for Myers, who is also a vocal breast cancer survivor who has worked to raise awareness for the disease since the 2000s.

“It’s a powerful song,” Seymour says. “It has so many meanings, and the way [Myers] sings it so earnestly is an important part of it, too. There’s an almost introspective, ‘praying alone in the middle of the night’ quality. And I think it was Oprah who said the simplest prayer we all can say is ‘Thank you.’”

TRUSTED ADVISORS

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Finding reliable, informed and up-to-date information allows us to make better decisions to important matters and challenges in our lives. The better informed we are, the better the decision.

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At Redwood Dental, we value and respect all patients. We don’t judge—whether it’s been months, years, or decades since your last visit. Our patients are as important as family, and we treat them accordingly.

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What’s Cooking?

Metro Detroit food & beverage headlines

BY DOROTHY HERNANDEZ

Miracle on Nine Mile

Global holiday pop-up bar

Miracle makes a stop this season at The Oakland in Ferndale from Nov. 23 through Dec. 30. Miracle at The Oakland will feature a holiday wonderland with kitschy decor and a cocktail menu of themed libations to get you into the spirit. Selections include the Christmapolitan, Christmas Carol Barrel, Snowball Old-Fashioned, Holiday Spiked Chai, and Grandma Got Run Over by a T-Rex.

The concept began in 2014, when New York bar owner Greg Boehm halted construction on what was supposed to be a new cocktail bar and transformed the unfinished space into a pop-up with holiday-inspired drinks and over-the-top Christmas decorations. The idea took off from there, and Miracle pop-ups now annually take over watering holes across the U.S. as well as Canada, Europe, Asia, and Central America.

Hudson Cafe expands to Northville

Downtown brunch hot spot The Hudson Cafe is branching out to the suburbs “by popular demand.” The restaurant, named after the iconic Hudson’s store, is famous for its sweet breakfast dishes, like the red velvet pancakes and stuffed French toast, and its selection of Benedicts. Ground has been broken on the new Northville location at Six Mile and Haggerty roads, and owners are eyeing an early 2023 opening, according to a post on Instagram.

Avalon International Breads sets up shop at Meijer stores

Cass Corridor staple Avalon International Breads is bringing its sea salt chocolate chip cookies, coffee, and sandwiches to Meijer’s Rivertown and Woodward Corner small-format grocery stores. “We are thrilled to partner with another great Michigan-based business and bring Avalon’s tradition of delicious food, warm service, and our legendary sea salt chocolate chip cookies to the patrons of Meijer,” owner Jackie Victor said in a news release.

Detroit Institute of Bagels finds a new home in Core City

Fans of Corktown’s Detroit Institute of Bagels were heartbroken to hear their favorite shop slinging boiled and baked bagels with a light and crispy golden crust was closing its doors in 2020. But the beloved business is making a comeback. In a social media post made in the fall, DIB announced it was moving to Core City and taking over the space vacated by Ochre Bakery. In addition to the signature bagels, there will also be handmade Jewish breads, DIB Joe coffee, and new deli favorites.

WHERE TO GO IN FRANKENMUTH

that doesn’t involve a chicken dinner or holiday decoration shopping

BY DOROTHY HERNANDEZ

WITH HORSE-DRAWN carriages and Old World charm, a trip to Frankenmuth is like stepping back in time to 19th-century Germany. If you’re looking for something beyond the hustle and bustle of Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn, head to the city’s Main Street for these foodie finds.

For beer

Michigan’s craft beer scene has boomed over the past couple of decades, but Frankenmuth Brewery was doing local brews before it was trendy. It touts itself as America’s oldest microbrewery, offering ales and lagers since 1862, when John Matthias Falliers and his cousins William Knaust and Martin Heubisch founded it. Beer lovers can sip on their choice of 36 varying styles of craft beer brewed fresh on-site. The comfort food-centric menu offers pub staples such as burgers, brats, and shareable snacks like boneless wings and the Christmas Town Pretzel served with spicy mustard and cheese sauces.

425 S. Main St, 989-262-8300

For wine and small plates

Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie is a stylish spot to grab a drink, have a snack, and listen to live music while in town. In addition to a selection of Old and New World wine offerings by the glass and by the bottle, there’s tap wine, which is similar to keg beer and ensures the wine is always fresh and served at the right temperature. You can build your own charcuterie and cheese board, or for those desiring something more substantial, the beef shank and the gnocchi pomodoro are on the heartier side.

576 ½ S. Main St. 989-262-8690

For a coffee break

Have a taste of the Big Easy while staying closer to home at N’Orlins Beignets & Coffee. The

chicory coffee is just as bold as any cup you’d find in New Orleans and serves as a perfect complement to the light and airy heartshaped beignets. They come with powdered or cinnamon sugar, alongside your choice among an assortment of dipping sauces. There’s a walk-up window on Main Street and a larger spot in the River Place Shops.

646 S. Main St. and 925 S. Main St. 602-796-5500

For pastaand pizza

Founded by G. and Paula Grossi in 1977 and now run by Brett and Brent Lynch, the family-owned DaVinci’s Restaurant is a community staple. Try the baked pasta with your choice of noodle and sauce or one of the specialty pizzas with creative topping

combinations, such as Seafood Alfredo or Rustic Chicken with a garlic oil crust, tomatoes, banana peppers, and fresh basil. 524 N. Main St. 989-652-2629

For a sweet treat

From fudge to ice cream, there’s no shortage of treats to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you have to pick one, Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus is worth spending your entire sweets budget on. In addition to fudge, there’s toffee, available in every flavor from birthday cake to chocolate bacon; truffles; and caramels. The name refers to the fatherand-son duo behind the beloved confectionary. 636 S. Main St. 989-652-9331

FIELD TRIP

Visit Frankenmuth’s Main Street during your next visit to Michigan’s Little Bavaria.

Home for the Holidays

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Quiana

“Que”

Broden, The Kitchen by Cooking with Que

In Quiana “Que” Broden’s household, mac-and-cheese was a dish her grandmother, whom she called Momma, “made with all of the love in heaven and on earth,” she says. “It was so creamy and gooey, and she used six different cheeses. What you gotta know is that, if Momma was cooking, everyone was pulling up.”

When Broden — who owns The Kitchen by Cooking with Que in New Center, a demonstration kitchen, culinary market, and shared-use commercial kitchen space for food entrepreneurs found out she was allergic to dairy, she was devastated. “What about Momma’s mac-and-cheese?” she recalls thinking.

After experimenting with different cheeses to achieve the same melty goodness, she created a vegan recipe inspired by the beloved family dish.

Ingredients

16 ounces pasta shells

4 ounces vegan sour cream

4 ounces vegan cream cheese

4 garlic cloves, minced (use more or less according to preference)

1 tablespoon garlic chili sauce

1 bag (7.1-ounces) Daiya mozzarella-style cheese (vegan)

1 bag (7.1 ounces) Daiya cheddar-style cheese (vegan)

Himalayan sea salt to taste (start with a teaspoon)

Canadian steak seasoning to taste (start with a tablespoon)

2-3 cups almond or soy milk

Vegan parmesan to taste

Directions

Boil pasta according to package directions.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a bowl, combine pasta, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic, and garlic chili sauce.

Add garlic chili sauce.

Add both packs of cheese. Stir together.

Add Himalayan sea salt to taste.

Add Canadian steak seasoning to taste.

Add milk until the mixture is creamy (not watery).

Spray a baking pan and fill with the mixture. Top with Parmesan and place the pan in the oven for 20-30 minutes, until you see it bubble and become golden brown.

Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

The Kitchen by Cooking with Que, 6529 Woodward Ave., Ste. A, Detroit, 313-462-4184; thekitchenbycwq.com

COMPILED BY DOROTHY HERNANDEZ | PHOTOS BY STACY FEYER-SALO

Goat Shank  (Mbuzi)

Hamissi

Mamba, Baobab Fare

Mbuzi is a unique dish reserved for special occasions like weddings and post-mosque family meals, says Hamissi Mamba, who owns Baobab Fare in New Center, with his wife, Nadia Nijimbere.

Nijimbere, a human rights worker, fled persecution in their native Burundi and found refuge at Freedom House in Detroit. Unbeknownst to the couple at the time, Nijimbere was pregnant with their twin daughters. Mamba wouldn’t meet his children until arriving in Detroit in 2015, after finally securing a visa on the third try. By that time, the girls were 2 years old.

The husband-and-wife team opened the East African restaurant in 2021, after several years hosting pop-ups and building up a following for their soulful and hearty fare, like this slow-cooked Burundian staple.

Ingredients

15 goat shanks

2 pounds yellow onions, diced

7 ½ quarts water

7 tablespoons Maggi Seasoning*

6 tablespoons ginger powder

6 tablespoons curry

6 tablespoons garlic powder

2 tablespoons black pepper

4 tablespoons salt

1 cup lemon juice

Directions

Place all ingredients except the lemon juice in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over high heat. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until meat starts to soften (check after an hour). Add the lemon and put the shanks in the oven for at least 1 hour until tender and falling off the bone.

Remove the lid and cook for another 15 minutes.

Serve.

*Maggi Seasoning is a flavor enhancer made from hydrolyzed wheat and/or other protein sources that’s chock-full of glutamic acid — i.e., it’s full of that sixth taste, umami, so it adds a lot of savoriness to meaty dishes like this braised goat shank.

Baobab Fare, 6568 Woodward Ave., Ste. 100, Detroit, 313-2653093; baobabfare.com

Delicata Squash

Anthony DiRienzo, Prime & Proper

This delicata squash dish is an easy side that presents well, DiRienzo says. It’s “always a winner with everyone, combining sweet and savory,” he says.

Ingredients

with whole Italian parsley leaves. *To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring, until sugar has dissolved. Allow to cool before using.

Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup 10 sprigs Italian parsley Canola oil

Directions

Bring the simple syrup and vinegar to a boil. Pour over the cherries. Set aside until ready to use.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cut the squash in half down the middle, and remove the seeds. Cut into ¼-inch rings. Toss the squash with a little bit of canola oil and season with salt.

Roast the squash until cooked through, about 8 minutes.

To assemble, arrange the cooked squash rings on a plate, drizzle with the Blis Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup, scatter the cherries on top, and garnish

Prime & Proper, 1145 Griswold St., Detroit, 313-636-3100; primeandproperdetroit.com

Grand Ma’s Homemade Dressing

Sam Van Buren, Detroit Soul

This is a family recipe that has been tweaked by Sam Van Buren, co-owner of Detroit Soul, a health-focused soul food restaurant on the northeast side of the city with an upcoming location in Jefferson Chalmers. It is a combination of recipes that he got from his grandma and aunties from his mom’s side of the family. Slowly though, he has also tweaked a few things to make it his own.

For Van Buren, this dressing brings back fond memories of the family getting together for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“I also think about the football games on TV and all the uncles and fellas falling asleep watching football and the chatter of the women in the kitchen,” he says.

