Detroit Essentials
By Jennie Phipps, FrontDoor.com | Published: 1/30/2009
Coney Island hotdogs with chili, onions and cheese are popular in Detroit.
Food and Drink Essentials
WHERE TO BUY GROCERIES
Meijer
Numerous locations
This Michigan-based chain of regional superstores has beautiful produce, decent baked goods and unbeatable prices. The stores are cavernous and include liquor, wine and beer as well as full-range discount department stores and large lawn-and-garden sections. No matter what you need, you'll find it at Meijer.
WHERE TO GET YOUR GOURMET FIX
Nino Salvaggio's
Four locations east of Woodward Avenue
Salvaggio's has its roots in Italy, but no matter what your culinary bent, you'll find the seasonings and ingredients you want here. Cheese, chocolate, wine, gorgeous cuts of meats -- you name it, Salvaggio's has it -- or they'll get it.
Hiller's Market
Eight locations, west of Woodward Avenue including Ann Arbor
The meat counter is the greatest; it's a visual feast staffed by experienced butchers who know their way around a cow. The bakery does a nice job with eye-appealing sweets. If you've got special dietary needs, including kosher, this is definitely the place to shop.
WHERE TO GET A LATE-NIGHT BITE
National Coney Island
21 locations in the metro area
Coneys are Michigan's answer to diners. They take their name from their specialty -- Coney Island hot dogs with chili, onions and cheese. Coneys worthy of the name also serve breakfast 24/7, spinach pie and chili-and-cheese fries. Yum!
WHERE TO GET A LATTE
Bean and Leaf Cafe
106 S. Main, Royal Oak
248-586-9602
Savor organic fair-trade coffee and a huge piece of four-layer chocolate cake while looking at the ever-changing displays of photos and paintings by local artists.
HAVE A FINE DINING EXPERIENCE
Tribune
31425 W Twelve Mile Road, Farmington Hills
248-848-9393
It's the best the area has to offer. French-inspired but eclectic, the food here is an adventure and the wine list magnificent. The interior has been recognized by the American Institute of Architects. Try the prix fixe menu for a little of all the good things.