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Detroit’s Best Iconic Foods offer a flavorful lens into the city’s rich cultural history and diverse culinary traditions. From beloved street eats to globally inspired comfort food, Detroit’s food scene is shaped by generations of innovation, immigration, and hometown pride. Whether you’ve spent your whole life living in Metro Detroit or are just moving to Metro Detroit and eager to explore its local flavor, this guide highlights the must-try dishes that define the region. These are the bites that locals swear by, visitors seek out, and newcomers quickly embrace as part of the city’s authentic, no-frills food identity.
Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips, Facebok
Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips - Detroit Classic
Open: Tue-Thur (11am-7pm) | Fri (11am-8pm) | Sat (2-8pm)
22200 Fenkell Ave, Detroit, MI 48223
Phone: (313) 533-0950
Website: Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips
For over seven decades, Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips has been a no-frills Detroit staple, revered for its perfectly battered, golden-fried Nova Scotian cod. Tucked away in Brightmoor, this old-school gem draws loyal locals and curious foodies alike with heaping platters of fish, fries, coleslaw, and a side of nostalgia. The menu remains refreshingly simple and true to its roots, even featuring frog legs for the more adventurous palate. It's a cash-only operation, preserving the charm of a bygone era while continuing to serve some of the best fish and chips in the city.
Andiamo – Detroit Legendary Zip Sauce
Open: Mon-Thur (3-10pm) | Fri (3-11pm) | Sat (12-11pm) | Sun (2-9pm)
400 Renaissance Center A-03, Detroit, MI 48243
Phone: (313) 567-6700
Website: Andiamo – Detroit Riverfront
At the heart of Detroit’s Renaissance Center, Andiamo Riverfront exudes classic elegance and culinary tradition with an unmistakably Motor City flair. Revered for its handmade pastas, expertly grilled steaks, and impeccable wine list, this upscale Italian eatery serves one of the city's most legendary accompaniments: Detroit’s famous zip sauce. First created in the 1940s to elevate a humble filet, zip sauce is a rich, buttery au jus that transforms a well-cooked steak into a transcendent bite—and no place does it better than Andiamo. Whether drizzled over a prime ribeye or used as a decadent dip for bread or potatoes, the sauce alone is worth the reservation.
Sweet Potato Sensations - Sweet Potato Pie
Open: Thur (12-7pm) | Fri-Sat (12-8pm) | Sun (12-6pm)
17337 Lahser Rd, Detroit, MI 48219
Phone: (313) 32-7996
Website: Sweet Potato Sensations
In the heart of Old Redford, Sweet Potato Sensations is more than a bakery — it’s a heartfelt ode to family, tradition, and the soulful sweetness of a humble root vegetable. What began as a Thanksgiving compromise between newlyweds blossomed into a Detroit treasure, where sweet potato reigns supreme across a menu that spans cookies, waffles, cornbread, and their iconic sweet potato pie. Each bite tells a story, rich with flavor and heritage, celebrating the legacy of George Washington Carver with modern flair. Whether you're picking one up locally or shipping a pie to a loved one across the country, one taste is enough to understand why Detroiters keep coming back for more.
Shatila Bakery - World-Class Baklava
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (8am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (8am-12am)
14300 W Warren Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 582-1952
Website: Shatila Bakery
Since 1979, Shatila Bakery has been a shining beacon of Middle Eastern confectionery in Dearborn, earning national acclaim for what the Wall Street Journal once dubbed “America’s Best Baklava.” Their meticulously handcrafted baklawa—layered with imported Turkish pistachios, buttery filo dough, and drizzled with fragrant syrup—is the gold standard for Mediterranean sweets. The bright, sprawling pastry shop invites visitors to explore cases filled with ghraybeh, maamoul, and syrup-soaked awamehs, while a colorful ice cream bar tempts with creamy pistachio and kashta flavors. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or sending a gift across the globe, Shatila’s online ordering ensures you’ll always have a taste of tradition on hand.