And it’s still good long after the holiday dinner is over. “It’s the kind of dressing you can eat, get up in the morning and take a scoop out of the fridge or during lunchtime even if it’s cold,” says co-owner Jerome Brown. “It is a great leftover for dinner with cranberry sauce and gravy. You gotta make sure to have cranberry sauce with it.”

And before you can make Grand Ma’s Dressing, you must make her corn bread.

Corn Bread

5 pounds cornmeal (Detroit Soul uses Pearl Milling Buttermilk) 4 eggs, beaten 10 cups milk

¾ cup vegetable oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, eggs, and milk.

Pour vegetable oil into a deep, 9-by-12 inch baking pan. Place in the oven for 5 minutes. Remove and pour the cornmeal mixture into the hot pan.

Put the pan back in the oven and bake for an hour and 10 minutes.

Place pan on cooling rack and let cool for 45 minutes.

Dressing

1 large pan of corn bread, crumbled

5 sticks butter

2 cups onions, cut into ½-inch dice

2 cups green peppers, cut into ½-inch dice

2 cups celery, cut into ½-inch dice

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

7 cups turkey or chicken broth 4 eggs, beaten

Directions

Melt the butter in a large pan. Add the onions, green peppers, and celery. Sauté until tender.

In a large roasting pan, add the corn bread. Then add sautéed vegetables and salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and broth. Combine thoroughly until fully mixed. Add the eggs. Cover.

Place into a 425-degree Farenheit oven for approximately 1 hour. Uncover and return to the oven for an additional 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from oven and let rest for 30 minutes to set before plating.

Detroit Soul, 2900 Eight Mile Road, Detroit, 313-366-5600; detroitsoul.net

Bibingka

Jonathan Peregrino, Oak & Reel and JP Makes and Bakes

Bibingka is a traditional rice cake eaten in the Philippines that’s especially popular during the Christmas season. The holidays are a big deal in the Philippines, where the season begins as early as Sept. 1. Bibingka is sold by street vendors, especially near churches, during the holidays.

Jonathan Peregrino, pastry chef at Oak & Reel who also runs online bakery JP Makes and Bakes, grew up eating this year-round, as a snack. The recipe can vary from family to family. This one is based on the traditional version his mom used to make. While toppings can also vary, Peregrino prefers a sugar crust and cream cheese.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups rice flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups sugar

8 fluid ounces evaporated milk

8 fluid ounces coconut milk

3 eggs

6 ounces cream cheese, cubed Sugar for dusting Banana leaves*

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Line a 9-inch pie pan with a couple banana leaves, then grease the leaves.

Add dry ingredients to a large bowl and mix.

Add evaporated milk, coconut milk, and eggs and incorporate. Pour the mixture into the pan with the banana leaves, and bake for 15 minutes.

Remove from the oven, top with cubes of cream cheese, sprinkle with sugar, and return to the oven.

Bake for an additional 25-45 minutes, until a cake tester (like a

toothpick) comes out clean and the top is a nice golden color.

The bibingka can be served warm or once it has cooled.

*Banana leaves can be found in the frozen section at Asian grocery stores. Thaw the leaves and wipe dry before using.

JP Makes and Bakes, jpmakesandbakes.com

Give Your Friends a Merry

Little Cocktail

Make your gatherings and gifts ones to remember with DIY libations

BY MICKEY LYONS

When you’re creating drinks for a party, Jaz’Min Weaver, the “head mixtress” of Framebar in Hazel Park, which offers regular cocktail and beverage workshops, recommends letting your personality shine through. “Cocktails should have at least one homemade element that makes it uniquely yours and special to the occasion,” she says. This can be a anything that makes your guests think of you.

For a casual gathering, “I love a large-format cocktail,” Weaver says. “I’m a sucker for a punch bowl.” Her go-to holiday punch mixes a bottle of Valentine Distilling Co.’s Liberator gin with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and homemade chai simple syrup. The chai adds more of the same baking-spice flavors present in the Liberator without boosting the alcohol content of the drink, and the tea’s unique astringent qualities balance well with the grapefruit and sugar.

Drinks with an amaro or aperitivo base are lower in alcohol and more versatile for party-hopping guests: They can serve as pre- or post-dinner drinks without weighing down the stomach. Spritzes, the cocktail darling of summer 2022, aren’t just for hot weather. Try a spritz made with an alpine amaro like Braulio, with its quintessentially winter flavorings of juniper, peppermint, and bitter orange. Or mix up a hot toddy with some Amaro Averna and cinnamon to chase away the cold.

Holiday gift-giving is another great way to bring out your inner mixologist. Simple syrups made from previously frozen garden ingredients can last for a few weeks in the refrigerator. For the more daring, a homemade bitters bottle with hand-printed labels will be a memorable addition to loved ones’ home bars. For more hands-on experience, consider taking, or gifting, a cocktail class at Framebar or Castalia at Sfumato in Midtown; both offer regular workshops with a take-home treat for budding home bartenders.

Know someone who just loves a Manhattan? Consider assembling your own black Manhattan kit at home with a monogrammed glass, a local rye whiskey, gourmet cocktail cherries, and a bottle of amaro in place of sweet vermouth to add to your recipient’s home bar.

“Anything that helps with the presentation of a cocktail also works well” for a giftee you don’t know as well, Weaver says. Elegant silver cocktail picks, a shaped ice mold, or a nice shaker will be a welcome addition for even the most sophisticated drinker.

At the end of the day, it’s more about consideration and creativity than following a rule book for holiday drinks, Weaver says: “What’s important is to have fun and make it your own.”

Jaz’Min Weaver’s Holiday Punch

Ingredients

750-milliliter bottle Valentine Distilling Co. Liberator gin, or other gin with prominent notes of baking spices

16 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice

16 ounces chai simple syrup (To make, boil equal parts sugar and water, then steep with chai for 15 minutes)

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a punch bowl. Serve over ice with a cinnamon stick garnish.

DIARY OF A FOOD BLOGGER

After Angela Davis lost her job, she started blogging and sold a recipe for $5 on Twitter — now she’s one of the internet’s most sought-after chefs

BY KIKI LOUYA | PHOTO BY HAYDEN STINEBAUGH

TEN YEARS AGO, Angela Davis found herself at a career crossroads. Working as an accountant for a Washington, D.C., construction company left her feeling drained, and she struggled to find balance between single motherhood and 60-hour work weeks. But cooking was her reprieve. The kitchen was where she headed when life felt too chaotic. And despite having no formal culinary training, she decided to document her cooking journey in a blog aptly titled The Kitchenista Diaries.

“I had no big plan to change careers at the time,” says Davis of her early blogging days in 2012. “I had been working in the [accounting] industry for about 10 years — and the corporate environment, it just put a lot of stress on my life.”

When Davis unexpectedly lost her job the year after she started the blog, the idea of returning to the drudgery of 9-to-5 work felt like a step in the wrong direction, so she decided to take a chance and create a living where sharing food online took center stage. “I started selling digital PDFs of single recipes. I sold my sweet potato pie recipe for $5 on Twitter. When that worked, I sold a couple more. And then I said, ‘OK, well, maybe I’ll just do a whole book.’”

Growing The Kitchenista brand took a lot of hard work and sacrifices, including moving back in with her parents in Virginia, where she’s originally from. Then in 2019, an opportunity led her to the Motor City. She had been catering events in Washington, D.C., for a while and met a potential client from Detroit. He needed a private chef, and she was ready to move out of her parents’ house. Plus, what she saw going on in Detroit was exciting to her, so she accepted the offer.

“I looked at the opportunity, like everything about Detroit with what they were doing in the hospitality industry and the money that they were pumping into new businesses. I saw opportunity here.”

Ten years and four e-books later, The Kitchenista brand has grown to reach over 180,000 fans on Instagram, and Davis is living her dream. She describes her cooking as comfort food but with an elevated twist. “I use gourmet ingredients in an accessible way,” she says, later pointing out that while the majority of her followers are women, their experience level can range from firsttimers to seasoned home cooks, so her recipes are for everyone looking to jazz up the classics. She’s also branched out with videos on TikTok.

Secret Ingredients

A peek into Angela Davis’ holiday pantry

“The pandemic has given many people the freedom to break the rules,” Angela Davis says. “Make whatever you want! You don’t like turkey — why are you making turkey every year? That’s the vibe I’m definitely going to be on this year. Make what you love and just do it. Do it well.” Here, Davis shares some ingredients to take your dishes to the next level.

1. Duck fat. It’s essential for achieving that supercrispy turkey skin without burning, as butter does under high temperatures. It can be used in the roux for your gravy, for cooking roasted veggies, or to add a savory flavor to collard greens without using pork products. Plus, it can be used as a substitute for shortening or lard in biscuits or pie crusts.

Angela Davis started her blog, The Kitchenista Diaries in 2012 as a reprieve from her stressful job. Today, she is living her dream, reaching tens of thousands of fans on Instagram and having penned four e-books.

As for whether fans can expect a Kitchenista restaurant project any time soon, Davis admits that while the idea has crossed her mind, she is more interested in opening a culinary studio with in-person classes, food photography, and other creative pursuits. She is also excited to spend another holiday season in metro Detroit.

“I’m continuing to be surprised by Michigan,” Davis says. “I’ve been in a lot of different places, and I always expected to settle in Virginia just because that’s what felt familiar to me. But I’m really glad that I took a chance. I feel very much at home.”

2. Ceylon cinnamon. Known as “true cinnamon,” Ceylon cinnamon has a mild, clean flavor that’s great for holiday recipes.

Ceylon cinnamon sticks have a soft bark that can easily be ground up with other whole spices in homemade blends.

3. Garnet yams or jewel yams. These are some of my favorite sweet potatoes to use in my sweet potato pie

or candied yams. Compared to standard sweet potatoes, these two varieties have a deeper orange hue, very little stringiness, and richer flavor.

4. Fresh herbs. In holiday cooking, every ingredient counts, and fresh herbs make all the difference in that homemade, fromscratch taste. When I prep, I mince up a huge pile of fresh Italian parsley, thyme, rosemary, and sage to use

throughout my recipes.

5. Maple syrup. So much refined sugar is used in holiday baking, and our palates need a break somewhere in the menu. I love working with real maple syrup when just a touch of sweetness is needed, or for glazes like the one we make for ham. The scent of maple lends cozy winter vibes, and its flavor complements both sweet and savory dishes.

Restaurant Guide

Wayne Al Ameer $$

LEBANESE This Lebanese restaurant is a recipient of the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award. The Al Ameer platter is perfect for sharing: two grape leaves, two fried kibbeh, chicken shawarma, tawook, kabob, kafta,and falafel. 12710 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn; 313-582-8185. 27346 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-565-9600 L,D Mon.-Sun.

Amore da Roma $$

ITALIAN • Guy Pelino, Roma Café’s chef, took over the ownership reins of this restaurant on the edge of the Eastern Market. He retained the menu, adding a charcuterie board and updating the wine list, and didn’t change the character of the old-school restaurant, known for its steaks and pastas. 3401 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313-831-5940. L,D Tue.-Sat.

