Eat Your Heart Out: Top Corktown Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Corktown: Detroit’s Historic Heartbeat of Culinary Delights

Best Corktown restaurants offer everything from award-winning fine dining to historic neighborhood pubs. Here are the top spots you need to know:

Must-Visit Corktown Restaurants:

1. Alpino – Alpine cuisine, 2024 Restaurant of the Year
2. Slows Bar BQ – Iconic barbecue that started Corktown’s food renaissance
3. Takoi – James Beard-nominated modern Thai
4. Ima Izakaya – Japanese comfort food with killer udon
5. Nemo’s Bar – Classic sports bar with legendary burgers (60 years strong)
6. The Sugar House – Detroit’s cocktail pioneer (10+ years)
7. Mudgie’s Deli – Hearty sandwiches and wine since 2008
8. Batch Brewing Company – Neighborhood brewery with craft beers
9. Mercury Burger & Bar – Modern burgers with retro vibes
10. Brooklyn Street Local – All-day brunch and authentic poutine

As Detroit’s oldest neighborhood, Corktown’s charm is undeniable. Settled by Irish immigrants in the mid-19th century, its cobblestone streets and Victorian homes are steeped in history. The recent renovation of the iconic Michigan Central Station by Ford has only added to the area’s buzz, blending the old with the new.

The dining scene truly ignited in 2005 when Slows Bar BQ opened, sparking a culinary renaissance. Today, Corktown is a food lover’s paradise where James Beard-nominated chefs and century-old pubs share the same block. This unique mix is its magic—historic spots like Nemo’s Bar thrive alongside modern gems like Alpino, the 2024 Detroit Free Press Restaurant of the Year.

Whether you’re craving craft cocktails at The Sugar House, smoked meats at Slows, or innovative Thai at Takoi, Corktown delivers. The restaurants here don’t just serve food; they tell the story of Detroit’s most historic neighborhood.

Corktown’s history is rich, from its Irish roots to its days as a hub for sports fans near the old Tiger Stadium. The arrival of Slows Bar BQ in 2005 was a turning point, attracting diverse new talent and cuisines. Now, with the reopening of Michigan Central Station, the neighborhood is more vibrant than ever.

This blend of history and innovation is what makes Corktown a premier dining destination. You can feel the energy of revitalization while enjoying establishments that have been community staples for decades. It’s this unique character that makes Corktown an essential stop for any food lover.

A Curated List of the Best Corktown Restaurants

When you’re exploring the best Corktown restaurants, you’re in for a treat. This neighborhood serves up everything from Alpine fine dining to down-home barbecue, and each spot has its own story to tell.

Alpino: An Award-Winning Gem Among the Best Corktown Restaurants

Step into Alpino and you’ll feel transported to a cozy mountain cabin in the Alps. Named the 2024 Detroit Free Press Restaurant of the Year, this spot brings authentic Alpine cuisine to Detroit. The dining room, anchored by a stone fireplace, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. A key feature is their commitment to making everything in-house, including bread, pasta, and sausage.

The menu celebrates traditions from Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and Northern Italy. The Käsespätzle (cheese spaetzle) earns rave reviews, while the schnitzel is perfectly executed. For an adventurous meal, the seasonal five-course ($95) or nine-course ($155) tasting menus showcase the freshest ingredients. Don’t skip the French raclette from their cheese and charcuterie selections.

Alpino also hosts live music on its patio and in its basement venue. This is a $$$ experience with thoughtful vegetarian options and a focused Alpine wine list. Reservations are highly recommended via OpenTable.

Slows Bar BQ: The Barbecue Joint That Started It All

You can’t talk about the best Corktown restaurants without mentioning Slows Bar BQ. Opening in 2005, it ignited Corktown’s food renaissance and still draws crowds nearly 20 years later. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a patio offering great views of the neighborhood.

The Yardbird sandwich is legendary, made with smoked chicken and a customer favorite since day one. The baby back ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the burnt ends are top-notch. An insider tip: the mac-n-cheese is a must-try, especially served “angry” with a kick of heat.

Slows operates at a $$ price point and is open seven days a week. While walk-ins are fine for small groups, reservations are smart for larger parties. Their menu is paired with a solid craft beer selection, perfect for complementing the rich, smoky flavors. Learn more about their impact from this story about their community impact.

Takoi: Innovative Thai Flavors in a Trendy Setting

Starting as a food truck in 2014, Takoi is now a James Beard-nominated destination for modern Thai and pan-Asian flavors. The atmosphere is unique, with moody lighting and a vibrant patio that regulars call “spaceship vibes.” The restaurant sources many ingredients from its own nearby urban farm, HiO Farm, ensuring peak freshness from spring through fall.

The Khao Soi and Crispy Rice Salad are the must-try dishes that put Takoi on the map. For groups, the six-course shared menu ($75 per person) is a great way to sample fan favorites and seasonal specials. This is a $$$ experience, but worth it, especially for vegan and gluten-free diners who will find plenty of exciting, plant-forward options.

