Detroit’s culinary scene continues to flourish, offering a diverse array of dining destinations that cater to every palate. Whether you’re living in Metro Detroit or considering moving to Metro Detroit, the city’s latest hotspots deliver innovative flavors, vibrant atmospheres, and exceptional dining experiences. From cozy cafes and upscale brunch spots to fine dining establishments and lively late-night venues, these new openings showcase the city’s dynamic blend of cultural influences and creative culinary artistry. January 2025 brings an exciting lineup of restaurants that redefine the food landscape, making Detroit a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
Taqueria El Rey, Facebook
Taqueria El Rey
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-10pm)
3400 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 357-3094
Website: Taqueria El Rey
Taqueria El Rey has triumphantly returned to Detroit’s culinary scene, setting up shop in the historic space once home to El Zocalo. After a fire forced its closure nearly three years ago, this local favorite is once again serving its iconic wood-grilled chicken, succulent ribs, and authentic tacos. Adding to the experience is the integration of the Tres Leches ‘n’ Snacks food truck, now a permanent feature at this location. Guests can indulge in delightful desserts like tres leches cake, vibrant paletas, and refreshing fruit cocktails, along with savory comfort snacks such as tamales and walking tacos. Taqueria El Rey’s revival continues to delight both longtime fans and new patrons alike.
Sugah Please Breakfast Brunch Bar
Open: Mon-Tue (8am-3pm) | Wed-Sun (8am-6pm)
150 W Jefferson Ave Suite 125, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 502-5873
Website: Sugah Please Breakfast Brunch Bar
Sugah Please Breakfast Brunch Bar brings a vibrant New Orleans flair to Detroit’s downtown dining scene. Helmed by Detroit native Wendy Ringo, the menu features Southern-inspired classics like savory jambalaya, creamy shrimp and grits, and hearty po' boys. Originally envisioned as a Jefferson Chalmers eatery, the space materialized downtown with support from a Motor City Match grant, adding a lively and welcoming brunch destination. Whether it’s a casual breakfast or a lingering brunch date, Sugah Please offers a warm, soulful atmosphere paired with unforgettable flavors.
Soraya
Open: Mon-Wed (11am-2pm, 4-9pm) | Thur-Fri (11am-2pm, 4-10pm) | Sat (5-10pm)
160 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313-) 262-6078
Website: Soraya
Soraya, a contemporary Japanese-American fusion restaurant, has brought new life to the Federal Reserve Building's former Maru Sushi space in downtown Detroit. Led by Harold Kim, known for his innovative culinary ventures, the restaurant artfully blends Japanese and Korean influences in both its name and menu. Diners can enjoy starters like tempura broccolini or takoyaki, while entrees range from deep-fried citrus-brined pork katsu to rich udon with tender ribeye. Sushi lovers will also find an enticing array of rolls to choose from. Complementing the cuisine are signature cocktails crafted with Japanese spirits, such as the Tokidoki, featuring Suntory Toki Whisky and unique flavor notes, along with a thoughtful selection of nonalcoholic mocktails. Soraya offers an elevated yet approachable dining experience, perfect for any occasion.
Rosette Market + Cafe
Open: Mon-Sun (7am-10pm)
1611 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Website: Rosette Market + Cafe
Rosette Market + Cafe, nestled on the ground floor of the sleek Perennial Corktown apartment complex, is a fresh addition to Detroit's growing culinary landscape. This venture by the founders of Kitab Cafe and Bookstore in Hamtramck offers more than just a cafe—it’s a one-stop destination featuring a full-service grocery stocked with pantry essentials, fresh produce, and dairy products. The inviting cafe space serves expertly crafted coffee and espresso beverages using La Colombe Coffee, complemented by decadent pastries and baked goods from Zingerman’s Bakehouse. With its modern ambiance and multi-purpose functionality, Rosette Market + Cafe seamlessly blends community-focused convenience with a welcoming spot for coffee lovers.
