Introduction
New restaurants in Detroit are sparking a culinary revolution in the Motor City, offering an exciting mix of international flavors, modern twists on classics, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a local or a visitor looking to explore the food scene, this listicle covers 11 of the best new dining spots you simply can’t miss. In this guide, we’ll spotlight everything from a Birmingham cafe run by a James Beard Award-winning chef to cozy neighborhood diners with patio dining where you can cozy up with a warm coffee. If you love brunch spots, innovative menus, and creative cocktails like mojitos, micheladas, and margaritas, then you’re in for a treat.
Top 11 New Restaurants and Eateries
1. Marrow Eatery and Provisions
Marrow Eatery and Provisions is a standout destination for those looking for an upscale yet relaxed dining experience in Detroit. Located on Kercheval Ave, this modern café and butcher shop blends high-end ingredients with honest Midwestern hospitality.
What makes it special?
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 based on 841 reviews
- 💲 Price Level: Expensive
- 📍 Address: 8044 Kercheval Ave, Detroit, MI 48214
- 📞 Contact: +1 313-513-0361
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Learn more about Marrow Eatery and Provisions.
Marrow Eatery not only impresses with its meat-centric menu but also with a creative twist on sandwiches – think hearty meatball subs and banh mi veggie options. The space blends a butcher shop feel in a casual café setting, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts who appreciate quality and sustainability in metro Detroit dining.
2. Cafe Origins
Located in Birmingham, Cafe Origins is a vibrant all-day cafe helmed by a James Beard Award-winning chef. This spot brings a blend of classic cafe comforts with globally inspired flavors to the heart of Michigan.
Highlights include:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.9/5 based on 51 reviews
- 📍 Address: 163 W Maple Rd, Birmingham, MI 48009
- 📞 Contact: +1 248-742-4040
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Discover more about Cafe Origins.
The menu is thoughtfully curated, offering fresh espresso beverages, freshly baked sprouted wheat bread, and a variety of pastries like salted chocolate chip cookies and pecan sticky buns. Numerous savory hand pies and wraps, stuffed with fillings such as lamb shawarma or wild mushrooms, demonstrate how this Birmingham cafe has redefined the modern coffee shop experience. With its dedication to quality and locally sourced ingredients, Cafe Origins lives up to Detroit’s reputation for innovative and heartfelt cuisine.
3. Carajillo
Carajillo brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to Detroit with a modern twist on traditional dishes. Chef Ara Sotelo reinvents botanas by introducing dishes filled with ingredients like huitlacoche, flor de calabaza, and arrachera.
Key details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 3.6/5 based on 7 reviews
- 📍 Address: 22700 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220
- 📞 Contact: +1 248-292-8500
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Learn more about Carajillo.
At Carajillo, diners can enjoy an array of botanas (not to be confused with the cheesy style some might know) including guacamole, queso fundido, and chicharrones. The menu’s inventive approach extends to tacos and quesadillas, which are filled not with the usual ingredients but with unique selections like pambazos and molletes. For those in search of authentic Mexican flavors right in the Detroit area, Carajillo’s creative dishes and enticing cocktails (palomas, mojitos, micheladas, and margaritas) offer an unforgettable dining experience.
4. Tall Trees Cafe
Tall Trees Cafe, nestled in Ferndale, is a haven for sandwich aficionados and soup lovers alike. Known for its inventive menu items pairing bold flavors with creative ingredients, this cafe quickly became a favorite local spot.
Details to note:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.9/5 based on 35 reviews
- 📍 Address: 817 Livernois, Ferndale, MI 48220
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Explore more about Tall Trees Cafe.
Tall Trees Cafe stands out with its signature spicy mortadella sandwich, crafted with crunchy semolina batards, a fiery bomba calabrese spread, and a refreshing twist of focaccia bread. The rotating soup menu – featuring unique offerings like mushroom gumbo and dill pickle soup – gives regular visitors plenty of reasons to return. A perfect spot for a light lunch or a relaxed coffee break, Tall Trees Cafe combines artisanal ingredients with a laid-back vibe.