Hamido Restaurant - Must-Try Shawarma
Open: Mon-Sun (10:30am-9:30pm)
13251 W Warren Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 582-0660
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-9pm)
25412 Ford Rd, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
Phone: (313) 562-8888
Website: Hamido Restaurant
A longtime pillar of Dearborn’s vibrant food scene, Hamido Restaurant is the go-to destination for shawarma that satisfies every time. The restaurant’s signature spit-roasted chicken and beef are served fresh off the vertical rotisserie—charred just enough to lock in smoky flavor and tenderness. Wrapped tightly in fluffy, house-made pita and paired with a generous dollop of toum (that addictive garlic sauce) and crisp pickles, every bite delivers an explosion of taste. Whether dining in or grabbing takeout, Hamido’s quick, no-frills service keeps locals—and shawarma purists—coming back day after day.
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Al Ameer Restaurant, Facebook
Al-Ameer Restaurant - Stuffed Lamb
Open: Mon-Sun (10am-10pm)
12710 W Warren Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 582-8185
Website: Al-Ameer Restaurant
A cornerstone of Dearborn’s Mediterranean dining scene, Al-Ameer Restaurant has built a national reputation on its commitment to authentic, 100% halal-certified cuisine—none more beloved than its iconic stuffed lamb. Though “stuffed” may be a culinary misnomer, this dish is a masterclass in flavor: fall-apart-tender lamb served over a fragrant bed of seasoned rice, garnished with roasted almonds or pine nuts for a satisfying crunch. Made-to-order with a chef-driven approach, the dish captures the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality in every bite. With fresh-baked pita and a premium juice bar rounding out the experience, it’s no wonder this family-friendly spot continues to set the standard for Lebanese cuisine in metro Detroit.
Chef Greg's Soul-N-The Wall - Boogaloo Wonderland
Open: Tue-Thur (11am-6pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-7pm) | Sun (2-6pm)
10009 Curtis St, Detroit, MI 48221
Phone: (313) 861-0331
Website: Chef Greg's Soul-N-The Wall
Tucked into Detroit’s northwest side, Chef Greg’s Soul-N-The Wall is home to a sandwich with true Motor City soul: the Boogaloo Wonderland. This crave-worthy creation layers seasoned beef, gooey American cheese, caramelized onions, and a zesty, house-made red sauce onto a hoagie roll, all served with a side of history. It’s a modern revival of a beloved recipe from the now-closed Brothers Bar-B-Q, and an homage to Allee Willis, co-writer of the Earth, Wind & Fire hit that shares its name. From the sizzling griddle to the first bite, the Boogaloo Wonderland is a must-try Detroit original with equal parts funk, flavor, and legacy.
Asian Corned Beef - Corned Beef Egg Roll
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-10pm)
13660 Wyoming Ave, Detroit, MI 48238
Phone: (313) 834-1819
Website: Asian Corned Beef
A true original in Detroit's carryout culture, Asian Corned Beef has spent over three decades feeding the city’s craving for its unlikely yet iconic creation: the corned beef egg roll. These crispy, golden-fried rolls come stuffed with warm, savory corned beef and gooey Swiss cheese, often joined by steak or other add-ins—each bite offering a comforting, deli-meets-diner twist. Wrapped in a crunchy wonton shell and served with duck sauce on the side, they’re as affordable as they are addictive. The recipe has been mimicked across the region, but locals know there’s only one place to get the real deal.
Telway Hamburgers - Classic Slider
Open: Daily 24 hours
6820 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48210
Phone: (313) 43-2146
Website: Telway Hamburgers
A true Detroit institution, Telway Hamburgers has been slinging no-frills sliders and steaming hot coffee around the clock for generations. With its tiny, white-tiled exterior and time-warp interior, this 24/7 greasy spoon is beloved for its ultra-affordable, onion-topped sliders—best enjoyed by the bag in the dead of night. The service is fast, the flavors are nostalgic, and the vibe is undeniably Detroit. While cards are accepted, the experience (and the charm) feels just right when you pay in crumpled cash.
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Armando's Mexican Restaurant, Facebook
Armando’s Mexican Restaurant - Detroit-Style Botana
Open: Mon-Sun (10:30am-10pm)
4242 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 554-0666
Website: Armando’s Mexican Restaurant
In Detroit, ordering a “botana” means one thing: heading to Armando’s in Mexicantown for a sizzling, cheese-smothered masterpiece that’s anything but a mere snack. Their legendary version of this uniquely Detroit dish piles chorizo, refried beans, and melty Muenster cheese atop crisp corn chips, finished with a generous helping of lettuce, tomato, avocado, onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños. It’s festive, shareable, and layered with bold flavor in every crunchy bite. Pair it with an order of bubbling queso flameado, and you've got yourself a true Motor City–Meets–Mexicantown experience worth savoring on-site or at home via online ordering.