Parlay Detroit
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (11am-12am) | Fri-Sat (11am-2am)
1260 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 502-5179
Website: Parlay Detroit
Parlay Detroit, co-owned by former Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell, offers an expansive sports bar experience in the heart of downtown Detroit. Conveniently located near Ford Field, Comerica Park, and Little Caesars Arena, the venue features classic bar fare like chicken tenders alongside elevated dishes such as whole red snapper. Spanning over 11,000 square feet, Parlay boasts a cigar lounge with a humidor, VIP areas, and a sports ticker showcasing real-time scores. Known for hosting Lions viewing parties, the bar plans to expand with a lower-level speakeasy and lounge in 2025, with potential for sports betting in the future. It’s the ultimate destination for sports fans and food lovers alike.
Fixins Soul Kitchen
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-10pm) | Fri (11am-11pm) | Sat (10am-11pm) | Sun (10am-10pm)
1435 Randolph Street, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 513-7685
Website: Fixins Soul Kitchen
Fixins Soul Kitchen, the brainchild of former NBA All-Star and Sacramento mayor Kevin Johnson, has made its Detroit debut in the historic Paradise Valley. Housed in the former Detroit Seafood Market space, the bright and inviting interior pays homage to Detroit’s rich musical and cultural history. The menu is a celebration of soul food classics, featuring signature dishes like chicken and waffles crowned with grape butter, oxtails, shrimp and grits, and collard greens with turkey necks. Adventurous appetizers such as deep-fried deviled eggs and creamy pimento cheese dip add a modern twist to timeless flavors. Fixins brings a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere to Detroit’s dining scene while honoring its soulful roots.
Leña
Open: Mon, Wed-Thur, Sun (5-9pm) | Fri-Sat (5-10pm)
2720 Brush St, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 262-6082
Website: Leña
Leña, the latest creation from Matt Tulpa and Tarun Kajeepeta—creators of the celebrated speakeasy Shelby—introduces a Spanish-inspired dining experience to Detroit’s dining scene. Anchored by an open kitchen centered around a wood-burning hearth fueled by locally sourced oak, cherry, and applewood, Leña focuses on bold flavors and artful preparation. Executive Chef Mike Conrad leads the culinary team, crafting seafood and vegetable-forward dishes, such as stuffed squid and bacalao served with fresh Motherloaf bread. Unique touches include acorn-fed jamón ibérico paired with Detroit's own Better Made potato chips. A curated beverage program features Spanish-style gin tonics and an extensive wine list, ensuring a memorable dining experience that blends global inspiration with local character.
vecinodetroit, instagram
Vecino
Open: Tue-Sat (5-10pm) | Sun (5-9pm)
4100 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 500-1615
Website: Vecino
Vecino, nestled in a charming, near-century-old building in Detroit's Cass Corridor, offers a fresh take on modern Mexican cuisine. The restaurant stands out as the city's only eatery featuring a nixtamal masa program, ensuring its tortillas and sopes are authentically handcrafted. The menu delights with dishes like pork belly-topped sopes, zesty aguachiles, and entrees cooked over an open flame, such as whole fried snapper and tender carne asada. Recognized as one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants of 2024, Vecino pairs its vibrant food offerings with an impressive selection of agave-forward cocktails, creating a dining experience that feels both innovative and warmly familiar.
Puma Detroit
Open: Thur (5-10pm) | Fri-Sat (5pm-12am) | Sun (5-9pm)
4725 16th St, Detroit, MI 48208
Phone: (313) 819-6804
Website: Puma Detroit
Puma Detroit, nestled in Core City, caters to the late-night crowd with a sleek and moody ambiance. The menu showcases bold flavors, including a ceviche bar and the Argentine specialty choripán—a delectable sandwich of flame-grilled pork chorizo, vibrant chimichurri, and a crusty French baguette. By night, Puma transforms into "Cougar," a lively cocktail bar with DJ sets, offering night owls the chance to enjoy choripán until closing. The cozy 1,457-square-foot venue seats 60 and boasts an inviting courtyard complete with bonfires, making it a standout spot for both dining and nightlife in Detroit.
