There are two things every Detroiter loves: good food and great music. The Motor City is home to all sorts of famous dishes, from the iconic Coney Dog to fantastic Detroit-style pizza with its unique square shape. We’ve got some well-known restaurants, but there’s one eatery and music club here in Detroit that's truly timeless, and it certainly belongs on your bucket list!
The famous Cliff Bell’s is located at 2030 Park Avenue in Detroit.
Cliff Bell’s was originally opened in 1935. Despite plenty of ups and downs throughout the decades, it now stands as one of Detroit’s most famous eateries and clubs.
The heart of Cliff Bell’s is its fabulous live jazz performances. On any given night, you’ll enjoy hopping tunes from traveling bands and local performers who bring the club to life with their music.
Finish off your meal with one of the club’s specialty cocktails. We recommend the Water Lilly, which combines gin with crème de violette, orange curacao, and lemon juice.
Whether you’re a frequent guest or a first-time visitor, one thing is for sure: your experience at Cliff Bell’s will stick with you for many years to come. Enjoy!
For more information about Cliff Bell’s, including a schedule of upcoming jazz performances and a full menu listing, click here to visit their official website.
Hidden-gem restaurants in Detroit feel like a holiday when you discover them. If you’re looking for a dining experience that strays from the norm, Metro Detroit offers plenty of options. While there’s something to be said for checking out a popular, bustling eatery, we’re suckers for lesser-known spots that tend to fly under the radar. When your cravings strike, load up the car and venture to these oft-overlooked restaurants in and around the Motor City.
Make your way to Ann Arbor for a classic, laid-back dining experience at Benny’s. This unassuming yet out-of-the-way eatery is situated away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Ann Arbor, so you might need a few extra minutes to find your way here - but as soon as you step inside, you’ll be delighted. There’s no better place to appreciate friendly service, classic American eats, and family togetherness than at one of the best restaurants around Detroit. Discover more on the Benny’s Family Dining website.
This Sterling Heights eatery is located in a strip mall, so it might not catch your eye from the road. Don’t let its exterior fool you, though - there’s so much to adore inside. Open daily, Old House offers a casual yet carefully crafted dining experience that will bring your breakfast and lunch dreams to life. Dig into egg-based plates, waffles, pasta, and burgers. We like this delicious club sandwich with fries. Read further information on the Old House Family Restaurant Facebook page.
This eatery is so worth the 45-minute drive from Detroit. After all, nothing satisfies cravings quite like a hearty serving of BBQ, and Jack’s certainly delivers when it comes to flavor and experience. The aroma of smoked meats will have your taste buds tingling as soon as you arrive. While the smells are spectacular, nothing beats that first bite - whether you opt for ribs, brisket, or something in between.
This taqueria offers multiple locations, but we’ll focus on the Dexter eatery here. While it’s situated in a strip mall, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a new world as you appreciate the ambiance, colorful decor, and unbeatable service at Chela’s. The menu boasts options like wet burritos, flautas, chili relleno, and a variety of other eats that will have you feeling happy and full in no time. Read the menu on the Chela’s Restaurant website.
Located in Corktown, the Sugar House is a speakeasy-esque bar and Detroit restaurant that feels like a true hidden gem. With an emphasis on craft cocktails, it’s a wonderful place to unwind with friends over drinks and bask in a delightfully moody environment. You don’t have to be a cocktail connoisseur to find something wonderful here, as there’s truly an option for every taste preference on the menu. Visit the Sugar House website for more information.
Tucked away 30 minutes by car from downtown Detroit, Kate’s Kitchen is a welcoming and decidedly relaxed spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch with loved ones. Family-owned and operated since 1978, there’s a real sense of community at this small but lovely locale. Whether you’re snagging a slice of homemade pie or digging into a three-egg omelet, you’ll be charmed by this cash-only establishment.
While its vibrant exterior makes it easy to spot when you’re in the immediate area, Coriander Kitchen sits slightly off the beaten path for those who typically spend time in the heart of the Motor City. Located just a stone’s throw from the shores of the Detroit River, this farm-to-table destination features everything from flatbreads to fantastically fresh salads and everything in between. You’ll surely return to this Detroit restaurant for seconds. Learn about the restaurant on the Coriander Kitchen and Farm website.
Looking for an even more secluded speakeasy experience? The Last Word in Ann Arbor has you covered. This truly hidden destination is tough to spot from the outside, but what awaits upon stepping inside is truly magical. There’s a real warmth to be appreciated as you dig into fare including charcuterie trays, truffle chips, cheesecake, and an impressive array of adult beverages. Learn the story on the The Last Word website.
Looking for an old-fashioned diner experience within driving distance of the city? Head to The Hut Diner in Redford, a small but mighty roadside spot that serves some of the tastiest burgers around. Whether you’re enjoying a coney dog, a traditional cheeseburger, a creamy milkshake, or a breakfast plate, this is some of the best hidden-gem dining in Detroit. We enjoy this taste of simpler times.
Hidden-gem restaurants in Detroit are the best finds in the city. Have you visited any of these awesome eateries during previous dining adventures with loved ones? Are there any other restaurants we should have included on our list? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments section below. Or recommend another tucked-away spot in Metro Detroit by filling out our official nomination form.
All-you-can-eat seafood spots that serve quality food are plentiful in the Detroit area. But for an amazing meal that you wish would never end, Harbor House is an unassuming seafood spot in downtown Detroit with a terrific offering of delicious food. From fried shrimp to crab legs, Atlantic cod to frog legs, prime rib, and so much more, you can enjoy a neverending meal with all the sides you crave. Remember — the famous, breaded mushrooms come with every meal. And don't let the exterior confuse you: Harbor House is the best spot for an extraordinary meal that won't stop. Get down there and dig in on the all-you-can-eat seafood near me! Let's see what's cooking.
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Welcome to Harbor House! This unassuming spot in Detroit should not be overlooked.
All-you-can-eat seafood in Detroit is something we treasure. Discover more on the Harbor House website. Have you ever indulged in an extravagant meal at Harbor House? What did you think? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
