What’s New in Metro Detroit: Restaurant Openings, Closures, and Exciting Collaborations

Metro Detroit’s vibrant culinary scene is constantly evolving, offering a mix of fresh dining experiences, innovative collaborations, and bittersweet closures. Whether you’ve been living in Metro Detroit for years or are moving to Metro Detroit for the first time, the region’s dynamic food and drink landscape provides something for everyone. From exciting new openings to beloved favorites bidding farewell, the latest updates reflect the creativity and resilience of local entrepreneurs. Stay tuned as we explore the highlights and trends shaping the area’s ever-changing dining culture.

Ford's Garage (Novi), Facebook

Ford’s Garage - Coming Soon to Utica

12575 Hall Road, Utica, MI 48315
Website: Ford's Garage

Ford’s Garage, a retro-inspired burger bar with ties to one of Detroit’s legendary automakers, is revving up for its debut in Macomb County. This summer, the iconic restaurant will open its doors at 12575 Hall Road in Utica, taking over the space once home to Buca di Beppo.

This marks the third Michigan location for Ford’s Garage, following popular spots in Dearborn and Novi. Behind the local expansion is Billy Downs, the creative mind behind bd’s Mongolian Grill, who now leads Ford’s Garage from its Tampa, Florida headquarters.

More than just a dining destination, Ford’s Garage is an immersive experience that celebrates Ford’s legacy. The menu boasts a wide variety of Black Angus beef and vegetarian burgers, while the space dazzles with vintage automotive flair. Guests can expect to find real Model Ts and Model As suspended over the bar, which offers an impressive selection of over 100 beers. Staff uniforms reflect the automotive theme with mechanic-style blue shirts, while the quirky bathrooms feature sinks fashioned from tires and fuel pump nozzles.

Spanning approximately 8,900 square feet, the new Utica location will seat up to 250 guests and employ between 95 and 115 team members. With its unique mix of gourmet eats, nostalgic charm, and automotive-inspired design, Ford’s Garage is set to become a standout spot in the bustling Hall Road corridor.

Minnie’s Detroit - New Music/Dining Spot in Woodbridge

5221 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48208
Website: Minnie’s Detroit

Minnie’s Detroit has brought a fresh new vibe to the historic Woodbridge neighborhood, blending exceptional dining with live music. Located at 5221 Trumbull, this latest venture from veteran entertainment entrepreneur Yvonne Byrd is a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Minnie, and a continuation of Byrd’s storied career in Detroit’s nightlife scene.

Housed in a nearly 7,000-square-foot building that Byrd acquired in 2023, Minnie’s Detroit offers an intimate yet lively atmosphere perfect for both food lovers and music enthusiasts. The menu showcases an array of “Minnie Plates,” small bites and shareable dishes designed to elevate the dining experience. Signature offerings include savory lollipop lamb chops, refreshing chicken lettuce wraps, crispy salmon croquette bites, Minnie’s signature wings, and a decadent seafood mac and cheese.

With her track record of running beloved venues like Vondie’s on the River, Epitome Lounge, and Minnie’s Rhythm Cafe, Byrd brings a wealth of expertise and passion to her latest venture. Minnie’s Detroit is set to become a cornerstone of the Woodbridge neighborhood, offering a unique fusion of soulful eats and unforgettable performances.

Dutch Wagon Beer – A Sweet Collaboration

Off the Wagon Market | 1500 N. Crooks Road, Clawson, MI 48017
Website: Dutch Girl Donuts

Three metro Detroit favorites have come together to create the ultimate craft beer indulgence: Dutch Wagon. This bold stout is the result of a collaboration between Griffin Claw Brewing Co., Dutch Girl Donuts, and Off the Wagon Market. Infused with the rich flavors of chocolate-glazed Dutch Girl Donuts and a robust coffee kick, Dutch Wagon is a decadent brew that packs an 8% ABV punch.