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 Mon.-Sun.

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.

Apparatus Room $$$$

NEW AMERICAN • The Foundation Hotel’s restaurant, the Apparatus Room, once housed the Detroit Fire Department headquarters. The cooking of chef Thomas Lents, who earned two Michelin stars while at Chicago’s Sixteen, is refined and highly skilled. 250 W. Larned St., Detroit; 313-800-5600. D Wed.-Sun.

Atwater in the Park $

GERMAN At this casual spot, traditional German-style beer is the beverage of choice. Chef Chris Franz’ noteworthy menu is compatible with such additions as a platter of local bratwurst and other sausages teamed with sauerkraut, plus Bavarian soft pretzels and pierogi. 1175 Lakepointe St., Grosse Pointe Park; 313-344-5104. 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

COVID-19 UPDATE

Many establishments are following safety protocols. Please call the numbers listed here to verify hours and space availability.

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; 313-974-6159. B,L,D Tue.-Sat. B,L Sun.

$$

Baker’s Keyboard Lounge

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

Baobab Fare

$$

AFRICAN • With his New Center restaurant, Mamba Hamissi urges diners to venture into culinary territories they’d otherwise evade, like the Mbuzi starring a goat shank that is slow-roasted until the meat is so tender that it slides off the bone with ease. 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; bardadetroit.com. D Thurs.-Sun.

Bash Original Izakaya $$ JAPANESE • From the proprietor of Canton’s popular Izakaya Sanpei comes a Japanese pub located in Woodbridge. Occupying the former home of Katsu, Bash maintains much of that eatery’s Asian-inspired décor, such as hanging lanterns and bamboo shades. Bash’s drink menu focuses on Japanese craft beer, while the food menu of small plates and sashimi includes Gyoza, Tempura Udon, and fried octopus balls called Tako Yaki. 5069 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-7887208; L Wed.-Sat. D Tue.-Sun.

Besa $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This modern fine-dining eatery takes its name from Albania — where the owners trace their heritage — and means “pledge of honor.” Choose from starters 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, 313338-3222. 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 Mon.-Sun.

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 mid1900s. In the 1960s and 1970s, 123 Kercheval Ave. was home to the Bronze Door, which closed to make way for The Hill Seafood and Chop House. In 2021, it was born again as the Bronze Door, offering classic bistro fare like steak frites and house specialties such as Potato Pillows and Shrimp (butter fondue, sage, cracked pepper, pecorino Romano, and truffle). 123 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-886-8101. D Mon.-Sat.

Bucharest Grill $

MEDITERRANEAN-AMERICAN • This bustling casual sandwich shop, now with five locations, is a cult favorite with its fresh Mediterranean fare, notably the best chicken shawarma wrap sandwiches in town. We’re serious. See bucharestgrill.com for locations and hours.

Cadieux Café $$

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

Café Nini $$$

ITALIAN • This intimate spot offers well-prepared food that includes eight appetizers, more than a dozen pasta dishes, and 16 main plates, notable among which are tournedos di vitello — medallions of veal filet in a fresh mushroom sauce. The wine list is impressive as well. 98 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-308-3120. D Tue-Sat.

Cantoro Italian Market and Trattoria $$

ITALIAN • A restaurant inside the market serves great traditional Italian food. Do not miss the Tagliatelle alla Bolognese: wide pasta with a meat sauce featuring ground veal, beef, sausage, and pancetta. It makes for a delicious Italian feast you can conveniently pick up on your way home. 15550 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth; 734-420-1100. L,D Tues.-Sat., L Sun.

Capers $$

STEAKHOUSE • This is the type of place longtime Detroit natives describe like an old friend. On Gratiot Avenue between Seven and Eight Mile roads, this place has been packing them in for nearly 40 years. There’s a massive a la carte menu, with items such as barbecue babyback ribs and potato skins, but the main draw is steak by the ounce, at market price. 14726 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313-527-2100. L,D Wed.-Sun.

Caucus Club $$$

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

Central Kitchen & Bar $$

CREATIVE COMFORT • The space facing Campus Martius is done up in gray and white under industrial light fixtures. Crowd-pleasers include buttermilk fried chicken, filet and frites, burgers, and salads. 660 Woodward Ave., Ste. 4A, Detroit; 313-963-9000. D Thu.-Sat., BR Sat.-Sun.

Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails $$

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

Chili Mustard Onions $

VEGAN • This is Detroit’s only Coney Island with a vegan menu. Choose from traditional favorites including the Coney Dog, Southwest Nachos, and chili fries, complete with owner Pete LaCombe’s secret vegan “cheeze” sauce. 3411 Brush St., Detroit; 313-462-4949. L Wed.-Sat.

City Kitchen $$

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

Cliff Bell’s $$

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED

• This restored Art Deco hotspot offers small plates such as oysters with cava granita and a salmon croquette. Large plates include sesame soy glazed shiitakes and summer stir fried vegetables with coconut rice. 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 fried chicken and a burger. 5440 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-2858849. L Tue.-Sat.

Coriander Kitchen and Farm $$

GASTROPUB • At this Jefferson Chalmers eatery, guests can rent fire pits and roast housemade marshmallows to make s’mores, or sip mugs of Hot Buttered Rum. By day, grab a picnic table and dip hunks of grilled flatbread into creamy fish dip made with smoked white fish and lake trout and seasoned with herbs from the farm. 14601 Riverside Blvd., Detroit; 313-822-4434. D Thurs.-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-oz. chicken breast, sauteed wild mushroom blend, wild rice, seasonal grilled vegetables, cooked in a Lombardo Ambra Sweet Marsala wine sauce. Simply delicious! 2415 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-638-2261. D Thu-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 Thai snapper as well as the sea Scallops, featuring corn risotto, creamed leeks, and citrus butter. 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit; 313-872-5110. D Tue.-Sun. (Note: not wheelchair accessible.)

Dakota Inn Rathskeller $

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The sausages are the kind that snap when you cut them. The combo plate features one bratwurst and one knack-wurst, served with hot German potato salad and sauerkraut. And yes, sing along with the schnitzelbank song 17324 John R St., Detroit; 313-867-9722. 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 daily.

Detroit Vegan Soul $ VEGAN The popular spot offers your classic soul food favorites but with plant-based twists — mac and cheese, maple-glazed yams, collard greens, and interpretations of catfish and pepper steak. 19614 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-766-5728. L,D Wed.-Sat.

Dime Store $

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

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2010

Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe $$$

GASTROPUB • A jazz club with top guest musicians and an American bistro menu in a traditional interior. Starters include shrimp pico and pan-fried calamari. Main entries include a beef short rib. 97 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-882-5299. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sat.

Eatori Market $$

SPECIALTY GROCERY • This stylish spot overlooks downtown’s Capitol Park. The menu has steamed mussels with leeks, garlic, and toasted crostini. International flourishes abound with truffle aioli for the burger. 1215 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-395-3030. L,D daily.

El Asador Steakhouse $$

MEXICAN • A concentrated cuisine with little modern flairs that also stays faithful to traditional Mexican cooking. Don’t miss the Camarones en Salsa de Langosta: breaded shrimp stuffed with cheese, fried to a golden dark brown, and topped with a lobster cream sauce. It’s a delicious dinner spot you don’t want to miss and an unassuming Latin-American find in Detroit’s Springwells Village. 1312 Springwells St., Detroit; 313-297-2360. L,D Tue.-Sun.

El Barzon $

MEXICAN-ITALIAN • Norberto Garita prepares Italian and Mexican cuisines alongside his wife, Silvia Rosario Garita. Authentic Mexican entrees include enchiladas with a homemade green sauce made with tomatillo, jalapeños, and roasted poblano pepper, while the Italian

FEATURED 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; 313366-5600. L,D Tue.Sun.

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 breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, or carry-out. 400 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-965-4600. 29244 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-351-2925. 23722 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-498-3000. L,D (downtown), B, L,D Southfield and St Clair Shores.

Flowers of Vietnam $$

VIETNAMESE • Chef and owner George Azar transformed a former Coney Island into an industrial-cool destination, but the neighborhood joint vibe remains. The menu is shaped around Azar’s appreciation of Vietnamese food, with a very personal twist. 4440 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-554-2085. D Thu.-Sun.

Folk $

NEW AMERICAN • A charming Corktown storefront dishing up an all-day brunch menu. It’s an offshoot of the Farmer’s Hand grocery and farmers market. The menu focuses on globally inspired dishes, like salads, quiche, and sandwiches — all beautifully plated and nutritious. Infused milks and frothy lattes are well sought after, too. 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-7422672. BR Wed-Mon.

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.

Giovanni’s Ristorante $$$ ITALIAN • This old-school Italian restaurant offers housemade pastas, including an outstanding lasagna. Elaborate veal and seafood dishes and desserts like orange Creamsicle cheesecake round out the delicious menu. 330 Oakwood Blvd., Detroit; 313-841-0122. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.

Grandma Bob’s $ PIZZA • If you’re wondering what that psychedelic building on Corktown’s Michigan Avenue is, it’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 Fri.-Mon.

Grand Trunk Pub $ NEW AMERICAN • Breads from Avalon Bakery and meats from Eastern Market anchor the hearty fare, which pairs well with a selection of Michigan beers. Staples include a reuben with Poet Stout Kraut and the Ghettoblaster beer-battered fish and chips. 612 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-961-3043.; BR, L, D, Thu.-Sun.

The Greek $

GREEK • Plaka Café was a presence on Monroe Avenue for years, and now its space is in the hands of the founders’ children. Notable dishes include spinach pie, lamb chops, and New York strip steak. 535 Monroe Ave., Detroit; 313-209-6667. L,D daily.

Green Dot Stables $

NEW AMERICAN • The menu of sliders — with 20-plus eclectic bun toppings, including Cuban, Korean, and “mystery meat” — packs in fans. Local beers are spotlighted along with 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, the duck breast with cheese grits and fried shallots and pork tenderloin with gruyere spaetzle and dill pickle mojo. 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 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 Tue.-Sat.

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

Hungarian Rhapsody $$ HUNGARIAN • This Downriver restaurant offers authentic Hungarian dishes, such as chicken and veal paprikas, beef goulash, and palacsinta (crêpes). 14315 Northline Road, Southgate; 734-283-9622. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Ima $

JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Japanese-inspired fare with a Midwest emphasis. Ima tacos trade the traditional shell for a slice of jicama-stuffed spicy shrimp, roasted tofu, or garlic chicken. Appetizers include edamame, dumplings, and clams. 2015 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-5025959. L,D Wed.-Mon. 4870 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-8839788. 32203 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-7810131. 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 and D Wed.-Mon.

Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails $$$

NEW AMERICAN • This Black-owned restaurant was founded by Nya Marshall to bring fine dining to the East Jefferson Corridor where she grew up. The spot serves New American fare with international influenc-

FEATURED

Marrow

NEW AMERICAN

This West Village restaurant and butcher shop hybrid is an ode to meat, especially unusual cuts. Diners must walk through the butcher shop, bypassing cases of pastrami and sausage, before entering the restaurant. Offerings from a sample tasting menu include roasted bone marrow and lamb kefta.

8044 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313652-0200. L,D Thu.-Sun.

es in a modern, elevated space bathed in neutral tones. The Mezcal Wings with pickled jalapeño and cilantro bring a Mexican kick, while dishes like the Shrimp Linguine Pomodoro contribute European flavors. 9215 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-332-0607; L Fri.-Sun., D Wed.-Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2012

Joe Muer Seafood $$$$

SEAFOOD • This reborn Detroit legend is stellar for a romantic evening or a quiet business lunch or dinner. Located on the main floor of the GMRenCen, it has sweeping views of the Detroit River and a menu that walks the line between old-time favorites and hipper Asian-influenced seafood, sushi and raw bar. There’s also a Bloomfield Hills location. There are reminders of the past as well: white-bean stew, 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 several fusion bowls as well like the Southwest topped with shredded chicken and housemade crema. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-309-7946. L,D daily.

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

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

Karl’s Cabin $$ AMERICAN • Dishes from their currently rotating drive-through menu such as pan-seared walleye and beef tenderloin tips with Cajun spice and gravy surpass typical roadhouse food. 6005 Gotfredson Road, Plymouth; 734-455-8450. L,D daily.

The Kitchen by Cooking with Que $$ VEGAN • This eatery created by Detroit-based cooking blogger Quiana Broden serves lunches of smoothies, salads, and sandwiches. Broden also often offers live cooking demonstrations. 6529 Woodward Ave., Ste. A, Detroit; 313-462-4184. B,L,D, Wed.-Sat.

Kuzzo’s Chicken and Waffles $

SOUTHERN COMFORT • Several recipes, including a signature thin waffle, are family-owned at ex-NFL player Ron Bartell’s spot. Think comfort food kicked up a notch: fried catfish, salmon croquettes, shrimp and grits, and biscuits. Drink the Kool-Aid, too. 19345 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-861-0229. B,L,D Tue.-Sat., B,L Sun.

La Dolce Vita $$$

ITALIAN • Traditional Italian cuisine is key at this Palmer Park hideaway. Recommended is the lake perch in white wine sauce, the veal scaloppine with artichokes, and the lasagna. 17546 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313865-0331. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.

La Lanterna $$

ITALIAN • The founder of Da Edoardo, the first Edoardo Barbieri, started it all in 1956 with a restaurant called La

Lanterna. Now his grandchildren have revived it. Although the white and red pizzas — like Margherita, Liguria, and Da Edorado — dominate, there’s more, including a number of elegant pastas like the Lasagna Alla Bolognese. 1224 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-9628821. L,D Tue.-Sun.

London Chop House $$

STEAKHOUSE • The kitchen turns out classics like oysters Rockefeller, French onion soup, and sautéed perch. This is the place to come when you need to satisfy a craving for steak in elegant surroundings with hospitable service. 155 W. Congress St., Detroit; 313962-0277. D Mon.-Sat.

Leila $$$

LEBANESE • The restaurant from the proprietors of Birmingham’s Phoenicia is named after the owner’s mother — just one facet of the establishment that pays homage to family traditions and heritage. The menu includes various Lebanese dishes, from falafel to Leila’s Mixed Grill that offers a little bit of everything with shish kebab, tawook, and kafta. Other menu items include Kibbeh Niyee — fresh lamb, cracked wheat, and spice — and tabbouleh made of parsley, cracked wheat, and spices. The beer and wine lists offer plenty of options to accompany any meal. 1245 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-816-8100; D Sun., L&D Mon.-Sat.

Lovers Only $

BURGERS • The star at Lovers Only, located in downtown Detroit’s Capitol Park, is pasture-raised beef from Ferndale’s Farm Field Table, used to make its standout burgers. Other key ingredients, including baked goods, are local as well. There’s also craft cocktails and beer. 34 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-9861174. L,D daily.

Lucy & the Wolf $$

SPANISH

• This Anglo-sounding restaurant offers very good Spanish-inspired tapas dining. Standouts include a fire-roasted jalapeño cheese spread, shrimp tacos, and a grilled flank steak in chimichurri sauce. 102 E. Main St., Northville; 248-308-3057. L,D Tue.-Sat.

Lumen Detroit $$

NEW AMERICAN A contemporary American menu and a Victor Saroki setting make the restaurant overlooking downtown’s Beacon Park one of the best of recent entrants onto the scene. Appetizers such as freshly made pretzels prelude main courses such as salmon with chimichurri herb sauce. 1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-626-5005. L Fri.-Sun., D. Wed.-Sun.

Mario’s $$$

ITALIAN • This Midtown Detroit classic dates to 1948. Linen-covered tables, framed paintings on wood-paneled walls, expert waiters clad in black tie, and tableside preparation survive here. Italian dinners always begin with an antipasto tray and continue through soup, salad, pasta, and entree. 4222 Second Ave., Detroit; 313832-1616. L,D daily.

Marrow $$

NEW AMERICAN • This West Village restaurant and butcher shop hybrid is an ode to meat, especially unusual cuts. Diners must walk through the butcher shop, bypassing cases of pastrami and sausage, before entering the restaurant. Offerings from a sample tasting menu include Roasted Bone Marrow and Lamb Kefta. 8044 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313-652-0200. L,D Thu.-Sun.

Maty’s African Cuisine $$

WEST AFRICAN • A small storefront in the Detroit Old Redford neighborhood is decidedly Senegalese. Fataya, a deep-fried pastry with savory fillings, are reminiscent

of an empanada. The star of the show is the whole chicken with yassa. 21611 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313472-5885. L,D daily.

M Cantina $

MEXICAN • Nuevo Latino street food is the premise at this surprising spot where everything from the tortilla chips to the salsas are made in-house in the open kitchen. Juices are freshly squeezed and the menu of tortas, tacos, tapas, and salads from the kitchen of Heidi and Junior Merino from Hawaii and Mexico is distinctive. 13214 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-3999117. L,D Tue.-Sun.

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.

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 the Buffalo Chicken salad with local greens and housemade blue cheese dressing and the Eggplant Sliders. 8047 Agnes St., Detroit; 313-4475418. L Wed.-Sat. D Fri.-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. 1441 W. Elizabeth St., Detroit; 313-637-4992; L,D Wed-Sat.

Monarch Club $$$

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

Mootz

Pizzeria & Bar $$

ITALIAN-AMERICAN • Bruno DiFabio, a six-time World Pizza Games champ, rejects the label New York-style for his fare. “It’s authentic New York pizza,” he says. In a hurry? Grab a slice from Side Hustle, Mootz’s by-theslice counter next door. 1230 Library St., Detroit; 313243-1230. L Fri.-Sun., D Mon-Thu.

Motor City Brewing Works $

BREWERY • Just 15 mostly nontraditional pizzas on excellent, chewy crust, and the option to build your own pie with various toppings. Plus, salads from locally grown greens to accompany the house-brewed beers. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 19350 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-832-2700. L,D daily.

Mudgie’s Deli $

DELI • Seats are often filled in search of 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-your-own sandwich options. It’s a delicious place for a meal any time. 1413 Brooklyn St., Detroit; 313-961-2000. B Tue.Sat. L Mon.-Sat.

Nico & Vali $$

ITALIAN • This eatery offers favorites with unexpected twists. The artichokes and chilies appetizer boasts battered and fried artichokes with Fresno and jalapeno peppers, tossed with fresh basil in white wine. Popular choices include the Whitefish Filet. It’s a classic Italian spot with an update that’s worth a visit. 744 Wing St., Plymouth; 734-207-7880. L Thu.-Sat., D Tue.-Sun.

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  2022

Oak & Reel $$

SEAFOOD • Despite a global pandemic threatening to derail his longtime dream, chef Jared Gadbaw brought his vision of a seafood-focused Italian restaurant to life in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction neighborhood in fall 2020. Oak & Reel’s resilience in the face of extreme adversity and its commitment to the vision of bringing diners impeccable dishes showcasing the freshest seafood, all presented with welcoming and knowledgeable service, is the reason we’re naming 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 A taste of the Mediterranean in Michigan. Starters like the potatoes and artichokes “bravas” with harissa and black garlic aioli and paellas are inspired by Spain but showcase Olin’s unique spin on these iconic dishes. 25 E. Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-774-1190. D Tues.-Sat. BR Sun.

Ottava Via $$

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

Pao Detroit $$$

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

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2018

Parc $$$

NEW AMERICAN • Excellent food, exceptional service, and a crisp and formal but distinctly unstuffy atmosphere set this Campus Martius gem apart. Appetizer highlights include a bright and fresh tuna tartare and wood-roasted oysters. Creamy roasted garlic butter and lemon add a zippy touch to the roasted oysters. Main courses are exceptional, including an interesting blend of Italian food, woodgrilled whole fish, and organic Scottish salmon. There’s also a large selection of dry-aged gourmet steaks, wood-grilled and served tableside. The wine selection is impressive and caters to a diverse set of price ranges and wine drinkers, so you won’t be disappointed with any bottle here. 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-922-7272. L,D daily. BR Sat.-Sun.

FEATURED

Mi Lindo San Blas

MEXICAN Heaping platters of seafood such as shrimp, octopus, and scallops tell the story at this spot that brings a corner of Mexico’s seaside Nayarit region to Southwest Detroit. On weekends when live music is added, the tables are often pushed back to create a dance floor. 1807 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-7895100. L,D daily.

Park Grill $$

MEDITERRANEAN • Mediterranean fare gets a Balkan spin. The menu offers tasting plates, pita-wrapped sandwiches, and salads, as well as entrees including chicken and beef shawarma, beef and pork kafta, lemon-pepper pork tenderloin, and lamb chops. Service is friendly and informal. 15102 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park; 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. The resturant boasts an extensive menu, from moussaka and spinach pie to gyros and roast lamb. 24935 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-772-3200. 558 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-9646800. L,D Tue-Sun.

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.

PizzaPlex $

ITALIAN This pizza isn’t just authentic, it’s certified. PizzaPlex earned the title of Vera Pizza Napoletana, or real Neapolitan pizza, from Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in Naples. Try the Margherita. Topped with mozzarella, basil, and EVOO, there’s nothing like a classic. 4458 Vernor Highway, Detroit; 313-757-4992. D Thu.-Sun.

Polish Village Café $

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

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

 2019

Prime + Proper $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • Downtown Detroit dining gets a major shot of glamour with this over-the-top steak and seafood emporium on the corner of Griswold and State streets. Although red meat, from prime dry-aged Tomahawk ribeye to Wagyu strip, is the focus — and yes, there’s a burger made with a dry-aged 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 Mon.-Sun., 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.