Mike's Famous Ham Place - Ham Sandwich
Open: Mon-Sat (8am-3pm)
3700 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 894-6922 ext. 8
Website: Mike's Famous Ham Place
Since 1974, Mike’s Famous Ham Place has been quietly serving up one of Detroit’s most iconic sandwiches from its cozy, no-frills corner on Michigan Avenue. The namesake ham sandwich is a minimalist masterpiece: thick-cut slabs of juicy, slow-roasted ham piled onto a soft poppy seed bun, with pickles and mustard for that perfect salty-tangy balance—and sometimes a garnish of ham stacked high like a crown. This family-run diner draws loyalists with its straightforward, homespun menu and comforting bowl of split pea soup on the side. It's cash-only and light on frills, but when it comes to ham, Mike’s is nothing short of legendary.
Detroit 75 Kitchen - 3rd Street Cheesesteak
Open: Mon-Thur (10am-6pm) | Fri (10am-8pm)
4800 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 843-3215
Website: Detroit 75 Kitchen
Born from humble beginnings beside a truck stop, Detroit 75 Kitchen has transformed into a nationally acclaimed food truck and sandwich destination—famed for its bold, chef-driven takes on street food classics. The standout 3rd Street Detroit Cheesesteak features tender halal ribeye sirloin, provolone and Swiss cheeses, roasted mushrooms and peppers, caramelized onions, and sweet pickled jalapeños, all layered inside a rustic sesame roll. The sandwich is finished with crisp lettuce, tomato, and a signature vinaigrette that balances richness with fresh, zesty bite. Complement it with their triple-fried garlic cilantro fries and a bottle of house-made roasted jalapeño ketchup, and you’ve got a meal worthy of its city’s gritty, flavorful reputation.
Hygrade Deli - Classic Reuben
Open: Mon-Fri (9:30am-3pm) | Sat (8am-2pm)
3640 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 894-6620
Website: Hygrade Deli
Tucked away near the heart of Detroit’s historic Michigan Avenue corridor, Hygrade Deli has been serving stacked sandwiches with old-school charm for decades—none more iconic than their towering Reuben. Piled high with thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all griddled between slices of rye, this sandwich is the very definition of deli decadence. Served with a classic pickle spear on the side, it’s a hearty homage to tradition that draws loyal locals and hungry newcomers alike. Order ahead online, and let this no-fuss classic speak for itself—one satisfying, melty bite at a time.
La Jalisciense Supermercado Y Taqueria - Birria de Chivo
Open: Mon-Sun (9am-9pm)
3923 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 551-0522
Website: La Jalisciense Supermercado Y Taqueria
Tucked in the heart of Mexicantown, La Jalisciense Supermercado Y Taqueria offers a true taste of Jalisco with its standout birria de chivo—goat birria prepared in the traditional highland style that’s increasingly rare. While the national birria boom has seen beef versions dominate menus, La Jalisciense stays faithful to the dish’s roots with chiles, salt, and spices slow-cooked into succulent, rich goat meat. Order it as a savory caldo, complete with warm corn tortillas, onions, and cilantro, or enjoy it tucked inside tacos for a flavorful bite that lingers. A family-owned gem since 2014, this carnicería-turned-restaurant delivers authenticity with every spoonful—and yes, you can order online to-go.
Mercury Burger & Bar - The Hummer & Boston Cooler
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (11am-9pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-12am)
2163 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 964-5000
Website: Mercury Burger & Bar
At Mercury Burger & Bar in Corktown, classic Detroit flavors get a playful, indulgent twist—especially when it comes to their drinkable desserts. The Hummer milkshake is a grown-up delight: a rich, creamy blend of vanilla ice cream, rum, coffee liqueur, and fresh whipped cream that packs a nostalgic punch with a boozy kick. For something family-friendly but equally Detroit-centric, the Boston Cooler blends Vernors ginger ale with vanilla ice cream into a fizzy, float-style refreshment born right here in the Motor City. Whether you're wrapping up a burger or just stopping in for a sweet sip of history, Mercury delivers Detroit flavor in every frosty glass.