This one-time, limited-edition release is available in four-packs of 16-ounce cans, exclusively at Off the Wagon in Clawson. Fans of local brews and creative flavor pairings will appreciate this unique partnership, which follows the previous collaboration between Griffin Claw and Off the Wagon that resulted in the Shaggin’ Wagon fruited kettle sour.

Dutch Wagon’s inventive mix of craft beer and classic donut sweetness makes it a standout offering, perfect for those seeking to support local businesses while enjoying a bold and flavorful experience. Grab it while supplies last—this is a brew you won’t want to miss!

Zo's Good Burger, Facebook

Zo’s Good Burger – Now Open in Royal Oak

30270 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073
Website: Zo’s Good Burger

Royal Oak is now home to Zo’s Good Burger, the fast-growing burger chain known for its bold flavors and creative menu. Located at 30270 Woodward Avenue, the new spot marks the chain’s first franchise in Oakland County and celebrates its grand opening with excitement and community buzz.

Founded in Dearborn by Zo Olabi in 2013, Zo’s Good Burger began franchising in 2023, with the Royal Oak location becoming its fifth franchise. Franchisees Hass Hijazi and Moe Reda have invested $500,000 to bring this vibrant burger experience to the heart of Woodward Avenue, creating a cozy space with seating for 40 guests and employing a team of 20.

The menu boasts seven mouthwatering burger options, including the signature Good Burger—a cheesy delight stacked with crispy onion rings and the house-made Good Burger sauce, all on a warm pretzel bun. Guests can also enjoy wraps, finger foods like mac and cheese bites and jalapeño poppers, and a variety of rich, creamy shakes to round out their meal.

With locations already thriving in Livonia, Garden City, Dearborn, Detroit, and Canton, Zo’s Good Burger continues to expand its footprint, bringing its signature flair and satisfying eats to burger lovers across metro Detroit.

Sushi Coup - Farewell to a Madison Heights Favorite

29141 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071
Website: Sushi Coup

Madison Heights has bid goodbye to Sushi Coup, a one-of-a-kind sushi and poke restaurant that served its last dish on Tuesday. Owned by Jack Chantharangsy, the eatery was known for its creative and bold twists on traditional sushi, making it a standout in Oakland County's dining scene.

Sushi Coup’s inventive menu included unique offerings like sushi sandwiches, where fried rice buns replaced traditional bread. Among its most talked-about creations was the Flaming Hot Sushi Sandwich, an explosion of flavor featuring the iconic crunch of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The restaurant also specialized in customizable sushi and poke bowls, catering to both adventurous foodies and fans of fresh, vibrant flavors.

Although Sushi Coup has closed its doors, its imaginative approach to sushi leaves a lasting impression on those who experienced its daring culinary creations.

Antepli Baklava – A Short but Sweet Legacy

35300 Warren Road, Westland, MI 48185
Website: Antepli Baklava

Antepli Baklava, a charming Turkish bakery that brought a taste of tradition to Westland, has closed its doors after a brief run. Located near Westland Mall, the bakery opened on August 24 but ceased operations earlier this month.

Owned by Imad Essmat Mohamad, who also operates the Turkish dessert shop Galata Sweet in West Dearborn, Antepli delighted dessert lovers with its authentic offerings. The menu featured a rich variety of baklava, creamy ice creams, and globally inspired treats like cheesecake, tiramisu, and tres leches cake. The name “Antepli,” meaning “intelligence” in Turkish, reflected the thoughtful craftsmanship behind its delicious creations.

Though its time was short, Antepli Baklava’s unique fusion of Turkish sweets and international desserts left a memorable impression on its customers, showcasing the artistry and flavor of Turkish pastry traditions.

As Metro Detroit’s food scene continues to evolve, it remains a dynamic and exciting place for culinary enthusiasts. Whether you’ve been living in Metro Detroit and exploring its diverse offerings for years or are moving to Metro Detroit and eager to discover its hidden gems, the region offers an ever-changing array of flavors and experiences. From innovative new ventures to heartfelt farewells, each chapter in the local dining story reflects the creativity and passion that define this community. Stay connected to see what’s next on the menu in this thriving food destination.