Lady of the House
Open: Wed-Sat (5-10pm) | Sun (5-9pm)
4884 Grand River Ave Unit 1C, Detroit, MI 48208
Phone: (313) 230-4678
Website: Lady of the House
Lady of the House, the celebrated restaurant from chef Kate Williams, has returned to Detroit with a fresh home in Core City after a long hiatus. Known for its embrace of Irish hospitality and sustainable no-waste cooking, the menu features standout dishes like shrimp butter, carrot steak, and the indulgent potato doughnuts. The cozy and eclectic decor includes mismatched china, dried florals, and a whimsical nod to its Corktown roots—a stool adorned with Ryan Gosling’s image. With its heartfelt approach to dining and reimagined location, Lady of the House offers a distinctive and welcoming culinary experience.
Norm's Diner
Open: Mon, Thur-Sun (8am-4pm)
8029 Agnes St, Detroit, MI 48214
Phone: (313) 332-0347
Website: Norm's Diner
Norm’s Diner, situated on Detroit's east side, redefines classic diner fare with a modern, chef-driven twist. Founded by Elise Gallant and Danielle Norman, the inviting space offers elevated breakfast and lunch staples like biscuits and chorizo gravy, a lox plate with rye toast and onion schmear, and a crispy chicken cutlet paired with green goddess dressing. Lunch favorites include a turkey club featuring Nueske’s Applewood Smoked bacon and an herby mayo spread. Beverages range from classic drip coffee and fresh orange juice to nostalgic malts and shakes. Norm’s Diner delivers comfort food with a contemporary flair, making it a must-visit neighborhood gem.
BLVD Brunch House
Open: Tue-Fri (8am-5pm) | Sat-Sun (9am-5pm)
2896 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone: (313) 380-4700
Website: BLVD Brunch House
BLVD Brunch House has made its debut in Detroit's New Center area, offering a 3,000-square-foot space for diners to enjoy brunch classics with a halal twist. Menu highlights include savory options like beef or turkey bacon, a za’atar-infused grilled cheese sandwich, and a Lebanese-inspired omelet featuring sujuk. The labneh toast, topped with creamy labneh, avocado, radish, dill, za’atar, and lemon zest, provides a refreshing, modern take on traditional flavors. With its innovative dishes and welcoming atmosphere, BLVD Brunch House is a delightful addition to the city’s vibrant brunch scene.
JP Makes and Bakes
Open: Wed-Fri (7:45am-3pm) | Sat (9am-3pm)
6529 Woodward Ave Suite B, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone: (313) 338-8595
Website: JP Makes and Bakes
JP Makes and Bakes brings a cozy yet innovative bakery and cafe experience to Detroit’s New Center area, showcasing the Filipino American heritage of owner and pastry chef Jonathan Peregrino. The menu offers unique treats like ube-infused cookies and brownies, along with pandesal rolls filled with coconut or cream cheese sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning. Savory offerings include flavorful longaniza biscuits and gravy and hearty adobo rice bowls. Guests can sip on espresso drinks made with Craig’s Coffee from Midtown or indulge in specialty drinks like a coconut ube matcha or a citrusy calamansi refresher. With its warm atmosphere and seating for about 10, JP Makes and Bakes provides a delightful spot to enjoy globally inspired flavors.
Sepia Coffee
Open: Tue-Sun (8am-4pm)
2831 E Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48211
Website: Sepia Coffee
Sepia Coffee Project has opened its first brick-and-mortar location, taking over the space formerly occupied by Gathering Coffee Co. This Black-owned roastery shines with its commitment to sourcing beans directly from Black and brown farmers across the Americas, Africa, and India. Their thoughtfully curated coffee collections are named after historic Black neighborhoods in Detroit, such as Paradise, Black Bottom, and Harmonie. Visitors can enjoy expertly crafted espresso beverages from the charming, hand-painted menu, alongside fresh pastries displayed in a countertop case. For home brewing, Sepia offers bags of their single-origin beans and stylish coffee merchandise, creating a meaningful and flavorful community experience.
