Motor City Munchies: The Food and Drink Spots in Detroit You Can't Miss

I didn’t go to Detroit just for the food. But after this trip, I kind of wish I had.

From iconic square pizza to unique coffee brews to meticulously crafted cocktails, Detroit delivered big flavor. Here’s everything I ate and drank (and what I’d go back for in a heartbeat).

Meals That Hit the Spot

Buddy’s Pizza

You can’t go to Detroit and skip the pizza, especially not the square kind. Legend has it Detroit-style pan pizza owes its shape to steel automotive pans, because apparently in mid-century Detroit, car parts beat cookware any day. I went half-and-half: one of Buddy’s creations called the “Detroiter” (pepperoni under the cheese, because Detroit likes to keep things saucy…and so do I) and one of my personal standards, mushroom and onion.

A close-up of a slice of Detroit-style pizza, featuring pepperoni and cheese on a square crust, served on a metal tray on a dark table.

I paired it with a Vernor’s ginger soda. It’s fizzy, spicy, and legendary around Michigan. It’s a little sweet for my taste, but I’m glad I can say I tried it. When in Rome, or, you know, Motor City.

A can of Vernor's ginger soda next to a glass filled with a fizzy drink and a red straw on a restaurant table, with seasonings in the background.

Baobab Fare

This East African spot was highly rated online, and the food lived up to the hype. I tried the Samaki, a pan-fried fish smothered in saucy, tangy onions that I’d happily eat a minimum of once a week. The kitchen nailed it, but the service? Let’s just say my assigned server seemed to be operating on stealth mode. Thankfully, another server kindly took my order, and the busser brought my check after I asked. Not sure what happened there. Still worth a visit. Just…bring main-character energy.

A plate featuring pan-fried fish topped with tangy onions, served with rice, plantains, and garnished with green onions and a flower.

Cannelle by Matt Knio

Some people might not consider a pastry a meal, but I sure do, especially one as delicious as the soft leek croissant at Cannelle. A savory croissant stuffed with leeks, cream cheese, and walnuts? Yes, please. I paired it with a pistachio latte because clearly I was living my best bakery life. With its sidewalk café tables and its display case full of flaky, buttery treats, this spot feels like a tiny slice of Paris tucked into downtown Detroit.

A savory leek croissant served on a plate alongside a pistachio latte in a clear cup, with utensils and napkins on a wooden table.

House of Falafel

Finding flavorful, crispy, golden orbs of falafel might be one of my life’s most enduring quests. It’s surprisingly difficult to find falafel that’s not dry and crumbly or overloaded with cumin or, conversely, completely lacking any herbaceous goodness. Is this rant revealing that I’m oddly particular about falafel? Let me tell you, House of Falafel meets the mark. The falafel was crispy, the wrap warm, and the sauces? I’m still thinking about the garlic sauce and shatta (if you know, you know).

A close-up of a falafel wrap, cut open to reveal crispy falafel and colorful fillings, wrapped in paper.

Fuel Stops for Coffee Lovers

MadCap Coffee: The Julius Winnfield

This summer special was part cold brew, part magic creamsicle. It had milk-clarified espresso (I had to Google that too), citrusy brightness, and a fluffy vanilla cold foam that practically required a photo before sipping. The crafty baristas topped this creation with a dried orange slice because this fancy coffee simply must have a garnish, darling. I savored this orange exploration outside in their alley turned open-air patio and embraced the city atmosphere.

A close-up of a glass of vibrant coffee topped with fluffy vanilla cold foam and garnished with a dried orange slice, set against a wooden table background.

Exterior view of MadCap Coffee with a brick courtyard and seating area, featuring large windows and greenery.

Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters: The Purple Door Latte

This ube-sesame latte was definitely purple. It was also creamy, subtly nutty, and topped with roasted black sesame seeds for texture. The space had urban skater energy (I felt like a total poser. Shout out to all my 90s bros.), but the vibe was chill and unpretentious. I relaxed with my drink, read my book, and noticed others doing the same: studying, flipping through graphic novels, or chatting with coworkers. No pressure to rush. Just good coffee and good atmosphere.

A tall glass filled with a purple iced latte topped with black sesame seeds and served with a black straw, resting on a wooden table.

Standout Sips

Candy Bar at The Siren Hotel

Stepping into Candy Bar felt like entering a glamorous 1930s film set. I ordered a Catch Me If You Can, a citrusy gin cocktail that was sweet, tart, and full of mysterious bitters (both literally and emotionally).

A refreshing cocktail served in a glass with a foamy top, garnished with a dried orange slice, placed on a napkin with the text 'Candy Bar'. — Photo by @candybardetroit

A stylish bar interior featuring a round counter with plush red seating and a large, elegant chandelier illuminating the space, complemented by a well-stocked shelf of various spirits in the background. — Photo by @candybardetroit

The Lone Goat

I picked this spot mostly because it was my hotel bar and I could roll straight into bed after having a nightcap (I value proximity to pajamas), but it turned out to be a great choice. The bartender was incredibly friendly, handing out samples of a drink she was testing. I ordered the Bramble Float: gin, lemon, black raspberry liqueur, and a splash of prosecco on top. A little bubbly, a little berry, and 100% a good decision.

A cocktail in a glass with ice, featuring a gradient from clear to pink, garnished with a blackberry on a skewer, placed on a reflective bar surface.

And…

A close-up view of a margarita in a crystal glass, garnished with a lime slice, sitting on a napkin against a light-colored table.

A farewell margarita at the airport. Just because I could. Cheers, Detroit.

Final Thoughts

Detroit’s food and drink scene is creative without being pretentious and flavorful without being fussy. Whether you’re sipping lattes, exploring global flavors, or crushing a square slice of pizza, this city delivers. Come hungry.

Tried any of these spots or have a favorite Detroit eatery I missed? Let me know in the comments!

Motor City Munchies: The Food and Drink Spots in Detroit You Can’t Miss