Amar Pizza - The Ghost Pepper Pizza
Open: Mon-Sun (12-11pm)
12195 Joseph Campau Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
Phone: (313) 366-0980
Website: Amar Pizza
At Amar Pizza in Hamtramck, bold flavor meets blazing heat in the form of their legendary Ghost Pepper Pizza—a daring fusion of Bangladeshi spice and classic takeout comfort. Topped with chicken, red onions, fresh cilantro, and an inferno-inducing ghost pepper sauce, this pie has developed a cult following for good reason. As featured on Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern and voted “hottest pizza in town” by Real Detroit, Amar doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries. Whether you’re looking for a slice of tandoori-infused flavor or ready to test your heat tolerance, this spice-loaded standout is available for easy online ordering.
Buddy’s Pizza - Detroit-Style Pizza
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-8pm) | Sun (12-8pm)
Multiple Locations along Metro Detroit
Phone: (313) 892-9001
Website: Buddy’s Pizza - Detroit-Style Pizza
Credited with giving birth to Detroit-style pizza back in 1946, Buddy’s Pizza continues to reign as the gold standard for this thick, square-cut classic. Its legendary crust is crisp and caramelized around the edges, yet light and airy inside—a canvas for hearty layers of Wisconsin brick cheese, toppings, and a signature red sauce ladled on top. The standout “Detroiter” pie is an ooey-gooey, pepperoni-laced favorite, seasoned with a bold spice blend that seals the deal. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-timer, Buddy’s delivers Motor City pride one cheesy corner slice at a time—with online ordering ready when the craving hits.
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New Palace Bakery, Facebook
New Palace Bakery - Legendary Pączki
Open: Tue-Fri (8am-5pm) | Sat (8am-4pm)
9833 Joseph Campau Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
Phone: (313) 875-1334
Website: New Palace Bakery - Legendary Pączki
Affectionately dubbed “Pączki Headquarters,” New Palace Bakery in Hamtramck has been a pillar of the metro Detroit pastry scene since 1908, drawing crowds each Fat Tuesday for its unmatched variety of the beloved Polish treat. Whether dusted in powdered sugar or glazed to perfection, their pillowy pączki are filled with everything from classic raspberry and custard to imaginative seasonal flavors like strawberry cheesecake and cookie butter buttercream. The family-owned bakery introduces new specialty fillings each year, ensuring the sweet tradition never grows stale. Come early, especially on Pączki Day, and prepare to leave with a box (or three) of the best-filled doughnuts in town.
Polonia Restaurant - Dill Pickle Soup
Open: Tue-Thur (11am-7pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-9pm) | Sun (11:30am-6pm)
2934 Yemans St, Hamtramck, MI 48212
Phone: (313) 873-8432
Website: Polonia Restaurant
Stepping into Polonia Restaurant in Hamtramck feels like being welcomed into a cozy Polish home—complete with Old World charm, hearty hospitality, and the soul-warming aroma of traditional dishes wafting from the kitchen. Beloved for its dill pickle soup, this tangy, creamy starter delivers a zesty punch of dill and lemon that’s both bracing and comforting, making it a must-order before tackling the likes of pierogi or golden-fried city chicken. A favorite gathering spot for more than four decades, Polonia even played host to Anthony Bourdain on No Reservations, and continues to charm locals and travelers alike with its rich cultural flavor and timeless menu.
American Coney Island - Detroit Coney Dog
Open: Mon-Thur (10am-7pm) | Fri (10am-12am) | Sat (11am-12pm) | Sun (11am-7pm)
114 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 961-7758
Website: American Coney Island
Since 1917, American Coney Island has been a beloved institution in Detroit’s downtown, serving what many consider the city’s most iconic coney dog. The signature hot dog, made with a natural casing Dearborn sausage, is tucked into a warm steamed bun and topped with the Keros family’s legendary chili sauce, tangy yellow mustard, and crisp chopped onions. Whether you're team American or Lafayette in the great Coney rivalry, this Detroit classic delivers a bite of Motor City history. And for those longing for a taste from afar, the restaurant’s Goldbelly coney kits make it easy to bring the flavor home.
