Molly’s Picks

Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots
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Gold Cash Gold /// The pawn shop-cum-restaurant spotlights the earthy fare of chef Josh Stockton, whose origins as something of a country boy (his grandfather had a farm in Tennessee) fit right in with current trends. Culinary Institute of America graduate Stockton, partner Eli Boyer, and the staff pride themselves on making pretty much everything from scratch at this Corktown corner, which anchors the other end of the block that’s also home to Slows. The seasonally changing menu stars shrimp and grits, house-made charcuterie, fried chicken, and braised short ribs. The setting features reclaimed and repurposed materials as well as the work of local artists. 2100 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-242-0770. L & D daily except Mon. $15 H

Selden Standard: roasted beets with house ricotta, pomegranate, and walnuts.

Selden Standard /// Cuisine and setting are a perfect match at this impressive Midtown spot where chef Andy Hollyday and co-proprietor Evan Hansen bring wood-fired seasonal fare and a well-stocked bar together seamlessly in a hand-crafted contemporary setting. Seating includes perches at a cedar counter overlooking the brick oven and the intricate Grillworks rotisserie grill where some dishes are prepared. Flatbreads, grilled meats and fish, and vegetables all get Hollyday’s distinctive touch, perhaps epitomized by roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, walnuts, and Stilton, and cauliflower with tahini, lemon, and pickled peppers. Beverages complement the kitchen with interesting beers and wines that are as individually chosen as the fresh ingredients. Some farms and purveyors are credited on the menu for their contributions to what is a smashing success. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit; 313-438-5055. L & D daily, Br. Sat.-Sun. $18 H

Symbol H: handicap accessible
Note: Dollar amount is the average entree price