SAVOY Restaurant
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-3pm, 4-10pm)
17131 E Warren Ave, Detroit, MI 48224
Phone: (313) 469-7558
Website: SAVOY Restaurant
SAVOY Restaurant is redefining fine dining on Detroit’s east side with a Southern and New Orleans-inspired menu that offers something for every palate. The menu boasts indulgent options like seafood scampi, buttery lobster tails, and a gourmet burger bar, paired with refreshing ginger-based mules from the drink menu. The inviting space features plush lounge seating, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere for diners. Whether for a special occasion or an upscale night out, SAVOY Restaurant provides an elevated dining experience that brings a touch of luxury to the neighborhood.
alba_detroit, instagram
Alba
Open: Mon-Fri (7am-5pm) | Sat-Sun (8am-6pm)
2124 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 462-4797
Website: Alba
Alba, located in the former flagship Astro Cafe space, has carved out its own niche as an award-winning cafe with a subtle Mexican influence and a focus on creative, bilingual flair. Beverage highlights include the refreshing rhubarb-infused iced espresso spritzer, traditional café de olla with piloncillo and canela, and a rich Mexican hot chocolate with cinnamon notes. On the menu, a standout breakfast sandwich features a soft soufflé egg, chile de árbol aioli, cheddar, and chives on a buttery brioche bun, alongside mole-infused conchas and other imaginative baked goods made by local bakers. Coffee is carefully sourced from Anthology Coffee in Detroit’s Eastern Market and Grand Coffee Roasters from San Francisco, making Alba a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Street Beet
Open: Mon, Wed-Thur (5-10pm) | Fri (5-11pm) | Sat (11am-11pm) | Sun (11am-4pm)
4626 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 462-4965
Website: Street Beet
Street Beet, an Eater Award-winning vegan sensation, brings the nostalgic charm of classic drive-thru food without the animal products. After debuting as a pop-up in 2018 and a long-term residency at Third Street Bar, founders Nina Paletta and Meghan Shaw made their triumphant return in 2024. Weekday evenings cater to bar-goers with plant-based bites like truffle parm fries, crispy tofu "Chicky" sandwiches, and a vegan spin on the iconic coney dog. The weekend brunch menu delivers hearty options such as breakfast biscuits stuffed with peppery vegan sausage and melty dairy-free cheese, alongside Crunchywraps packed with walnut chorizo, vegan nacho cheese, and cashew sour cream. Street Beet’s innovative dishes and commitment to bold, satisfying flavors make it a standout in Detroit’s culinary scene.
Tall Trees Cafe
Open: Wed-Sat (10am-3pm)
817 Livernois, Ferndale, MI 48220
Website: Tall Trees Cafe
Tall Trees Cafe has quickly gained acclaim in Ferndale for its masterful sandwiches and comforting soups, helmed by hospitality veteran Mike Finsilver. The star of the menu is the spicy mortadella sandwich, featuring crunchy semolina batards stuffed with thinly sliced mortadella, a zesty house-made bomba calabrese spread, and a crisp iceberg lettuce salad dressed with preserved lemon buttermilk. Another standout, “The Clong,” showcases thick-cut turkey sourced from Michigan's west side, layered with provolone, herby mayo, roasted cherry tomato spread, pickled shallots, and dressed greens on pillowy focaccia. The rotating soup offerings, such as mushroom gumbo and dill pickle soup, further highlight the cafe's commitment to bold, satisfying flavors.
Marrow Birmingham
Open: Tue-Sun (8am-6pm)
283 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, MI 48009
Phone: (734) 410-0405
Website: Marrow Birmingham
Marrow, Detroit's Eater Award-winning gem, brings its expertise to Birmingham with a cozy butcher shop and cafe. The 1,400-square-foot space features a retail counter stocked with aged steaks, house-made deli meats, gourmet sundries, wines, and Marrow’s signature packaged sausages. Limited cafe seating invites diners to enjoy a breakfast and lunch menu crafted by executive chef Sarah Welch, including hearty options like meatball subs, banh mi-inspired veggie sandwiches, seasonal salads, and soups. With its blend of elevated butcher offerings and casual cafe charm, Marrow Birmingham is a welcome addition to the neighborhood's culinary scene.
As Detroit’s dining scene continues to expand, the newest additions for January 2025 offer something for everyone, from casual bites to elevated culinary experiences. For those living in Metro Detroit, these fresh hotspots provide exciting new options to explore and enjoy, adding to the region’s rich tapestry of flavors and cuisines. If you’re considering moving to Metro Detroit, the thriving restaurant culture is yet another reason to make the city your home. With its innovative chefs and welcoming venues, Detroit remains a top destination for food lovers and a testament to the city’s ever-evolving spirit.
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