If there’s one thing Detroiters are passionate about, it’s delicious food. Luckily for us, the Motor City is home to more than its fair share of delightful and delectable restaurants. Here are eleven Detroit restaurants that are some of the city’s most unique eateries that you simply have to visit at least once — your new favorite might just be on this list. They are some of the most unique restaurants in Detroit.

  1. The Dakota Inn Rathskeller (17324 John R Street)

Facebook/Dakota Inn Dakota Inn, 17324 John R St, Detroit, MI 48203, USA

Facebook/Dakota Inn Head to this beloved Bavarian-themed eatery for a one-of-a-kind unique dining experience in Detroit. You’ll chow down on German food and complete each bite with a sip of perfectly brewed beer. The Dakota Inn has even been known to host live piano sing-alongs, with some patrons even dancing at times. The atmosphere is lively and full of energey. What could be more fun?

  1. Grand Trunk Pub (612 Woodward Ave)

Yelp/Pierre G. Grand Trunk Pub, 612 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Yelp/Chelsea B. You’ve never seen a restaurant quite like this before. The Grand Trunk Pub is situated in a converted railway station. Its high ceilings and gorgeous chandeliers are just the beginning, though — you’ll be in heaven when you bite into any of the pub’s menu items, from shrimp and grits to hearty burgers. Brunch is also very popular among guests.

  1. PJ’s Lager House (1254 Michigan Ave)

Yelp/Lorna E. Lager House, 1254 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Yelp/Angela B. This Cajun-inspired eatery will make you feel like you’ve been dropped right in the middle of New Orleans. It’s more than just a rock ’n roll venue: it’s also an amazing place to stop in for a drink and a bite to eat. Looking for something completely unique? Taste the vegan biscuits and gravy — you won’t be disappointed.

  1. Iridescence (MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Ave)

Yelp/Michelle N. Iridescence, 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

Yelp/Regina S. Iridescence has shifted operations away from restaurant service and is now an elegant event space. Consider renting it out for your next special event!

When you’re in the mood to splurge, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Iridescence. This elegant restaurant sits on the 16th floor of the MotorCity Casino Hotel, offering sweeping views of the city skyline and a menu full of fine food and beverages to match. It’s one of the best restaurants in MI, often chosen for its romantic setting for special occasion dinners such as anniversaries.

  1. Baker’s Keyboard Lounge (20510 Livernois Ave)

Yelp/Julian B. Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, 20510 Livernois, Detroit, MI 48221, USA

Yelp/Belynda H. This Detroit classic prides itself on being the world’s oldest jazz club, and you’ll be swept into a different time when you choose to dine here. It’s known for delicious soul food. Munch on delicious favorites like chicken wings and burgers as you listen to the sounds of live jazz.

  1. Parks & Rec Diner (1942 Grand River Ave)

Yelp/Daniel L.

Yelp/Kristin C. Unfortunately, the Parks & Rec Diner has permanently closed.This incredible eatery offers a new twist on the traditional diner experience. With modernized and stylistically stunning decor, massive windows, and unique plays on favorite breakfast items, you’ll be delighted. Try one of their cinnamon rolls for a perfect sweet treat.

  1. Republic (1942 Grand River Ave)

Yelp/Tara L. 1942 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Yelp/Annette J. Note: Republic is permanently closed. Republic is beloved for its rustic decor, full range of amazing adult beverages, and mouthwatering new American cuisine. You’ll dine on everything from whitefish fritters to brown bread ice cream, along with a whole host of other wonderfully reimagined dishes.

  1. Small Plates (1521 Broadway Street)

Yelp/Valerie J.

Yelp/Rikta P. Unfortunately, Small Plates has permanently closed.Many people drop in at Small Plates before checking out a show at the nearby Opera House. But no matter what your reason for visiting, a visit to this eatery will leave you satisfied. With a wide array of — you guessed it —- small plates to choose from, such as calamari, lobster bisque, or pulled pork, you’ll find yourself totally charmed.

  1. Grey Ghost Detroit (47 Watson Street)

Yelp/Craig M. Grey Ghost Detroit, 47 Watson St, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

Yelp/Albert K. The understated ambiance of this Detroit eatery will keep you coming back for more. While many patrons head to Grey Ghost for a few cocktails or beers, the restaurant is most well-known for its perfectly prepared steaks. Come with an appetite and leave with a new favorite dinner spot. Of all the cool restaurants in Detroit, this one is one of the best.

  1. GoGo’s (2040 Park Ave, Detroit)

Yelp/Cheryl L.

Yelp/GoGo’s Note: Unfortunately, GoGo’s has permanently closed.There’s no place else in the Motor City quite like GoGo’s. This popular eatery offers Hawaiian cuisine in a friendly, upbeat atmosphere. The food is locally made, the service is wonderful, and the delightful twists on Asian-inspired dishes will have your mouth watering in no time.

