Just west of downtown is one of the oldest residential and commercial neighborhoods in the city. It is being revitalized with many new bars, restaurants, distilleries and microbreweries. Make sure to check out:
Slows BBQ: 2138 Michigan Ave. At their flagship location, this was the perfect spot for lunch. It comes highly recommended for its great barbecue, huge sandwiches and tasty side dishes. I loved the Longhorn sandwich with barbecue brisket, smoked gouda and an onion marmalade. I ordered it without sauce so I could try some of their five different barbecue sauces. I love the sweet one. The pecan pie with vanilla bean ice cream was worth the trip!!!
Across the street is Mercury Burger & Bar, known for great burgers and shakes. It also has a colorful patio. 2163 Michigan Ave.
Sugar House Craft Cocktails: Open daily at 5 pm, Sugar House is known for its seasonal craft and classic cocktails. 2130 Michigan Ave
Batch Brewing Company: Opened in early 2015, at 1400 Porter St., this is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. They brew all their beers on site and feature their stouts, ales, IPAs and saisons along with food in their large tasting room.
Two James Distillery: At 2445 Michigan Ave., this is a local distillery featuring their vodka, gin, bourbon and whiskey. Coming soon are an absinthe and a single malt whiskey. Tours are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and their tasting room is open daily. It is the first licensed distillery in Detroit since Prohibition.
Michigan Central Station: 2001 15th St. This was Detroit’s main train station from 1914 to 1988. It has served Thomas Edison, Charlie Chaplin and Presidents Herbert Hoover, Harry Truman and Franklin Roosevelt. The vacant former station is a great photo op. There have been several recent proposals to renovate the building. In the interim, some improvements are being made to the vacant building.
Other great neighborhood restaurants include Mink at 1701 Trumbull Ave. Suite D. This is a casual spot for oysters, seafood and more from the team at the popular Marrow restaurant in Detroit. In the same building FOLK is a popular cafe for breakfast and brunch dishes. There is also a market for fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood and other food items.
I went to FOLK for lunch after arriving in town on my most recent trip to Detroit. I enjoyed a tasty quiche and salad.
