May 2019 Food News: The Latest on the Metro Detroit Food Scene

All the menu changes, openings, and events you need to know about this spring
2317
metro detroit food
Hudsonville has released seven new dairy-free ice cream flavors. // Photograph courtesy of Hudsonville

The sun is coming out (slowly), the bees are buzzing, and so is the metro Detroit food scene. Get out, grab one of the brightly-colored cocktails that seem to be everywhere, and experience the exciting happenings all across the area.

In The News

Andrew Carmellini: The New York City chef behind the Shinola Hotel’s tasty Italian restaurant, San Morello, rounds up his favorite restaurants in a story published to Food & Wine’s website earlier this month. Unexpected picks — like the Detroit Metro Airport — and local stars, including Sister Pie, top his list. foodandwine.com

Now Open

Peso: This modern Mexican bar opened up last month in Southwest Detroit. It boasts a casual interior and a menu full of familiar Mexican favorites, like burritos, fajitas, and chile relleno. Peso’s beautifully-prepared creative cocktails, which include 20 variations on the margarita, add a bit of flair to the otherwise relaxed atmosphere. Peso, 2547 Bagley St., Detroit

Pinky’s Rooftop: Royal Oak’s highly-anticipated cocktail bar opened with an extensive drink menu and limited hours in April. This month, they started serving weekend brunch as well. The fruity breakfast cocktails on the menu include the Strawberry Peach Bellini and a classic mimosa, while Pinky’s Rainbow Ricotta Toast and signature Carrot Cake French Toast are musts in the food department. Pinky’s Rooftop, 100 S. Main St. 2nd Level, Royal Oak; 248-291-6506; pinkysroyaloak.com

New Releases

Hudsonville Ice Cream: Holland-based Hudsonville Ice Cream, a family-owned creamery that’s been in operation since 1926, released its new dairy-free treats in May. The company’s seven vegan ice cream flavors include Birthday Cake, Cherry Fudge, Peanut Butter Truffle, and Mint Fudge Cookie. All items are available at Meijer stores. hudsonvilleicecream.com

On Our Radar

Karl’s: Chef Kate Williams of Lady of the House plans to open a new eatery inside The Siren Hotel this summer. With 85 seats and second-story views of downtown Detroit, the restaurant and bakery will offer house-baked bread and fresh takes on American diner classics. Karl’s, 1509 Broadway, Detroit; thesirenhotel.com

Restaurant Updates

metro detroit food
Beet salad photograph courtesy of Public House

Public House: This Ferndale favorite has recently revamped its menu, stepping away from sliders and introducing creative sandwiches, such as the French fries-stuffed fried bologna, to its menu. The restaurant has also added more vegan options, including the beet salad and the impossible burger. Public House, 241 W. Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale; 248-850-7420; publichouseferndale.com

Toast: The well-known breakfast and lunch spot’s Ferndale location has been working on expanding and redesigning, which is expected to end in early July. The changes are, in part, to quell the outrageous line that forms outside each weekend. In addition, the location is adding a dinner menu, while the Birmingham location will no longer be open in the evening. Toast, 23144 Woodward Ave, Ferndale; 248-398-0444; and 203 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-258-6278; eatattoast.com

Upcoming Events

Drink Pink: Enjoy all things rosé at this Eastern Market evening event, where you will sample wines, cocktails, and champagnes, all inspired by the trendy, blush-toned beverage. The event will also feature hors d’oeuvres and desserts from some of metro Detroit’s most popular restaurants. Fifteen drink sample tickets and a keepsake photo are included with each general admission ticket. June 7. $49+. Eastern Market, Shed 3; 2934 Russell St., Detroit; dinedrinkdetroit.com

Driven by Flavor: It’s (un)officially food truck season and this culinary showcase includes different five different vendors from metro Detroit’s best restaurants, caterers, and food trucks each month at the Packard Proving Grounds. June 5, and select dates through December. $10 for adult tickets. The Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Charter Twp., 248-809-9644; drivenbyflavor.com


Related: The Team Behind Adachi Launches a Restaurant in Bloomfield Township