Mercury Burger & Bar & Crispelli’s Bakery Pizzeria

MOLLY’S PICKS: Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots
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“The Juicy,” a burger stuffed with American cheese, at Corktown’s Mercury Burger & Bar. // Photograph by Joe Vaughn

Mercury Burger & Bar

The Corktown space that briefly housed Mercury Coffee is back in business again. The first floor of the vintage brick building seats 70 around the central zinc-covered bar, which is set with Mercury (Liberty) dimes. Engraved names of those who helped put the project together for proprietors Dave Steinke and Dennis Fulton are also engraved into the bar. The menu is just what the name suggests. Burgers in several varieties are served casually atop sheets of waxed paper on metal trays, and they’re well made with fresh ingredients. Salads and sandwiches round out the all-day menu, which has a local thrust and includes beer taps. A downstairs room seats another 40 or so, and there is more seating at picnic tables on the brick patio.

2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-964-5000. B, L & D daily $10 H

 

Crispelli’s Bakery Pizzeria

This interesting hybrid offers artisan pizzas from the brick oven, appealing salads, made-to-order sandwiches, and soups from its open kitchen in the center of the room. That’s also where patrons order at several food stations and then return to pick up their orders. No one seems to mind the self-service aspect because the quality is high for both the cuisine and the space itself. In addition, there’s a market aspect, with the bakery counter offering crusty European breads and chef-made desserts to go. Two covered patios add to the appeal.

28939 Woodward, Berkley; 248-591-3300, crispellis.com L & D daily $12 H

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