  1. Noble Fish (45 E 14 Mile Road, Clawson)

Yelp/Pingyi L. Noble Fish, 45 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017, USA

Yelp/Lawrence F. This quaint sushi spot is tucked away in the back of a Japanese market, but don’t let its humble appearance fool you: it’s home to some of the best sushi in metro Detroit. Noble Fish is certainly worth a short drive from the city to grab an authentic meal from a true hidden gem.

Facebook/Dakota Inn

Dakota Inn, 17324 John R St, Detroit, MI 48203, USA

Facebook/Dakota Inn

Head to this beloved Bavarian-themed eatery for a one-of-a-kind unique dining experience in Detroit. You’ll chow down on German food and complete each bite with a sip of perfectly brewed beer. The Dakota Inn has even been known to host live piano sing-alongs, with some patrons even dancing at times. The atmosphere is lively and full of energey. What could be more fun?

Yelp/Pierre G.

Grand Trunk Pub, 612 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Yelp/Chelsea B.

You’ve never seen a restaurant quite like this before. The Grand Trunk Pub is situated in a converted railway station. Its high ceilings and gorgeous chandeliers are just the beginning, though — you’ll be in heaven when you bite into any of the pub’s menu items, from shrimp and grits to hearty burgers. Brunch is also very popular among guests.

Yelp/Lorna E.

Lager House, 1254 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Yelp/Angela B.

This Cajun-inspired eatery will make you feel like you’ve been dropped right in the middle of New Orleans. It’s more than just a rock ’n roll venue: it’s also an amazing place to stop in for a drink and a bite to eat. Looking for something completely unique? Taste the vegan biscuits and gravy — you won’t be disappointed.

Yelp/Michelle N.

Iridescence, 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

Yelp/Regina S.

Iridescence has shifted operations away from restaurant service and is now an elegant event space. Consider renting it out for your next special event!

When you’re in the mood to splurge, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Iridescence. This elegant restaurant sits on the 16th floor of the MotorCity Casino Hotel, offering sweeping views of the city skyline and a menu full of fine food and beverages to match. It’s one of the best restaurants in MI, often chosen for its romantic setting for special occasion dinners such as anniversaries.

Yelp/Julian B.

Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, 20510 Livernois, Detroit, MI 48221, USA

Yelp/Belynda H.

This Detroit classic prides itself on being the world’s oldest jazz club, and you’ll be swept into a different time when you choose to dine here. It’s known for delicious soul food. Munch on delicious favorites like chicken wings and burgers as you listen to the sounds of live jazz.

Yelp/Daniel L.

Yelp/Kristin C.

Unfortunately, the Parks & Rec Diner has permanently closed.This incredible eatery offers a new twist on the traditional diner experience. With modernized and stylistically stunning decor, massive windows, and unique plays on favorite breakfast items, you’ll be delighted. Try one of their cinnamon rolls for a perfect sweet treat.

Yelp/Tara L.

1942 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Yelp/Annette J.

Note: Republic is permanently closed. Republic is beloved for its rustic decor, full range of amazing adult beverages, and mouthwatering new American cuisine. You’ll dine on everything from whitefish fritters to brown bread ice cream, along with a whole host of other wonderfully reimagined dishes.

Yelp/Valerie J.

Yelp/Rikta P.

Unfortunately, Small Plates has permanently closed.Many people drop in at Small Plates before checking out a show at the nearby Opera House. But no matter what your reason for visiting, a visit to this eatery will leave you satisfied. With a wide array of — you guessed it —- small plates to choose from, such as calamari, lobster bisque, or pulled pork, you’ll find yourself totally charmed.

Yelp/Craig M.

Grey Ghost Detroit, 47 Watson St, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

Yelp/Albert K.

The understated ambiance of this Detroit eatery will keep you coming back for more. While many patrons head to Grey Ghost for a few cocktails or beers, the restaurant is most well-known for its perfectly prepared steaks. Come with an appetite and leave with a new favorite dinner spot. Of all the cool restaurants in Detroit, this one is one of the best.

Yelp/Cheryl L.

Yelp/GoGo’s

Note: Unfortunately, GoGo’s has permanently closed.There’s no place else in the Motor City quite like GoGo’s. This popular eatery offers Hawaiian cuisine in a friendly, upbeat atmosphere. The food is locally made, the service is wonderful, and the delightful twists on Asian-inspired dishes will have your mouth watering in no time.

Yelp/Pingyi L.

Noble Fish, 45 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017, USA

Yelp/Lawrence F.

