Driving Forces Behind Detroit Restaurants: A Round-Up of 5

This is the Motor City … and this is what they also do.

Detroit does dining with a comeback kick. The city hip-hops to an upbeat tempo, driving with passion and commitment. The farm to table movement inspires and the chefs respond full throttle. Here are five restaurants worth the drive to the Motor City.

Pegasus Taverna
858 Monroe
Greektown Detroit

Opa! Meals begin with flaming Greek Kasseri cheese which, when melted, releases a taste that’s almost sinful. Platters of Moussaka, spinach cheese pie and stuffed grape leaves abound, followed by lamb chops, marinated chicken pieces and Pastitsio- macaroni mixed with ground meat. The waiters fete diners as if they were Greek Gods.

Experience Mediterranean flavors in a lively Greektown restaurant on the east side of downtown.

Pizzeria Biga
29110 Franklin Road
Southfield, MI 48034

Chef Luciano Del Signore uses a naturally fermented culture as a yeast-starter to create dough that results in classic Italian light crusted pies. They are baked for just 90 seconds at extreme temperatures in wood-fired oven. The menu touts the traditional pizzas of Naples and luscious small plates like risotto balls, meatballs, potato croquettes, Italian cheeses, gelato and canoli’s made fresh daily. Fast food that’s healthy.


TRIA

The Henry

300 Town Center Dr

Dearborn, MI

TRIA’s swanky decor flaunts within the new American Brasserie located at The Henry, a luxury hotel that was formerly The Ritz-Carlton, Dearborn. Chef James “Woody” Woodward has created a new dining concept with his Artisan Bench: nightly demonstrations and tastings to educate and entertain guests.  Exception food, beautifully prepared from local farms in a hip spot. 


Eagle Tavern
Greenfield Village 
20900 Oakwood Boulevard
Dearborn, MI

The Eagle Tavern was originally built in Clinton, Michigan, as a stagecoach stop for travelers between Detroit and Chicago. The 1831 structure was moved to the grounds of Greenfield Village and visitors are still welcomed for an authentic tavern meal. Rustic wooden tables, period reproduction china and candlelight create a colonial yet charming mood. The bill of fare reflects simple entrees and seasonal farm fresh produce as it was 175 years ago. Costumed servers including Calvin Wood, the proprietor, present the experience as if on a living stage.


Mario’s
4222 2nd Avenue
Detroit, MI

Mario’s: What’s better than feasting on traditional, old-school Italian? Mario’s is one of the few remaining supper clubs in business, in the same location since 1948.  The menu features the dishes you’d expect and crave: Marsala, piccante, scaloppini, cannelloni, lasagna, manicotti, ravioli and spaghetti. Mario’s service extends by offering complimentary transportation to all Detroit venues.  Bon Appetito.

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