Reservations are highly recommended through their website. Also, check out Passion Fruit, their monthly summer patio event with local DJs and specialty cocktails benefiting area nonprofits.

Ima Izakaya: A Modern Take on Japanese Comfort Food

Mike Ransom’s Ima Izakaya offers Japanese comfort food in a bright, modern, and casual space. An Eater Award-winning spot, it expanded into the former Gold Cash Gold location in 2021. The vibe is relaxed, perfect for a quick lunch or a longer evening out.

The beloved udon noodles and rice bowls remain the stars, with the Spicy Pork Udon being a fan favorite. Other highlights include the addictively crispy Karaage Fried Chicken and delicate Shrimp Dumplings. For something more refined, explore the robata skewers or hamachi crudo.

At a $$ price point, Ima Izakaya offers excellent value with plenty of thoughtful vegan and vegetarian options. The happy hour (3-6 p.m., Mon-Fri) is a local favorite. Book reservations on Tock for peak hours. The experience is rounded out by a great sake selection and Japanese-inspired cocktails.

Historic Pubs and Neighborhood Staples

While new restaurants bring excitement, some of Corktown’s greatest treasures are the spots that have served the community for decades. These staples tell the story of the neighborhood’s enduring spirit.

Nemo’s Bar: A Detroit Classic for Sports Fans and Burger Lovers

Walking into Nemo’s Bar is like stepping back in time. This Detroit institution has been serving cold beers and legendary burgers since 1964. As an old-school sports bar, it’s famous for its Opening Day parties and game-day bus shuttles, making it sacred ground for Tigers fans. The atmosphere is pure Detroit: unpretentious and welcoming.

The menu is refreshingly simple, centered around their classic ground-round burgers made on the griddle. They’re so good, they’re all you need.

Price range: $ (Affordable)
Operating hours: Open daily; check nemosdetroit.com for hours
Reservations: Not needed; walk-ins welcome
Signature drinks: Classic beer and spirits

Nemo’s is a must-visit for anyone searching for the best burgers Detroit has to offer and is a true Corktown classic.

The Sugar House: The Vanguard of Detroit’s Cocktail Scene

For over a decade, The Sugar House has been the standard-bearer for Detroit’s cocktail scene. This intimate bar offers a historic and sophisticated atmosphere with dim lighting and exposed brick, perfect for savoring a well-made drink. Their bartenders are rigorously trained, mastering a vast library of classic and modern cocktails.

What sets The Sugar House apart is its dedication to the craft. The menu changes seasonally, but the real magic is trusting the bartender to create something perfect for your palate. They also offer small bites to complement the drinks.

Price range: $$ (Mid-range for cocktails)
Operating hours: Evenings; visit sugarhousedetroit.com for hours
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially on weekends; book on Tock

The Sugar House is a standout for anyone who appreciates the art of the cocktail.

Mudgie’s Deli and Wine Shop: Home of the Hearty Sandwich

Opened in 2008, Mudgie’s Deli is a beloved Corktown staple known for its sandwiches piled high with fresh-cut meats and cheeses. Though founder Greg Mudge has passed away, his legacy of quality and community lives on.

Mudgie’s is more than a deli; it’s a neighborhood gathering spot. The large patio hosts live music and a seasonal tiki bar, while the inside features a curated wine shop with monthly tastings. The signature “Mudgie” sandwich is a must-try, but their rotating weekly specials are always worth a look.

On Sunday mornings, they offer brunch-worthy upgrades to their popular sandwiches, like adding a fried egg. Vegetarians will find a solid selection of satisfying sandwiches and fresh salads.

Price range: $$ (Mid-range)
Operating hours: Lunch and dinner, with Sunday brunch; check mudgiesdeli.com for details
Reservations: Not typically needed for small groups
Special features: Monthly wine tastings, summer patio with tiki bar
Ordering: Online ordering available for pickup

Mudgie’s captures the essence of the best Corktown restaurants with its great food and genuine neighborhood feel.

Casual Eats and Craft Brews

Sometimes you just want to kick back with a cold beer and a great burger. Corktown’s casual dining scene delivers relaxed atmospheres, creative food, and local brews that make you feel right at home.

Batch Brewing Company: Corktown’s Neighborhood Brewery

For nearly a decade, Batch Brewing Company has been the heart of Corktown’s craft beer scene. It’s a true neighborhood hub with a rotating selection of about a dozen draft beers, plus hard cider, wine, and cocktails. The outdoor covered pavilion is a major draw, especially on summer evenings.

The food is just as creative, with staples like smoked chicken wings and pretzels with beer cheese. Batch also hosts unique food collaborations, including Melway Burgers, Taqueria el Rey, and their own Yellow Dog Craft BBQ, which uses on-site smokers.