5. JP Makes and Bakes
JP Makes and Bakes is a joyful blend of bakery and café located in New Center Detroit. This spot is renowned for its unmistakable Filipino-American flair and creative baked goods, where ube brownies take center stage.
Essential information:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.9/5 based on 64 reviews
- 📍 Address: 6529 Woodward Ave Suite B, Detroit, MI 48202
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Friday: 7:45 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For more details, check out JP Makes and Bakes.
Here, the aroma of freshly baked pandesal and the vibrant flavors of longaniza biscuits and adobo rice bowls greet you at the door. This café is the perfect blend of sweet and savory treats, making it an excellent destination for those who love a hearty brunch or a quick snack while exploring Detroit’s evolving culinary landscape.
6. Norm’s Diner
Norm’s Diner offers a classic American diner experience with a contemporary twist. With a menu that features hearty staples like biscuits and gravy and inventive breakfast options, Norm’s is the go-to spot for comfort food on the east side of Detroit.
Quick facts:
- ⭐ Ratings: 5/5 based on 78 reviews
- 📍 Address: 8029 Agnes St, Detroit, MI 48214
- 📞 Contact: +1 313-332-0347
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Learn more about Norm’s Diner.
Norm’s Diner is celebrated for its artisanal twists on traditional diner meals, including a turkey club with green goddess dressing and creative breakfast dishes that pay homage to Detroit’s rich history in American cuisine. The warm, inviting interior and friendly Irish hospitality make Norm’s a beloved institution in the city, perfect for a casual meal any time of the day.
7. Lady of the House
Lady of the House is a sophisticated yet homely restaurant that infuses Irish hospitality with a modern no-waste philosophy. Chef Kate Williams has crafted a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and a creative reinterpretation of traditional dishes.
Key details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 based on 764 reviews
- 💲 Price Level: Expensive
- 📍 Address: 4884 Grand River Ave Unit 1C, Detroit, MI 48208
- 📞 Contact: +1 313-230-4678
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Discover more about Lady of the House.
With its artful presentation and innovative dishes like shrimp butter and carrot steak, Lady of the House offers an upscale yet comfortable dining experience. The decor reflects a charming mix of rustic and modern elements, while the emphasis on reducing food waste resonates with environmentally conscious diners. This is the perfect spot to experience a blend of culinary artistry and sustainable practices in Detroit.
8. Rosette Market + Cafe
Rosette Market + Cafe is an urban market and café that brings together a full-service grocery store and a bright, airy dining space. Located in the vibrant Corktown neighborhood, it’s a hub for both food lovers and community gathering.
Essential information:
- ⭐ Ratings: 5/5 based on 11 reviews
- 📍 Address: 1611 Michigan Ave Ste 200, Detroit, MI 48216
- ⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Learn more about Rosette Market + Cafe.
This dual-purpose venue offers freshly brewed coffee, an array of baked goods, and locally sourced produce. The fusion of a coffee shop with a full-service grocery allows visitors to enjoy artisanal pastries from Zingerman’s Bakehouse alongside a vibrant market experience. Rosette Market + Cafe is truly a community space where every detail, from the food to the friendly service, reflects the creative spirit of Detroit.
9. Soraya
Soraya is a modern Japanese-American restaurant redefining the dining experience in downtown Detroit. Helmed by talented chefs, Soraya offers a menu that artfully blends traditional Japanese ingredients with contemporary techniques.
Restaurant details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.2/5 based on 66 reviews
- 📍 Address: 160 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48226
- 📞 Contact: +1 313-262-6078
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Learn more about Soraya.
Soraya’s menu is inspired by a fusion of ingredients and techniques from different parts of the world with a focus on Japanese spirits and fresh, carefully sourced produce. The sushi selections, creative starters, and cocktail offerings push the boundaries of traditional Japanese fare while maintaining a respectful nod to its roots. It’s an ideal destination for foodies in search of both innovation and authenticity.
10. Ostrea Seafood
Ostrea Seafood offers a luxurious dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood prepared with refined techniques. Located in downtown Detroit, this restaurant is perfect for special occasions or an indulgent night out.