SHARON STONE X LENSCRAFTERS

Rattlesnake Club $$$$

NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant on the river remains one of the most appealing spots in town. The casually elegant space offers a range of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Dishes that typify its style include seared diver sea scallops, an 8-ounce filet, and a 16-ounce porterhouse. 300 River Place, Detroit; 313567-4400. L,D Tue.-Sat.

Red Dunn Kitchen $$

NEW AMERICAN • The Trumbull and Porter hotel’s spiffy restaurant is an ambitious undertaking, offering three meals a day. It is best experienced at dinner, with a la carte offerings such as foie gras-stuffed quail, smoked and marinated salmon collars, braised lamb leg, and bacon-wrapped duck breast with polenta. 1331 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313887-9477. B,L,D daily except on Fri., which is B,L.

Red Smoke Barbeque $$

BARBEQUE • At Red Smoke, hickory and applewoodsmoked ribs, pulled pork, apple-smoked, 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.

Rocky’s of Northville $$

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

Roman Village $

ITALIAN • The Rugiero family has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1964. They’ve launched three additional Antonio’s Cucina Italiana locations. Roman Village is the original and features their signature gnocchi Rita. 9924 Dix Ave., Dearborn; 313-8422100. L,D daily.

Rose’s Fine Food $

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH The menu is straightforward, based mainly on fresh ingredients and from-scratch preparation. Breakfast eaters can choose from a variety of egg dishes, such as the Eggs and Cheese (soft scrambled eggs, herbs, and aioli). For lunch, there’s a selection of creative sandwiches. 10551 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-822-2729. B,L,D Mon-Sat. B,L. Sun.

San Morello $$$

ITALIAN • This Italian gem serves pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired dishes that draw inspiration from the coastal towns of Southern Italy and Sicily out of the Shinola Hotel. Think Tartufi Pizza with fontina and black truffle, handcrafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. 1400 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313209-4700. D daily.

The Sardine Room $$$

SEAFOOD • A seafood restaurant and raw bar, The Sardine Room is fresh, fun, and energetic, with a clean-line décor and a menu full of surprises. For starters, there is a Seafood Louie featuring jumbo lump crab, shrimp, egg, avocado, tomato, and bibb lettuce. Worthwhile is a grouper sandwich that’s available seared, pan-fried, or blackened. 340 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-416-0261. D daily, BR Sun.

Savannah Blue $$

SOUL FOOD • Highlights at this upscale soul food joint include the twice-dredged fried chicken and the shrimp and grits. Shareables include perch fritters, okra fries, 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.

FEATURED

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; 313-4651234. D daily.

Savant

$$$

FRENCH • In a cozy-yet-upscale interior with leather couches and an open kitchen, Jordan Whitmore and Rebecca Wurster, formerly of Apparatus Room, serve up rotating European-inspired menu items, including Champagne Chicken, an Apple and Arugula Heirloom Salad, Calamari, and — for vegan diners Ratatouille Confit. 51 W. Forest Ave., Detroit; 248766-8071. D Fri.-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. 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 menu of lighter dishes includes the Yogi Gyro with roasted root vegetable and coconut tzatziki, and fried chicken sandwiches that accompany drinks that were popular more than a few years back. 42 Watson St., Detroit; 313-315-3077. L Sat.Sun., D nightly.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2016

Selden Standard $$$

NEW AMERICAN • What sets Selden Standard apart is that it is moving Detroit into a new era in which 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 Wed.-Sun.

Seva Detroit $$

VEGETARIAN Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian. There’s also a full bar as well as a juice bar. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. 66 E. Forest Ave., Detroit; 313-974-6661. L,D 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

Slows Bar BQ $$

BARBEQUE The brick-and-wood original in Corktown gained a following for its pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. They expanded with a “to go” spot in Midtown, as well. This is a true Detroit classic in every sense of the term. Corktown location: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-9629828. L,D daily. Slows To Go in Midtown: 4107 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-309-7560. L,D Wed.-Sun.

Smith & Co. $$$

NEW AMERICAN • This Cass Corridor bar and restaurant is housed in the old Smith Welding Supply & Equipment Company building — hence cement ceilings and exposed brick that evoke an industrial vibe. The menu features small plates, sandwiches, and entrees such as mushroom toast; braised lamb shank; the fried chicken bowl with sweet sesame sauce and kimchi; and the Smith Burger, soy-ginger

marinated and topped with a fried egg. Beverage options include craft beer, wine, and fresh takes on classic cocktails. 644 Selden St, Detroit; 313-6381695. D Wed.-Sun.

Standby $$

NEW AMERICAN The libation menu — categorized by spirit — is longer than the food menu, but both food and drinks are equally emphasized. The fare ranges from small plates of marinated olives and tamari eggs to entrees such as grilled lamb kebabs 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 potted 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 Mon.-Sat., BR Sun.

Supino Pizzeria $$ ITALIAN • Relax with one of the town’s best thin-crust pizzas — they come in more than a dozen variations, with or without red sauce. A few dishes from the La Rondinella menu made the list as well, such as paninis, salads, and small plates such as polpette and three delicious salads. Beer, wine, and cocktails add to the appeal. 2457 Russell St., Detroit; 313-567-7879. L,D Wed.-Sun.; 6519 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-314-7400. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Sweet Soul Bistro $

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

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

Townhouse $$$

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

Trattoria Serventi $$

ITALIAN • The brick pizza oven turns out an array of thin-crust pizzas and there’s an interesting daytime menu that offers a real bargain. In the evening, such dishes as scallopini style veal, and gnocchi alla palmina, recalling chef Aldo Ottaviani — who was instrumental in setting up the original Andiamo menu — typify the style. 20930 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods; 313-886-9933. D Wed.-Mon.

RECIPE

THE MORRIE’S KUNG PAO CAULIFLOWER

PHOTO BY KAILEY HOWELL

Ingredients:

Sriracha Peanuts

1/3 cup peanuts

1 ½ tablespoon olive oil

½ cup sriracha

½ cup sugar

Kung Pao Sauce

1/4 cup sesame oil

1/4 cup blended oil

1/8 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorn

½ cup shallots, roughly chopped

1/4 cup ginger, roughly chopped

1/8 cup garlic cloves

½ tablespoon kosher salt

3 cups ketchup

3 ½ cups soy sauce

2 cups pineapple juice

2 ½ cups water

2 ½ cups sugar

1 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 cup plum wine

½ cup whole chilies

Cornstarch slurry (6 ½ tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in ½ cup water)

Flour Soda water

1 head cauliflower

Directions:

To make Sriracha Peanuts: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Combine peanuts, olive oil, sriracha, and sugar. Mix well. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake for 15 minutes. Allow to cool to room temperature and set aside until ready to use.

To make Kung Pao Sauce:

Combine the first seven ingredients (through kosher salt) in a saucepan. Cook on low, stirring often, for 3-6 minutes, until shallot and ginger are soft.

Add ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, water, sugar, vinegar, plum wine, and whole chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then whisk in cornstarch slurry.

Combine equal parts cornstarch, flour, and soda water in a bowl. Mix and then dredge the cauliflower florets.

Deep-fry breaded cauliflower florets in canola oil heated to 350 degrees for 5-7 minutes, until crispy.

To assemble: Add fried cauliflower and Sriracha Peanuts to Kung Pao Sauce and toss to coat. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Urban Ramen $$

JAPANESE-INSPIRED

• Urban Ramen serves bowls of steaming broth filled with house-made, springy ramen noodles topped with fixings like bamboo, egg, pork chashu, and sesame seeds. The menu also includes poke, salads, and sides such as garlic edamame and Japanese fried chicken. 4206 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-285-9869. L,D Mon.-Sun.

Vertical Detroit $$$

WINE BAR • This wine-centric restaurant puts the focus on pairing Chef Alex Knezevic’s innovative cuisine with owners James and Rémy Lutfy’s nationally recognized wine program. The menu emphasizes locally sourced protein, seafood, and produce. A must-try for any wine enthusiast. 1538 Centre St., Detroit; 313-7329463. D Wed.-Sat. Not wheelchair accessible.

Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine $$

CUBAN • An evening at this lively spot is more than just Cuban and Spanish dining. Appetizers and tapas include the outstanding Tapa de la Casa, pork leg marinated in mojo; a Spanish chorizo and fresh mushrooms concoction with garlic lemon sauce; and empanadas, a Cuban turnover filled with ground beef or chicken. 1250 Library St., Detroit; 313-962-8800. L,D daily.

Vivio’s Food & Spirits $

SANDWICH/DELI • This Eastern Market classic has been run by the Vivio family for more than 40 years. Sandwiches and burgers are mainstays, but diners also appreciate the steamed mussels. 3601 Twelve Mile Road, Warren; 586-576-0495. L,D daily.

The Whitney $$$$

NEW AMERICAN The historic 1890s mansion is still going strong. The menu is typified by classic beef Wellington, wrapped in spinach, prosciutto, and pastry; and pan-roasted Scottish salmon. Tableside cooking, by reservation only, is an optional feature. Don’t forget The Katherine McGregor Dessert Parlor for a sweet treat.4421 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-832-5700. D Wed.-Sun and high tea Sat.-Sun.

Wine Dotte Bistro $$

WINE BAR • This interesting wine bar and restaurant offers a view of the Detroit River. The menu includes coconut shrimp, lobster tails, tenderloin medallions, and lamb chops. The wine is displayed in a cabinet across one wall and it’s the main focus. 2910 Van Alstyne St., Wyandotte; 734-556-3195. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Wright & Co. $$

NEW AMERICAN • The collaboration between chef Marc Djozlija and Dave Kwiatkowski of the popular Corktown craft cocktail bar Sugar House gives new life to the second-floor space in the Wright Kay building. Small plates such as tuna tartare with pickled pears, and pork belly sliders with tomato jam and sriracha aioli are the focus. 1500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313962-7711. D Tue.-Sun.

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

FEATURED Bi Bim Bab KOREAN

Though sushi and a small selection of Japanese entrees share the bill here, it’s Korean food at center stage — on barbecue grills, on which meat and seafood are grilled to order. Or come for the restaurant’s namesake. 43155 Main St., Novi; 248-3486800. L,D daily.

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 and 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 Wagyu beef carpaccio, ahi tuna tartare, and classic roasted oysters. There are heartier entrees as well, like the braised beef short ribs. 220 Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-646-2220. L,D Mon.-Sat. BR Sun.

Adachi $$$

JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Heading the kitchen is Lloyd Roberts, who has trained in the kitchens of celebrity chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Nobu Matsuhisa. Here, soy truffle broth is ladled over pork dumplings reminiscent of coin purses, and miniature tacos are filled with lobster, tuna, or vegetable pickings. 325 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-540-900. 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, 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. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield; 248-865-9300. L,D Mon.Fri., D Sat.-Sun.