The price range is $$ (mid-range). Walk-ins are welcome. Check batchbrewingcompany.com for current hours and tap lists. Batch perfectly captures the unpretentious, community-focused spirit of the best Corktown restaurants. To learn more about Detroit’s food scene, see our guide to the Detroit Culinary Scene.

Mercury Burger & Bar: A Retro Vibe with a Modern Burger Menu

Mercury Burger & Bar serves classic American comfort food with a stunning backdrop of the Michigan Central Station. The spot nails the retro-diner aesthetic while offering gourmet burgers that are ground daily and hand-pressed.

With 15 varieties on the menu, there’s a burger for everyone. The Southwest Burger is a standout, featuring a chorizo slider with candied jalapeño relish. Pair it with garlic-Parmesan fries or poutine tater tots. For a boozy dessert, their adult milkshakes are a must.

They offer a veggie burger option and salads, with a mid-range price point ($$). No reservations are needed; just walk in for lunch or dinner. Check mercuryburgerbar.com for current hours.

Brooklyn Street Local: Your Go-To Spot for Brunch and Poutine

Located at the corner of Brooklyn and Michigan, Brooklyn Street Local brings Canadian comfort food to Corktown’s all-day brunch scene. The spot has a loyal following for its authentic Canadian-inspired cuisine, especially its poutine.

They are serious about sourcing locally and giving back through their “Poutine for the People” initiative, a monthly collaboration with a local chef to benefit area nonprofits. The Traditional Poutine is a classic, but the monthly special is always worth trying. Other favorites include the Banana Walnut French Toast, fresh salads, and hearty sandwiches.

Brooklyn Street Local offers great vegan and vegetarian options and has a mid-range price ($$). Walk-ins are welcome for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Visit brooklynstreetlocal.com to see their hours and current poutine special. This community-minded spot represents what the best Corktown restaurants are all about.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dining in Corktown

Here are the answers to some common questions about exploring the best Corktown restaurants.

What makes the dining scene in Corktown unique?

Corktown’s dining scene is a unique blend of history and innovation. As Detroit’s oldest neighborhood, it’s home to century-old pubs and classic diners that exist alongside award-winning, modern restaurants. The 2005 opening of Slows Bar BQ sparked a culinary renaissance, attracting diverse cuisines like Alpine (Alpino) and modern Thai (Takoi). The recent reopening of Michigan Central Station has added to the energy, making Corktown a place where you can taste Detroit’s past and future in a single visit.

Do I need to make reservations at the best Corktown restaurants?

It depends on the restaurant. Here’s a quick guide:

• Yes, book ahead: For upscale and popular spots like Alpino, Takoi, and The Sugar House, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners. Book via their websites, OpenTable, or Tock well in advance.
• Good idea for groups: For places like Slows Bar BQ, Ima Izakaya, and Mudgie’s Deli, reservations are a smart move for larger parties or during peak hours (weekend brunch/dinner).
• Walk-ins welcome: For casual spots like Nemo’s Bar, Mercury Burger & Bar, Brooklyn Street Local, and Batch Brewing Company, you can typically walk in and find a seat.

Always check a restaurant’s website for the most current policy, especially on game days or holidays.

Are there good options for vegetarians and vegans in Corktown?

Yes, Corktown is very accommodating for plant-based diets. You’ll find thoughtful and delicious options at many restaurants.

• Takoi: A top choice for vegans, with a creative, plant-forward modern Thai menu.
• Ima Izakaya: Offers excellent vegan udon, rice bowls, and other flavorful tofu and vegetable dishes.
• Brooklyn Street Local: Features strong vegetarian and vegan choices throughout its all-day brunch menu.
• Mudgie’s Deli: Serves a variety of hearty and satisfying vegetarian sandwiches.
• Mercury Burger & Bar and Batch Brewing Company also offer reliable veggie options for a more casual meal.

Experience Corktown’s Flavors from a Home Away from Home

Exploring the best Corktown restaurants is a journey through Detroit’s history and its vibrant culinary future. This neighborhood offers an incredible range of flavors, from the smoky BBQ that sparked a renaissance at Slows Bar BQ to the award-winning Alpine cuisine at Alpino and the innovative Thai at Takoi.

The dining scene reflects Corktown’s soul: diverse, historic, and constantly evolving. Whether you’re grabbing a classic burger at Nemo’s, sipping a craft cocktail at The Sugar House, or enjoying poutine at Brooklyn Street Local, you’re tasting the passion that defines this special place.

To truly immerse yourself in Corktown’s dynamic scene, you need a comfortable home base. Detroit Furnished Rentals places you right in the heart of the action, offering fully equipped apartments that let you experience the neighborhood like a local. Imagine walking to dinner, then strolling home past historic Victorian architecture, all without worrying about parking.

With a comfortable stay, you can take your time and explore all the culinary gems Corktown has to offer. You’re not just visiting—you’re living the Corktown experience. Ready to plan your trip? Explore all the Detroit Restaurants throughout the city and make your stay unforgettable.