Molly’s Picks

Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots.
1969

CLOVERLEAF BAR & RESTAURANT

Pizza is the name of the game, even though there is more on this Eastpointe eatery’s menu. It’s Detroit-style square pizza, which was created by the late Gus Guerra in 1946 using wife Anna’s family recipes, and it is at its best with just tomato sauce and cheese. His children, Marie and Jack, are keeping the family tradition alive at the restaurant he opened in 1953 after selling Buddy’s Rendezvous. Offered in small or  large sizes, the pizza has crunchy, lightly charred edges and a softer, breadlike texture at the bottom. The accompaniment, of course, is a bowl of antipasto salad. The setting is casual and the service friendly. 24443 Gratiot Ave., Eastpointe; 586-777-5391. L & D daily. $12 H

Detroit Institute of Bagels: Roasted beet, red onion, cucumber, arugula, tomato, butternut squash, and tahini (pictured on a sesame bagel).

DETROIT INSTITUTE OF BAGELS

An array of breakfast and lunch sandwiches crafted with bagels made in-house every morning brings crowds to this Corktown spot. The building has been handsomely rehabbed with DIB’s gleaming kitchen in view. Trimmings are mostly local products, including Corridor sausages, McClure’s Pickles, and Anthology Coffee. Those who want just a bagel can choose from 13 spreads. It’s very casual, but the quality is unmistakable as is the friendly service.1236 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-444-9342. B & L daily. $8 H

 

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