Golden Fleece Restaurant - Aunthentic Greek Salad
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (11am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-2am)
525 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 962-7093
Website: Golden Fleece Restaurant
Tucked into the heart of Greektown, Golden Fleece Restaurant has been a beloved family-run staple since 1970, delivering warm hospitality and Greek comfort food with every plate. Their Greek salad is a Detroit-style classic: crisp lettuce tossed with tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, feta cheese, chickpeas, and earthy beets, often finished with a signature beet-tinged dressing that gives it a rosy hue and unforgettable zing. Whether enjoyed as a light entrée or alongside a sizzling gyro or tender lamb chops, it’s a refreshing, flavor-packed nod to the city's Greek American culinary roots. Reservations are welcome, and online ordering makes it easy to enjoy a taste of Greektown anywhere.
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Sister Pie, Facebook
Sister Pie - Salted Maple Slice
Open: Mon-Fri (8am-3pm) | Sat-Sun (10am-3pm)
8066 Kercheval Ave, Detroit, MI 48214
Phone: (313) 447-5550
Website: Sister Pie
In Detroit’s West Village, Sister Pie has become a beloved bakery icon by championing seasonal, small-batch baking with a distinctly Michigan soul. While their menu changes monthly, the salted maple pie is a year-round showstopper—sweet and custardy with a rich maple depth, balanced by a crackle of sea salt on top. Its flaky crust and silky filling make it craveable in every season, especially with a dollop of whipped cream. Whether you're stopping in for a slice or planning ahead with a pre-order, Sister Pie’s inventive flavors and warm neighborhood charm make each visit feel like a sweet homecoming.
Bert’s Market Place - Ribs & Live Jazz Vibes
Open: Tue-Thur (11am-12am) | Fri-Sat (11am-1am) | Sun (12pm-12am)
2727 Russell St, Detroit, MI 48207
Phone: (313) 567-2030
Website: Bert’s Market Place
Nestled in the heart of Detroit’s Eastern Market, Bert’s Market Place is where soul food, smoky barbecue, and Motown spirit collide. The ribs here are the stuff of local legend—grilled outdoors, tender to the bone, and slathered in a rich, house-made BBQ sauce that lingers in the best way. With the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the air and live jazz setting the mood on Thursdays and Fridays, dining at Bert’s is a full-sensory experience. Whether you’re grabbing a plate after browsing the market or settling in for dinner and music with friends, this iconic venue captures the flavor and rhythm of Detroit like no other.
Cadieux Cafe - Belgian-Style Mussels & Beer
Open: Mon-Thur (4pm-12am) | Fri-Sat (4pm-12:30am) | Sun (2-9pm)
4300 Cadieux Rd, Detroit, MI 48224
Phone: (313) 882-8560
Website: Cadieux Cafe
A Detroit original with Belgian soul, Cadieux Cafe offers an experience as flavorful as it is quirky—famed for its live music, feather bowling, and above all, its steaming bowls of mussels. These shellfish delights are served up in generous portions with your choice of white wine and garlic, Cajun seasoning, or a rich garlic-lemon butter and dill blend. Pair your mussels with Belgian frites and a cold Trappist ale, and you're in for a transportive culinary escape. With its Prohibition-era roots and old-world charm, Cadieux Cafe continues to be the East Side’s go-to for heritage, heart, and seriously good eats.
National Coney Island - Original Hani Sandwich
Open: Mon-Sun (7am-9pm)
Mulitiple Locations Along MEtro Detroit
Phone: (313) 881-5509
Website: National Coney Island
Invented in the 1980s by a chef named Hani, the now-iconic Hani sandwich has grown from a local late-night favorite into a metro Detroit institution—and nowhere celebrates it like National Coney Island. This crave-worthy pita wrap is packed with crispy chicken tenders, shredded lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a melted duo of Swiss and cheddar cheeses, all drizzled with a creamy mayo blend that ties it together. It’s a go-to after-hours fix and a comfort food classic that hits all the right notes. Whether you're dining in or grabbing one to-go, online ordering makes it easy to get your Hani fix anytime.
From sweet to savory, spicy to smoky, these iconic dishes represent the heart and soul of Detroit’s culinary identity. They tell a story of tradition, innovation, and deep-rooted community pride. Whether you’re living in Metro Detroit and rediscovering local favorites or moving to Metro Detroit and eager to explore its food culture for the first time, these must-try bites are more than just meals—they're a flavorful introduction to what makes the city truly special. No matter your taste, Detroit has a signature dish waiting to become your new favorite.
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