This quaint sushi spot is tucked away in the back of a Japanese market, but don’t let its humble appearance fool you: it’s home to some of the best sushi in metro Detroit. Noble Fish is certainly worth a short drive from the city to grab an authentic meal from a true hidden gem.

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Unique Restaurants In Detroit & Related Info January 14, 2023 AnneMarie Where can I experience rooftop dining in Michigan? You can experience rooftop dining in South Carolina at:

Blue Tractor Cook Shop and The Stand in Traverse City 1917 American Bistro in Detroit El Aztec in East Lansing Founders Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids HopCat in Detroit Palio in Ann Arbor Red Fox English Pub in Royal Oak Motor City Brewing Works in Detroit Social Kitchen and Bar in Birmingham The Stray Dog Bar and Grill in New Buffalo

  Where can I dine at themed restaurants in Michigan?

Turkey Roost, a turkey-themed eatery in Kawkawlin The Rainforest Cafe, a rainforest-themed restaurant in Auburn Hills Vinsetta Garage, a car-themed eatery in Berkeley The Old Christmas Station, an all-year-long Christmas-themed restaurant in Frankenmuth The Toasted Pickle, a pickle-themed eatery in Rockford or in Grand Haven Firehouse 115, a firefighter-themed restaurant in Cadillac Waves Chill & Grill, a tropical-themed restaurant in St. Clair Shores Exferimentation Brewing Co., a science-themed eatery in Pontiac

  What are the best candy shops in Michigan? The best candy shops in Michigan are:

Bon Bon Bon Hamtramck in Detroit

Chocolate Garden in Coloma

Doc Sweets Candy Company in Clawson

Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen

Heilman’s Nuts and Confections

Joann’s Fudge of Mackinac Island

 

The OIYS Visitor Center

Unique Restaurants In Detroit & Related Info

January 14, 2023

AnneMarie

Where can I experience rooftop dining in Michigan? You can experience rooftop dining in South Carolina at:

Blue Tractor Cook Shop and The Stand in Traverse City 1917 American Bistro in Detroit El Aztec in East Lansing Founders Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids HopCat in Detroit Palio in Ann Arbor Red Fox English Pub in Royal Oak Motor City Brewing Works in Detroit Social Kitchen and Bar in Birmingham The Stray Dog Bar and Grill in New Buffalo

  Where can I dine at themed restaurants in Michigan?

Turkey Roost, a turkey-themed eatery in Kawkawlin The Rainforest Cafe, a rainforest-themed restaurant in Auburn Hills Vinsetta Garage, a car-themed eatery in Berkeley The Old Christmas Station, an all-year-long Christmas-themed restaurant in Frankenmuth The Toasted Pickle, a pickle-themed eatery in Rockford or in Grand Haven Firehouse 115, a firefighter-themed restaurant in Cadillac Waves Chill & Grill, a tropical-themed restaurant in St. Clair Shores Exferimentation Brewing Co., a science-themed eatery in Pontiac

  What are the best candy shops in Michigan? The best candy shops in Michigan are:

Bon Bon Bon Hamtramck in Detroit

Chocolate Garden in Coloma

Doc Sweets Candy Company in Clawson

Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen

Heilman’s Nuts and Confections

Joann’s Fudge of Mackinac Island

 

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

You can experience rooftop dining in South Carolina at:

  • Blue Tractor Cook Shop and The Stand in Traverse City
  • 1917 American Bistro in Detroit
  • El Aztec in East Lansing
  • Founders Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids
  • HopCat in Detroit
  • Palio in Ann Arbor
  • Red Fox English Pub in Royal Oak
  • Motor City Brewing Works in Detroit
  • Social Kitchen and Bar in Birmingham
  • The Stray Dog Bar and Grill in New Buffalo

 

Where can I dine at themed restaurants in Michigan?

  • Turkey Roost, a turkey-themed eatery in Kawkawlin
  • The Rainforest Cafe, a rainforest-themed restaurant in Auburn Hills
  • Vinsetta Garage, a car-themed eatery in Berkeley
  • The Old Christmas Station, an all-year-long Christmas-themed restaurant in Frankenmuth
  • The Toasted Pickle, a pickle-themed eatery in Rockford or in Grand Haven
  • Firehouse 115, a firefighter-themed restaurant in Cadillac
  • Waves Chill & Grill, a tropical-themed restaurant in St. Clair Shores
  • Exferimentation Brewing Co., a science-themed eatery in Pontiac

What are the best candy shops in Michigan?

The best candy shops in Michigan are:

  • Bon Bon Bon Hamtramck in Detroit

  • Chocolate Garden in Coloma

  • Doc Sweets Candy Company in Clawson

  • Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen

  • Heilman’s Nuts and Confections

  • Joann’s Fudge of Mackinac Island