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

Assaggi Bistro $$$

ITALIAN • Seasonal offers encompassing rustic Italian, country French, and authentic Lebanese are all created in the open kitchen. Standouts include Moroccan duck legs, porcini-dusted day boat sea scallops, and cioppino (seafood stew). 330 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248584-3499 D Wed.-Sat.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2005 Bacco Restaurante $$$

ITALIAN • Chef-owner Luciano Del Signore’s pastas are like pure art. Try the Strozzapreti Norcina: Italian sausage, truffles, tomato, and white wine, tossed in hand-rolled pasta. From local grass-fed beef to sustainably farm-raised sea bass to a fresh caprese, the ingredients are top-end. Based in the heart of Southfield, Bacco is a true Italian gem in the suburbs. And the desserts, are not to be missed. 29410 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-356-6600. L Tue.-Fri. D Tue.-Sat.

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 and Spaghetti al Basilico, and specialty pizzas, including The Verona and the Truffle Mushroom, as well as a selection of steaks and seafood dishes typify the contemporary approach to fresh and uncomplicated Italian cuisine. 500 Loop Road, Commerce Charter Township; 248-3875400. D daily.

Bella Piatti $$

ITALIAN • The location right across from the Townsend Hotel has inspired a number of visiting celebrities, pro-

fessional 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. These days they’re serving only dinner but still features the fresh and innovative fare that put it on the map. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills; 248-642-2355. D Mon.-Sat.

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 Alaskan cod butter roasted with everything-bagel crust 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,D Tue.-Fri., D 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,” steamed mussels, and tasty flatbread pizzas. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-5940984. L,D Tue.-Sun.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2003

Café Cortina $$$

ITALIAN • Selections include prosciutto di Parma stuffed with greens and mozzarella; squid sautéed with fresh pomodori; gnocchi with porcini mushrooms; and meaty prawns finished with lemon, white wine, and herbs. For dessert, try the crepes 30715 W. 10 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-474-3033. L Sun., D Tue.-Sun.

Café ML $$

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 wellappointed 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,

chicken parmesan, and a meaty branzino typify the menu. A cannoli cake layers sweet ricotta atop a spongy cake and a base of dark chocolate reminiscent of a Nestle Crunch Bar. 310 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-940-0000. D Tue.-Sat.

Churchill’s Bistro & Cigar Bar $$$

TRADITIONAL • You can buy your cigar and smoke it too. Plus, enjoy dry-aged steaks, pan-roasted sea bass, seasonal East Coast oysters, and lamb chops, among other options. A full bar boasts a large selection of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon — and plenty of wine. 116 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham; 248-647-4555. L,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. Two patios add to the appeal. See website for locations; crispellis.com

Culantro $$

PERUVIAN Native Peruvian Betty Shuell brings a taste of her home to Ferndale. The casual, homey, seat-yourself establishment is named after an herb that is often used in traditional Peruvian cooking. An especially notable dish is the Pollo a la Brasa, marinated chicken served with French fries, rice, and a variety of dipping sauces. 22939 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-632-1055. L,D daily.

Diamond’s Steak & Seafood $$$

STEAKHOUSE • This Howell restaurant is the perfect location for ribeye, fresh gulf shrimp, or a classic cheeseburger. Plus, weekends boast a buffet-style brunch. 101 W. Grand River Ave., Howell; 517-5485500. D Tue.-Sat.

Eddie’s Gourmet $$

NEW AMERICAN Chef Eddie Hanna’s gourmet diner is a simple concept that works to perfection. The menu offers standard selection of breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, and lunch specials, but the real draw is the counter-side gourmet and pasta specials. Offerings include Veal Marsala and Chicken Milano. 25920 Greenfield Road, Oak Park; 248-968-4060. L,D Mon-Sat.

Elie’s Mediterranean Grill/Bar $$

LEBANESE • The lamb and chicken shawarma, shish kafta, kibbee nyeh, and other Lebanese dishes are emphasized by the décor, including photomurals of old Beirut and strings of blue beads cascading from the ceiling. A fun place to frequent for a quick lunch or a night out with friends. 263 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-647-2420. L,D Mon.-Sat.

The Fly Trap $

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

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2009 Forest $$$

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

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, 248-9243367. 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 Wed.-Mon.

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; 248707-3793. 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 — shark’s fin and bird’s nest soups, fresh abalone — as well as more customary items. One signature dish is stir-fried yellow grouper fillet with vegetables. 27925 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; 248-489-2280. L,D 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.-Sat.

FEATURED

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 Crostini, to heartier fare, like Braised Lamb Pappardelle and Steak and Frites. Plus, the bright and airy bohemian-chic interior is highly Instagrammable. 885 15 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-2975833. D Wed.-Sat., B,L,D Sun.

Imperial $

MEXICAN-INSPIRED • The menu offers Californiastyle tacos on soft tortillas, including lime-grilled chicken, carnitas, and marinated pork, as well as slowroasted pork tortas, and guacamole. 22828 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-850-8060. L,D daily, BR Sun.

J-Bird Smoked Meats

$$

BARBEQUE • Offering wood-smoked meats served with the traditional sides of cornbread, buttermilk slaw, and mac and cheese, popular dishes include the Three Meat Sampler and JBird Gumbo, as well as St. Louis Ribs and old-fashioned JBurgers. If you love meat, this is your place. 1978 Cass Lake Road, Keego Harbor; 248-681-2124. L,D Tue.-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 ambience. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. D daily.

Kaizen Ramen $

JAPANESE • A downtown Royal Oak space with exposed ductwork, orange booths, and a lively, floor-to-ceiling, black-and-white robot mural may not seem like the obvious choice for authentic Asian noodles. But this casual spot offers a variety of vegan and meat-based ramen dishes, as well as gyoza, poke, spring rolls, and karaage — Japanese-style fried chicken. Don’t skip out on desserts like mochi ice cream and cheesecake tempura. 411 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak; 248-677-1236. L,D Mon.-Sat.

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 Dolci e Caffé $

ITALIAN • A slice of European elegance offers an impeccable little menu of Italian dishes and rich coffees and espresso. Paninis, delicious fresh green salads, hearty minestrone soup, pastas, pizzas, and decadent and artistically crafted pastries are prettily served and very tasty. 243 E. Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-480-0492. D Tue.-Sat.

Lelli’s Inn $$

ITALIAN • Dinners begin with an antipasto tray, creamy minestrone, salad, side dish of spaghetti, and then — nine times out of 10 — a filet mignon with zip sauce. 885 N. Opdyke Road, Auburn Hills; 248-3734440. L Mon.-Fri. D daily.

Loccino Italian Grill $$

ITALIAN • Loccino is a “family-friendly” yet upscale Italian restaurant. Choose from fresh seafood, steak, chicken, and veal dishes, plus traditional pastas, pizzas, salads, and more. They also offer happy hour specials from 3-7 p.m. weekdays. A great special occassion place or delicious workday lunch spot for whevener you need a break from the office. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-813-0700. 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 Greekstyle lamb chops. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-792-6051. 115 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-924-5459. L,D daily.

Mabel Gray $$$

NEW AMERICAN • Chef James Rigato produces some masterful dishes on this tiny menu, which does not miss a beat. The menu includes a multi-course tasting option, as well as a daily listing of changing items that never disappoint. It’s a fine dining experience that is certainly worth a visit. 23825 John R Road, Hazel Park; 248-398-4300. D Tue.-Sat.

Mad Hatter Bistro, Bar & Tea Room $$

ECLECTIC AMERICAN • The whimsical setting inspired by Alice in Wonderland welcomes far more than the tea-sipping set with burgers and sandwiches, rabbit Porchetta, truffle risotto bites, and baked brie with pistachio, honey, and pomegranate. There are also pastries, of course. 185 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-540-0000. B,L Thu.-Sun., D Fri.-Sat. Tea by reservation. Lower level not wheelchair accessible.

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). It’s then served tableside in glorious fashion. Not to be missed are the Mare Tower and moussaka. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. 115 Willits St., Birmingham; 248-9405525. D Tue.-Sat.

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 Gulf Shrimp Gratin, steak frites remarkably close to those at Paris bistros, and a housemade soft pretzel with roasted jalapeno-goat cheese dip. Or, try the beef short rib with shawarma spices, pistachio basmati, and pickled vegetables.

FEATURED 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, smoked apple burnt ends, and Detroit-style pizza, as well as the requisite burger and steak, appeal to a wide demographic. The rock ’n’ rollthemed eatery also brought its much-loved American dishes and cocktails to Birmingham in 2019. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-216-1112. D daily. 260 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-9403260. L,D Mon.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun. BR Sat.-Sun.

301 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-759-4825. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Mesa Tacos And Tequila $

MEXICAN-AMERICAN • The two-story setting includes balcony seating in a big, open room where the bar gets equal time with the kitchen. The pop-Mexican menu — which includes guacamole, nachos, and the titular tacos — is backed up with an array of tequilas. 312 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-545-1940. L & D daily.

Mon Jin Lau $$

ASIAN-FUSION • Explore such dishes as Singapore noodles, combining chicken, shrimp, chilies, and curry with angel-hair pasta; Mongolian beef; or seared scallops with 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.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR  2008 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; 248-5560947. D daily.

Ocean Prime $$$$ SEAFOOD • An upper-end steak-and-fish place and a popular business lunch site. The menu features naturally harvested fresh fish and prime aged beef. Don’t miss the chocolate peanut butter pie or the carrot cake. A 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; 248808-6633. 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.

Otus Supply $

NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale stunner has delightful food, superb service, and one wild look. The menu offers main courses and shared plates, as well as pizza and sandwiches. There’s also a concert venue called The Parliament Room. 345 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-291-6160. D Tue.-Sat.

Phoenicia

$$$

LEBANESE • This long-standing upscale Lebanese eatery has clean, contemporary lines that complement the French door-style windows. Don’t miss the morel mushrooms or roasted garlic cloves with tomato and basil as an appetizer. The menu expands to unexpected items such as baby back ribs and singleserving-sized local whitefish. 588 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-644-3122. L Mon.-Fri., D daily., BR Sun.

Pinky’s Rooftop $$

ECLECTIC AMERICAN • With its second-floor view of downtown Royal Oak, Pinky’s Rooftop is a go-to spot for a night on the town. The name hearkens back to a Detroit restaurant and speakeasy on the east side that was called Pinky’s Boulevard Club (and the fact that everything is pink). The playful and eclectic menu offers a taste of a little bit of everything, from Kasseri Saganaki to Red Chile Beef Taco. It’s part of the Adam Merkel Restaurants group, which includes Howell hot spots The Silver Pig, Cello Italian, and Diamond’s Steak & Seafood. 100 S. Main St. Rear, Royal Oak, 248-268-2885. D Tues.-Sun. Br. Sat.-Sun.

Pop’s For Italian $$

ITALIAN • It doesn’t sound fancy, but this Ferndale restaurant serves well-prepared, Italian dishes paired with an ambitious wine program. The fairly brief menu starts with a list of Neapolitan pizzas, then moves to pastas, but has all the classics to hit the spot. There are charcuterie boards and Italian desserts, too. 280 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-2684806. D Tue.-Sun.

