Molly’s Picks

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

by Molly Abraham

Café West’s grilled swordfish.

photographs by joe vaughn

Café West: The focus at Blake and Sandy Harte’s attractive spot is fresh saltwater fish and seafood, and the small restaurant is like a bit of Florida, from its sand-colored walls and woodwork to prints of ocean fish and seashell table decorations. Yellowfin tuna, mahimahi, conch, crab and their ilk dominate the menu. Tables are bare, but napkins are linen. The wine list is relatively brief and very affordable. 2775 W. Jefferson at West Road, Trenton; 734-676-2233. $17 D Mon.-Sat.

_{The sashimi assortment at Kona Grill.}Kona Grill: The Hawaiian spin includes a sushi bar backed by a mammoth saltwater aquarium, and dishes that range from Maui onion soup and pot-stickers to pan-seared ahi and macadamia nut-crusted chicken. A number of interesting salads, from sweet chili-glazed salmon to roasted asparagus with honey-balsamic vinaigrette, also give this stylishly contemporary new place its niche. Friendly service is notable. 30 E. Big Beaver, Troy; 248-619-9060. $17 L & D daily