Important details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 5/5 based on 13 reviews
- 📍 Address: 536 Shelby St, Detroit, MI 48226
- 📞 Contact: +1 313-403-2111
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For more details, visit Ostrea Seafood.
The dining experience at Ostrea Seafood is opulent yet inviting. From oysters and grilled swordfish to luxurious lobster dishes and tuna tartare, every plate is a celebration of the freshest ingredients. The refined ambiance is accentuated by unique decor elements such as a 9-foot mermaid sculpture, symbolizing the restaurant’s bold assertion that “the world is your oyster.” This place is a testament to Detroit’s evolving fine-dining scene.
11. Taqueria El Rey
Taqueria El Rey has long been a beloved institution among Detroit locals, and its new location reinforces its reputation as a go-to spot for authentic Mexican cuisine that is both hearty and affordable.
Notable facts:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 based on 2039 reviews
- 💲 Price Level: Inexpensive
- 📍 Address: 3400 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216
- 📞 Contact: +1 313-357-3094
- ⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
Learn more about Taqueria El Rey.
Taqueria El Rey offers an extensive menu featuring flavorful dishes ranging from grilled chicken to traditional tacos and quesadillas. The menu also highlights regional specialties like pambazos and molletes, paired with a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. This spot proves that delicious, authentic flavors don’t have to come at a high price, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Tips and Tricks for Dining in Detroit
When exploring new restaurants in Detroit, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Plan Ahead: Some locations have limited hours or are closed on certain days. Always check the opening hours before heading out.
- Try Patio Dining: As the weather warms up, enjoy outdoor seating experiences. Many of these restaurants offer cozy patio dining areas perfect for relaxing with family or friends.
- Explore Neighborhoods: Detroit is a city of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique dining vibe. From the historic charm in Corktown to the trendy vibes in Ferndale and New Center, every area has something special to offer.
- Blend Your Itinerary: While you’re discovering the best eateries, consider pairing your culinary adventure with a stay at a centrally located property. Visit the Detroit Furnished Rentals home page to find a comfortable and convenient place to rest after a day of dining and exploring.
- Embrace the Local Flavors: Ask your servers about the chef’s specials; you might discover unique takes on classic dishes such as botanas, guacamole, and even spicy mortadella sandwiches crafted with care.
Conclusion
Detroit’s culinary scene is booming with innovation and heart. From upscale butchers and award-winning cafes to vibrant Mexican taquerias, the new restaurants in Detroit offer something for every taste and occasion. Whether you are in the mood for a refined dinner of oysters and lobster at Ostrea Seafood or a friendly, casual experience at Taqueria El Rey, there’s a spot waiting to welcome you in the Motor City.
Before you embark on your culinary journey, consider staying in the heart of Detroit with Detroit Furnished Rentals. Our furnished studio lofts and one-bedroom units offer the perfect base for exploring all that Detroit has to offer—from local attractions to hidden dining gems. Book your stay now and experience the best of Detroit both inside and out!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What types of cuisines are featured in these new restaurants?
A1: Detroit’s new eateries offer diverse cuisines, including American, Mexican, Japanese, Mediterranean, and fusion options that incorporate international flavors like botanas, guacamole, and even spicy mortadella.
Q2: Are these restaurants family-friendly?
A2: Many of these venues, such as Rosette Market + Cafe and Norm’s Diner, offer a casual, welcoming atmosphere suitable for families, while spots like Ostrea Seafood provide an upscale dining experience best suited for special occasions.
Q3: Do any of these restaurants offer outdoor or patio dining?
A3: Yes, several spots such as Marrow Eatery and Provisions and select neighborhood cafés offer patio dining options, ideal for enjoying a warm coffee or a sunny brunch in metro Detroit.
Q4: How can I make reservations at these popular locations?
A4: It is best to call directly or check if the restaurant offers online booking through their website. For instance, many spots such as Lady of the House and Cafe Origins accept advance reservations to ensure you have a table.
Enjoy your dining adventure in Detroit, and remember that with so many innovative new restaurants available, there’s always something new to explore in the ever-evolving Motor City!