Prime29 Steakhouse $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • The 29-day aged prime beef, including the 24-ounce tomahawk bone-in rib-eye, still stars here. There’s also Chilean sea bass, Loch Duart salmon, and lamb chops with lobster fried rice. The service 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, sharable plates like barbecued carrots, and craft cocktails and mocktails. It also features a special vegan menu and carries plenty of gluten-free options. 241 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-733-4905. D daily., BR Sat.-Sun.

Quán Ngon Vietnamese Bistro $ VIETNAMESE • This gem of a bistro in a hand-some space adds to the local Vietnamese offerings. Dishes such as cha gio (elegant little eggrolls), bun bo nuong sa (grilled steak atop angel-hair rice noodles), and banh mi made with fresh ingredients. 30701 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights; 248-2684310. L,D Fri.-Wed

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.

PHOTO BY KAILEY HOWELL

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; 248652-4500. D Mon.-Sat.

Social Kitchen & Bar $$$

NEW AMERICAN • The energetic Birmingham spot allows guests a view of the kitchen action. It has a creative and varied menu typified by falafel lettuce wraps, fried chicken sandwiches, crispy Brussels sprouts, and salmon with braised lentils, crispy kale, and a mustard vinaigrette. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-594-4200. L Mon.-Fri., D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

Sozai

JAPANESE • To truly experience Sozai, you have to reserve a seat at the custom-built sushi bar where chef Hajime Sato will curate a unique sustainable sushi dining experience called omakase. There’s also a menu offering crowd pleasures like chicken karaage and rolls featuring familiar ingredients with tuna, jalapeno and avocado. 449 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248677-3232. D Tues.-Sat.

Streetside Seafood $$

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

Sylvan Table $$$

NEW AMERICAN With a working farm on the 5-acre property, Sylvan Table isn’t just talking the farm-to-table 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 woodfired 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. Br. Sat.-Sun.

Take Sushi $$

JAPANESE • Crisp salads, miso soup garnished with the tiniest dice of tofu, sashimi and sushi, oversize bowls of soba or udon noodles, and all the familiar — and some not-so-familiar — entrees, combine together to make this spot special. 1366 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248-652-7800. L,D daily.

Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro $$

WINE BAR • Understated décor and a pared-down menu of seasonal dishes make this spot a Birmingham classic. The kitchen turns out dishes like Lamb Belly Ragu with housemade pasta; and whole branzino with charred zucchini and romesco. Wine is served by the glass, the pitcher, or bottle. 155 S. Bates St., Birmingham; 248-731-7066. D Mon.-Sat.

Three Cats Restaurant $

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • Formerly a small café serving customers of the boutique Leon & Lulu, Three Cats is now a full-fledged restaurant and bar. Located in the former Clawson movie theater next door to the shop, the spot serves small, simple plates, including vegetarian and vegan options

for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The beverage menu features local selections, such as vodka from Ferndale’s Valentine’s Distilling Co. and wines from grapes grown on the Leelanau Peninsula. Patrons can even take home the colorful, quirky chairs or tables they’re dining at, as most of the furniture at Three Cats Restaurant is available for purchase. 116 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-2884858. L,D Mon.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun.

Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • It’s fun, it’s breezy, and the food at Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint is very, very good. The house specialty smothered burrito has plenty of fans, as does huevos rancheros: fried eggs upon corn tortillas, pintos, and cheese. Toast, a Neighborhood Joint, the spinoff of the Ferndale original has a more elaborate setting pairing ’50s retro with sleek contemporary in a pair of rooms. The new menu features twists to comfort food. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-398-0444. 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, such as grilled steaks with béarnaise sauce. In 2019, the restaurant earned a Wine Spectator magazine award for its outstanding wine program. Plus, just across the lot is Twelve Oaks Mall, should you fancy an evening of shopping and dinner. 27790 Novi Road, Novi; 248-277-6000. B Mon.-Fri., L,D Tue.-Sat.

Townhouse $$$

NEW AMERICAN This popular Birmingham spot for comforting New American dishes has several exceptional offerings on its menu, such as the specialty 10 ounces of 28-day dry-aged beef hamburger on brioche. 180 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-792-5241. L,D daily, BR Sat.Sun. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-723-1000. 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 Tue.-Sun.

Vinsetta Garage $$

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

Voyager $$ SEAFOOD • Fresh seafood with emphasis on oysters is the premise in this hard-to-find location. The space entails convivially close quarters for such dishes as peel-n’-eat shrimp, chili crab spaghetti and grilled swordfish. The premium bar offers short but notable lists of beer and wine as well as craft cocktails. 600 Vester St., Ferndale; 248-658-4999. D Tue.-Sat.

Macomb

Andiamo $$

ITALIAN • Over the past three decades, Joe Vicari has established several Andiamo restaurants in metro

FEATURED 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; 586-7733279. L,D daily.

Detroit, all inspired by the late master chef Aldo Ottaviani’s philosophy of seasonal, from-scratch cooking. Menus differ slightly between locations, but the constant is fresh, housemade pastas — handcrafted by the trinity of “pasta ladies,” Anna, Tanya, and Angelina, who have carried on the tradition. The Warren location is the flagship that started it all. 7096 14 Mile Road, Warren; 586-268-3200. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun.

Barleycorn’s Public House $$

GASTROPUB • This casual spot offers a wide-ranging cocktail menu, craft beers, and elevated pub fare (try the Southerner, a buttermilk-soaked fried chicken, or the fish and chips). Located near Emagine theater, it’s an ideal spot to grab a burger and drinks before or after a movie. 50985 Hayes Road, Shelby Township; 586-271-8700. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun.

Bar Verona $$

ITALIAN • Scratch-made Italian favorites as well as fresh craft cocktails fill the menu at this stylish eatery. Homemade pastas, such as Giuseppe’s and Spaghetti al Basilico, and specialty pizzas, including The Verona and the Truffle Mushroom, as well as a selection of steaks and seafood dishes typify the modernized approach to fresh and uncomplicated Italian cuisine. 59145 Van Dyke Ave., Washington; 586-473-0700. 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 — 900 at last count. 27626 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-675-2115. L,D daily.

Da Francesco’s Ristorante & Bar $$

ITALIAN • Da Francesco’s has been around for more than 15 years, but its massive new facility is packing in the crowds by offering traditional Italian dining with an upbeat modern twist. 49521 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-7544. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., L,D Sun.

Detroit Fish House $$

SEAFOOD • This restaurant feels like a true coastal eatery, thanks to an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood that ranges from salmon to Lake Superior whitefish — all served in a well-designed setting. 51195 Schoenherr Road, Shelby Charter Township; 586-739-5400. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

Gaudino’s $$

ITALIAN • The trending market-restaurant combo has a good example at this spot. It offers imported pastas and sauces, plus a butcher counter with sausages and a wine assortment. The menu offers pasta and pizza, salads, and entrees, including a Chicken Milanese. 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. D Tue.-Sat., BR Sun.

J. Baldwin’s Restaurant $$$

NEW AMERICAN • The menu showcases talented chef Jeff Baldwin’s contemporary American food: cedarplanked salmon, chicken fettuccini alfredo with pesto, and herb-crusted chicken, with housemade breads. The desserts include chocolate bumpy cake, spiced carrot cake, apple cobbler, chocolate mousse layer cake, and banana foster bread pudding. 16981 18 Mile Road, Clinton Township; 586-416-3500. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun.

Detroit Remembers!

If you recall the J.L. Hudson Thanksgiving Day Parade, visiting the Children’s Zoo at Belle Isle, taking in a flick at downtown’s Madison Theatre, scarfing down a hot-fudge sundae at Sanders, rocking out at the Grande Ballroom, or cheering on the Red Wings at Olympia Stadium, The Way It Was, Part 2 will elicit warm memories of Detroit. This book’s vivid photos and evocative text will take you on a nostalgic journey into the city’s past.

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; 586-7777770. 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 hearty House Beer Chili, savory Better Made-crusted fish and chips, and spicy Buffalo Mac. Homemade extends to dessert, including Cashew Outside Cookies. This isn’t just bar food, it’s elevated bar food. 45689 Hayes Road, Shelby Township; 586-532-9669. L,D 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. L Sun., D daily.

Twisted Rooster $$

SPORTS BAR • This “Michigan-centric” chain (Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and Belleville) has takes on classics, with mac & cheese variations and steaks with “zip” sauce. 45225 Marketplace Blvd., Chesterfield; 586-949-1470. L,D daily.

Vast Kitchen and Bar $$

NEW AMERICAN • Chef Nicole Justman heads the kitchen at this fresh spot that brings a touch of Birmingham to Shelby Township. A contemporary menu at Vast Kitchen and Bar includes pan-seared salmon and sous vide pork shank. 52969 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-991-6104. L,D Mon.-Sat.

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 CocaCola-roasted beets showed up on early menus as chef Dan Klenotic’s way of straddling the line of creole tradition and an imaginative style that is entirely his own. 209 Pearl St., Ypsilanti. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Black Pearl

$$

SEAFOOD • This seafood and martini bar is especially popular during patio season. But step inside for a host of craft cocktails, then stay for dinner. A seafood-dominated menu includes a notable roasted scallop dish. Non-seafood options include the eponymous burger, roasted butternut squash salad, and filet mignon. And make sure to order dessert. 302 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-222-0400. D daily.

FEATURED

Slurping Turtle

JAPANESE

This fun, casual Ann Arbor restaurant, owned by celebrity chef Takashi Yagihashi, offers plenty of shareable dishes, such as hamachi tacos and duck-fat fried chicken. But the star at Slurping Turtle is the noodle (Yagihashi’s “soul food”), which is made in-house daily on a machine imported from Japan. 608 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-887-6868. L,D daily.

Blue LLama Jazz Club $$

CREATIVE AMERICAN • Come to this swanky jazz club for the music, which includes headliners such as the Grammy-nominated Ravi Coltrane Quartet, but stay for Chef Louis Goral’s delicious food. Try the crispy foie gras PB&J with Marcona almonds and strawberry jam. There is also a delicious Sunday brunch with decadent orange blossom beignets and strawberry pancakes. 314 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-372-3200. D Tue.-Sat.

The Blue Nile $$

ETHIOPIAN • The real treat of the meal at this quaint Ferndale restaurant is that it’s scooped up with a spongy bread called injera, and all the lentils, often seasoned with an Ethiopian spice mixture known as Berber, and vegetables are equally delicious. 221 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor; 734-9984746. D Tue.-Sun.545 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-547-6699. D Thu.-Sun.

Cardamom $$

INDIAN • Check out the Hyderabadi Biryani —chicken, goat, and vegetable dishes, in which the rice is first cooked then baked. All the Indian favorites are available at Cardamom, such as Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Rogan Josh, and warm, fluffy, made-fresh garlic naan. It’s the ideal spot for when you’re craving the classics. 1739 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-6622877. L Sun., D Tue.-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 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 Sun.

