Wolfgang Puck Grille and La Musique

Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots

By Molly Abraham

Roasted beet and goat cheese napoleon with hazelnut vinaigrette, at Wolfgang Puck Grille.

Photograph by Joe Vaughn

Wolfgang Puck Grille: The most casual of the signature restaurants at the MGM Detroit Casino, this spot offers a contemporary menu in the hands of executive chef Marc Djozlija, who directs a staff of 58, turning out breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as room service for the hotel. The gleaming open kitchen can be glimpsed from many tables, and a chef’s table for 10 provides a close-up experience. The adjoining tavern, with its brightly burning gas fire set into the wall, red leather-topped bar, and cozy booths, is especially appealing. Dishes range from Puck’s upscale pizzas to veal Wiener schnitzel with warm potato salad, Colorado lamb chops, short ribs, and grilled rib-eye steak — all served by a well-trained staff. B L & D daily 1777 Third St., Detroit; 313-465-1648. $25 Smoke free; handicap accessible

La Musique: The name of the dining room at the renovated Hotel St. Regis is a nod to the legacy of Motown. A row of high-backed, tufted-velvet banquettes, with glittering chandeliers overhead, and tables set with arrangements of orchids, set the scene for the lobby-level restaurant. Cajun-influenced dishes overseen by executive chef Greg Holden include a notable gumbo and such entrees as Black Angus sirloin, rubbed with chicory coffee and spices, bone-in filet mignon with spicy roasted garlic butter, and blackened catfish with crawfish étouffée and rice. Lovely desserts, by pastry chef Darlene Smith, include jalapeño chocolate cake. B L & D daily, Br Sun. Hotel St. Regis, 3071 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-873-3000. $30 Smoke free; handicap accessible

Note: Dollar amount is the average entree price

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Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots

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