KouZina Greek Steet Food $ GREEK • The Greek “street food” at this Ann Arbor spot comes in lamb and beef, and chicken. Try the lentil soup for a delicious lunch or go for something more filling like falafel. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this excellent spot. 332 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734997-5155. L,D Tue.-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 Fri.-Sun., D Wed.-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.

Paesano $$

ITALIAN • With a friendly waitstaff and decked in vibrant colors, this lively restaurant is not to be missed. The innovative menu changes seasonally. Must-tries have included the pasta carbonara, featuring shrimp, duck bacon, and Italian greens, as well as beet and ricotta gnocchi with brown butter.

3411 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-971-0484. L,D daily.

Seva Ann Arbor $$ VEGAN • Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian. There’s also a full bar as well as a juice bar serving creamy smoothies and dense shakes, fresh-squeezed juices, and craft mocktails. Choose from one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in the Detroit area. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Shalimar $$ INDIAN • Offering North Indian, Tandoori, and Mughlai dishes, Shalimar is suitable for carnivores and herbivores alike. Standouts include the Tandoori Lamb Chops marinated in creamy yogurt, spicy ginger, and fresh garlic, which is 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.

The Boro Dining Room and Bar $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • Much like the restaurant’s ambience, the cuisine at The Boro is both refined and relaxed. The Grilled Bone-In Pork Loin typifies the vibe. In flavor, the pork is reminiscent of a slab of tender brisket at a family barbecue. The loin is sweetened with a smattering of St. Louis-style barbecue glaze. In presentation and accoutrements, though, the dish is worthy of white-tablecloth status. 5400 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-6693310. B,L,D daily.

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 Delicatessen $ SANDWICH/DELI • Zingerman’s Delicatessen is a household name for Michiganians, and a must-try staple in Ann Arbor. The temptations at Zingerman’s are endless: fresh breads and a menu of filling sandwiches, olive oils and housemade balsamic vinegars, chilies, and mustards. 422 Detroit St., Ann Arbor; 734663-3354. B,L,D daily.

Zingerman’s Roadhouse $$$

CLASSIC COMFORT This eatery celebrates the food of various American cities, from fresh Maryland crab cakes to the delicacies of New Orleans. The buttermilk biscuits are beyond-this-world. 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3663. B,L,D daily.

MHCC GALA HISPANA NAVIDEÑA

Friday, December 2, 2022

6 p.m. – 12 a.m.

MGM Grand Hotel 1777 3rd Ave., Detroit, MI 48226 mhcc.org

The MHCC is proud to announce its 33rd Annual Gala Hispana Navideña, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield. As one of the most recognized and well-attended events in the state of Michigan, the MHCC Annual Gala is the perfect occasion for us to celebrate the success of Hispanic business and recognize those that support the economic development in our community. The black-tie affair will attract Michigan’s most distinguished leaders.

This event is a tradition in our community and it’s always a honor to host it. The funds raised support programs and events geared towards the efforts to increase the vitality of the community through economic, educational, and workforce development.

The evening will include an extensive program featuring a cocktail reception, prominent guest speakers, awards, dinner, dancing & more. You certainly won’t want to miss out on this iconic event!

Individual tickets as well as table tickets to this year’s Gala are available to purchase online at www.mhcc.org or 248-792-2763.

NOEL NIGHT

Saturday, December 3, 2022 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Detroit, MI noelnight.org

The 48th annual Noel Night is scheduled for Saturday, December 3, 2022, with over 100 participating venues, including the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, College for Creative Studies, Wayne State University, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Detroit Historical Museum and Michigan Science Center, along with the area’s historic churches, galleries, unique small businesses, nonprofit organizations, other arts, cultural and educational institutions, restaurants, bars and breweries, to name just a few.

Noel Night is a Cultural Center-wide holiday open house that presents free activities, including holiday shopping, family craft activities, artist demonstrations and performances by over 100 local and national music, theatre, and dance groups, and other special performances. Free and open to the public!

Cultural Center Hours: 5 - 9 p.m.

Midtown Detroit Hours: 5 - 10 p.m. (South of Warren Ave.)

Noel Night is produced by Midtown Detroit, Inc., a nonprofit community development organization that supports economic growth in Detroit’s Midtown district. Call 313-420-6000 for additional information.

57TH ANNUAL GUILD GALA

Saturday, December 10, 2022

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Westin Southfield, 1500 Town Center Southfield, MI 48075 deturbanleague.org

The Urban League of Detroit & Southeastern Michigan is celebrating the 57th Annual Guild Gala, which will be held Saturday, December 10, 2022 beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Westin Southfield located at 1500 Town Center, Southfield MI 48075. During the Gala, we’ll celebrate area youth who demonstrate positive attributes with our “Do the Right Thing” recognition while also honoring outstanding community servants with our Community Service Award. Proceeds from the event support our College Club/Project Ready and Workforce Career Development Center programs.

SPIRIT OF GIVING GALA – BENEFITING THE PATHWAYS TO HOPE PROGRAM

Friday, December 9, 2022 7:00 p.m. MGM Grand Detroit 1777 3rd Ave., Detroit, MI 48226 franklinwright.org/events-1/

A black-tie affair, Franklin Wright's Annual Spirit of Giving Gala is an elegant, fun-filled evening of awards, live music, great food and cocktails. Families, friends, our team and supporters come together to recognize business and community leaders who give tirelessly to make sure that everyone has access to basic needs and opportunity. Together we celebrate a year of outstanding service to the community. Support our efforts by purchasing a table, tickets, or becoming a sponsor of this worthy and memorable event.

Franklin Wright’s Pathways to Hope program addresses this serious need by providing services to youth such as mentorship, building a social network, finding a sense of purpose, exploring career opportunities, teaching confidence, social-emotional learning, access to clinical therapists, teaching how to live a healthy lifestyle, and building relationships with our staff and other children/young adults. This quintessential program relies on benevolent organizations like you to make this program successful with proper funding.

Pilates As Rehabilitation After Shoulder Surgery

Have you recently undergone shoulder surgery for an impingement, tendonitis, labral tear, or other injury? If so, there’s a good chance you’ve lost muscle recruitment, or the order in which muscles are activated to perform a specific movement. During an injury, this order can be lost, causing the muscles to switch on in the wrong order.

Fortunately, Pilates can correct this problem but it’s only part of the reason Pilates is recommended for rehabilitation after shoulder surgery. The system of Pilates is also highly effective in improving strength in the muscles that support the shoulder joint. Custom exercises and trained instruction from skilled Pilates instructors can help patients achieve full function of the affected joint.

Ron Jegadeesh, Pilates instructor, physical therapist, and owner of Pilates Fitness & Physical Therapy Center in Southfield, explains: “While a patient works through specific rehabilitative shoulder exercises, Pilates will also improve and maintain core stability in the pelvis, lower back, thoracic spine, and shoulder girdle.”

In addition, the Pilates principles of correct alignment, body awareness, lateral breathing, and neutral spine can be applied to any prescribed exercises, to improve the quality of the exercise themselves. It’s really the perfect rehabilitation system.

Pilates Fitness & Physical Therapy Center

17418 W. 10 Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48075 248-552-1012 248-552-0657 (fax) pilatesfitnessevolution.com info@pilatesfitnessevolution.com

The Venetian Masquerade Gala

TEAM FOX DETROIT, an organization within the grassfoots fundraising arm of The Michael J. Fox Foundation, hosted its sixth annual Venetian Masquerade Gala on Oct. 1 at The Henry, a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel in Dearborn. This annual soiree is one of several fundraisers put on by the organization, which works to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease research and awareness in hopes of someday ending the disease. The evening kicked off with cocktails, followed up by dinner and entertainment.

1. Mike and Kim Swiatowski 2. Bill and Lisa Ford 3. Will Ford, Taylor Magnuson 4. Clare Braun, Elena Ford, Erik Braun 5. Kevin and Kouhaila Hammer 6. Elizabeth Agius, Bill and Lisa Ford, Debora Matthews, Lia and Jim Farley 7. Terry and Ron Berry 8. Paula Smith, Phillip Simmons 9. Marika Diamond, Angela Tangalos 10. Lisa Ford, Debora Matthews 11. Matt and Sharon Bazzell

Auto Glow 2022

09.16.22 FOR NEARLY A CENTURY, The Children’s Center has worked to help metro Detroit kids overcome their trauma with mental and behavioral health programming, along with foster care and adoption services. Their annual black-tie fundraiser, AutoGlow, a pre-event of the North American International Auto Show Charity Preview, helps support this important work. This year’s event, held at Ford Field on Sept. 16, featured a cocktail reception, strolling dinner, drinks, and dancing.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHRISTINE M.J. HATHAWAY

NAIAS Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHRISTINE M.J. HATHAWAY

IN TODAY’S MERCANTILE WORLD of Amazon, Wayfair, eBay, and other e-tailers, it’s easy to forget that shopping once meant a sensory experience, not just a virtual one. Certainly, shopping online is convenient and expedient, but what’s lacking is a sensuous encounter of touch and scent, as well as the social element of interacting with store clerks and being among throngs of other patrons. This image shows a horde of Christmas shoppers in downtown Detroit, back when the area claimed three department stores, all clustered nearby. At right, at Woodward and Gratiot, is Kern’s, with its signature clock. “I’ll meet you under the Kern’s clock” was a common saying among Detroiters. Just one block north, with Christmas trees displayed on its awning, is Hudson’s, the granddaddy of Detroit department stores. A stone’s throw to the east and visible in the background is Crowley’s. The photo was taken the day after Thanksgiving, widely considered to be the official start of the Christmas shopping season — well before the term “Black Friday” was in wide circulation. It also predates the opening of malls such as Northland (1954) and Eastland (1957), which siphoned shoppers from the downtown retail center. Kern’s opened in 1883 on St. Antoine, later moving to Randolph and Monroe and finally to its last location at Woodward and Gratiot. Kern’s fourth-floor children’s department was a busy place at Christmas and its annual September Founders sale drew huge crowds, but its clock was its most distinguishing feature. Sadly, Kern’s closed its doors on Dec. 23, 1959, and was demolished in 1966. However, the clock was salvaged and placed in storage. Compuware Corp. (now called BMC Compuware) refurbished it and placed it in front of its headquarters at One Campus Martius, a comforting reminder that the hands of time can be turned back, if only in our imaginations. —George Bulanda Hour Detroit (USPS 016523) is published monthly by Hour Media, LLC, 5750 New King Dr., Suite 100, Troy, MI 48098. Periodical Postage Paid at Troy, MI and additional offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Hour Detroit 5750 New King Dr., Suite 100, Troy, MI 48098. Subscription price: $19.95 one year, $35.95 two years. Copyright @ 2020 Hour Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. Hour is a registered trademark of Hour Media.